Viewpoint Sintra Portugal, things to do day trip itinerary

15 Things to Do in Magical Sintra Portugal

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Top Things to Do in Sintra Portugal

If you are planning a trip to Sintra Portugal and looking for the best things to do, see, and eat while visiting, you are in the right place.  Sintra Portugal is a magical land of a Disney-like castle, a medieval fortress, an abandoned convent, and palaces nestled into the pine trees of Serra da Sintra National Park all bordering a rocky coastline of caves. Doesn’t it sound heavenly? It is! The cherry on top is the short inexpensive train ride from Lisbon making this fairy tale destination a simple day trip. The downfall is the enormous amount of people who also want to step into this dream and crowd your space! Browse the must-see attractions, off-the-beaten-path experiences, outdoor activities, and museums to create your personal Sintra Portugal bucket list. Then, plan the itinerary for your Sintra Portugal trip with these top things to do, see, and eat. Enjoy your time out of the office!

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Purchase your train ticket online. Round-trip tickets from Lisbon are 5 euros. Start the day early there is a lot to see and do in Sintra. Purchase a tourist bus day pass. Do not try to walk from the train station. You do not have enough time and it is a steep uphill climb. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, it may be cool at the top. Here are the top things to do to ensure you experience the magic of Sintra Portugal.

Quinta da Regaleira Day Trip to Sintra Portugal Things to do
Quinta da Regaleira

Things to Do in and Around Sintra Portugal

Explore the city center and shop for souvenirs

Have lunch or afternoon tea on the terrace of Tivoli Palácio de Seteais

Take a shot of Ginja from a chocolate cup

Stop at Casa Piriquita and buy queijada and travesseiro (sweet treats) for the ride back to Lisbon

Tour the colorful Pena Palace and stroll through the grounds of Parque de Pena

Hike Cruz Alta for the classic view of the palace

Explore the caves, gardens, waterfall, initiation well, and grotto of Quinta da Regaleira

See the gardens and atrium of the Monserrate Palace

Walk the walls of the Castle of the Moors and enjoy the view

Explore the Convent of the Capuchos abandoned monastery built into the rock

See how the Portuguese Royalty lived at the National Palace of Sintra

Stop in Colares for wine tasting on your way to the coastline

Head to Cabo da Roca to see Europe’s westernmost point

Watch the enormous waves at Cresmina Beach

Stop by Boca do Inferno before heading onto Cascais

Pena Palace Sintra Portugal, things to do day trip itinerary
Pena Palace
Convent of the Capuchos Sintra Portugal, things to do day trip itinerary
Convent of the Capuchos
Boca do Inferno Day Trip to Sintra Portugal Things to do
Boca do Inferno

Check the Sintra Portugal Tourism Board website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

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Plan Your Trip to Sintra Portugal

Portugal Travel Guide

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Sintra Portugal Attractions and Day Tours

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