Pena Palace Tickets

History and Facts

Pena Palace History and Facts

Pena Palace History and Facts

Nestled in the heart of Sintra Mountains, Pena Palace is a historical gem and stands as a testament to 19th-century romanticism. Renowned for its vibrant colors and eclectic architectural styles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit attraction. It offers not only a glimpse into Portugal’s rich history, but a captivating visual experience that leaves visitors awe-inspired.

Explore the fascinating history and noteworthy facts surrounding Pena Palace with our succinct timeline and comprehensive overview. Immerse yourself in the architectural marvels of this iconic site, and enhance your visit with our carefully curated collection of top-rated tickets and guided tours for National Palace of Pena and Park.

Quick Facts about Pena Palace and Park

  • Location: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal, about 30 kilometers west of Lisbon.
  • Official Name: Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena
  • Total Area: Palace and park together cover an area of 85 hectares (9.150.000 square feet).
  • Construction started and finished: 1836 – 1854
  • Architects: The palace was constructed by German Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege, and later designed by him and Prince Consort Ferdinand II of Portugal.
  • Architectural Style: Pena Palace showcases a blend of Romantic, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site since: 1995
  • Purpose today: Pena Palace is a popular tourist attraction, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and architectural beauty.
  • Special Events: Various cultural and artistic events take place at Pena Palace throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
  • Number of Visitors per year: Pena Palace attracts around 1.5 million visitors annually, making it one of Portugal’s most visited landmarks.

Fun Facts about Pena Palace and Park

Delve into the intriguing facets of National Palace of Pena and Park with these fun facts:

Statue of Battling Titan over the front gate of Hradcany Castle in Prague

Colorful Exterior

The kaleidoscopic hues of Pena Palace’s exterior, adorned in vibrant yellows, reds, and blues, create a visually stunning and fairy-tale-like spectacle that distinguishes it as a beacon of color atop the Sintra hills.

Golden Lane, Prague castle, Czech republic

Origins as a Monastery

Pena Palace traces its origins to the 16th century, when it began as a serene monastery, providing a contemplative retreat before transforming into the eclectic and vibrant architectural masterpiece we marvel at today.

Armed palace guards in Prague

Appearance in Pop Culture

Pena Palace has graced the silver screen, with its enchanting facade and picturesque surroundings making notable appearances in various films and television productions.

Prague. View of the city at sunset

1 of Portugal’s 7 Wonders

Pena Palace, acknowledged as one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders, serves as a venue for state events presided over by the President of the Portuguese Republic and various government dignitaries.

Historical Timeline of Pena Palace and Park

1836

Construction of Pena Palace begins under the direction of Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege.

1847

Ferdinand II acquires the ruins of the Hieronymite Monastery and initiates the transformation of Pena into a romantic palace. Simultaneously, plans for the extensive Pena Park are set in motion to complement the palace.

1854

Pena Palace is completed, showcasing a unique blend of architectural styles, including Romanticism, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance. Pena Park’s landscaping, designed by Baron von Eschwege, also nears completion.

1869

Ferdinand II, a driving force behind the creation of both the palace and the park, passes away, leaving a significant legacy in the completion and beautification of Pena Palace and its surroundings.

1910

Following the Portuguese Republic proclamation, Pena Palace becomes state property, and the last queen, Queen Amélia, departs Portugal from the palace.

1995

Pena Palace and its Cultural Landscape, including the extensive Pena Park, are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their historical and cultural significance.

Present

Pena Palace, along with the lush Pena Park, stands as one of Portugal’s most visited landmarks, enchanting visitors with its rich history, architectural splendor, and vibrant cultural events held within the palace and the surrounding park.

History of Pena Palace and Park

Explore the intricate history of Pena Palace and its park through our meticulously crafted overview below. Organized chronologically, each section invites you on a contemplative journey into the past, offering a detailed account of the rich tapestry that weaves together the origins, transformations, and cultural significance of this iconic site.

In the early 19th century, the story of National Palace of Pena and Park unfolds as construction begins in 1836 under Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege. Originally a serene monastery, the site undergoes a transformative vision by Ferdinand II, who acquires the ruins in 1847.

Completed in 1854, Pena Palace emerges as a masterpiece, blending various architectural styles.  Simultaneously, the picturesque Pena Park takes shape, designed by Baron von Eschwege.

Following its completion in 1854, the palace retained its regal splendor. Pena Park, designed concurrently with the palace, matured into a lush and picturesque landscape. 

The years from 1855 to 1910 marked a continued era of transformation and cultural significance, as Pena Palace stood as a testament to architectural innovation and landscape design, captivating all who beheld its beauty.

With the proclamation of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, the palace transitioned into state property, severing its ties with the monarchy. This era saw the departure of Queen Amélia, marking the end of royal residency.

However, amidst these changes, Pena Palace endured and continued to be a symbol of Portugal’s cultural heritage. The subsequent years laid the groundwork for its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1995, solidifying its status as an architectural and historical gem that transcends time.

Today, Pena Palace and Park stand as a captivating testament to Portugal’s rich history. Welcoming around 1.5 million visitors annually, the iconic landmark enchants with its eclectic architectural styles, vibrant colors, and lush landscapes. The palace and its accompanying park have evolved into one of the most popular day trip destinations from Lisbon.

Visitors can explore regal interiors, stroll through the picturesque Pena Park, and partake in cultural events. Pena Palace and Park continue to captivate, ensuring an enduring legacy as a symbol of Portugal’s architectural and historical grandeur.

Architecture of Pena Palace and Park

Pena Palace, a crowning jewel of Portugal’s architectural heritage, boasts acaptivating blend of Romantic, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance styles. Designed by Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege, with later contributions from Ferdinand II, the palace showcases an eclectic fusion of influences. Its regal facades, turrets, and vibrant hues create a visual masterpiece atop the Sintra hills.

Within the palace, artistic marvels abound, featuring intricate tilework, ornate carvings, and detailed sculptures. The interiors house a rich collection of paintings, furnishings, and decorative elements that reflect the opulence of the 19th-century Romantic era. From the Arab Room’s stunning tilework to the flamboyant Triton Terrace, Pena Palace’s architectural and artistic elements combine to offer visitors an immersive journey into the creativity and grandeur of the past.

>> Explore an array of choices by visiting our ticket page, where you can select from a curated collection of the finest options to enhance your experience.

>> Prepare for your trip to the National Palace of Pena and Park with our helpful visitor tips to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Pena Palace Tickets and Tours

Tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park

4.3

15.080 Reviews

From €15

Headout

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • Flexible Duration
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

“We only really had time to visit the cathedral, which was fantastic….”

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Tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park with Audio Guide

3.8

14.851 Reviews

From €25

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  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • Audio Guide In 3 Languages
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

“Highly trained guide, perfect knowledge of Italian, of the history of the castle and of the city in general…”

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Combo (Save 10%): Quinta da Regaleira + National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets

4.3

15.749 Reviews

From €43

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  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Transfers Included
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

“Beautiful cathedral and surroundings…..”

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Combo (Save 5%): National Palace of Pena & Park + Moorish Castle Tickets

4.3

15.548 Reviews

From €32

Headout

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • Access To Moorish Castle
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

“Great guide (thanks Daria!). Excellent knowledge of Prague and its points of interest…..”

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Combo (Save 5%): Lisbon Card + National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets

4.3

15.374 Reviews

From €64

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  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • 24, 48, Or 72-hour Lisbon Card
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

“The pass is very useful and the value for money is there….”

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Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Daytrip

4.7

7.467 Reviews

From €61.38

GetYourGuide

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Reserve Now, Pay Later
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Live Tour Guide
  • Free Cancelation

“Very exciting and well managed, our guide was extremely kind and expert, he introduced us to Prague, also giving us information and telling us stories about the places we visited, making us even more passionate about this wonderful city…”

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Tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park

15.080 Reviews

Embark on an immersive journey to the National Palace of Pena & Park, a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site in the Sintra Mountains. Marvel at Pena Palace’s vibrant blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, with exclusive access granted. Explore the expansive park, a haven of diverse flora, and discover the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.

Enhance your experience with optional shuttle service, ensuring seamless transitions between the park and palace. Secure your tickets for an enchanting adventure through this extraordinary Portuguese landmark, where nature and history converge in a harmonious spectacle.

  • Access To Pena Palace
  • Access To The Park
  • Access To Chalet Of The Countess Of Edla
  • Shuttle Service Between Park And Palace (Optional)

Meeting Point: Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena, Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal
Check your final voucher for redemption point details and specific instructions

Starting Time: Please select your preferred time slot.

Duration: Flexible. You can stay in the National Palace of Pena and its park as long as you like.

5* Luz, Nov, 2023

It is worth going! They are two beautiful and magical places, I recommend going 100%, we visited them both in the afternoon and we had enough time to do it perfectly.

5* James, Oct, 2023 Our guide, Elber, brought the palace to life sharing the history of the palace. He answered all our questions. Having Elber as our guide made for a very enjoyable experience. Highly recommend Elber.

Prices Starting At  €15

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Headout

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • Flexible Duration
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

Tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park with Audio Guide

14.851 Reviews

Immerse yourself in the allure of the National Palace of Pena & Park, an entrancing UNESCO World Heritage site nestled within the scenic Sintra Mountains. Admire the palace’s unique blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, enjoying exclusive access. Roam the extensive park, an oasis of varied flora, and uncover the secrets of the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.

Ensure an enriched experience with audio guides available in English, Spanish, and French. Secure your tickets for a truly enchanting exploration of this extraordinary Portuguese landmark, where nature and history harmoniously converge. Elevate your visit with an optional shuttle service, facilitating seamless transitions between the park and palace.

  • Access To Pena Palace
  • Access To The Park
  • Access To Chalet Of The Countess Of Edla
  • Audio Guide In 3 Languages
  • Shuttle Service Between Park And Palace (Optional)

Meeting Point: Camellia Garden of Sintra’s National Park, Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal

Starting Time: Please select your preferred time slot.

Duration: Flexible. You can stay in the National Palace of Pena and its park as long as you like.

5* Ramona, Nov, 2023

Bar codes for all tickets emailed immediately on purchase. Included bus to entrance and tickets for entrance. No issues!

5* Claudio, Oct, 2023

Perfect service. You reserve your entrance and once you arrive you get in without having to wait in line at the ticket counter. Perfect!

Prices Starting At  €25

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Headout

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • Audio Guide In 3 Languages
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

Combo (Save 10%): Quinta da Regaleira + National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets

15.749 Reviews

Experience the best of Sintra with this combo ticket for the National Palace of Pena and Park plus Quinta da Regaleira. Delve into the vibrant Pena Palace, an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Sintra Mountains, offering exclusive access to its stunning park and the Chalet of the Countess of Edla. Opt for shuttle service for seamless park-to-palace transitions.

Enjoy skip-the-line access to Quinta da Regaleira, an extraordinary estate featuring mystical gardens, caves, and historic structures. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders of these two iconic landmarks with a single, convenient ticket. Secure your access for an unforgettable Sintra adventure.

  • Access To Pena Palace
  • Access To The Park
  • Access To Chalet Of The Countess Of Edla
  • Shuttle Service Between Park And Palace (Optional)
  • Skip The Line Access To Quinta Da Regaleira
  • Audio Guide For Quinta Da Regaleira

Meeting Point:

> Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena, Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal; Show your ticket at Porta Férrea (Iron Gate)
> Quinta da Regaleira, R. Barbosa du Bocage 5, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal

Starting Time: Please select your preferred time slot.

Duration: Flexible. You can stay in the National Palace of Pena and its park as well as in the Quinta da Regaleira as long as you like.

5* Cristina, Oct, 2023

The castle is wonderful… complete with fabulous furnishings… very large park… practically a forest which would take a long time to get around. Unmissable excursion!

5* Holger, Sep, 2023

Very good was the fast check-in at the entrance without queuing at the long lines. The bus transfer was great, because the way up is very steep. The control at the entrance to the chambers also ran well and relatively quickly, due to the digital codes. Despite the many visitors, it was a great experience and we can only recommend it.

Prices Starting At  €43

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  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Transfers Included
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

Combo (Save 5%): National Palace of Pena & Park + Moorish Castle Tickets

15.548 Reviews

Discover the wonders of Sintra with this combo ticket National Palace of Pena and Park plus Moorish Castle. Delve into the vibrant Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amidst the Sintra Mountains, and wander through its captivating park, home to the Chalet of the Countess of Edla. For added convenience, opt for the shuttle service that seamlessly transports you between the park and the palace.

Your adventure continues at the Moorish Castle, an ancient fortress perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding region. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural marvels of these iconic landmarks, each with its unique charm and allure. This convenient combo ticket grants you access to both the Pena Palace and Park and the Moorish Castle, ensuring an unforgettable Sintra experience.

  • Access To Pena Palace
  • Access To The Park
  • Access To Chalet Of The Countess Of Edla
  • Shuttle Service Between Park And Palace (Optional)
  • Access To Moorish Castle

Meeting Point:

> Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena, Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal; Show your ticket at Porta Férrea (Iron Gate)
> Castelo dos Mouros, 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal

Starting Time: Please select your preferred time slot.

Duration: Flexible. You can stay in the National Palace of Pena and its park as well as in the Moorish Castle as long as you like.

5* Louis, Sep, 2023

The palace is beautiful. The architecture, furniture, paintings, and multiple artifacts from the periods was fascinating. The palace is a not to be missed place when visiting Portugal.

5* Pavlena, Sep, 2023

I really enjoyed visiting this site and definitely recommend it out if you are in Sintra! It gives you a different perspective on the Palace of Pena and allows you to dive in deeper into the long history of the place. The true Chinese wall of Portugal!

Prices Starting At  €32

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Headout

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • Access To Moorish Castle
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

Combo (Save 5%): Lisbon Card + National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets

15.374 Reviews

Elevate your Sintra and Lisbon experience with this combo ticket featuring access to National Palace of Pena and Park plus a 24, 48, or 72-hour Lisbon Card. Explore the lively Pena Palace, nestled in the scenic Sintra Mountains and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Revel in entry to its charming park and the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.

Choose the optional shuttle service for effortless transitions between the park and palace, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey through this historical gem. Additionally, the Lisbon Card provides 1-time access to 39 attractions across the city for 24, 48, or 72 hours, along with a digital guide app and interactive map. Maximize your exploration with the ultimate combination ticket for a truly immersive experience.

  • Access To Pena Palace
  • Access To The Park
  • Access To Chalet Of The Countess Of Edla
  • Shuttle Service Between Park And Palace (Optional)
  • 24, 48, Or 72-hour Lisbon Card
  • 1-time Access To 39 Attractions. Click Here For The Complete List.
  • Digital Guide App & Interactive Map

Meeting point for Pena Palace: Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena, Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal; Show your ticket at Porta Férrea (Iron Gate)

Starting Time: Please select your preferred time slot.

Duration: Flexible. You can stay in the National Palace of Pena and its park as long as you like.
The Lisbon Card is valid 24, 48, or 72 hours.

5* Jaulmes, Aug, 2023

The Lisboa Card is very practical for both transport and monuments. For those who like to move and discover, I recommend it.

5* Phillip, Aug, 2023

This was one of my most favorite experiences in Portugal! So glad we bought tickets ahead of time. So many people were waiting in line to buy tickets but couldn’t go into palace as it was sold out for days. Also, highly recommend taking a train to get to destination. The orient station in downtown Lisbon took us straight into Sintra and was only 5 Euros for a round trip right when we got off train the buses were there to provide round trip to palace. Allow yourself plenty of time because traffic to get up to palace took over an hour. The palace was magical and they are very strict on being there on time. We also bought the ticket with transportation which saved us 30 min walking uphill and we would off-missed our time slot. We opted to walk back down through gardens, greenhouses. The paths are gorgeous, nice and cool. So glad we did this experience and bought our tickets ahead of time!

Prices Starting At  €64

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Headout

  • Instant Confirmation
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Access To Pena Palace & Park
  • 24, 48, Or 72-hour Lisbon Card
  • No Cancellation & Rebooking

Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Daytrip

7.467 Reviews

Embark on a captivating day trip from Lisbon, exploring the enchanting Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set in the scenic Sintra Mountains. Dive into the historic charm of Sintra City, a picturesque town with rich cultural heritage. Experience the dramatic cliffs and stunning views at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.

Conclude your journey in the coastal gem of Cascais. Enjoy the convenience of transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide fluent in English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese. The tourincludes an entry ticket to Pena Palace if selected and optional hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless and immersive experience.

  • Transportation In An Air-conditioned Vehicle
  • English, French, Spanish Or Portuguese-speaking Live Tour Guide
  • Entry Ticket To Pena Palace (If Option Is Selected)
  • Hotel Pickup And Drop-off (If Private Tour Option Is Selected)

Meeting Point: Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII (Eduardo VII Park Viewpoint), Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira, 1070-051 Lisboa. Look for the guide holding high a red flag.

Starting Time: 8:20 am. Be there at least 15 minutes ahead of starting time.

Duration: 8 hours

5* Javiera – Chile, November 16, 2023 – Verified booking

It was very pleasant, beautiful landscapes, the guide’s stories were very precise and he adapted both in English for the majority of the group and for us who speak Spanish. I would have liked to have been a little more in Sintra, it is very beautiful. Excellent, totally recommended.

5* GetYourGuide traveler – Hungary, November 2, 2023 – Verified booking

It was a great experience. The three-city package is highly recommended, you get a glimpse of the city, hilly areas as well as the coastal side. Our host Goncalo was exceptional. He was informative, humorous and too helpful with the city info. The trip of 8 hours was amazing and went off too quick!! A nice day to spend and a nice deal for the money!!

Prices starting at  €61.38

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GetYourGuide

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  • Reserve Now, Pay Later
  • Mobile Ticket
  • Live Tour Guide
  • Free Cancelation

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