Sintra in Winter: Misty Palaces and No Crowds

Sintra in winter is atmospheric and blissfully quiet: mist drifts through the forests, the palaces are far less crowded, and you can explore at your own pace. It’s cool and damp, though, so dress for it. Here’s what to expect from December to February.

Quick answer: expect around 10 to 14°C by day, often misty or rainy, and colder than Lisbon. The big advantage is far smaller crowds at Pena and Regaleira. Visit on a clear day if you can, wear waterproof shoes and layers, and warm up with coffee and travesseiros in the old town.

Things to do

• Pena Palace without the crowds. See the Pena Palace guide.
• Quinta da Regaleira in the mist. See Regaleira.
• The Sintra National Palace in town, an easy option on wet days. See the National Palace.
• Christmas: lights in the old town in December. See Christmas in Portugal.

Tips

• Weather: check forecasts and pick the clearest day for views.
• Shoes: paths and steps get slippery.
• Short days: start early.

More: visiting Sintra, Lisbon in winter and is Sintra worth visiting?

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.