Help

#7 out of 50 in Lisbon

Experience the best of National Palace of Sintra

The National Palace of Sintra, once a lavish royal residence, is today one of the most-visited historic museums in Portugal. Don't miss the domed ceiling, the great hall, royal bedrooms, the chapel. Book National Palace of Sintra tickets and enjoy unlimited access to all areas, and combo tours.
4.6/5
90,033 travellers from around the world love this
Slide 1 of 17, Pena Palace in Lisbon surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the cityscape.
Pena Palace in Lisbon surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the cityscape.

Pena Palace & Park Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Discover Sintra's crown jewel with options covering the Palace, Park & both together.

  • Peek into the lavish lives of Spanish royalty at the King’s chambers, then roam the sprawling gardens for panoramic views of Sintra.

  • Tune into a multilingual audio guide or choose a guided tour to uncover how a simple chapel became this vibrant palace.

  • If you are looking for convenience, upgrade to skip entry lines, add an audio guide, or access a quick shuttle between the palace and the park.

More details

  • Discover Sintra's crown jewel with options covering the Palace, Park & both together.

  • Peek into the lavish lives of Spanish royalty at the King’s chambers, then roam the sprawling gardens for panoramic views of Sintra.

  • Tune into a multilingual audio guide or choose a guided tour to uncover how a simple chapel became this vibrant palace.

  • If you are looking for convenience, upgrade to skip entry lines, add an audio guide, or access a quick shuttle between the palace and the park.

from
€16
Slide 1 of 17, Pena Palace ornate hallway and Quinta da Regaleira's Initiation Well in Sintra, Portugal.
Pena Palace ornate hallway and Quinta da Regaleira's Initiation Well in Sintra, Portugal.

Combo (Save 6%): Pena Palace and Park + Quinta da Regaleira Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Discover two of Sintra’s most enchanting UNESCO World Heritage sites with one easy combo ticket.

  • Explore Pena Palace, a vibrant 19th-century Romanticist castle with lush gardens, luxe royal apartments, and panoramic Queen’s Terrace.

  • Visit the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira to check out its magical gardens, underground tunnels, and the rich symbolism hidden in the architecture.

  • Visit both attractions on the same day or on separate days for ultimate flexibility in your Sintra itinerary.

More details

  • Discover two of Sintra’s most enchanting UNESCO World Heritage sites with one easy combo ticket.

  • Explore Pena Palace, a vibrant 19th-century Romanticist castle with lush gardens, luxe royal apartments, and panoramic Queen’s Terrace.

  • Visit the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira to check out its magical gardens, underground tunnels, and the rich symbolism hidden in the architecture.

  • Visit both attractions on the same day or on separate days for ultimate flexibility in your Sintra itinerary.

from Original price€45
€42.30

6% off

Slide 1 of 20, National Sintra Palace with iconic chimneys and surrounding gardens in Sintra, Portugal.
National Sintra Palace with iconic chimneys and surrounding gardens in Sintra, Portugal.

National Palace of Sintra Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Explore Portugal’s most lived-in royal palace with roots from over a thousand years ago and experience its intricate blend of architectural styles.

  • Walk in the footsteps of the Portuguese monarchy in intricately designed rooms such as the Swan Room, Galley Hall, and Coat of Arms Room.

  • Marvel at the massive pagoda in the Chinese room — a unique gift from the private collection of Queen Carlota Joaquina of Spain.

  • Check out the largest collection of Spanish-Moorish tiles in situ in Europe, and one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in the Chapel.

  • Upgrade your tickets to a self-guided tour with a multilingual audio guide or a guided tour for fascinating insights from an expert.

More details

  • Explore Portugal’s most lived-in royal palace with roots from over a thousand years ago and experience its intricate blend of architectural styles.

  • Walk in the footsteps of the Portuguese monarchy in intricately designed rooms such as the Swan Room, Galley Hall, and Coat of Arms Room.

  • Marvel at the massive pagoda in the Chinese room — a unique gift from the private collection of Queen Carlota Joaquina of Spain.

  • Check out the largest collection of Spanish-Moorish tiles in situ in Europe, and one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in the Chapel.

  • Upgrade your tickets to a self-guided tour with a multilingual audio guide or a guided tour for fascinating insights from an expert.

from
€13
Slide 1 of 11, National Palace of Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira in lush gardens, Sintra, Portugal.
National Palace of Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira in lush gardens, Sintra, Portugal.

Combo (Save 3%): National Palace of Sintra + Quinta da Regaleira Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Save time and money by visiting both the National Palace of Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira with this convenient combo ticket.

  • Step inside Portugal's best-preserved medieval royal residence and explore rooms like Swan Hall at Sinta Palace.

  • Explore the mystical gardens, grottoes, and spiral well at Quinta da Regaleira—straight from a fantasy novel.

  • Don’t miss a single detail. Add an audio guide to your ticket and explore at your own pace with expert commentary.

More details

  • Save time and money by visiting both the National Palace of Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira with this convenient combo ticket.

  • Step inside Portugal's best-preserved medieval royal residence and explore rooms like Swan Hall at Sinta Palace.

  • Explore the mystical gardens, grottoes, and spiral well at Quinta da Regaleira—straight from a fantasy novel.

  • Don’t miss a single detail. Add an audio guide to your ticket and explore at your own pace with expert commentary.

from Original price€38
€36.86

3% off

Slide 1 of 11, Sintra National Palace and Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, with surrounding landscape.
Sintra National Palace and Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, with surrounding landscape.

Combo (Save 3%): National Palace of Sintra + Pena Palace & Park Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Enjoy a smooth visit with pre-booked entry tickets to both the National Palace of Sintra and Pena Palace & Park—no last-minute stress.

  • Explore the grand halls of the National Palace of Sintra and the expansive gardens of Pena Park, just 20 minutes apart by car.

  • See the beautiful tilework and royal chambers of the National Palace of Sintra, then wander through forests and hidden trails in Pena Park.

  • No rush, explore at your pace. Take your time to admire the palaces, their gardens, and hidden corners full of history.

More details

  • Enjoy a smooth visit with pre-booked entry tickets to both the National Palace of Sintra and Pena Palace & Park—no last-minute stress.

  • Explore the grand halls of the National Palace of Sintra and the expansive gardens of Pena Park, just 20 minutes apart by car.

  • See the beautiful tilework and royal chambers of the National Palace of Sintra, then wander through forests and hidden trails in Pena Park.

  • No rush, explore at your pace. Take your time to admire the palaces, their gardens, and hidden corners full of history.

from Original price€33
€32.01

3% off

Slide 1 of 8, Monserrate Palace in Sintra surrounded by lush gardens and trees.
Monserrate Palace in Sintra surrounded by lush gardens and trees.

Monserrate Palace & Park Fast-Track Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Explore Monserrate Palace at your own pace, taking in its eclectic architecture and lavish details without being tied to a fixed guided tour schedule.

  • Fast-track your way in and explore with context, skipping the main ticket line before using your audio guide in four languages.

  • Step into the palace's standout rooms, including the Music Room and Library, and admire the intricate arches, ceilings, and decorative details inside.

  • Wander through the botanical gardens, following winding paths past exotic plant collections, hidden corners, and changing views of the palace.

  • Upgrade to a 1.5-hour guided tour in Portuguese or English, with a small group of up to 20 guests for more context as you explore.

More details

  • Explore Monserrate Palace at your own pace, taking in its eclectic architecture and lavish details without being tied to a fixed guided tour schedule.

  • Fast-track your way in and explore with context, skipping the main ticket line before using your audio guide in four languages.

  • Step into the palace's standout rooms, including the Music Room and Library, and admire the intricate arches, ceilings, and decorative details inside.

  • Wander through the botanical gardens, following winding paths past exotic plant collections, hidden corners, and changing views of the palace.

  • Upgrade to a 1.5-hour guided tour in Portuguese or English, with a small group of up to 20 guests for more context as you explore.

from
€12.86
Slide 1 of 10, National Sintra Palace with iconic chimneys and surrounding gardens in Sintra, Portugal.
National Sintra Palace with iconic chimneys and surrounding gardens in Sintra, Portugal.

National Palace of Sintra Guided Tour

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Enjoy a tour of the National Palace of Sintra with an experienced guide leading the way.

  • If you enjoy a tour that involves learning lesser-known insights about a landmark, this ticket is perfect for you.

  • With a tour in two languages (English & Portuguese), you can choose the option that works best for you.

  • Transport yourself into the closing period of the Portuguese monarchy with a theatrical tour set in Queen Maria Pia's Residence.

  • Alternatively, upgrade to a full tour of the palace with access to the gardens, and a small-group visit to the Queen Maria Pia Residence.

More details

  • Enjoy a tour of the National Palace of Sintra with an experienced guide leading the way.

  • If you enjoy a tour that involves learning lesser-known insights about a landmark, this ticket is perfect for you.

  • With a tour in two languages (English & Portuguese), you can choose the option that works best for you.

  • Transport yourself into the closing period of the Portuguese monarchy with a theatrical tour set in Queen Maria Pia's Residence.

  • Alternatively, upgrade to a full tour of the palace with access to the gardens, and a small-group visit to the Queen Maria Pia Residence.

from
€43.75
Slide 1 of 11, National Palace of Sintra and Queluz Palace Gardens in Portugal.
National Palace of Sintra and Queluz Palace Gardens in Portugal.

Combo (Save 5%): National Palace of Sintra + National Palace of Queluz & Gardens Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Conveniently explore two of Portugal’s iconic landmarks: The National Palace of Sintra and the National Palace of Queluz & Gardens with this combo.

  • If architecture and history fascinate you, you'll enjoy uncovering the rich origins and significance of these palaces beyond their stunning beauty.

  • Use the audio guide to dive deeper into the finer details of these attractions, from the history of each space to their historical significance.

  • You can enter both attractions at any point within their operating hours and explore them at your own pace and for as long as you’d like.

  • Don't miss the Swan and Magpie Rooms at the National Palace of Sintra, while the Ambassador’s Room is a must-visit at the National Palace of Queluz.

More details

  • Conveniently explore two of Portugal’s iconic landmarks: The National Palace of Sintra and the National Palace of Queluz & Gardens with this combo.

  • If architecture and history fascinate you, you'll enjoy uncovering the rich origins and significance of these palaces beyond their stunning beauty.

  • Use the audio guide to dive deeper into the finer details of these attractions, from the history of each space to their historical significance.

  • You can enter both attractions at any point within their operating hours and explore them at your own pace and for as long as you’d like.

  • Don't miss the Swan and Magpie Rooms at the National Palace of Sintra, while the Ambassador’s Room is a must-visit at the National Palace of Queluz.

from Original price€26.93
€25.58

5% off

Slide 1 of 14, Lisboa's Oceanário, National Palace of Pena, and National Palace of Sintra in a collage.
Lisboa's Oceanário, National Palace of Pena, and National Palace of Sintra in a collage.

Combo (Save 10%): Lisboa's Oceanário + National Palace of Pena + National Palace of Sintra

Explore at your pace
  • With this money-saving combo ticket, explore Lisboa's Oceanário, Pena National Palace, and Sintra National Palace!
  • Over 8,000 creatures belonging to over 500 species await you at the Oceanário de Lisboa.
  • Waltz through different ocean environments: the Atlantic, Tropical Indian reefs, Pacific Ocean, and more.
  • Check out the many battlements, watchtowers, and drawbridge embellishing the National Palace of Pena, and admire its colorful architectural style.
  • Access the Park of Pena, a vast forested area completely surrounding the palace.
  • Enter the National Palace of Sintra - a gorgeous blend of Manueline and Moorish styles of architecture and Portugal’s most lived-in royal palace.
More details
  • With this money-saving combo ticket, explore Lisboa's Oceanário, Pena National Palace, and Sintra National Palace!
  • Over 8,000 creatures belonging to over 500 species await you at the Oceanário de Lisboa.
  • Waltz through different ocean environments: the Atlantic, Tropical Indian reefs, Pacific Ocean, and more.
  • Check out the many battlements, watchtowers, and drawbridge embellishing the National Palace of Pena, and admire its colorful architectural style.
  • Access the Park of Pena, a vast forested area completely surrounding the palace.
  • Enter the National Palace of Sintra - a gorgeous blend of Manueline and Moorish styles of architecture and Portugal’s most lived-in royal palace.
from Original price€66.50
€59.85

10% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Not all tickets are flexible—check cancellation policies as some tickets are non-refundable.

The National Palace of Sintra and Lisbon Ocearium combo ticket is perfect for those interested in both history and marine life. This combo gives you entry to Europe’s largest indoor aquarium, home to 8,000 creatures and exhibits recreating ocean habitats

The Half-Day Tour departing from Lisbon includes a guide to provide historical insights, enriching the experience with local legends and context as you explore. The tour covers several sites in one day, making it convenient if you’re based in Lisbon.

If available, opt for a guided tour of the National Palace of Sintra to get the most out of your visit to the palace. The last ticket and last admission to the National Palace of Sintra are at 6pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

Pairing Sintra National Palace with Queluz Palace or Pena Palace will allow you to contrast the architectural styles and histories of different royal sites, from medieval Sintra to Romantic Pena and Baroque Queluz. These bundles also offer savings for those planning to visit multiple attractions.

For those who prefer a self-paced exploration, individual tickets often include optional audio guides for the National Palace of Sintra, available in multiple languages. Audio guides are helpful for learning key details about each room and piece of artwork at your own speed.

Similar things to do in Lisbon

About National Palace of Sintra

The Sintra National Palace, or Town Palace, served as a residence for the Portuguese Royal Family until 1910. Constructed in the 15th century by an unknown architect, its blend of Medieval, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Romantic styles showcases organic architecture. Notable features include extensive Mudéjar tiles and distinctive conjoined chimneys in the kitchen, making it an iconic symbol of Sintra. In 2008, it was Portugal's most visited palace, attracting 408,712 visitors.

Did you know?

Whispers of the "Swan King": King Manuel I, responsible for much of the palace's architectural style, earned the nickname "Swan King" due to his obsession with the symbol. Look closely for hidden swan motifs throughout the palace, from carved details to azulejos tiles, reflecting his personal touch.

Kitchen secrets: The iconic conical chimneys weren't just for show. Originally, they vented smoke from the palace kitchens, each designed differently to represent the specific cooking methods used within. One features a spiral design symbolizing the rotisserie grill, while the other boasts a crown-like ornament referencing the royal kitchens.

A taste of the Orient: Hidden within the palace walls is a secret garden known as the "Sala das Sirenas" or "Hall of the Mermaids." This tranquil haven features exotic plants and decorative elements inspired by Chinese and Japanese gardens, showcasing the influence of global exploration during the Manueline era.

Music in the walls: Believe it or not, the palace boasts "singing" rooms. Hidden within the walls are cavities and ducts designed to amplify sound, creating an almost magical acoustic effect. Imagine the halls once resonating with royal music and performances.

Royal retreat in disguise: During the 17th century, the palace served as a secret prison for King Afonso VI, deemed unfit to rule. Confined to a single room for nine years, the king secretly carved poems and prayers into the walls, leaving behind a hidden record of his imprisonment.

Why visit National Palace of Sintra?

Step into a living fairytale

Unlike many other palaces that feel like museums, the National Palace of Sintra has been continuously inhabited by Portuguese royalty since the 15th century. This means you'll find the palace decorated and furnished much like it would have been when kings and queens resided there, giving you a unique glimpse into their lives and lifestyle. Imagine wandering through the grand halls and cozy chambers, each with its own story to tell. 

Explore a hidden grotto

Descend into the depths of the palace to discover the Grotto of the Baths, a secret cave adorned with stunning 18th-century tilework and stucco decorations. This hidden gem was once believed to be a royal bathhouse, and its intricate details will transport you to another world. 

Witness a blend of architectural styles

The National Palace of Sintra is a fascinating architectural hodgepodge, with elements of Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, and Moorish styles all coming together to create a truly unique structure. Look for the Manueline-style windows with their intricate stonework, the Mudéjar-inspired azulejo tiles, and the Gothic arches and vaulting. 

Read the stories behind the tiles

The palace is adorned with thousands of azulejos, hand-painted ceramic tiles that depict historical scenes, mythological figures, and everyday life. Take some time to admire these works of art and try to decipher the stories they tell. You might even spot some hidden symbols and messages along the way. 

Feel the pulse of Portuguese history

The National Palace of Sintra has been a silent witness to centuries of Portuguese history, from the reign of King João I to the fall of the monarchy in 1910. As you walk through the palace, imagine the events that unfolded here and the people who called it home.

Highlights

The Coat of Arms Room

The pinnacle of King Manuel I's vision of monarchy is the Coat of Arms Room. King Manuel I presented himself at the center of a strict hierarchical but interdependent society by affixing his coat of arms to the dome of this space. His ability to rule rested on the nobility and the nobility gave the monarch the social standing he required.

The Magpie Room

The Magpie Room is known to have been a royal audience room before it was used as a second banquet room in the 19th century. The room is called as such because of its ceiling artwork. Throughout the reign of King Duarte, who succeeded King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster, it was known as the Magpie room.

The Swan Hall

The Swans Hall served as the palace’s Noble Hall and, more specifically, as the residence of King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster. The wood ceiling panels from the late 14th century that feature several white swans on them gave the building its name. The symbol was used by Henry IV, the then King of England and brother to Queen Philippa. 

The Palatine Chapel

King Dinis gave the order to build the Palatine Chapel, also known as the Royal Chapel at the start of the 14th century. The hardwood ceiling, which has geometric patterns that resembles a starry sky, is regarded as one of the finest specimens of Mudejar carpentry due to its age and level of preservation.

Galley Hall

The ceiling of the Galley Hall is painted with several galleys, giving the room its name. These galleys display not only the Portuguese flag but also the flags of the Netherlands and the Ottoman Empire. However, they were concealed when the gallery was divided into little spaces to serve as Infante Afonso's chambers in the 19th century.

Chambers of the Palace of King Joao III

The seven Chambers of the Palace of King João III are spread across two floors. All seven chambers are not open to visitors. Previously, the hallway leading to the Heraldic Hall served as the entrance to the upper floor. It was followed by an 18th-century spiral staircase.

Crockery Room

It is unclear what the Crockery Room's original purpose was, making it a particularly intriguing room. It may have been an audience room, a sleeping chamber, or possibly just a basic storage area. Queen Maria Pia of Savoy changed it at the turn of the 20th century into what is currently known as a room used to keep the Royal Family's dining ware.

Arab Room

The Arab Room, which once used to be a portion of the square tower, is a part of the Sintra National Palace's main structure. The top floor of this room completely fell during the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755. King Manuel I installed the small exotic fountain and the Mudejar-style tile roof that give it its name.

Gold Chamber

The Gold Chamber or King Sebastião’s room was the third room of King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster's palace and a space where the monarch would host more illustrious visitors. Its supposed gold plating, which gave rise to its name, is known to have existed throughout the 15th and 16th centuries.

Mermaid Room

Due to the marine design that covers the ceiling, the wardrobe room is also called the Mermaid Room. It was frequented almost exclusively by the servants of the Portuguese Royal Family and was situated at the back of the Gold Chamber. The royals kept their clothing and other personal items in big wooden chests rather than closets or wardrobes.

Manueline Hall

The Noble Hall of the Palace of King Manuel I, the Manueline Hall was the fourth largest hall of Sintra National Palace, after the Swans Hall, the Galley Hall, and the Chinese Room. To accommodate King Luis's apartments, it was partitioned in the second half of the 19th century into three compact spaces.

Plan your visit

Main entrance

Main entrance

The main entrance to the palace is through the imposing Gothic Gate, adorned with statues of Portuguese kings and queens. Stepping through the gate, visitors are greeted by the impressive Swan Patio, featuring a beautiful swan-shaped fountain surrounded by azulejos (painted tiles). 

Entrance hall

Entrance hall

Beyond the patio lies the Entrance Hall, which connects the two main sections of the palace: the medieval wing built by King João I and the Manueline wing constructed by King Manuel I. Each wing boasts its own unique features, offering a glimpse into different periods of Portuguese history.

Travel guides and tips

Browse by themes

Landmarks in Lisbon
Day Trips From Lisbon
Cruises in Lisbon
Lisbon City Cards
Guided Tours in Lisbon
Hop-on Hop-off Tours Lisbon
Zoos in Lisbon
Lisbon Specials
Lisbon Tours
Lisbon Attractions
Transportation in Lisbon
Travel Services in Lisbon
Food & Drink in Lisbon
Entertainment shows in Lisbon
Adventure in Lisbon
Water Sports in Lisbon

What our guests say

Tibor K

Croatia
Couple
5 days ago
Visiting Belém was a wonderful experience. The entry process was well organised, the signage was clear, and the explanations provided valuable insights into the historical significance of Belém.

Combo: Jerónimos Monastery + Pena Palace & Park Tickets

Jacqueline E

United States
Couple
Last week

+1 more

One of the most beautiful architectural we have ever seen. It is so worth seeing. Also incredibly organized. You cannot leave Lisbon without seeing this beautiful place

Combo: Jerónimos Monastery + Pena Palace & Park Tickets

Jose Y

Couple
6 days ago

+3 more

It was amazing! Each ticket has 1hr grace period, which makes it super reasonable for those hiking their way to the palace.

Pena Palace & Park Tickets

Rosemere B

Brazil
Couple
Last week

+3 more

The purchase was super easy and fast. Entry was right on time. The place is wonderful, and the Initiation Well is fantastic.

Pena Palace & Park Tickets

Sharon M

Italy
Couple
6 days ago
Everything was perfect and very intuitive, from the moment of buying online before leaving on the trip right up to entering the attraction. Very useful.

Combo: Moorish Castle + Monserrate Palace & Park Tickets

Nicola G

Family
6 days ago

+4 more

My 5 year old loves aquariums. At home we visit our local one all the time which is lovely. But this one in Lisbon blew us away! Before you go in there is a prehistoric sea creature exhibition which he loved. He had his picture taken with every one! Then the aquarium... the main tank has so many sharks and rays. It was spectacular! We also loved the light show with rays and whales I actually found that quite moving, while the kids were super excited running around touching the lights. Plus there selection of other sea creatures there was quite astounding. The sea dragons were my personal favourite. We were so impressed. My parents who are in their 70s and my toddler also absolutely loved it. A must see in Lisbon!

Combo: Lisboa's Oceanário + National Palace of Pena + National Palace of Sintra

Theodor H

Austria
Solo
Last week
Exciting animals and a great building layout. There's plenty to see, and the indicated route leaves you time to stop wherever you want.

Combo: Lisboa's Oceanário + National Palace of Pena + National Palace of Sintra

M P

Spain
Group
2 weeks ago

+4 more

Not having to wait in line to enter the sites. And the iconic, unique places. An absolute must-visit. Both are highly recommended.

Combo: Pena Palace and Park + Quinta da Regaleira Tickets

Nearby cities to explore

See all