Perfect Sintra walk: Train Station to Palácio Nacional, the Historic Centre, Palácio da Pena & Park, to Castelo dos Mouros

Sintra train station - START - END

The Sintra Train Station is the final stop on the Lisbon-Sintra railway line. The train ride from Lisbon to Sintra typically takes about 40 minutes, with frequent services running throughout the day. This convenient and scenic journey makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the beauty of Sintra. From here, you can embark on a captivating walk or hike, immersing yourself in the rich heritage and natural splendor of the region.

Sintra town hall

The Sintra Town Hall is a beautiful, old building with a tall clock tower. It was built between 1906 and 1909 where a small church used to be. The Town Hall has a special style with lots of decorations. It looks a bit like a fairytale castle and is very pretty to see. It's near the train station on the way to the historic center of Sintra. Even though people can't go inside, it's a great place to take pictures. When you walk by the Town Hall on your hike, you'll see a part of Sintra's history

Beautiful views on Palacio Nacional da Sintra and Castelo dos Mouros

The view of the Palácio Nacional da Sintra and Castelo dos Mouros offers a stunning panorama, combining the rich history and architectural beauty of Sintra. The Palácio Nacional, with its iconic twin chimneys, represents centuries of Portuguese history, while the ancient Castelo dos Mouros stands as a testament to medieval times, perched high on the Sintra hills. Together, they create a picturesque and historically rich landscape, showcasing Sintra's unique heritage.

Palácio Nacional de Sintra

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra, known for its distinctive twin cone-shaped chimneys, is a historic palace in the heart of Sintra. It's famous for its beautiful blend of Moorish and Manueline architecture. This palace has been used by Portuguese royalty for centuries and is one of the oldest surviving royal palaces in Portugal. Inside, visitors can explore richly decorated rooms and learn about the palace's long history. The Palácio Nacional de Sintra is not just a significant landmark but also a symbol of Portugal's rich cultural heritage.

Sintra historic city centre

The Historic Centre of Sintra is a picturesque and vibrant area, known for its winding streets, traditional Portuguese architecture, and a sense of stepping back in time. It's filled with colorful buildings, quaint shops, and charming cafés. The center is a hub of activity, where you can experience the town's rich cultural heritage, local crafts, and delicious traditional pastries. The narrow, cobblestone streets lead to various historic sites, creating an enchanting atmosphere that reflects Sintra's historical significance and beauty. This area is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Sintra.

Start of the Vila Sassetti hike towards Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio da Pena - Fonte da Pipa

Here you start the Vila Sassetti hike at Fonte da Pipa, a scenic route linking Sintra's Historic Centre to both Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio da Pena. The path showcases Vila Sassetti, a building reminiscent of Lombard castles, set within beautiful gardens with ponds and streams. Starting from these gardens, you'll encounter both natural and architectural wonders. The trail evolves, featuring natural stone staircases and leading past the climbing hotspot Penedo da Amizade. This hike, covering about 1850 meters and taking roughly 45 minutes, is of moderate difficulty and requires decent fitness. INFORMATION Quinta Da Regaleira: If you're interested, you can take a short detour from here to Quinta da Regaleira, which is just 750 meters away. Quinta da Regaleira is another stunning site in Sintra, known for its gothic architecture and enchanting gardens. After exploring Quinta da Regaleira, you can easily return to this point and continue your journey on the Vila Sassetti trail.

Gate to enter the Vila Sassetti's Gardens

Right after starting the Vila Sassetti hike, there's an entrance gate on the left. This gate takes you into the gardens of Vila Sassetti. These gardens are peaceful and beautiful. They have green trees, streaming water, flowers, and small paths to walk on. It's like stepping into a secret garden, away from the busy streets. This place is perfect for everyone, especially if you love relaxing nature. It's a quiet spot you pass in the beginning of the hike.

Gardens of the Vila Sassetti

The Gardens of Vila Sassetti in Sintra are a tranquil haven, characterized by the soothing sound of water running throughout. The presence of flowing water adds a serene and refreshing ambience to the gardens. As you stroll along the paths, surrounded by lush vegetation and vibrant flowers, the gentle sound of water creates a peaceful and enchanting environment. This feature enhances the beauty of the gardens, making them a perfect spot for relaxation and a peaceful respite from the busier parts of Sintra. The gardens, with their natural watercourses, are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the quieter, more serene side of Sintra’s natural beauty.

Beautiful view on Vila Sassetti

Beholding Vila Sassetti from the bottom up presents a magnificent sight. This view captures the essence of its stunning architecture, inspired by the grand castles of Lombardy. Surrounded by the lush greenery of its gardens, Vila Sassetti stands as a remarkable example of architectural harmony with nature. The building’s elegant design and the backdrop of Sintra’s verdant landscape create a picturesque scene, almost like something from a storybook. This view is not only a treat for the eyes but also symbolizes the blend of culture and nature that Sintra is celebrated for. As you gaze up at Vila Sassetti, you're witnessing a piece of history beautifully preserved in time.

Look at Vila Sassetti: A View to Remember

As you continue up the path past Vila Sassetti, you reach a vantage point offering a breathtaking view. From here, you look at the elegant Vila Sassetti. This spot is also marked by a sign indicating the ongoing path, serving as a gateway to further exploration.

Penedo da Amizade - Climbing wall

Penedo da Amizade is a popular spot in Sintra for climbing enthusiasts. Known for its stunning cliff face, it offers various routes with different difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. The site provides a unique opportunity to climb while enjoying beautiful views of Sintra's natural landscape. For those interested in climbing at Penedo da Amizade, there are several tour providers offering guided experiences. Escala25, for instance, offers half-day climbing tours including gear, instruction, and insurance. Their tours are suitable for up to 15 people and cost around 35€ without transfer, or 45€ with transfer from their location to the climbing site. Another option is a climbing experience offered by GetYourGuide, which provides all necessary equipment, insurance, and expert guidance. This half-day adventure is ideal for beginners and costs about $76.81 per person. Lastly, Nattrip offers a challenging 4-hour climbing experience at Penedo da Amizade, which includes necessary equipment and water, starting from the center of Sintra. (January 2024) These tours are a great way to safely enjoy the thrill of climbing in Sintra's beautiful natural setting.

Nature's Staircase on Vila Sassetti Path

This part of the Vila Sassetti hike is like walking up a stairway made by nature. The path has lots of stone steps that go up through the green forest. It's a bit of a workout, so it's good for people who have some experience hiking and are in decent shape. But if you take your time, you'll enjoy it a lot. This climb is one of the reasons why the hike is seen as moderately difficult. It's a great way to really feel close to Sintra's natural beauty.

Penedo da Amizade = natural climbing wall

Intersection: Follow the path to Palácio da Pena's Park!

At this key point on the Vila Sassetti hike, you arrive at an intersection where you have a choice. We take the path marked 'Park Palácio 280 m', leading through the serene and lesser-known areas of Palácio da Pena's park. This route is a peaceful alternative, guiding you towards the side entrance of Vale dos Lagos. By choosing this path, you avoid the often busy main entrance of Palácio da Pena, while discovering the hidden beauty of its park. The park, still a secret gem for many visitors, promises a tranquil journey through lush gardens and picturesque views. The other fork leads to Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio da Pena's main entrance, for those who wish to head straight to the main entrance of these historic sites.

Vale dos Lagos: Gateway to Parque Palácio da Pena

he Vale dos Lagos entrance is a quieter gateway into the enchanting Parque Palácio da Pena. Here, you can purchase entrance tickets either online in advance, on the spot, or from a convenient vending machine. This side entrance offers a more peaceful entry into the park, allowing you to start exploring without the crowds often found at the main entrance. Once inside, you're immediately immersed in the lush beauty of the park, a perfect preamble to the majestic Palácio da Pena. This entrance is ideal for those seeking a serene start to their journey in one of Sintra's most iconic locations.

Vale dos Lagos: The Serene Lakes

Entering through the grand gate, Vale dos Lagos in Parque Palácio da Pena unveils a picturesque series of five interconnected lakes, each linked by small cascades. These lakes are set in a lush, green valley, fed by the park's main waterline. Notably, two duck shelters (pateiras) are found here, echoing the architecture of the area's prominent structures: the romantic ruin of Castelo dos Mouros and the crowning glory of Palácio da Pena.

Fonte dos Passarinhos: A Melodic Oasis

The Fonte dos Passarinhos, or Little Birds Fountain, is a hidden gem in Parque Palácio da Pena. This small hexagonal pavilion, adorned in neomoorish style, shelters a crystal-clear fountain. The fountain's gentle sound, enhanced by the pavilion's acoustics, creates a tranquil, melodious atmosphere. The exterior of the dome is decorated with Arabic inscriptions, paying homage to monarchs D. Manuel I and D. Fernando II. Inside, the structure features small bird statues, giving the fountain its name and adding to its enchanting character.

Majestic view on Palacio da Pena

As you continue along the path in Parque Palácio da Pena, you come across a stunning viewpoint offering a spectacular view of Palácio da Pena. This vantage point presents the palace in all its glory, set against the backdrop of Sintra's lush hills. The colorful architecture of the palace stands out, with its vivid reds, yellows, and blues, creating a striking contrast with the greenery around it. This spot is perfect for capturing memorable photographs and taking a moment to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of one of Portugal's most iconic landmarks. The view from here is a reminder of the grandeur and historical significance of Palácio da Pena, making it a highlight of any visit to Sintra.

Pergola of Countess's Fernery: A Rustic Charm

The Pergola of Countess's Fernery, also known as Ponte Nova, is a rustic and charming feature located at one of the entrances to the Jardim da Condessa d’Edla, near Palácio da Pena. This covered bridge, adorned with a decorative wooden shade structure, offers a picturesque spot within the meticulously planned botanical collections of the garden. Created by King Ferdinand II and his future second wife, Elise Hensler (Countess of Edla), the garden boasts the oldest collection of tree ferns in the park, alongside small lakes and cascades.

Chalet of the Countess of Edla: A Unique Cork Exterior

The Chalet of the Countess of Edla, located within the Parque Palácio da Pena, presents an intriguing exterior view. Its distinctive design features extensive use of cork, adding a unique texture and rustic charm to the building. This chalet, once a romantic retreat for King Ferdinand II and the Countess of Edla, stands out for its whimsical architecture and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape. The use of cork in its construction not only adds an aesthetic appeal but also demonstrates an innovative approach to using natural materials.

Inside the Chalet of the Countess of Edla: A Historical Retreat

Stepping inside the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, visitors are immersed in a historical and intimate space. The interior reflects the personal tastes and romantic aesthetic of King Ferdinand II and the Countess of Edla. Each room is a showcase of artistic and decorative styles, ranging from intricate wall paintings to unique furnishings. The chalet provides a glimpse into the private life and artistic inclinations of its former inhabitants, making it an essential visit for those interested in the personal history of Sintra's royal figures. The chalet's intimate atmosphere and its detailed decor offer a contrast to the grandeur of the nearby Palácio da Pena, highlighting the diverse architectural styles present in the area.

Alto do Chá: Palácio da Pena's Park Hidden Gem

Alto do Chá, or 'Tea High', is one of Sintra's best-kept secrets, offering breathtaking views from the third-highest peak in the Serra da Sintra. This tranquil spot, away from the usual crowds, provides a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the stunning vistas. Here, visitors can gaze upon the majestic Palácio da Pena, the sprawling beaches, and the verdant valleys below. The area's boulder-strewn landscape adds to its charm, making it a perfect location for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the natural beauty that surrounds Sintra. Alto do Chá is a must-visit for those seeking a serene retreat with some of the most picturesque views in the region.

Entrance to Palácio da Pena: Gateway to Grandeur

The entrance to Palácio da Pena is a prelude to the palace's magnificence. Before entering the palace, visitors walk through a long, enclosed path, lined with intricate details and architectural splendor. This passage sets the tone for the extravagant experience that awaits inside. The entrance itself is a marvel, combining elements of romanticism and Manueline style, and serves as a grand gateway to one of Portugal's most iconic landmarks.

Inside Palácio da Pena: A Kaleidoscope of Colors and History

Once inside Palácio da Pena, not yet in the interior rooms, you're greeted with a burst of colors and unique architectural elements. The exterior walls are a vivid palette of reds, yellows, and blues, creating a fairy-tale-like appearance. Notably, the sea monster above the gate and other ornate decorations capture the imagination. This part of the palace showcases the blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Moorish, and Manueline architectural styles, making it a visual feast and a testament to Portugal's rich cultural tapestry.

Panoramic Views from Palácio da Pena: Sintra's Splendid Scenery

The views from Palácio da Pena are nothing short of breathtaking. From various points around the castle, visitors can gaze out over the expansive beauty of Sintra and its surroundings. The panoramic vistas include rolling hills, lush greenery, and on clear days, the distant glimmer of the Atlantic Ocean. These viewpoints offer a moment to appreciate the stunning natural landscape that surrounds the palace, adding to the overall enchanting experience of visiting Palácio da Pena.

Palácio da Pena Main Gate: Quick Passage to New Adventures

We now pass the main entrance and exit of the Palácio da Pena site. This bustling area is often filled with visitors, Tuk Tuks, and tour buses. It's a lively contrast to the tranquility of the palace grounds. We move quickly through this busy spot, continuing our hike towards the next exciting destination: the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle). This portion of the trail shifts from the grandeur of the palace to the historic allure of the castle, promising more stunning views and intriguing history as we venture forward on our journey through Sintra.

Tranquil Trail to Castelo dos Mouros Road Entrance (Ticket Corner)

This gentle path offers a calm approach to the road entrance of Castelo dos Mouros, where the ticket corner is located. It's a serene alternative to the busier main road, allowing for a peaceful walk amidst Sintra's natural surroundings. As you journey along this trail, you'll gradually approach the historic Moorish Castle, with its rich heritage waiting to be explored.

Start of Percuros da Pena Trail (PR2) at Castelo dos Mouros ticket office

At the ticket office of Castelo dos Mouros, you'll find the start of the Percurso da Pena (PR2/3) toards Igreja Santa Maria and the Sintra Vila (Centro historico). This place is where you can buy tickets to see the Moorish Castle. If there are many people at the ticket office, there's also a ticket vending machine at the castle's gate entrance.

Scenic Overlooks on the Trail

As you walk along the trail, you'll come across some amazing viewpoints. These spots offer incredible views over the Sintra valley. From here, you can see the lush greenery of the forests, the charming town below, and the rolling hills in the distance. These viewpoints are perfect for taking a break and enjoying the natural beauty of Sintra. They're also great spots for taking photos to remember your hike. The views here are a reminder of the peaceful and picturesque landscape that makes Sintra so special.

Crossroads: Centro Histórico (Our Path) or Castelo dos Mouros

At this crossroads on the Igreja Santa Maria trail, we immediately continue on the path leading to Sintra's Centro Histórico. This route takes us on a scenic journey towards the heart of the town's historic center. However, you also have the option to visit Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle) first, which is just along the alternative path. After exploring the castle and its rich history, you can rejoin the main trail and continue towards the historic city center. This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience to your interests, whether it's delving into the history at the castle or heading straight towards the charming streets of Sintra's old town.

Another Crossroad: Follow Centro Histórico

At this point on the Igreja Santa Maria trail, you'll see a sign for Centro Histórico. Here, make sure to follow the sign to continue towards Sintra’s historic town center. About 50 meters further, you'll encounter another crossroad. At this juncture, there is no sign for Centro Histórico. It's important to continue straight on the main path and not turn down towards the guard's house. This route keeps you on course for the historic center and avoids any detours.

More enchanting Vistas Along the Trail

As you continue on the trail towards Sintra's historic center, you're greeted with more stunning views. These viewpoints offer a delightful panorama of the surrounding landscape. These spots are perfect for taking a moment to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Picturesque Descent

As the trail winds down towards Sintra, it offers a series of picturesque scenes perfect for photography.

Medieval Gateway: Echoes of Sintra's History

As you journey along the trail, you'll encounter an intriguing gate set within one of the old stone walls. This gate exudes an ancient, medieval ambiance, almost as if it's a portal transporting you back in time.

Nature to Pavement: Transition into Urban Sintra

As you reach the end of the mountain hill path and leave the woods behind, you find yourself back on the normal roads of Sintra. This point marks the transition from the natural, secluded trails to the more familiar urban setting.

Crossroads at Igreja de Santa Maria: Towards Parque de Liberdade

At this crossroad in front of Igreja de Santa Maria, we choose the route leading to Parque de Liberdade (Liberty Park), diverging from the path to the Centro Histórico, which we explored earlier. This choice takes us in the direction of the train station, signaling the final stretch of our walk.

Turn Right and descend the Staircase here!

It is a small corner, don't miss it ;-)

Follow the Sign: PR1 Parque da Liberdade

At this point, cross teh street and follow the sign PR1 Parque da Liberdade to continue your journey.

Bypassing the Closed Park: Road Next to Parque de Liberdade

The park was closed, so we followed the road next to Parque de Liberdade.

Escadinhas das Murtas: Return to the Main Road

At Escadinhas das Murtas, we reached the main road again. Although the park route through Parque de Liberdade is recommended when it's open.

Parque de Liberdade Entrance: Closed Today

We've reached the entrance gate of Parque de Liberdade, which is closed today. From this gate, we continue our walk back towards the Sintra train station, marking the final stretch of our route.