Perched majestically atop the lush hills of Sintra, Pena Palace is a vibrant masterpiece of Romanticism, captivating visitors with its eclectic architecture and panoramic views. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fairy-tale palace is a must-see when exploring Portugal. To help you plan your visit, here’s everything you need to know about tickets, admissions, and opening hours, with the most up-to-date pricing extracted from the official website, Parques de Sintra.
About Pena Palace
Commissioned by King Ferdinand II in the 19th century, Pena Palace is a whimsical blend of architectural styles, including Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance elements. Surrounding the palace is the expansive Pena Park, a serene landscape garden filled with exotic plants, meandering paths, and hidden treasures like the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.
Ticket Options and Pricing
Visitors can choose from several ticket options depending on the areas they wish to explore.
1. Palace and Park Ticket (Full Access)
- What’s Included: Full access to the interior of Pena Palace, the terraces, and the entire Pena Park.
- Prices:
- Adults (18-64 years): €17.50
- Youth (6-17 years): €15
- Seniors (65+ years): €15
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 youths): €60
- Children (under 6 years): Free
2. Park Only Ticket
- What’s Included: Access to the Pena Park and the palace’s exterior terraces, but not the palace’s interior rooms.
- Prices:
- Adults: €8
- Youth: €6.50
- Seniors: €6.50
- Family Ticket: €26
- Children (under 6 years): Free
3. Palace and Park Ticket with Transfer (Includes Transfer from Main Entrance to Palace)
- What’s Included: Full access to the interior of Pena Palace, the terraces, the entire Pena Park, and transfer service from the main entrance to the palace.
- Prices:
- Adults: €18.50
- Youth: €16
- Seniors: €16
Note: Prices are accurate as of October 2023. For the most current pricing, visit the official Parques de Sintra website.
Opening Hours
Pena Palace operates year-round, with varying hours depending on the season.
Summer Schedule (March 25th – October 29th)
- Palace Interior:
- Opening Time: 9:30 AM
- Closing Time: 7:00 PM
- Last Entry: 6:00 PM
- Pena Park:
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM
- Closing Time: 7:00 PM
- Last Entry: 6:00 PM
Winter Schedule (October 30th – March 24th)
- Palace Interior:
- Opening Time: 10:00 AM
- Closing Time: 6:00 PM
- Last Entry: 5:00 PM
- Pena Park:
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM
- Closing Time: 6:00 PM
- Last Entry: 5:00 PM
Closed: The palace and park are closed on December 25th and January 1st.
How to Get There
- By Bus: The Scotturb bus 434 (also known as the Pena Circuit) departs from Sintra train station and stops at key attractions, including Pena Palace.
- By Car: Parking near the palace is extremely limited and often restricted. Public transportation is recommended.
- By Tuk-Tuk or Taxi: Local tuk-tuks and taxis are available but agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- On Foot: Several hiking trails lead up to the palace for those who enjoy a scenic walk. The hike is steep and takes about 45 minutes to an hour from Sintra town center.
Tips for a Great Visit
1. Purchase Tickets Online in Advance
To avoid long queues, especially during peak season and weekends, buy your tickets online through the official website. This ensures a smoother entry and allows you to select a specific time slot for your visit.
2. Arrive Early or Late
The palace is most crowded between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can provide a more relaxed experience and better lighting for photographs.
3. Wear Comfortable Footwear
The palace and park cover a vast area with uneven surfaces, steep steps, and gravel paths. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
4. Explore Pena Park
Don’t miss out on the park’s hidden gems, such as the Queen’s Fern Valley, the Temple of Columns, and various viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
5. Use the On-Site Transportation if Needed
A shuttle service within the park transports visitors from the main entrance to the palace entrance for a small fee of €3 per person (one way). This is especially useful for those with mobility issues.
6. Check the Weather
Sintra’s microclimate means it can be cooler and mistier than nearby Lisbon. Bring a light jacket or umbrella, especially during the winter months.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access: Due to the historic nature of the palace, accessibility is limited. The ground floor is wheelchair accessible, but upper floors are only reachable by stairs.
- Facilities: Restrooms, a café, and gift shops are available on-site.
Nearby Attractions
- Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros): A short walk from Pena Palace, this medieval castle offers panoramic views and a rich history.
- Quinta da Regaleira: Known for its intricate architecture and mysterious Initiation Well.
- Sintra National Palace: Located in the town center, featuring distinctive twin chimneys and beautifully decorated rooms.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Pena Palace is like stepping into a vibrant dreamscape where history and fantasy intertwine. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of breathtaking views, this palace offers an unforgettable experience.
By planning ahead with accurate ticket information and opening hours, you can make the most of your visit to this enchanting landmark. Don’t forget to bring your camera—the palace’s vivid colors and the surrounding natural beauty provide endless photo opportunities.
Enjoy your magical journey through Pena Palace and the captivating landscapes of Sintra!
