Journey through Sintra - the historical center and palacesÂ
Journey through Sintra, a UNESCO-listed destination boasting fairy-tale palaces and castles. Visit the National Palace to gain insight into its centuries-long list of visiting kings; then continue onto Pena Palace for even more spectacular sights.
The historical center and palaces are very interesting and beautiful, and in order to have time to see them all, we recommend renting a car here - bookingauto.com, and then choose one of the interesting excursions here - excurzilla.com
Guided tours will follow occupancy limits, social distancing protocols and sanitation measures when visiting groups of tour groups; during this time the Gardens and Palace remain available for self-guided visits.
The Alcazar
The Alcazar is an impressive palace complex that was home to monarchs for centuries, making it best explored with an experienced guide. Your guide can show you around all the palaces and courtyards while giving insightful commentary about each one.
The Maidens Courtyard (Patio de las Doncellas), also known as the Hall of Ambassadors, is an impressive qubba with a 24-metre-high ceiling decorated with yeseria stucco. Additionally, King Alfonso XI added an octagonal Mudejar Coffered Wood Ceiling as well as an external channel from which water would flow into a patio pool outside.
The Alcazar was extensively rebuilt by Christian kings following the fall of Al-Andalus, so its style blends Moorish and Northern European influences. Originally, two large huertas - or vegetable gardens - existed there, though these have since been removed to be replaced by magnificent palaces and halls you see today.
The National Palace
The National Palace in Sintra, Portugal is an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site and was frequented by Portuguese monarchs as an idyllic summer retreat.
Its components are organized around interior courtyards and gardens. Of special note is the Grand Courtyard, featuring an eye-catching large fountain as well as two statues depicting Pegasus (a mythological horse).
The palace is listed among Romanticism's monuments and a must-visit for visitors to Sintra. Visitors will gain an incredible opportunity to learn more about its rich and dramatic history; what's even better is that it is within easy walking distance from other breathtaking sites such as Castle of Moors or other beautiful castles that make Sintra one of Lisbon's top tourspots; there are even one-day tours available that visit both National Palace and other beautiful castles in Sintra for very reasonable rates that provide unforgettable experiences of Sintra!
The Pena Palace
The Palace of Pena is an iconic UNESCO world heritage site in Sintra, and arguably its top attraction. Built during the 19th Century and featuring neo-Renaissance style architecture, it stands as an appealing palace house surrounded by beautiful bucolic gardens with belvederes offering panoramic views of Sintra village and historic center, National Palace Castle of Moors, and church of S. Martinho.
King Ferdinand II transformed this monastery into an amazing Technicolor fairytale castle that beautifully blends Romantic, Renaissance and Manueline styles.
Discover the historical center of Sintra through its exquisite palaces and castles with this exclusive tour available both to individuals and groups.
The Palace of Monserrate
We love visiting this palace because it's often overlooked on tourist itineraries, ensuring we won't see too many people there! With its stunning botanical gardens adding even further beauty to this location.
The garden comprises several sections arranged around the palace and its low walls. With their vibrant colours and geometric designs, these gardens are an aesthetic treat. To best experience these gardens, visit The Lawn - a circular space featuring both palace and park as backdrops - where one can observe them up close.
This area, once used to play music, boasts outstanding acoustics - making it a valuable asset for the owners of the palace who entertained guests with orchestras, singers and other musical acts. Furthermore, its spacious lawn provides perfect conditions for children to run up or roll down hills, while walking through its ferns gives an authentic jungle experience. A visit to this palace should definitely be included on any itinerary and provides a chance to view Gerard de Visme's neo-Gothic mansion which was subleased in 1793 by William Beckford.