All You Need to Know to Plan Your Visit to Sintra National Palace

National Palace of Sintra | Visitor information at a glance

What are the National Palace of Sintra opening hours?
The National Palace of Sintra is open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, every day of the week.
Where is the National Palace of Sintra located?
The National Palace of Sintra is located in the historic town centre. The official address is Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, Portugal.
How many entrances does the National Palace of Sintra have?
The National Palace of Sintra has two entrances, one is the main entrance and the other is from National Palace Park.
How many number visitors does the National Palace of Sintra see per year?
Nearly 2 million people visit the National Palace of Sintra every year.

What are the National Palace of Sintra opening hours?

Sintra National Palace is open every day of the week.

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

Last Entry: 6 PM

Closed: 24th and 25th December, 1st January

Sintra National Palace Opening Hours

National Palace of Sintra Tickets

Flexible duration

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Guided tour

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Combo (Save 3%): National Palace of Sintra + Pena Palace & Park Tickets

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Combo (Save 3%): National Palace of Sintra + Quinta da Regaleira Tickets

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National Palace of Sintra Guided Tour

1 hr.

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What's the best time to visit the Sintra National Palace?

Between May and September is the peak season to visit Sintra National Palace. Enjoy warm weather and lush gardens during this time, though expect larger crowds and higher prices. The tranquil low season, October to April, offers a quieter experience with cooler weather and a chance to appreciate the palace's interior and history.

Weekdays promise a peaceful visit with fewer visitors and shorter lines. Optimal for engaging with exhibits and capturing photos. Weekends, especially in peak season, draw bigger crowds. Arrive early for a quieter atmosphere and better parking if visiting on weekends.

Where is National Palace of Sintra located?

Address: Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, Portugal

Find On Map

The National Palace of Sintra is strategically nestled in the heart of the charming town of Sintra, Portugal. This historic palace enjoys a stunning location at the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, providing visitors with not only architectural beauty but also breathtaking natural surroundings.

Closest landmark: Pelourinho de Sintra (600 m)

Getting to the National Palace of Sintra

By public transportation

Bus: Take either bus 434 or 435 operated by Scotlurb, and disembark at the Sintra Train Station. From there, it's a leisurely 10-15 minute walk to reach the National Palace of Sintra.

Train: Opt for the Sintra Line and board the CP train departing from Lisbon to Sintra. The departure stations for the CP train are Oriente, Rossio and Entrecampos.

By car

If you’re coming by car from Lisbon, follow the IC19 route. Alternatively, if you're coming from Mafra, the IC30 is the recommended route. Visitors from Cascais can take EN9 and subsequently connect to the National Palace of Sintra using the A5 route.

Parking facilities

Parque de Estacionamento Estacao de Sintra (700 m away)
Parking Quinta dos Lobos is just 1.2 km away from the palace.
Estacionamento is about 2.3 km from the attraction.
Sintra Parking is about 2.3 km from the National Palace of Sintra.

Know before you go to Sintra National Palace

Pre-purchase tickets: Buying your tickets in advance online is a great way to avoid waiting in a queue at the ticket counter.
Early Arrival: Arrive early in the morning, preferably right when the palace opens. This can help you beat the crowds and reduce the waiting time at the entrance.
Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour package. Many tour operators offer skip-the-line options, allowing you to enter the palace directly with your group and guide.

Sintra National Palace has two distinct entrances that cater to different aspects of its historical and architectural significance.

Main Entrance: Located at the front of the palace, this entrance offers a direct path into the heart of the historical complex. As you step through the main entrance, you'll find yourself in the midst of the palace's central courtyard, surrounded by the intricate details of its medieval architecture.
Park Entrance: Located outside the National Palace Park, this entrance gives you direct access to the park. As you enter through the gate, you will first go through the park and then see the palace interiors. It is located on the hill, so you’ll have to walk for a bit.

Toilets: Toilets are available inside the palace.
Exhibitions and Interpretive Displays: The National Palace of Sintra often hosts exhibitions and interpretive displays that provide deeper insights into its history, architecture and cultural significance.
Cafeteria: There is a café where visitors can relax, enjoy a meal or snack, and soak in the atmosphere of this remarkable historical site.

Some parts of the palace are wheelchair accessible. However, certain areas might be hard to access due to the presence of stairs and irregular surfaces.
Guide dogs are welcome at the palace to aid those with functional or visual impairments. Drinking bowls are also available for guide dogs.

Show respect for the cultural and historical significance of the palace and its artefacts. Avoid touching exhibits, leaning on walls, or otherwise causing damage to the site.
Follow designated paths and areas to ensure the preservation of the site and its surroundings. Avoid straying into restricted or off-limits areas.
Photography might be restricted in certain areas of the palace. Some sites might have restrictions on flash photography, tripods or selfie sticks.
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanour within the palace and its grounds. Speak softly and avoid disruptive behaviour that could disturb other visitors.
Dispose of waste in designated bins and follow any recycling guidelines that may be in place.
Refrain from touching artefacts, climbing on structures or sitting on historical features. These actions can cause irreversible damage.

Consider buying your tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line at the ticket counter. Online tickets often have dedicated entrances, saving you time.
If possible, arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. This is especially beneficial during peak tourist seasons.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, as you'll be exploring various rooms, corridors, and gardens.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing and opt for modest attire out of respect for the historical and cultural significance of the palace.
Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and stories of the palace. Guides can offer valuable context that enhances your experience.
Bring a water bottle and snacks, especially if you plan on spending a significant amount of time exploring. However, be mindful of eating only in designated areas.
While the palace is the highlight, don't forget to explore the charming town of Sintra itself, which offers additional attractions, shops, and dining options.

Sintra has several restaurants, bars, and cafes where you can grab a bite, many of which are within 15 minutes from the palace itself. Here are a few options:

Monserrate: Serving a mix of European and Portuguese food, Monserrate offers an expansive menu and impeccable service.
Sintra Terrace: The Sintra Terrace serves a delectable mix of burgers, salads, and seafood while offering stunning views of the hills and the National Palace of Sintra.
Bristol: This warm, locally-owned restaurant offers homely food with everything from meats, seafood, burgers, and even gluten-free options.

The National Palace of Sintra and Pena Palace combo ticket offers you the benefit of visiting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sitnra with a single ticket.
Another combo you must check out is the National Palace of Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira. With this single ticket, you can cover two of the most iconic attractions in the Sintra area.
Torre da Regaleira: Explore the mystical Torre da Regaleira, a historic estate featuring intricate architecture and enchanting gardens.
Sintra Atlântico: Discover Sintra Atlântico, an aquarium showcasing marine life from the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for an educational outing.
Poço Imperfeito: Visit Poço Imperfeito, a captivating geological formation that adds a unique touch to your Sintra adventure.
Miradouro da Vigia: Capture panoramic views at Miradouro da Vigia, a scenic viewpoint offering a breathtaking vista of Sintra's landscapes.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the National Palace of Sintra

Where is the National Palace of Sintra?

The National Palace of Sintra is located in the town of Sintra, Portugal. The official address is Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, 2710-616 Sintra, Portugal

Can I visit the National Palace of Sintra?

Yes, the palace is open to visitors and offers the opportunity to explore its historical rooms, gardens, and architectural beauty.

Why should I visit the National Palace of Sintra?

Visiting the National Palace of Sintra allows you to immerse yourself in Portugal's rich history, marvel at its unique architecture and experience the enchanting atmosphere of the town of Sintra.

Can I visit the National Palace of Sintra for free?

Visit here to see the different ticket options and choose what suits you best.

How much does it cost to visit the National Palace of Sintra?

The cost of admission to the palace can vary depending on factors such as age, nationality and the type of ticket you choose. Explore the different ticket options here.

What is the best time to visit the palace?

The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak crowds. Spring and early fall are generally pleasant times to explore, while the summer months can be busier.

What are the National Palace of Sintra opening hours?

National Palace of Sintra is open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM every day of the week.

Can I visit the National Palace of Sintra with the kids?

Yes, the National Palace of Sintra can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, including children. The vibrant history and unique architecture can capture the interest of young visitors. However, if you’re visiting with infants, keep in mind that baby changing stations and strollers on rent are not available.

Is the National Palace of Sintra wheelchair friendly?

The National Palace of Sintra is a historic structure, and while efforts have been made to improve accessibility, it might have limitations for visitors with mobility challenges.

Can I buy food and drinks at the National Palace of Sintra?

The National Palace of Sintra has a cafeteria that offers refreshments. Explore nearby cafes and restaurants for more extensive dining options.

How long does it take to visit the National Palace of Sintra?

The duration of your visit can vary based on your pace and interest, but most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the palace's rooms, gardens and exhibits.