Getting to know Sintra; the centre
Located in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains is the town São Martinho. Many know the town as Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical estates, royal palaces, castles and large gardens. If you do not know it do not worry about it because here I am going to fill you in with everything you need to know about Sintra.
a brief history
Once a place for only the royal or the wealthy could afford to visit. Sintra has always been filled with rich histories. A land that has been altered in landscape as the riches descended on the town bringing plants, architectural designs, culture and art from many different countries. In the 9th century the Moorish ruled, leaving their mark in the form of a Moorish Castle and a traditional sanctuary. Each containing elements of Egyptian, Gothic and Renaissance elements which later in the 19th century was renovated and enlarged into Pena Palace. A holiday escape for the Royal couple, King Ferdinand II. On the other hand the National Palace, found in the centre of the town, has been a poignant Palace for Kings and Queens from all over since the 16th century. Like many places, it has been marked by many and now preserved for all.
getting there
Travelling to Sintra is easy whatever your budget or style.There are local and regional buses coming into the village from various nearby towns; Cascais, Estoril & Mafra. Cashless payments are possible on some buses but make sure you have some cash just in case. Obviously this is not the quickest way but it is a nice way to see a little bit more of the surrounding areas and possibly find some stops you want to explore more another time.
If you’re in central Lisbon catch the train from Rossio Station for a direct route and exit at the last stop. A round trip will cost you less than five euros per person and with frequent trains throughout the day, arrive as early as you wish and return anytime before eleven thirty in the evening. It is only a short stroll into the centre, but with lots to see and admire on the walk.
If you decide to drive, it’s around a forty minute drive from Lisbon depending on traffic. Get there early in the day and be aware it can be expensive and hard to park. The small and windy streets have limited spaces for parking and all require a ticket or permit. There are car parks nearby and if you follow the road signs towards the free car park it will take you out of the tourist area but from there you can catch a bus or take a short walk to the Portela train station. Personally I would not recommend driving unless you’re visiting late at night or in the winter months, plus it is better for the environment to take public transport.
how to see it
Visiting all the attractions in the centre is manageable by foot but it can take up a lot of time, if you are limited to only a morning/afternoon or even a single day it can be a lot. The most popular attractions are accessible via the tourist buses, 434 and 435, both of which are hop-on-hop-off buses and run everyday until around 6pm. If you’re visiting in the summer months these locations and buses can be very busy and now with limitations things will be slower in the busier months but it is well worth the time.
Looking for a slower pace, take a tuk tuk tour from the village. Most tuk tuk drivers have a plan of where they will take you alongside a fixed price. These are great if you’re wanting a one-to-one guide and driver. Most have a maximum space for two people but some are larger. Like anywhere in the world they’re everywhere and will most likely find you and ask where you’re going.
Another option is to go with a company. I’ve been on a few tours with Flamingo Experiences and it’s always so much fun! It’s a great way to meet other people, see lots of sights and new places. Each tour we’ve been on, there’s been somewhere new to see each time. Plus they have plenty of different types of tours depending on what you wish to do or for how many hours you have time for. Tour prices start at €35 per person plus.
Check out my post from my Flamingo tour.
when to visit
This little town before the pandemic hit was a blooming tourist location for travelers from around the world. The streets would be full of people, shops were always busy and restaurants were busserling. Some may see this place as an over-tourist destination but after a year of limited visitors and restrictions from the Portuguese government the town has suffered. I believe that the town will easily return to a popular location.
The best time to visit would be in either April to early June or September to mid October. During these months the area can be a little quieter and easier to get around. Queues can be shorter and more chance of getting a last minute booking. However I would recommend making sure you have accommodation booked a little in advance if you are planning on staying in the centre. The weather in these months can be a little wetter and a few more grey skies but this isn’t guaranteed to be avoided if you are visiting in July and August.
accommodation
There are many places to stay from hostels, hotels and air b&bs in the area. Here I’ve listed just a few I would recommend. Each one has its perks and all were very enjoyable places to stay.
If you’re looking for something outside the historical centre stay here at…. Enjoy a double bed with a private bathroom and many have a small balcony at the room entrance or at the rear. Outside sit back in at the pool or chill out under the foliage draped above a long bench which stretches along most of the back of the building. Meet your neighbours in the shared kitchen and dining areas. If you’re travelling alone or as a couple it is in a lovely location, nearby there is free street parking but it is limited but is a great place to meet new people. Last time we visited we met a lovely couple from Quebec, Canada and another who were taking a few days out from their cycling trip around mainland Europe.
Here is a link to their Airbnb page
If you are looking for something more central, stay at Casa di Bramante 9. This little one bedroom flat is in the heart of the historical centre. Enjoy a minimum two night stay, with a basic equipped kitchen for making breakfast and light snacks and a newly refurbished bathroom. The bedroom is a good size double and with plenty of room to relax in the living room area in the evening. This apartment is accessible by a ramp and stairs, so is great for anyone who has limited mobility or if you have a pushchair.
Less than five minutes of walking up the hill it will bring you to the centre, where you’ll see Sintra National Palace.
Here is a link to their Airbnb page
Lastly, this place has the best view! Directly opposite the National Palace in the centre of the town. The apartment is located on the third floor. Unfortunately there is no lift and the stairs are steep so do keep this in mind when packing as you will have to carry your bag up. Also if mobility is an issue this is not for you I’m afraid.
It is a quaint little two bedroomed apartment, with two doubles, a good size kitchen and living area. Open the double doors in the living room and welcome the incredible views in.
It is very much kept in the traditional style with a basic oven and hob. But I feel that just adds to the feel of the place, it has been modernised a little since my last visit but I’m sure you will enjoy your stay here all the same. On a side note though, as you’re at the top of the building, be aware the pigeons can be a little noisy in the mornings.
Here is a link to their Airbnb page
top tips
Due to the location of the town Sintra has it’s very own micro-climate. Be cautious and bring a light jacket because the weather is more than likely to be different to the place you left. If you are in the surrounding areas of Sintra you will be able to see the clouds rolling over the mountains. On the other hand you may arrive to find a cloudy sky but all can change in minutes. Umbrellas and sun-cream are definitely a bonus to have in your bag especially during the cooler October to April.
Where comfortable shoes which have good grip. The small streets in the centre are cobbled with lots of steps and a few steep sloped paths. These can be slippery in the rain so do be careful.
For anyone who does drive to the area, please be cautious if you have any valuables in the car. Like anywhere in the world there are some people who will notice a hire car sticker and think it’s the perfect little crime. If you do have any suitcases or bags do keep them in the boot of your car and out of sight. Unfortunately I’ve seen it happen, a family of tourists had their passports stolen along with other valuables, after they left their suitcases on display in the back seats.
Due to the influx of tourists each year, English has become a second language to many shopkeepers and hospitality staff. But each place I visit I like to learn a few phrases;
Bom dia // Good Morning
Boa noite // Good night
Obrigado // Thank you
Desculpe // Sorry
Um copo de vinho tinto/branco por favor // A glass of red/white wine please.
Desculpe, eu não falo Portugues// I do not speak Portuguese sorry.
If you have found this guide useful please leave me a message or if you go to Sintra let me know what you think!
