Last Updated on May 12, 2025 by Lauren Belzer
If you’re visiting Lisbon, do not skip a day trip to Sintra. I’m serious. It’s one of those places that feels like it’s straight out of a Disney movie—a colorful palace perched up on misty hills, a fortress overlooking the land below. It’s the kind of magic you can’t really explain until you’re standing in it, looking up at the colorful walls. We carved out a good chunk of the day for a trip out to Sintra, and honestly, I wish we had more time!
Getting There
Although it’s straightforward and affordable, we didn’t want to navigate rail transportation, so we opted for a guided tour over a train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station. Sometimes, it’s nice to have that little extra logistical aspect taken care of for you, so you can just enjoy the day. Our guide handled the transportation, timed everything to avoid the crowds (including bypassing the generic lines) and gave us little bits of history along the way that we never would have learned on our own.
The drive from Lisbon was just under an hour, and as soon as we started winding up into the hills, it felt like the city was long behind us. Everything got greener, softer, and like we were entering an entirely different world.
Pro Tip: If it’s your first time or you want to make the most of your time, a small-group or private tour is 100% worth it!
Pena Palace
You know that candy-colored palace you’ve probably seen all over Instagram when you search Portugal or Lisbon? That’s Pena Palace. And yes, it’s incredible in person!
A few things to know about the palace:
- It’s perched up in the hills, so give yourself some time to get up there from the entrance (yes, you have to walk)
- It’s a mix of different architectural styles, so it’s wildly eclectic, but somehow it all still works together
- Don’t skip the surrounding areas, there are some really pretty views all around the palace
We spent some time with our guide here, learning about the palace’s history, taking in the bright yellow and red walls, intricate tilework, and the panoramic views from the top of the hill. You can even see the Atlantic on a clear day!
Why Sintra?
Sintra isn’t just pretty—it’s enchanting. It’s the kind of place that makes you look up and around more. A place that makes you breathe in the fresh air. To really be present in your surroundings. A partial day is enough, yes, but I wish I’d had more time.
If you’re heading to Lisbon soon, build this day trip in, and aim to spend more than just a couple of hours in the beauty of Sintra and Pena Palace. Trust me…it will be the city escape you didn’t know you needed!