National Palace of Sintra

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	09:30–18:30	18:00
Tuesday	09:30–18:30	18:00
Wednesday	09:30–18:30	18:00
Thursday	09:30–18:30	18:00
Friday (Today)	09:30–18:30	18:00
Saturday	09:30–18:30	18:00
Sunday	09:30–18:30	18:00

Sintra National Palace is open every day of the week.

General Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Last Admission: 6:00 PM

Closed: 24-25th December and 1st January

Sintra National Palace Park opening hours

The National Palace Park is also open every day of the week.

General Timings: 9:30am to 6:30pm

Last Admission: 6pm

Closed: December 24, 25, 31 and January 1

What’s the best time to visit Sintra National Palace

Peak Season vs Low Season

If you plan on visiting the National Palace of Sintra between June and August, or during the shoulder season from April to May, you must brace yourself for the crowds. This is Sintra’s peak season as the days are warm and sunny. Getting yourself tickets or a quiet and empty place to click some pictures can be a challenge.

If a calmer, quieter visit to the National Palace of Sintra is what you’re after, you’ll be better off visiting during the low season from November to March. The shoulder season between September and October is also ideal, with fewer crowds and a better chance of snagging tickets.

Plan Your Visit to Sintra National Palace

Weekday vs Weekend

The best days of the week to visit the National Palace of Sintra are between Monday and Thursday from 9:30am to around 11:30am. This is when the crowds are at their lowest, which means shorter lines, less crowded rooms, and more opportunities to engage with the exhibits and the history of the palace. You'll also have a better chance of taking stunning photographs without the distraction of large crowds.

The palace tends to become crowded during the weekends, especially during the peak season. If you're planning to visit during the weekend, consider arriving early in the morning to enjoy a relatively quieter atmosphere.

How long should I spend at the National Palace of Sintra?

When planning your visit to National Palace of Sintra, allocate around 1.5 to 2 hours for a fulfilling experience. This time frame allows you to explore the opulent interiors, marvel at the unique tilework and carpentry, and absorb the palace's historical significance.

If you plan to take photos, read all the historical details, or enjoy the surroundings, set aside at least 2.5 to 3 hours.

If you opt for a combo with the Pena Palace & Park and the Quinta de Regaleira you can choose your entry time at both attractions and stay for as long as you like. On the other hand, you can enter the National Palace of Queluz and Gardens at any time within its opening hours and stay for as long as you'd like.

National Palace of Sintra combo durations

Combo: National Palace of Sintra + Pena Palace & Park

National Palace of Sintra timings: 9:30am - 6:30pm

Pena Palace timings: 9:30am – 6:30pm

Park of Pena: 9am – 7pm

Duration: Flexible duration.

You can enter the Sintra National Palace anytime within its opening hours and stay for as long as you'd like.
For the Pena Palace & Park, you can select your time slot and stay for as long as you like within its opening hours.

Combo: National Palace of Sintra + Quinta de Regaleira

National Palace of Sintra timings: 9:30am - 6:30pm

Quinta de Regaleira timings: 10am - 7:30pm (April to September) and 10am to 6:30pm the rest of the year.

Duration: Flexible duration.

You can enter the Sintra National Palace anytime within its opening hours and stay for as long as you'd like.
For Quinta de Regaleira, you can select your time slot and stay for as long as you like within its opening hours.

Combo: National Palace of Sintra + National Palace of Queluz and Gardens

National Palace of Sintra timings: 9:30am - 6:30pm

National Palace of Queluz and Gardens timings: 9am to 6pm

Gardens of Queluz timings: 9:30am to 6:30pm

Duration: Flexible duration.

You can enter both attractions at any time within their opening hours and stay for as long as you'd like.

Frequently asked questions about the National Palace of Sintra's opening hours

What is the best time to visit the National Palace of Sintra?

The best time to visit the National Palace of Sintra is on weekdays from 9:30am to around 11:30am. Additionally, the shoulder seasons—April to May and late September to October—offer the best balance. Keep in mind that the palace tends to get crowded over the weekends, particularly during the peak seasons.

Does the palace have different timings during peak and low seasons?

The standard 9:30am to 6:30pm timing remains the same throughout the year. However, you can expect larger crowds and longer wait times during the peak season between June and August.

Should I visit the National Palace of Sintra on a public holiday?

The palace can get rather crowded on a public holiday. However, if you plan on visiting, you should ideally do so as early as possible to benefit from fewer crowds. Keep in mind that the palace remains closed on December 24, 25, 31 and January 1.

Quick Links

Top Attractions in Sintra:

Day Trips: