Sintra Travel Guide

Fairytale palaces, lush hills & cultural heritage landscapes

Why Visit Sintra?

Sintra feels like a living storybook, where colorful palaces, misty forests, and historic estates come together in a protected cultural landscape. Just beyond Lisbon, the town offers a slower pace and deep connection to history and nature. Thoughtful visitor management and preserved heritage make Sintra an ideal destination for travelers seeking beauty with responsibility.

Travel Essentials

Things to do in Sintra

Sintra’s Practical Travel Information

Getting There
    • Sintra is easily reached by train from Lisbon in approximately 40 minutes
    • Regular rail services operate from Lisbon’s Rossio station
    • Road access is available via private car and guided tours
    Local Transport
      • Local buses connect the train station with major palaces and castles
      • Walking is ideal within the historic town center
      • Hilly terrain makes cycling less common
      • Guided tours reduce congestion and visitor impact
      Transfers
        • Private transfers are available from Lisbon and Cascais
        • Train travel provides a low-impact way to reach Sintra
        • Guided tours help manage visitor flow at key attractions
        Visa Information
          • Portugal is part of the Schengen Area
          • EU and EEA citizens do not require a visa
          • Non-EU travelers may stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period
          Safety Tips
            • Sintra is a safe and family-friendly destination
            • Wear proper footwear due to uneven paths and hills
            • Emergency number for police and medical services is 112
            • Weather conditions can change quickly in forested areas
            Accessibilitiy
              • Historic sites may include stairs and uneven surfaces
              • Some palaces offer limited wheelchair access
              • Town center services are generally accessible
              Currency & Payments
                • The official currency is the Euro (€)
                • Credit and debit cards are accepted at major attractions
                • Cash is useful for cafés and small local shops
                Stay
                  • Sintra offers boutique hotels, guesthouses, and heritage stays
                  • Eco-conscious accommodations are growing in the region
                  • Popular areas include the historic center and surrounding hills
                  Eat
                    • Local cuisine features traditional Portuguese dishes and pastries
                    • Cafés and small restaurants serve regional specialties
                    • Sustainable and locally sourced dining options are available
                    Sustainable Travel
                      • Walking tours encourage low-impact exploration
                      • Respect for heritage sites preserves cultural landscapes
                      • Supporting local businesses strengthens the community

                      What people say about Sintra

                      • Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape
                      • Visitor management protects forests and historic sites
                      • Local businesses support heritage conservation

                      Travel with purpose. Leave a positive footprint.

                      Your booking directly supports local tourism community

                      • We collaborate with licensed local guides
                      • Tours are operated by small local businesses
                      • Fair pricing ensures local income stays local

                      Explore while reducing your carbon footprint

                      • Walking & small-group tours prioritized
                      • Low-emission transport where required
                      • Routes designed to minimize environmental footprint

                      Tourism that respects people, places, and culture

                      • Experiences designed with community benefit in mind
                      • Respect for local neighborhoods & cultural heritage
                      • Support for responsible tourism initiatives

                      Small choices make a big difference

                      • Support local cafés & artisans
                      • Respect historic sites & local customs
                      • Choose walking tours when possible
                      • Travel in small groups

                      Ready to Experience Sintra—Responsibly?

                      Discover medieval streets, local stories, and meaningful experiences—
                      designed for travelers who want to explore with purpose.


                      Every tour supports local guides, respects cultural heritage,
                      and minimizes environmental impact.

                      Start Exploring Sintra