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How to get to Palácio da Pena in Sintra
Not far from Lisbon lies the fairytale place Palácio da Pena. The famous landmark can be found in the Sintra Mountains and is easy to reach from Lisbon. But how exactly do you get there? What is there to see, and how long should you stay?
Discover hidden gems in Pena Park that many visitors don’t know about and learn more about the history of King Fernando II, Maria II and Elise Hensler. Read more about travel tips, getting your tickets and the best times to visit Pena Palace in the green hills!
Palácio da Pena, discover the beauty of Sintra
A fairytale in the Sintra hills
Palácio da Pena was once the summer residence of the Portuguese Royal Family. The palace is like a crown, lying on top of a hill in the nature park Parque Nacional da Pena. The place looks like it comes straight out of a fairytale! It’s colourful, super romantic, and has outstanding views!
When you visit Portugal, you must see this beauty! The building strongly influenced German Romanticism and is located on the second highest point in the Sintra Mountains.
How to get to Sintra by train
Palácio da Pena is located in Sintra, in the Greater Lisbon area. Getting there is relatively easy, but I’ll share some tips to make your journey easier, stress-free and more comfortable. From the capital, you can take a direct train to Sintra town. The most convenient way is to take a train from Rossio station in the heart of Lisbon.
The trains run every 15 or 30 minutes (sometimes 60 minutes on Sundays in winter), and it takes around 40 minutes to get to the train station in Sintra. A round-trip ticket costs only € 4.90 with the Navegante Occasional Card (price € 0,50), or you can easily use your Lisboa Card to get to the station in Sintra. There is also a train service from Oriente Station.
How to get from Sintra Station to Palácio da Pena
Tuk-tuks and taxi’s
Once you arrive in Sintra town, you can reach the landmark in several ways. One of the easiest, probably most expensive, is by taxi or TukTuk. The price is often around €20 one way, depending on the driver, the number of passengers, and the season.
Driving to Palácio da Pena with a rental is forbidden, as the roads are only accessible to buses and tour companies. There are also barely any parking spots, and driving the narrow, windy roads can be challenging.
By public transport
A bus will take you to Palácio da Pena outside the train station. Line 434 departs outside the station, and a single ticket costs € 4.55. Summer can be jam-packed, and you might be waiting some time to get on board. A day ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus in Sintra costs € 13,50 per person.
🚌 Book the Official Public Bus Transport in Sintra for € 13,50 for the whole day. It stops at all castles and palaces!
On the way to the palace, it also stops at Castelo dos Mouros (the Moorish Castle). If you want to see this site, go there first and then to the royal residence. The bus doesn’t stop there on the way back, so bear that in mind. On the way back, the 434 service ends in the village and near the National Palace.
Comboios de Portugal has a unique combo ticket for €14 that is valid on the train and the bus. You can buy this ticket at the station. Many tourists use the Lisboa Card, which gives you unlimited free train rides. You will also receive a 10% discount on the entrance price with the Lisboa Card.
Personally, I don’t think using the Lisboa Card is the best way to use it in Sintra. You can learn here why!
Hiking
Sportive travellers can hike up to the residence. On the maps, it looks like the journey is just over an hour, but remember, the landmark lies on top of a hill, and it’s a beautiful but pretty tough climb. Also, there are plenty of hiking opportunities, so maybe you’d like to keep some energy to discover the park.
With a guided tour from Lisboa
The last option is to go on an organised tour. Everything is organised for you, and it’s one of the easiest ways to see Palácio da Pena. This way, you can sit back and enjoy the ride. As a bonus, you’ll often travel to the National Palace, Cabo da Roca and Cascais. It’s a favourite day trip from the capital city! Click here to read more about tours and places to see in Sintra.
Tickets for Palácio da Pena
Pena Palace tickets cost €20,00 per person, and children and seniors receive a discounted price. This ticket gives you access to the park and the building, the Chalet and Garden of the Countess Edla, the Valley of Lakes and Little Birds Fountain, and the Sentry Walk.
Buying your tickets online is a must to secure your spot, especially during the high season. You will receive a time slot, and tickets are limited per time slot. A park-only cheaper ticket is also available for € 14,00. With this ticket you cannot see the interior of the Pena Palace.
Opening hours of Pena Park
Palácio da Pena opens at 9.30 AM, so it’s advisable to come as early as possible. The park will open its gates at 9 AM, so you have time to walk up to the entrance. The walk is about 10-15 minutes uphill, and there is a shuttle bus if needed (paid extra).
Later in the day is also a great time to see the monument. The sunset here is magical, after all! The building closes at 6.30 PM, and the park closes at 7 PM. The last admission to the landmark is at 5.30 PM and the park at 6 PM.
Crowds throughout the year
No matter which season you travel to Palácio da Pena, chances are, it’s busy! Especially in the high season, you can expect some long queues. Not only to buy a ticket but also to get inside the palace. The crowds start while travelling, and the station can be full of people. If you prefer to avoid busy moments, plan your trip from the end of October until March. In winter, the queues are much less.
You can buy your ticket at the counter or on one of the machines. However, in summer, there may be no more tickets available. For this reason, it is highly advisable to get your skip-the-line ticket in advance. You don’t have to wait in line, but even more importantly, you will have a ticket with a dedicated time slot!
Be on time!
You will receive a timeslot to see Pena Palace, so please be early. Also, note from the entrance that it’s a short but steep hike up to the palace entrance. There is a shuttle available at a set time. On foot, it will take 10 to 15 minutes. This is where the line for your timeslots starts, so arrive early as you want to keep this time slot!
A little bit of history
Pena Palace’s history dates back to the 12th century. At that time, there was a small, old chapel, until King Manuel I ordered the construction of the Royal Monastery of Our Lady of Pena.
When the earthquake struck in 1755, the convent was heavily damaged and was left in ruins. For over a century, the monastery remained active, but it had to be abandoned. In 1836, a royal change came to the old monastery.
Queen Maria II married King Ferdinand II of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, and they changed the ruins of the old convent into a beautiful fairytale palace. It became a summer residence for the royals. Although the idea was to restore the buildings, the construction changed considerably!
The architect, Wilhelm Eschwege, took inspiration from the German Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. The rooms are out of this world, with Gothic and Moorish influences and thousands of colourful tiles.
Since 1910, the palace has been classified as a National Monument and part of Sintra’s cultural landscape. Known as the Jewel of Sintra, it’s easy to see why! In 1995, UNESCO classified the palace as a World Heritage site. It was also elected one of the seven wonders of Portugal and the first romantic palace in Europe.
Inside Palacio da Pena
Inside, you’ll see two wings: the former Manueline convent of the Order of St. Jerome and the 19th-century wing built by King Fernando. The interior rooms are breathtakingly beautiful, and you see several rooms. You will pass by the Arabic room, the dining room, and the corridors of the old monastery. Discover the great hall, kitchen, and the stunning vaulted ceilings of the Stag Room.
The Manueline cloister features Hispano-Mudéjar tiles and beautiful geometric motifs. Other interior highlights include the Chambers of King Carlos, Queen Amelia’s dressing room, and Ferdinand II’s bedroom. The windows offer a fantastic view of the mountains.
From the Queen’s Terrace, you have a magnificent view of the exterior and the clock tower. The chapel contains glass-stained windows and the magnificent alabaster altarpiece attributed to Nicolau Chanterenne. The French sculptor was one of the architects of the Jerónimos Monastery. You can reach the chapel from the Courtyard of Arches, which offers incredible views!
5 sights you shouldn’t miss at Pena Palace
Besides the interior, there are other sights to be noticed. After you admire the palace inside, it is a must to explore its surroundings. From the outside, you can look at the Romanticism style, and the palace stands in the middle of nature. Many visitors rush to the next Sintra monument, but there is much more to discover.
1. The Sentry Walk
The first is the Sentry Walk (this path is not always open). This path leads through the walls to the outside of the castle towers, and the view is simply stunning! You can see the Moorish castle, the Regaleira estate and the village.
If the sky is clear, you can see the nearby beaches, the Palace of Mafra, Ericeira, and even the Berlengas Islands on the coast of Peniche! The path begins at the small chapel in the courtyard. You’ll walk along the walls and the famous red bell tower. Also, look inside the chapel, which has beautiful stained-glass windows.
2. Vale dos Lagos e Pateira
The second spot is the Vale dos Lagos e Pateira, or Valley of the Lakes and the Little Bird Fountain. Around the palace, you will find this peaceful garden, and it is a beautiful hike. Beautiful flowers and immense trees surround you, and Vale dos Lagos e Pateira has a lovely pond. King Ferdinand is often referred to as King-artist, and he planted tree species from all over the world.
The park is at the bottom of the palace, and you can admire the beautiful round shapes of the palace here. The chapel and clock tower stand out above everything, and the colourful walls stand out among all that greenery! Discover the Queen’s Fern Garden (Feteira da Rainha), magnolias, and cypresses.
3. High Cross & the Statue of the Warrior
The highest point in the Sintra Mountains is Cruz Alta, 528 meters above sea level. The High Cross is a short hike offering some of the best mountain views. A hike to the Statue of the Warrior is also highly recommended.
Estátua do Guerreiro stands atop a rock and also offers fantastic views. Ernesto Rusconi designed the statue, which dates back to 1848. There is a small lake and an octagonal table known as the Queen’s Table. It was one of Queen Amelia’s favourite spots and was named after her.
4. Temple of the Columns
Hike to the Temple of the Columns or Templo das Colunas. It is a relatively short walk to a beautiful domed building with columns. The yellow dome contains 12 columns and is a stunning Neoclassical structure. It stands in the middle of the forest, and the view is phenomenal.
5. A romantic getaway
One of the best hidden gems is the Chalet and the Garden of the Countess of Edla. You’ll discover the chalet on the park’s western side, and it’s dedicated to the Countess of Edla. When King Ferdinand lost his first wife, Queen Maria, he lost his heart to Elise Friederike Hensler. She was later honoured as the Countess of Edla, and together they built the romantic alpine-style chalet!
You will probably spend at least half a day exploring Palacio da Pena and the surrounding gardens. The palace alone will take you about 1 to 2 hours. Visiting the palace is a perfect day trip from the capital. Once back in the village, you can look at Sintra National Palace or combine the palace with a visit to the Moorish Castle. You will never forget the beauty of this area, that’s for sure!
Bonus tips for your time at Pena Palace
- The weather is always a little different in Sintra. Even on warm days, bring a jumper; the clouds and wind can make it chilly in the mountains!
- Be flexible with your planning. If you did not book beforehand, Pena Palace may be fully booked on your preferred day. Rest assured, there is plenty of stuff to see in Sintra! Check out Quinta da Regaleira instead, or discover the beauty of Monserrate Palace.
- This one ties in with tips 1 and 2. In summer, forest fires in the Sintra Mountains may occur. On risky days, the gardens and buildings will not open for obvious reasons. Did you buy a ticket in advance? Contact your ticket provider to reschedule your visit or get your entrance refunded. The same might happen with heavy rains or other treacherous weather conditions.
- There is so much to see and do in Sintra. Wait to go back to the city and stay the night! In the evening, you have the centre to yourself and can be the first to see the sights the following day.
Where to Stay in Sintra
In Sintra, you can enjoy everything from a simple room to palatial stays. There is something available for every budget! For luxury, a stay at Valverde Palacio de Seteais Sintra is fantastic. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy at Pestana Sintra Golf Resort & Spa.
Glamping is another option, and you stay overnight in the middle of beautiful nature! And MouraLua has gorgeous rooms at an affordable price. Check the map below for the perfect accommodation near the palaces and castles.
FAQ
What is inside Pena Palace?
You’ll discover multiple rooms inside the former royal summer residence. Highlights include the Manueline Cloister, the Chambers of King Carlos, the Dining Room and pantry and the Great Hall. Outside, you’ll see several architectural styles, including the best views from the terrace.
Is Pena Palace worth entering?
You can buy a cheaper ticket for just the park, but visiting the monument inside is well worth your time. With a full ticket, you can see the Monumental Gate, Triton’s Terrace, and the Courtyard of Arches.
How do you get to Palacio da Pena?
You can travel to Pena Palace from Lisbon by Uber/Bolt cab or public transportation. A cab can drop you off in front of Pena Palace. If you travel by train to Sintra, you can continue your journey by bus, tuk-tuk or cab. Public transport is the cheapest, but also the busiest in high season.
Do you need to book Sintra in advance?
Sintra is a nature reserve and a city, both of which are free to visit. However, to visit the palaces, you will need tickets. Early reservations are recommended for places like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. Both sights have time slots and need to be pre-booked.
Conclusion
Is a visit to Pena Palace worth it? Absolutely! Many people combine a visit to Palacio da Pena with Quinta da Regaleira or the National Palace. Up to two (maximum three) sights can be visited in one day, but you’ll need a minimum of two hours at Pena Palace and more to see the gardens. I like spending more time in the park, as the views are incredible and it’s much quieter.
Some travellers like to add more sights in one day, but this could be highly tiring unless you book an excursion. Also, you’ll only see a small area of each palace. The gardens are enormous and well worth it! So, for a stress-free visit to Sintra, it’s even nicer to spread your plans and stay the night! Biester Palace, Parque e Palácio de Monserrate, and the Capuchos Convent are beautiful hidden gems nearby.
More things to do in Sintra
- How to get to Palácio da Pena in Sintra
- Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, a guide to visit this magical UNESCO site
- Complete Guide to Park and Palace of Monserrate Sintra
- Sintra day trips from Lisbon; discover the best excursions
- The hidden gem in Sintra; Discover the ancient Convent of the Capuchos
- Beautiful Cabo da Roca Portugal; most westernmost point of Europe
- Biester Palace, a beautiful hidden gem in Sintra
- Sintra National Palace: Discover the beautiful palace close to Lisbon
- Lisbon Sintra by train Travel Guide + 8 top sights to visit
- Discover the picturesque coastal town Azenhas do Mar near Sintra
- Visit the beautiful Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros) in Sintra
- 8 irresistible beaches in Sintra to visit during your holiday
- How to get to stunning Praia da Ursa
- Beautiful Queluz National Palace, a hidden gem in Sintra
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