A Ultimate Day Trip to Pena Palace from Lisbon
If you’re looking for a place that feels like a fairytale, visit Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal. It’s where dreams come true. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most magical places we’ve visited. We’ve explored over 17 UNESCO sites during our travels. Still, Pena Palace stands out as one of the most captivating and unforgettable.
Colors and Architecture of Pena Palace
The vibrant colors of Pena Palace stand out with striking reds, yellows, and purples. They create a vivid contrast against the lush greenery of the Sintra mountains. Its eclectic architecture blends Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish styles. Every corner of the palace is a marvel. Wander through the grand halls, admire the detailed rooms, or gaze out from the high towers. A sense of wonder and awe fills the air.
A Fairytale Experience in Sintra
For anyone who dreamed of being a prince or princess, Pena Palace brings that fantasy to life. The scenic views, fresh mountain air, and stunning architecture feel enchanting. You’ll want endless photos here, as every angle looks like a storybook cover.
Short on time?
Why Pena Palace Is a Must-See in Portugal
- Perfect for Hiking: The hike to Pena Palace is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding park and the stunning views from the top.
- Incredible Architecture: A fusion of styles that tell stories from different cultures and eras.
- Stunning Views: Located atop a hill, the panoramic views of the Sintra Mountains and the surrounding countryside are breathtaking.
- Stunning Sunsets: The palace offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets, casting a golden glow over the entire region.
- Family Fun: Perfect for all ages, Pena Palace offers a magical experience for families, history lovers, and photography fans alike.
- Fresh Air & Nature: The park surrounding the palace is a lush paradise, offering a refreshing escape from the city.
How to Get to Pena Palace from Lisbon
Train + Bus 434 (Easy)
From Lisbon Rossio to Sintra (~40 min). From Sintra station, take Bus 434 up to Pena Palace.
- Rossio ⇄ Sintra train ~ €4.50 round-trip
- Bus 434 day ticket ~ €13.50 (or one-way €4.55)
- Best for most visitors
Car / Taxi / Uber
Drive from Lisbon (~35–45 min) then up to the palace. Parking is limited; arrive early.
- Quickest off-peak; traffic can be heavy
- Drop-off near entrance; still uphill walking
Guided Tour (No-Fuss)
Includes transport + timed entry. Often bundled with Moorish Castle or Quinta da Regaleira.
- Skip logistics; good for peak season
- Prices vary by inclusions
Typical Travel Times (traffic & crowds vary)
Best Time & Tickets
Walking & Shuttle
What to Bring
Plan Your Pena Palace Visit
- Pena Palace was built on the ruins of a monastery after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
- The palace stands at 500 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Its vibrant red, yellow, and purple colors were restored in the 1990s to match King Ferdinand II’s original vision.
The Best Accommodations for Your Lisbon Adventure
When visiting Lisbon, finding a hotel with a convenient location can make all the difference. Here are three great options that offer comfort and easy access to the city’s top attractions, with easy connections to Sintra for a day trip adventure:
We stayed at Dom Pedro Lisboa, located in the heart of Lisbon. This hotel is known for its prime location near restaurants, bus and train stations, and popular landmarks. With spacious rooms, excellent dining options, and a relaxing spa, it’s perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
Located near Rossio Square, Hotel Avenida Palace combines elegance and convenience. This historic hotel is within walking distance of famous neighborhoods like Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Alfama. Its classic decor, attentive service, and proximity to public transport make it ideal for travelers looking for a central and refined stay.
For those seeking a boutique experience, My Story Hotel Rossio offers a central base just steps from Rossio Station. Perfect for exploring Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods or catching a train to Sintra, this hotel’s modern amenities and chic design add a touch of charm to your stay.
Whether you’re looking for luxury, history, or a boutique vibe, these hotels offer the perfect base for a memorable Lisbon adventure, just a short train ride away from the enchanting town of Sintra.
Explore the Charm of Sintra Before Visiting Pena Palace
Before heading to Pena Palace, spend a few hours in Sintra’s charming old town. This historic gem is filled with cozy cafés, local shops, and Portuguese bakeries. Try a travesseiro, a fluffy pastry with almond cream, or a queijada, a sweet cheese tart.
Walking through Sintra’s narrow cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. Colorful facades and hand-painted azulejos decorate centuries-old buildings. These details highlight Portugal’s rich history. Street musicians often play traditional Portuguese music, adding a magical touch to your visit.
National Palace of Sintra and Scenic Views
Don’t miss the National Palace of Sintra. It is famous for its twin chimneys and long history. Hidden viewpoints nearby give you stunning views of the Sintra Mountains.
Tasting Portuguese Food in Sintra
Sintra is a great place to enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine. We visited at lunchtime, the perfect chance to try local dishes.
We ordered a traditional Portuguese soup and a dish that looked like potato salad. Instead, it was a full meal with potatoes, fish, eggs, and olives. The mix was unexpected but tasty. We don’t know its name, so if you do, please share it in the comments!
After lunch, we stopped at Café Paris, right next to the National Palace of Sintra. The café has outdoor seating and a relaxed vibe. The highlight was the crepes. They were delicious and a must-try when you visit.
Scenic Hike to Pena Palace: Nature, Views, and Adventure from Sintra
The hike to Pena Palace from Sintra is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The trail starts in the historic town and winds through forests and scenic paths. Along the way, you’ll see views of the mountains and valley. We visited in October, and the colorful leaves made it even more magical.
The trail is moderately challenging with uphill sections, but it’s worth it. You’ll pass gardens and hidden viewpoints that are perfect for photos. Surrounded by tall trees and bright greenery, the walk feels like a full nature escape.
At the top, Pena Palace will take your breath away. The bold architecture and panoramic views of Sintra and the landscape are unforgettable. Hiking adds to the experience, giving you a sense of achievement and a deeper connection to this landmark.
Aerial Views of Pena Palace
When we arrived at Pena Palace, we flew our drone to capture the view from above. The scenery was stunning and showed the palace in all its glory. For more aerial shots and to feel the magic of Pena Palace from the sky, watch our full YouTube vlog.
Travel Vlog From This Trip
Pena Palace’s Colorful Beauty
The exterior of Pena Palace is a striking example of Romantic architecture. Its red, yellow, and purple walls stand out against the green hills of Sintra. Every corner has something unique—Moorish arches, ornate windows, and detailed stone carvings.
Popular photo spots include the entrance gates, castle towers, and terraces. These areas often have lines of visitors, so plan extra time if you want that perfect shot. The panoramic views over Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking and worth the wait.
Inside Pena Palace
The Grand Hall and Queen’s Terrace give a vivid glimpse into Portuguese history. The rooms display artistic and architectural beauty at every turn. King Ferdinand II’s art collection fills the palace, showing his love for creativity. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and European porcelain that add to the palace’s charm.
Outside, the park and gardens are just as impressive. They hold more than 2,000 plant species, from giant ferns to sequoias and camellias. Designed as a Romantic paradise, the gardens create a lush and magical extension of the palace.
For us, the most magical spot at Pena Palace was the sunset viewpoint. As evening approaches, many visitors gather here, eager to capture videos and pictures of the stunning sunset. The view from the top of the palace is absolutely breathtaking, offering a spectacular panorama of Sintra’s rolling hills and the distant ocean.
We cherished every second of this unforgettable experience. To see the full footage and immerse yourself in the sunset’s beauty, jump over to our YouTube channel and watch the entire vlog!
