Top reasons to visit Sintra
- Stunning Historic Palaces: Sintra is home to magnificent sites like the Sintra National Palace and the Pena Palace, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich history.
- Breathtaking Natural Landscapes: The region boasts lush greenery and scenic views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Charming Village Atmosphere: Wander through the picturesque streets of Sintra village, filled with quaint shops and local eateries.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Sintra's unique cultural and historical significance makes it a recognised UNESCO site.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: From family-friendly hotels to charming B&Bs, there's something for every traveller's preference.
Find great hotels near Sintra
Explore the enchanting town of Sintra, where a variety of accommodation options await you. From family-friendly hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, Sintra offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you're seeking a base for business travel or an adventure-filled holiday, you'll find suitable hotels and guesthouses that cater to your needs. Discover the perfect place to unwind and experience the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Corinthia Lisbon: Corinthia Lisbon is a luxurious 5-star hotel that blends elegance with family-friendly amenities, making it an excellent choice for romantic getaways or family vacations. Located 20.9km from Sintra, it boasts a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. Guests can enjoy stunning views from the garden-view restaurant and indulge in romance packages that include late-night room service and champagne service. The hotel caters to younger guests with amenities such as a childrenโs pool and babysitting services. Additionally, the spa offers a range of treatments, ensuring a relaxing experience with options like Ayurvedic treatments and a Turkish bath.
- EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel: EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel, also rated 9.6 out of 10, offers a contemporary escape 22.5km from Sintra, ideal for families and business travellers alike. The hotel features a full-service spa, complete with treatment rooms, a sauna, and steam room, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. Families can benefit from onsite childcare services and complimentary cribs for younger children. The hotelโs modern design and comprehensive amenities make it a sophisticated choice for those seeking both leisure and business facilities.
- Novotel Lisboa: Novotel Lisboa is a well-rated 4-star hotel situated 20.9km from Sintra, offering comfortable accommodation for families and business travellers. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this hotel provides essential amenities for children, including free cribs and first aid kits. The family-friendly atmosphere is complemented by the hotel's business facilities, making it a versatile option for various types of visitors. Guests appreciate the hotel's convenient location and well-appointed rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay while exploring the beautiful city of Lisbon.
Where to stay in Sintra
Sintra offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, making it an ideal getaway for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Explore the enchanting palaces and lush landscapes, or venture to nearby Portela de Sintra for a more secluded experience. With its family-friendly atmosphere and romantic vibes, this charming region promises unforgettable memories and a warm welcome from friendly locals. Discover the magic of Sintra and its surrounding gems for a truly enriching vacation.
- Lisbon District: The vibrant Lisbon District, where Sintra is located, boasts a unique blend of urban charm and cultural richness. Known for its year-round appeal, the district attracts visitors seeking city-themed experiences, family-friendly activities, and cultural immersion. With bustling shopping areas and renowned golf courses, there is no shortage of things to do. Key landmarks include beautiful beaches and lively squares, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding attractions and experiencing the local lifestyle.
- Colares: Nestled in the heart of Sintra, Colares offers a delightful escape for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. This quaint parish sees a peak in visitors during the warmer months, particularly in April and from July to August. Travellers flock here to enjoy the stunning scenery, with access to beautiful family beaches and the nearby national state park, perfect for hiking and nature walks. Colares is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil atmosphere combined with outdoor adventure.
- Azenhas do Mar: Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque neighbourhood perched atop stunning cliffs, just a short distance from Sintra. This charming locale attracts visitors mainly in the summer months, drawn to its captivating beaches and rich cultural experiences. The area is perfect for outdoor activities and offers numerous golf courses and resorts. Notable attractions include family-friendly beaches and the historic palace, making Azenhas do Mar a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and heritage of the region.
Things to do near Sintra
Shopping
In Sintra, explore local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs, including artisanal crafts and traditional Portuguese tiles. If you're up for a drive, visit the Cascais Shopping Centre for a wider range of international brands and dining options.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil atmosphere at the Templo da Paz, where you can engage in yoga sessions surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, explore the scenic trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park for a refreshing hike amidst stunning landscapes, providing both relaxation and a touch of adventure.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Autรณdromo Fernanda Pires da Silva, located 4.8km from Sintra, where the adrenaline rush meets competitive spirit. For a different perspective, take a ride on the Telecabine Lisbon Cable Car, situated 25.7km away, offering stunning views of the landscape.
For an adventurous outing, visit Adventure Park, a zipline ropes course located 16.1km from Sintra, where you can navigate through treetops and embrace the great outdoors.
Nightlife
In Sintra, the vibrant Casa da Mรบsica offers live music in a stunning setting, while the charming taverns in the historic centre provide a taste of local wines and Fado performances. Strolling through the picturesque streets, youโll find cosy bars perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sintra
To save money during your visit to Sintra, consider travelling between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Use public transport options like buses and trams, or enjoy walking to explore the area. Take advantage of free attractions such as Guincho Beach and Adraga Beach. For the best hotel deals, book about a month in advance and look for last-minute discounts on platforms like Expedia. Remember that Monday is the cheapest day to book, while Fridays tend to be more expensive. Combining flights, hotels, and activities into a package can also yield savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sintra are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Sintra is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sintra is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Sintra is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expediaโs search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservations in Sintra with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Sintra
Sintra is an enchanting destination perfect for culture enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. Visitors can explore the stunning Sintra National Palace, wander through the charming Sintra village, and discover various attractions and museums that highlight the region's rich heritage. With its beautiful beaches and historic palaces, Sintra offers a delightful blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal vacation spot for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
- Sintra National Palace: Nestled in the heart of Sintra, this historic palace showcases stunning medieval architecture and intricate azulejos (ceramic tiles). Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and explore the lavishly decorated rooms, each telling a story of the Portuguese monarchy.
- Grande Beach: A picturesque stretch of golden sand, Grande Beach offers a tranquil escape with its serene atmosphere. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore, it provides a delightful beach vibe surrounded by stunning cliffs.
- Moorish Castle: Perched on a hilltop, this ancient fortress is steeped in history and romance. The panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding landscape are breathtaking, inviting visitors to wander through its stone walls while imagining the tales of the past.
Best time to go to Sintra
The best time to visit Sintra can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sintra falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Sintra falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Sintra
Accessing Sintra is straightforward for tourists flying into either LISbon (LIS-Humberto Delgado) or Cascais (CAT) airports. Lisbon Airport, located 22.5km from Sintra, offers excellent hotel options such as the EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel and Corinthia Lisbon, both 4.8km away, providing accessible 24-hour airport shuttle services. Eurostars Universal Lisboa, just 3.2km from the airport, is another convenient choice. Alternatively, Cascais Airport is 9.7km from Sintra, with luxurious hotels like The Albatroz Hotel and Hotel Cascais Miragem nearby, offering various transportation services including airport shuttles. Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel & Spa is also within proximity, ensuring easy access to both airports.