Overview
The Pena National Palace is a colorful Romanticist palace set in the Sintra Mountains. It was built as a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty in the 19th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is an iconic symbol of 19th-century Romanticism and one of the major expressions of 19th-century Portuguese architecture.
Location
Address
Estrada da Pena, Sintra
Neighborhood: Parque da Pena
Coordinates
38.798200, -9.402100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to June, September to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild and pleasant
- • lush gardens
- • spring flowers
summer
hot and sunny
- • extended opening hours
- • outdoor performances
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall colors
- • autumn gardens
winter
cold and rainy
- • holiday decorations
- • winter gardens
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check the weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • Uneven surfaces and stairs
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash (Euros), Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)
Currency
Euros (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes and clothing, comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least 1-2 weeks in advance
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • Available for online tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Sintra - Pena Palace
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets and passes, Event information, Parking and transportation
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café and restaurant areas, Indoor exhibits
Charging Stations: Café and restaurant areas, Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)
Distance: 28 km
Travel Time: 35-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 28 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Pena Palace is a symbol of Portuguese identity and a source of national pride. It is a unique blend of architectural styles and a testament to the country's rich history and culture.
Historical Significance: The palace was commissioned by King Consortium John VI in the 19th century as a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family. It is an outstanding example of 19th-century Romanticist architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Insider Tips
- Visit the palace early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography
- Explore the gardens and pathways for hidden gems and unique photo opportunities
- Check for local events and festivals during your visit for a more immersive experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try Pastéis de Belém at a nearby café
- • Visit the nearby Quinta da Regaleira estate
- • Ask for a local guide to share stories and history
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Low angle for the colorful facade
Result: Iconic views of the palace
Queen's Terrace
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots for the best views
Result: Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
Gardens and pathways
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Tips: Use leading lines for creative compositions
Result: Charming garden scenes and colorful pathways
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Quinta da Regaleira
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historical Site and Gardens
Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 40 min or 10 min by taxi
Type: Castle and Ruins
Sintra National Palace
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Historical Palace
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Nature and Parks
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online in advance"
- "Visit early in the morning for the best experience"
- "Wear comfortable shoes for walking"
- "Explore the gardens and hidden pathways"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Private Tour Sintra, Pena Palace and Cascais from Lisbon
Sintra Tour with Pena Palace and Regaleira All Tickets Included
Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca and Cascais from Lisbon
Lisbon: Sintra Full-Day Tour to Pena Palace & Quinta da Regaleira
Sintra and Cascais Private Tour with Pena Palace Ticket Included
Sintra, Pena Palace, Regaleira and Cabo da Roca from Lisbon
Private Tour Romantic Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais
Pequeno Grupo Sintra, Palácio da Pena, Belém, Cascais and Lisbon
Sintra Essential: Palaces, Castles and Mystical Gardens
Sintra, Pena Palace, Cape Roca & Cascais Small-Group Tour
Mafra and Sintra: Choose 3 of 6 Palaces to visit on private tour
Private Tour : Sintra, Pena Palace & Cascais
Sintra, Cascais and Pena Palace Tour from Lisbon
Sintra Tour with Pena Palace and Monserrate Palace- Private Tour
Sintra Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira with Tickets
Lisbon Private Sintra, Pena Palace and Regaleira Day Trip
Sintra Private Half Day from Lisbon with Skip the Line to Pena
Sintra Cascais & Cabo da Roca Private Day Trip from Lisbon
Sintra, Cascais & Estoril Private Tour - Palaces Tickets & Lunch
Sintra & Cabo da Roca - Private Van Tour
Sintra Tour 8h
Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Fullday Exclusive tour
Private Car Drop Tour Sintra Cabo da Roca and Cascais
Private Tour to Sintra with Cabo da Roca and Cascais
Quick Info
Available Tours
635
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
€14