The vibrant colors of Pena Palace, with its striking reds, yellows, and purples, create a stunning contrast against the lush greenery of the surrounding Sintra mountains. The eclectic architecture is a perfect blend of Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish styles, making every corner of this palace something to marvel at. Whether you’re wandering through its grand halls, admiring the intricately detailed rooms, or gazing out from its high towers, there’s a sense of wonder and awe that fills the air.
For anyone who’s ever dreamed of being a prince or princess on a white horse, this is the place to relive that childhood fantasy. The scenic views, the fresh mountain air, and the architectural beauty will transport you into a world of enchantment. It’s a place where you’ll want to take endless photos, as every angle of the palace feels like it could be the cover of a storybook.
Pin and Read Later
📌 Short on time? Pin this post for later! 🌍 Unveiling a world of thrilling adventures, mouthwatering local food, and unforgettable escapes. Dive into unique cultural experiences, seek out hidden gems, and create memories to last a lifetime. Save now, explore later, and let your next extraordinary journey begin! ✈️🌟
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.
Whether you’re a history lover, a photography fan, or someone simply looking for a little magic, Pena Palace is a must-visit destination in Portugal. It’s one of those rare places that feels like it was built for dreamers.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal for visiting Sintra, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant natural scenery.
How to Get to Pena Palace from Lisbon
When traveling from Lisbon to Pena Palace, you have a few options depending on your preferences for convenience and adventure. We took the train from Campolide to Sintra, and the journey took just 37 minutes. Once we arrived in Sintra, we hiked up to the palace.
By Train and Bus (Public Transport)
Take a train to Sintra from Lisbon’s Campolide Station. The train ride takes about 37 minutes. Once you arrive at Sintra Station, you can either take a bus (bus 434) to Pena Palace or choose to hike up the scenic trails leading to the palace. The bus takes around 15 minutes, while the hike can take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace.
Tip: The bus runs frequently, but during peak tourist seasons, it can get crowded, so arriving early is a good idea.
By Car (Self-Drive or Taxi)
If you’re driving, the journey from Lisbon to Pena Palace takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. You can use a GPS or a map app to guide you to Sintra, where you’ll follow signs to Pena Palace. You can also use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber for a more convenient, direct journey. This will take you straight to the entrance of the palace.
By Tour
If you prefer a more organized experience, many companies offer day tours from Lisbon to Sintra, which include a visit to Pena Palace. This option typically includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes additional stops in Sintra, such as the Moorish Castle or Quinta da Regaleira.
Pena Palace Entrance Fees and Hours
Entrance Fees
Adults (over 18 years) USD 21
Children (6-17 years) USD 19
Children under 6 years Free
Note: Prices are for the entrance to the Pena Palace and its surrounding park. There is also an option to visit just the park or the palace on its own at different rates.
You can buy your tickets online to skip the long lines, making your visit much more convenient.
Opening Hours
Pena Palace 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Tip: Keep in mind the last entry is 6:00 PM
Pena Park 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Tip: Keep in mind the last entry is 7:00 PM
The palace is open daily, but it may be closed on special holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website for any changes or closures before your visit.
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, take a few hours to explore Sintra’s charming old town. This historic gem is filled with cozy cafés, unique local shops, and traditional Portuguese bakeries where you can savor 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. The colorful facades and hand-painted tiles (azulejos) adorning centuries-old buildings beautifully showcase Portugal’s rich history. Street musicians often fill the air with traditional Portuguese music, adding a magical vibe to your visit.
Don’t miss the National Palace of Sintra, renowned for its twin chimneys and intriguing history. You’ll also find hidden viewpoints that offer breathtaking glimpses of the Sintra Mountains.
Tip: Visit in the morning to beat the afternoon crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience!
Sintra’s Authentic Portuguese Cuisine, Cozy Cafés, and Delicious Crepes
Sintra is the perfect town to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine. We were fortunate to visit during lunchtime, making it an ideal opportunity to savor some local dishes.
For lunch, we enjoyed a traditional Portuguese soup and a unique dish that resembled potato salad but turned out to be a complete meal! It combined potatoes, fish, eggs, and olives—an unexpected yet delightful combination with a distinct flavor. We’re not sure of the dish’s name, so if you know it, please share it with us in the comments below!
After lunch, we headed to Café Paris, conveniently located right next to the National Palace of Sintra. This charming café, with its outdoor seating, was the perfect place to relax before making our way to Pena Palace. And the highlight? The crepes! They were absolutely delicious and are a must-try if you visit.
Scenic Hike to Pena Palace: Nature, Views, and Adventure from Sintra
The hike to Pena Palace from Sintra is a must-do for those seeking to combine natural beauty with a touch of adventure. Starting from the historic town of Sintra, the trail winds through lush forests and scenic paths, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valley. We visited in October, and the changing season added to the magic, with colorful leaves scattered across the ground.
The trail is moderately challenging, with uphill sections, but the reward is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming gardens and hidden viewpoints perfect for photos. Surrounded by tall trees and vibrant greenery, the hike is a true immersion in nature.
When you finally reach Pena Palace, not only will you be awe-struck by the stunning architecture, but you’ll also enjoy panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding landscape. The hike enhances the experience, offering a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to this iconic landmark.
Feeling adventurous? 🌍 Book your dream vacation and let the excitement begin! ✈️
Capturing Pena Palace from Above: Stunning Drone Footage of Sintra’s Gem
Upon arriving at Pena Palace, we couldn’t resist flying the drone to capture the breathtaking beauty from above. The views were absolutely stunning, showcasing the palace in all its glory. For more aerial footage and to experience the magic of Pena Palace from the sky, check out our full YouTube vlog!
The exterior of Pena Palace is a stunning display of Romantic architecture, offering endless photo opportunities. Its vibrant hues of red, yellow, and purple contrast beautifully with the lush green Sintra hills. Every corner reveals unique architectural features, including Moorish-inspired arches, ornate windows, and detailed stone carvings.
Popular photo spots like the entrance gates, the castle towers, and terraces often have lines of visitors waiting for their perfect shot. To fully enjoy the experience, allocate extra time if you plan to capture photos at these iconic locations. The panoramic views from the palace over Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean are also breathtaking and well worth the wait.
Inside Pena Palace, the Grand Hall and Queen’s Terrace offer captivating glimpses into Portuguese history, showcasing artistic and architectural grandeur. The palace houses King Ferdinand II’s extensive art collection, reflecting his deep passion for creativity. Visitors can marvel at exquisite paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and European porcelain, each piece adding to the palace’s storied charm.
Don’t miss exploring the palace’s surrounding park and gardens, which are a masterpiece of landscape design. Fun fact: the gardens feature over 2,000 plant species from across the globe, including giant ferns, towering sequoias, and vibrant camellias. The lush environment was crafted to evoke a Romantic paradise, making it an enchanting extension of the palace itself.
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!
