Pena Palace | A Colorful Hilltop Castle In Portugal

Perched majestically atop the Sintra Hills in Portugal, Pena Palace is a captivating architectural marvel that enchants visitors with its fairytale-like presence. A masterpiece of Romanticism, the palace's vividly painted façade showcases a harmonious blend of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Islamic elements, evoking a sense of whimsical wonder.


Originally a monastery, Pena Palace was transformed into a royal residence by King Ferdinand II in the 19th century. Its interior is a treasure trove of opulent staterooms, intricate stuccos, and ornate furnishings, transporting visitors back to a bygone era of grandeur. The palace's terraces offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, from lush forests to the azure coastline, making it a true visual spectacle, one of the best palaces in Sintra.


Pena Palace is not just an architectural marvel but also a testament to the creative spirit of its time, embodying the Romantic ideals of artistic expression and connection with nature. Its awe-inspiring presence and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Portugal's rich cultural heritage.

How To Get To Pena Palace

By Train
By Train

To reach the Sintra train station, simply take the CP - Sintra line. From there, proceed to the bus stop and catch bus number 434, which will take you to Pena Palace. The journey from the station to the palace typically takes around 25-30 minutes.


Read More: Places to Visit Near Pena Palace

By Bus
By Bus

To reach Pena Palace, hop on either bus number 434 or 516, with the nearest stop being Palacio de Pena, just a short walk from the palace itself. Buses depart every 15 minutes and the journey takes under 30 minutes, ensuring convenient access to this remarkable venue.


Checkout: Pena Palace and National Palace of Queluz & Gardens Combo

By Car
By Car

For a car journey to Pena Palace, your route depends on your starting point. Opt for route IC19 from Lisbon, route IC30 from Mafra, or route EN9 (via A5 / Cascais) if coming from Cascais. These options ensure convenient access to the palace from various directions.


Know More: Lisbon to Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra, & Pena Palace Trip

Plan Your Visit to Pena Palace


Skip the Line
Location & Opening Hours
Best Time To Visit
Stay
Facilities
Skip the Line

Buy Tickets Online: Purchase Pena Palace tickets in advance and online to skip the queues and gain immediate access to the palace, saving you time.


Early Morning Arrival: Arrive at Pena Palace in the morning to beat the crowds, ensuring shorter wait times at the entrance and a peaceful atmosphere in the palace grounds.


Visit Midweek: Plan your trip for a weekday during the off-peak season to avoid weekend and high-season crowds, allowing for a more relaxed visit.


Consider Combo Tickets: Explore combo ticket options that include access to other Sintra attractions like the Castle of the Moors and the National Palace of Sintra. These not only offer cost savings but also provide dedicated entry lanes at each site for added convenience.


Read More: Places to Visit Near Pena Palace

Tips to Visit to Pena Palace

Tip to Visit to Pena Palace
  • Purchase online Pena Palace tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Guided tours are available for an additional fee.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the palace grounds are extensive and hilly.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Photography is allowed, but tripods and drones are not permitted inside the palace.
  • Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the palace and its grounds.
  • Check the opening hours and days before planning your visit as they can vary seasonally.
  • Bring a water bottle and snacks as there are limited options for food and drinks inside the palace.
  • Be respectful of the palace's rules and history during your visit.

Suggested Read: Pena Palace Inside

Shopping at Pena Palace

Gather your loved ones and step into the Palace store during your Pena Palace visit. Explore a diverse array of products and publications that celebrate Portuguese culture – from porcelain and tiles to filigree, cork goods, and enriching literature. The Palace store caters to all interests.


Furthermore, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Park store and Lake store. Discover a captivating selection of products inspired by Parques de Sintra, accompanied by informative guides, routes, and outdoor essentials, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Pena Palace Restaurants

Savor a meal with captivating vistas of the park and palace at the Palace restaurant, nestled within the Room of Arches on the upper level of the neo-Indian structure. Alternatively, choose the Garden cafeteria, a serene spot to relax with family and friends. From its terrace, enjoy the tranquil Garden of Queen Amelia unfolding before you.

Book Pena Palace Tickets

Pena Park - Admission Tickets
i4.38 Stars| Rated By 235+ Customers
Pena Park Admission Tickets
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Starts at
110
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98.78
/per adult
Highlights
  • Experience the beautiful blend of 19th-century architecture and lush gardens at the Park and National Palace of Pena, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich history.

  • Explore the royal and picturesque Neo-Islamic and Neo-Gothic architecture located on the top of the Sintra Mountains.

  • Admire the beauty of architectural buildings in Romantic, Renaissance, Manueline, & Moorish styles.

  • Get insights about the ‘Stateroom’, ‘Chapel’ and ‘The Queen’s Terrace’.

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Must Know Before You Go
  • ID proof is mandatory for each visitor at the time of arrival.
  • Kids under 6 years old can get in for free. Adult tickets are applicable for visitors aged 6 and above.
  • Please note that the attraction is not reachable by car. There is a paid transfer service available bringing visitors from the park entrance to the palace. The service runs every 15 minutes.
  • No dogs are allowed in the park, except the guide dogs.
  • Keep your ticket handy during the visit.
  • This activity is wheelchair accessible.
  • Please note that the time slots may be subject to slight variations, and we will allocate a time slot available within a 30-minute window before or after your initial selection.
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Park and Pena Palace in Sintra: General Admission Tickets
i4.38 Stars| Rated By 235+ Customers
Park And Pena Palace In Sintra General Admission Tickets
highlightMobile Voucher
View More Details
Starts at
26.55
Saving 12%
23.35
/per adult
Highlights
  • Experience the beautiful blend of 19th-century architecture and lush gardens at the Park and National Palace of Pena, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich history.

  • Explore the royal and picturesque Neo-Islamic and Neo-Gothic architecture located on the top of the Sintra Mountains.

  • Admire the beauty of architectural buildings in Romantic, Renaissance, Manueline, & Moorish styles.

  • Get insights about the ‘Stateroom’, ‘Chapel’ and ‘The Queen’s Terrace’.

Scroll down to read more
Must Know Before You Go
  • ID proof is mandatory for each visitor at the time of arrival.
  • Kids under 6 years old can get in for free. Adult tickets are applicable for visitors aged 6 and above.
  • Please note that the attraction is not reachable by car. There is a paid transfer service available bringing visitors from the park entrance to the palace. The service runs every 15 minutes.
  • No dogs are allowed in the park, except the guide dogs.
  • Keep your ticket handy during the visit.
  • This activity is wheelchair accessible.
  • Please note that the time slots may be subject to slight variations, and we will allocate a time slot available within a 30-minute window before or after your initial selection.
Scroll down to read more

FAQ's of Pena Palace

How many visitors does Pena Palace see per year?

    Pena Palace, a breathtaking symbol of 19th-century Romanticism, attracts between 1.9 to 3.2 million visitors yearly. However, for safety, only 400 visitors can access its terraces every 30 minutes. This limitation often results in long wait times at the entrance. 

What are Pena Palace opening hours?

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How many entrances does Pena Palace have?

Are there parking facilities available at Pena Palace?

What is the best time to visit Pena Palace?

Is there a dress code to be followed at Pena Palace?

Where is Pena Palace located?

Do I need to book Pena Palace Tickets in advance?

Can I visit Pena Palace with limited mobility or in a wheelchair?

Can I visit Pena Palace without a guided tour?

What are the best places to visit near Pena Palace?

Can I bring food and drinks to Pena Palace?

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