Sintra: Pena Palace and Park Entrance Ticket
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Non smoking
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Reservations
History
Perched high above the hills of Sintra, the Pena Palace is one of Portugal’s most treasured landmarks and a masterpiece of 19th-century Romanticism. Originally a modest monastery founded in 1511 by King Manuel I for the Order of St. Jerome, the site was transformed in the 1830s when King Ferdinand II purchased the ruins. With a vision inspired by German Romantic castles along the Rhine, he expanded the monastery into a colorful, fairy-tale palace. Blending Manueline, Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance influences, the result was a dazzling architectural wonder unlike anything else in Portugal.
King Ferdinand also designed the surrounding Pena Park, a sprawling romantic garden filled with winding trails, exotic trees from around the world, serene pavilions, and hidden lookouts with breathtaking views. The palace’s vivid colors—restored in 1994 to their original pink and ochre tones—make it one of the most photographed monuments in Europe. Declared a National Monument in 1910 and part of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Cultural Landscape of Sintra since 1995, Pena Palace remains a symbol of Portugal’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.
Highlights
- Admire the beauty of Sintra from one of the highest hills of the region
- Marvel at the 19th-century Romanticism style of architecture
- Explore the forested grounds and natural beauty of Pena Park
- Save time and benefit from skip-the-line access
- Snap some of the most iconic and picturesque photos
Full Description
Your visit begins with a scenic journey through Pena Park, a lush expanse filled with winding trails, exotic plants, and hidden viewpoints that showcase sweeping views of Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean. Passing through the forested grounds, you’ll ascend to the palace itself, an extraordinary blend of architectural styles crowned by whimsical towers, battlements, and a drawbridge.
Inside, explore the former monastery cloister, richly decorated staterooms, and the grand halls of the 19th-century palace wing. Wander through the terraces and castle walls, where vibrant facades and intricate tilework create a dreamlike atmosphere. As you stroll, you’ll uncover King Ferdinand’s vision of a Romantic ideal brought to life—an enchanting mix of nature, architecture, and fantasy. Whether inside the palace or wandering the gardens, every corner offers postcard-worthy views and an unforgettable glimpse into Portugal’s royal past.
What’s Included
- Entrance ticket to the Park and Pena Palace
- Entrance to the Chalet of the Countess of Edla
- Online booking fee
- Audio guide via the Zoomguide app (Portuguese, English, Spanish, French)
Meeting Point
- Main Location Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal
- By car from Lisbon: Take IC19 (from Lisbon), IC30 (from Mafra), or EN9 (via A5 from Cascais). In Sintra’s historic center, follow signs to Pena (3.5 km). GPS: 38º 47’ 16.45” N, 9º 23’ 15.35” W
- By public transport: Train (Comboios de Portugal) from Estação do Oriente, Rossio, or Entrecampos → Sintra. Then bus No. 434 from Sintra station to Pena Palace.
- Note: Parking is limited near Pena Park entrance (extra cost). No parking at the palace itself.
Price
From $12 per person
Traveler Reviews
“Very good and flexible option—you only pay for the trip and can choose which sites to enter. Pena Park alone was worth it.”
“The palace is beautiful and perfect for vacation photos. The grounds offer stunning views even without entering the interiors.”
“This was such a fun activity! The photographer was friendly and took great photos. A highlight of our Sintra trip.”
Maps
Video
FAQ's
How long does a visit to Pena Palace take?
Most visitors spend around 2–3 hours, which allows time to tour both the palace interiors and the park’s scenic pathways. The palace rooms include richly decorated halls, chapels, and terraces, while the gardens feature exotic plants and viewpoints. Since the visit is self-paced, you can explore leisurely or quickly, depending on interest. Early arrival ensures quieter access and better photo opportunities. If you enjoy history, allow more time for the interiors. Garden enthusiasts may easily spend half a day exploring the romantic park.
Is Pena Palace suitable for children?
Yes, the palace and park are family-friendly and offer plenty to fascinate children of all ages. The colorful architecture and fairytale-like turrets make it feel like a storybook castle. The park’s wide paths provide space for kids to walk and explore safely, with areas to stop and rest. Families often find the hidden trails and viewpoints perfect for short adventures. Interactive details in the palace, such as the cloister and watchtowers, spark curiosity. Parents should note that some paths are steep, so strollers may be challenging.
Can I drive directly to the palace entrance?
Private cars cannot drive up to the main palace entrance, as access is restricted to preserve the site. Visitors can park at the designated car parks near the park’s lower gate, though spaces are limited and often fill quickly. From there, you either walk uphill through the gardens or take the shuttle bus service that runs inside the park. The uphill walk can be steep but scenic, offering early glimpses of the palace towers. Planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak tourist season. Shuttle tickets can be purchased separately at the gate.
What’s the best time of day to visit?
Mornings before 10:00 AM or late afternoons after 3:00 PM are considered the best times to avoid large crowds. During these hours, the palace feels more serene and provides a more enjoyable experience. Early visits are great for capturing photographs in soft morning light, while late afternoons offer golden-hour views. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends, particularly outside the summer season. Visiting in cooler months also makes the walk through the park more pleasant. It is always advisable to pre-book tickets to save time in line.
Is the palace accessible for visitors with reduced mobility?
While some areas are accessible, the historic nature of the palace means not all sections can be reached by wheelchair. The park includes uneven, hilly paths that may require assistance. However, shuttle services are available from the entrance to the palace, helping reduce walking distances. Certain rooms, terraces, and exhibits have adapted access, though narrow stairways limit full entry. Resting points and benches are located throughout the grounds. Visitors with mobility concerns are encouraged to check accessibility maps in advance. Caregivers may accompany without extra restrictions.
