Frequently Asked Questions about Pena Palace in Sintra
Frequently Asked Questions about Pena Palace in Sintra
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about Pena Palace and its park on this page, covering everything from general questions to transportation and practical tips.
Check out quick and comprehensive answers to ensure your Pena Palace experience is seamless and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pena Palace: Tickets & Tours
The answer to this question depends entirely on what you want. The offer ranges from admission tickets to guided tours from Lisbon. In this context, please check the prices of our selected tours in our “National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets” page.
Pena Palace is located in Sintra, about 30 kilometers west of Lisbon. There are several ways to get to the palace by car, public transportation, or taxi. The easiest way from Lisbon is to take the train from Rossio station. Upon arrival in Sintra station, take the shuttle bus. Please read the details and other directions in our “How to get to Pena Palace” section in our dedicated page “Pena Palace Visitor Tips”.
The National Palace of Pena is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day. Last admission is at 5:30 pm. The park is open from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm every day. Last admission is at 5:30 pm.
Pena Palace is closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Built on ancient ruins in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II, Pena Palace and Park in Sintra, Portugal, showcase a romantic blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Once a royal residence, the palace fell into disrepair after 1910. Restoration efforts revitalized it, earning UNESCO recognition in 1995 for cultural significance.
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants at the Pena Palace and Park. Please visit our dedicated page with a list of the best restaurants and cafes within Pena Palace.
Yes, there are a variety of tours of Pena Palace and Park available. These tours can range from guided tours of the palace and park to day trips from Lisbon that allow you to bypass the queues. Please check our selected tours in our “Pena Palace & Park Tickets” page.
There are many things to see and do at Pena Palace and Park. Here are a few suggestions:
> Explore the palace’s richly decorated interiors.
> Wander through the park’s verdant paths and discover hidden gems.
> Climb the towers for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
> Visit nearby sites like the Moorish Castle, a 9th-century fortress perched atop a hill overlooking the Pena Palace and Park.
> Enjoy a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants located in the park.
Optimal times for a visit to Pena Palace and Park are in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), characterized by pleasant, mild weather and abundant sunshine. These seasons offer an ideal climate for exploring the palace’s architectural marvels and strolling through the lush park, enhancing the overall experience with comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural surroundings.
When embarking on a day trip from Lisbon to the National Palace of Pena and its park, it is advisable to set aside a complete day for the journey. The commute from Lisbon to Sintra, the palace’s location, spans approximately 40 minutes by train or car. Upon reaching Sintra, additional time is needed for transportation to the palace itself. Devote a substantial part of the day to delve into both the intricate interiors of the palace and the vast Pena Park, boasting breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. Considering factors such as travel time, potential queues, and the expansive grounds to explore, dedicating a full day ensures a leisurely and enriching experience, allowing ample time to fully appreciate the historical, architectural, and natural marvels of the National Palace of Pena and its environs.
Whether or not you should go inside Pena Palace depends on your interests and budget. The interior of the Palace is richly decorated and furnished, and it offers a glimpse into the lives of the Portuguese royal family. However, the queues can be long during peak season, which is why it is recommended to book tickets in advance.
The interior of Pena Palace is a fascinating mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque Revival, Neo-Manueline, and Moorish. The rooms are richly decorated with furniture, paintings, and tapestries. Some of the highlights include: The Arab Room, the Queen’s Room, the Smoking Room and the Chapel.
Yes, you can visit the Pena Palace Park without entering the Palace itself. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and several walking trails to explore. You can also visit other attractions within the park, such as the Chalet of the Countess of Edla and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. However, please note that you will need to purchase a Park entrance ticket even if you don’t plan to enter the Palace.
Absolutely! Sintra is a treasure trove of attractions, offering a variety of historical, cultural, and natural wonders. Here are three more sites worth exploring in Sintra (in this context, please check the selected tours in our “National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets” article):
Quinta da Regaleira: This mystical estate features enchanting gardens, underground tunnels, and the iconic Initiation Well, making it a fascinating destination for those intrigued by symbolism and mysticism.
Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros): Perched on a hill, the Moorish Castle provides panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding countryside. The historic ruins and defensive walls add a layer of medieval charm.
Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra): Located in the heart of Sintra’s historic center, this palace is known for its distinctive twin chimneys and a rich history that spans centuries.
