Where to Stay in Sintra: Best Areas and Hotels

Most people see Sintra on a rushed day trip, but staying the night is one of the best decisions you can make. You get the palaces at opening time before the tour buses arrive, misty evening walks through empty lanes and dinner without the crowds. Here’s where to stay in Sintra, from palace hotels to cosy guesthouses.

Quick answer: stay in Sintra’s old town (Vila) to walk to Regaleira and the 434 bus up to Pena. For a splurge, the Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais (a palace hotel) or Penha Longa (a Ritz-Carlton resort with golf and a kids’ club). For value and charm, Sintra Boutique Hotel or Sintra1012. Note: there’s little parking and traffic restrictions in the centre, so check before you drive.

Is it worth staying in Sintra?

• Yes, if you want to see Pena, Regaleira and the Moorish Castle without the crowds, or add Cabo da Roca and the coast.
• Consider Lisbon or Cascais instead if you want nightlife and lots of restaurants. Sintra is quiet in the evening.
• Two nights is perfect for the palaces plus a day on the coast.

The best areas

• Sintra Vila (old town): the most convenient, walkable to Regaleira, the National Palace and restaurants. Hilly, with limited parking.
• Around the station (Estefânia): a little cheaper and handy for the train to Lisbon, a 10–15 minute walk to the old town.
• The hills and countryside: quintas and resorts with gardens and pools. You’ll need a car or taxis.
• The coast: villages like Azenhas do Mar for sea views, 20 minutes’ drive away.

The best hotels in Sintra

Luxury

• Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais: an 18th-century palace with formal gardens and views of the Pena hills and the sea. Formerly the Tivoli Seteais, now run by Valverde and a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. A short walk from the old town.
• Penha Longa Resort: a Ritz-Carlton resort in the Sintra-Cascais natural park, with golf, a spa, several restaurants and a kids’ club. Best with a car. Great for families and couples alike.

Boutique and mid-range

• Sintra Boutique Hotel: 20 stylish rooms in the old town, some with views towards the palaces. Walk everywhere.
• Lawrence’s Hotel: a historic hotel just outside the centre, said to be one of the oldest in the Iberian Peninsula, where Lord Byron once stayed.
• Quinta das Murtas: a romantic quinta with a pool and gardens overlooking the town. Peaceful but walkable.

Guesthouses and value

• Sintra1012 Boutique Guesthouse: a friendly, well-rated guesthouse in the historic centre.
• Chalet Saudade: a pretty 19th-century chalet with themed rooms and a lovely breakfast. Note: no lift.

Or see all places to stay in Sintra, or by the sea in Azenhas do Mar.

Tips for staying in Sintra

• Book palace slots early, especially Pena, and take the first time slot of the day.
• Parking: ask your hotel about parking before you book, and be aware of the traffic restrictions in the historic centre. See visiting Sintra.
• Pack a jumper: Sintra is often misty and cooler than Lisbon, even in summer.
• Dinner: book ahead at weekends; many restaurants close early.
• Getting there: the train from Lisbon’s Rossio station takes about 40 minutes.

Plan your Sintra trip

See Sintra in one day, Sintra’s best photo spots and the best Sintra tours. Also: Cascais and where to stay in Lisbon.

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