A Fairytale Adventure: Daytrip from Lisbon to Sintra’s Pena Palace and Moorish Castle

Just a short trip from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a whole new world—think fairytale vibes with a touch of real-life magic. We spent the day exploring two of its dopest spots: the colorful, jaw-dropping Pena Palace and the ancient, vibe-y Moorish Castle. From insane views to architecture straight out of a dream, Sintra became a major highlight of our trip. Ready to plan your own fairytale-meets-adventure kind of day? Keep reading—I’ve got all the tips to make it happen!

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon: Your Options

Visiting Sintra is a must when in Lisbon, and getting there is part of the adventure! Sintra is located about 19 miles from Lisbon, making it an easy day trip. Here are the best ways to travel to Sintra and what you should know about each option:

1. Taking the Train

The train is one of the most popular ways to get to Sintra from Lisbon. It’s affordable, scenic, and drops you right into the heart of Sintra.

• How to Do It:
  Trains to Sintra leave from Lisbon’s Rossio Station and run every 20-30 minutes. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes, and you’ll arrive at Sintra’s main train station. A one-way ticket costs around €2.50 per person.
• Pro:
  • It’s budget-friendly and straightforward, especially for solo travelers or small groups.
• Con:
  • You’ll need to rely on local buses or tuk-tuks, or uber to get from the train station to attractions like Pena Palace or the Moorish Castle, which adds extra time and logistics.

2. Taking an Uber

If you prefer a more direct and private option, rideshare services like Uber are a great choice.

The journey takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs anywhere from €20-€40 one way, depending on demand and starting point in Lisbon.

• Pro:
  • It’s door-to-door convenience, with no need to navigate public transportation or wait for connections.
• Con:
  • It’s pricier than the train, especially if traveling solo.

Which Option is Best for You?

• Take the Train: If you’re on a budget or want a more local experience.
• Take an Uber: If you’re traveling with a group, in a hurry, or prefer a more seamless trip.

No matter how you get there, Sintra will be worth the journey! We took an Uber, it was just easier for us since we left bought tickets for the opening time and wanted to be dropped off at the door to be one of the first in line.

Pena Palace: A Colorful Fairytale on a Hill

High in the Sintra mountains, Pena Palace looks like something straight out of a dream. Originally a monastery, it was transformed in the 19th century into the vibrant, romantic palace we see today, thanks to King Ferdinand II. With its bold colors, intricate tilework, and breathtaking panoramic views stretching all the way to Lisbon, it’s easily one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks.

If Pena Palace is on your list (and it should be!), be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak season. The doors officially open at 9:30 AM, but trust me—you’ll want to get there earlier. After arriving, you’ll wait in line at the entrance before starting the steep uphill walk to the palace itself. The hike is no joke, but the views and the whimsical architecture waiting for you at the top make it all so worth it.

For a smoother experience, consider buying Fast Track tickets if your budget allows. I think they are most useful if you want to go at opening time, like we did. After you walk up the hill to the entrance, they take you into a “secret” side door. This lets you skip the long entrance lines, saving you time and energy for exploring. Once inside, you can take your time wandering through the extravagant rooms, marveling at the stunning design, and stepping out onto the terraces to soak in those unreal views before the crowd gets massive, I’m glad we purchased them.

Tips:

Get there early! The earlier you arrive, the less crowded your experience will be. Plus, the morning light is perfect for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes. The uphill walk is steep, and the palace grounds have uneven pathways—so be ready for a workout!

The Moorish Castle: Ancient Ruins with Breathtaking Views

Just a short trip from Pena Palace lies the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortress built in the 9th century by the Moors to defend the region. While it’s mostly ruins today, the castle’s stone walls and watchtowers offer some of the most stunning views of Sintra, stretching all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Walking along the fortress walls, you can really feel the history of the place—it’s like stepping back in time.

Getting There from Pena Palace

You have a few options to get to the Moorish Castle from Pena Palace:

• Walking (20–30 minutes): This is the most scenic option, but be prepared for a long and steep hike through the forest. It’s a bit of a workout, but it makes reaching the castle feel even more rewarding.
• Taking the bus: The Scotturb 434 tourist bus loops between Sintra’s main attractions, making it an easy (but sometimes crowded) option.
• Uber/taxi: A quick ride if you’d rather save your energy for exploring the castle itself…we took an Uber, as you’ve probably guessed by now lol

What to Expect at the Castle

The front gate that you arrive at is NOT the entrance to the castle. You have to complete a foresty hike to the entrance.

After completing the forest hike to the entrance, you’ll find a small café (nothing too fancy), restrooms, and some seating—perfect for taking a break before heading uphill to explore the walls or after. The castle itself doesn’t have any fancy rooms like Pena Palace, but the real highlight is walking along the fortress walls and climbing the watchtowers for 360-degree views of Sintra. It really is amazing to be there, especially after the work it takes to get up there.

If you visit during rainy seasons (like Easter, when we went), be extra careful. The rocks and stairways can get very slippery, and there aren’t any railings. The strong winds at the higher points of the castle can also make it feel a bit intense, so wear the right clothing and shoes—sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes are best.

Tips:

Dress appropriately. Layers are best since the weather can change quickly. A rain jacket and good walking shoes will make a big difference.
Bring a water bottle and snack. The hike and stair climbing will have you working up an appetite!

Sintra truly feels like a place pulled straight from a fairytale, and exploring Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle was an unforgettable experience. It is absolutely worth the day trip from Lisbon. If you’re planning your own visit, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s on your must-see list!