Park and National Palace of Pena in Sintra, Portugal

The Park and National Palace of Pena in Sintra, Portugal is a national treasure. Today it is part of the Network of European Royal Residences since 2013, designated as a National Monument in 1910, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995. King Ferdinand II contributed to erecting this grand palace and incorporated styles of 19th-century romanticism and has Manueline and Moorish styles of architecture that is evident in the archways, towers, and domes. The palace is situated on a hill that makes it entirely visible from Sintra and beyond. He also coordinated the creation of the estate’s gardens with the Park of Pena that features winding routes, exotic species of plants, and pavilions to rest. Nestled in the grounds is the Chalet of the Countess of Edla which resembles a fairy-tale like cottage in the woods.

Visitors will often find the castle packed during height tourist season, but that shouldn’t deter anyone. The tour winds through the interior spaces and has paths outdoor as well. The restaurant provides light fare and rest for weary travelers.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Travel
Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal
Coordinates: 38.7876° N, 9.3906° W

Cost & Admission

PARK
9:00AM– 7:00PM, last admission in the Park of Pena 6:00PM

Park and Palace Adult (Age 18-64) - €13.30
Park and Palace Youngster/Senior (Age 6-17, 65+) - €11.88
Park and Palace Child (Age 5 and Under) - Free

Tickets can be purchased here.

Food
Food at main palace.

Activities
Exploring, walking, seeing views.

A map can be found here.

Tips
The palace has extensive grounds and gardens. Don’t forget to explore and find the Chalet and embark on a very cheap and worthwhile carriage ride. Our itinerary was Main Entrance to the Palace of Pena to the Garden of Camelias to Chalet of the Countess of Edla and then carriage ride to the Valley of the Lakes entrace where we walked a few steps to our next destination, Moorish Castle.