Portugal: The Parks of Sintra

February 21, 2025
Lisbon
0 Comments

Nestled in the rolling hills just outside Lisbon, Sintra, Portugal is a fairy-tale destination brimming with romantic palaces, lush forests, and centuries-old charm. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this enchanting town offers visitors a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the colourful Pena Palace perched atop the hills to the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its hidden tunnels and symbolic gardens, Sintra feels like a journey through time and fantasy.

I decided to visit Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon. To be honest there is so much to see here that to do justice to Sintra you would need two full days. At least I have a good reason to return!

My journey started early in the morning from Rossio Train Station which is the heart of the city. Very convenient.

The first train of the day left the train station in Lisbon at 8:40 am which was a very civilised hour. I was surprised when I boarded the train how few people there were also travelling to Sintra. I had expected it to be a lot busier but then realised most people were probably heading to Sintra as part of a tour group and would be travelling by bus. I was grateful for the lack of fellow travellers on the train!

The train ride to Sintra was not too exciting, for the most part, the journey passed through the suburbs of Lisbon before briefly entering something that might be described as countryside.

Sintra train station is in the heart of the town, where there are some nice, historic buildings to look at. The main attractions of Sintra are some distance from the station, so I set off on foot to begin my tour.

The National Palace of Sintra
After about one-and-a-half kilometres I reached Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra) which is located in the centre of the old town of Sintra. My timing was perfect as the Palace had only just opened when I arrived, so I decided to start with visiting here.

The Palace of Sintra is first referenced by Al-Bakrî, a 10th-century Moorish geographer, along with the close by Moorish Castle. In 1147, following the conquest of Lisbon by Afonso Henriques, the Moors of Sintra surrendered to bring an end to over three centuries of Moorish domination.

The Palace and town of Sintra and the surrounding lands were bestowed upon Saintly Queen Elizabeth in 1287 by King Dinis. While the property remained in the hands of the crown, the queen became the beneficiary taking receipt of all income and tax revenues.

Practically every king and queen of Portugal spent some time in residence at the National Palace of Sintra for varying lengths of time leaving behind their respective marks, influenced by different trends and architectural styles the most prominent of which are Gothic and Manueline. There is also a very heavy emphasis on the Mudejar style – a symbiosis between Christian and Muslim art.

During the 15th century, the presence of the king in the palace became more frequent. Hunting was one of the main attractions bringing the court to Sintra as the region brought together perfect conditions both for hunting larger (wild boar, deer) and smaller (hare, partridge) animals.

Under Manuel I (1469-1521), the Palace received the decorative features that still today make up its distinctive characteristics, especially the Hispano-Moresque tile finishings. He added the imposing Room of the Coat of Arms, with its cupola ostentatiously displaying the coats of arms of Manuel, his children and the seventy-two most noble households in the kingdom.

During the reign of King João III (1502-1557), a new Palace was built by interconnecting the main chambers to the south with the north-eastern wing of the Palace that housed the Room of the Coat of Arms and the chambers of Queen Catherine of Austria (1507-1578).

Following the major earthquake of 1755, which severely impacted the palace complex, the Palace of Sintra underwent reconstruction while retaining the silhouette that it had already displayed ever since the middle of the 16th century and is still present today.

The revolution of 1910 brought an abrupt end to the time of the Palace of Sintra as a royal residence with Queen Maria Pia, the widow of King Luís, the final monarch to live in the Palace and from where she departed into exile. In this same year, the National Palace of Sintra was declared a National Monument. However, it would take until the late 1930s for the Palace to open its doors to the public on a regular and museum-like basis.

Today, the National Palace of Sintra is an integral part of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which was placed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites on 6 December 1995.

Once inside the palace, I was toured through an array of lavishly decorated rooms, each telling a unique story of Portugal’s past. The palace’s azulejo tilework, with intricate geometric and floral patterns, adds a distinct Portuguese touch to every corner.

The first room I visited was the Swan Room (Sala dos Cisnes) which was a grand hall, used for receptions and ceremonies, is named after the beautiful ceiling adorned with paintings of swans in medallions. The swans, depicted against a golden background, symbolise the House of Avis and the wedding of King João I’s son to Philippa of Lancaster.

The bird theme carried on to the next room, the Magpie Room (Sala das Pegas) which gets is name from the 136 magpies painted on its ceiling, each holding a rose and a banner that reads “Por Bem” (For Good). This design is said to reference a story involving King João I and his courtiers.

One of the most impressive rooms in the National Palace is the Coat of Arms Room (Sala dos Brasões), which features a massive domed ceiling adorned with 72 coats of arms representing the noble families of Portugal. The walls are covered in exquisite azulejo tilework depicting hunting scenes.

Most of the great palaces of Europe have their dedicated chapel for use by the Royal Family and the National Palace of Sintra. The palace chapel is a beautiful space with a wooden ceiling painted with Moorish-inspired geometric patterns. The walls are decorated with stunning tilework, combining Christian and Islamic artistic influences.

The last two public rooms of my tour were the Arab and Galleon rooms.

Anteroom of the Council Chamber (known as the Arab Room) was a waiting room outside the judges’ or councillors’ meeting chamber. It can be accessed directly from the Central Patio via a spiral staircase, and it
communicates with the royal chambers via the central door. It also provides access to the chapel, through the north door.

The name Arab Room (Sala Árabe) reflects the Moorish influence on Portuguese architecture, with intricate tilework, horseshoe arches, and an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of Islamic palaces. The tiles and fountain date from the reign of King Manuel I (1495-1521), but during the 19th century were believed to be from the Muslim period.

Maritime exploration played an important role in the expansion of Portugal’s wealth and influence and the Galleon Room (Sala das Galés) celebrates this part of the country’s seafaring history. The room’s ceiling decoration depicts sailing ships and maritime-themed artwork.

The private quarters at the National Palace of Sintra offer a glimpse into the intimate lives of Portuguese royalty, showcasing a blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline architectural influences. These rooms, once the personal retreats of kings and queens, are adorned with intricate azulejo tiles, coffered wooden ceilings, and ornate furnishings that reflect centuries of regal tastes. The chambers, including the royal bedrooms and private chapels, are designed for both comfort and grandeur, featuring delicate stucco work and decorative motifs symbolizing power and devotion. Unlike the palace’s grand halls, these secluded spaces provide a more personal perspective on the daily lives of the monarchy, preserving an atmosphere of refinement and historical depth.

The Gold Chamber was the third room in the Palace of King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster and a place where the king or queen could receive more distinguished guests. It’s known that during the 15th and 16th centuries, it was covered in gold (hence the name), but there’s no longer any trace of this ostensible coating.

The Wardrobe room is better known as the Mermaid Room, due to the marine decoration that makes up the ceiling. Located at the back of the Gold Chamber, it was accessed almost exclusively by the servants of the Portuguese Royal Family.

At the beginning of the 15th century, the clothes and other personal belongings of King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster (such as jewelry, shoes, silverware, etc.) were not kept in closets or wardrobes, but rather in large wooden chests.

One of my favourite rooms was the Queen Maria Pia’s Toilet Room and Dressing Room. It is a stunning example of 19th-century royal elegance and personal refinement. Designed for Maria Pia of Savoy, the wife of King Luís I of Portugal, these rooms reflect the taste and luxury of the Portuguese monarchy during the late 1800s. The Toilet Room is particularly remarkable for its walls lined with blue and white azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles), creating an atmosphere of serenity and sophistication. The Dressing Room, meanwhile, showcases ornate wooden furniture, delicate fabrics, and intricate decorative details,

I always enjoy visiting the kitchens of palaces and stately homes, and the kitchen of the National Palace did not disappoint! It is one of the most distinctive features of the palace. The kitchen is located beneath the two enormous chimneys that define Sintra’s skyline. These chimneys were designed to efficiently vent the smoke from the large ovens, which were used to prepare grand royal banquets.

Before leaving the National Palace, I stepped outside to have a quick look around the gardens. The palace gardens offer a serene escape with lush greenery and panoramic views of the surrounding Sintra Mountains.

The Moorish Castle
After leaving the National Palace, I made my way through the narrow, cobbled streets of Sintra, which are lined with cafes, restaurants and boutique shops all designed to tempt passing tourists. Today, I was on a mission to see as much as possible, so I sped past all of these to reach the outskirts of the town.

The next places I planned to visit were up on the hills above the town – so how to get there? Transport was available in the form of buses, taxis or golf carts – but I opted to walk the trails to the top. This was going to be good training for our upcoming adventure on the Camino Portuguese. The trails were well marked and by and large in the shade, which made it a very pleasant walk. Also, along the way, there were things to stop and look at – both man-made and natural.

Once I reached the top of the hill, I went straight to the visitor’s centre to buy tickets for the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace.

Then I set out for the Moorish Castle.

From the visitor centre, it was only a five-minute walk to the Moorish Castle.

With a commanding view of the Atlantic coastline, the floodplain and the Sintra Hills, the Moorish Castle, founded under Islamic rule, was strategic for defending both the surrounding territory and the maritime access routes to the city of Lisbon. The artefacts found on site showed how people lived within the walls and surrounds in an area now named the Islamic Quarter.

The Moors lived here through to 1147 when Sintra was handed over to Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal. With the settlement of a Christian population in the Moorish Castle, the Islamic Quarter began to disappear and give way to a Medieval town with its occupation ongoing through to the 15th century.

In the 19th century, King Ferdinand II undertook restoration work on the castle, the result of which is what we see today.

The castle has been undergoing archaeological excavation ever since 1976 and has returned countless discoveries as regards the history of this site and its many inhabitants.

As soon as I entered via the castle’s main gate, I began to explore the ruins of the buildings within the castle’s walls. There was not much to see but looking around and trying to imagine what this place would have looked like in the 15th century was interesting. Undoubtedly the highlight of coming to the castle is to walk its walls, which are still in great condition. There is a chemin de ronde (or patrol walk) which sits below the castle’s battlements that almost goes around the complete wall, and from here you get amazing views of the flood plain, the village of Sintra and the towns beyond. Also, from one side of the castle walls, you get a great view of the Pena Palace on the hills above. I loved the experience of walking the chemin de ronde, the only concern I had was the narrowness and unevenness of the stone path, and the fact there were no railings to stop you from falling off and tumbling down many metres. If I had young children with me, I would have been having conniptions.

Pena Palace
After exploring the Moorish Castle, I set off to the Pena Palace which was about one-and-a-half kilometres away.

As soon as I reached the entrance to the palace grounds it was clear to see that this is a very popular destination for tourists – the car park was full of cars and coaches. Running the gauntlet of the other visitors, I began to meander along the trails that run through the forest below the palace. Within the 85 hectares of the park there a many trees and plants that were brought here from around the world, making it the most important arboretum in Portugal. Also, within the park, there are follies and buildings from which there are amazing views across the landscape. These highlights have interesting names such as the High Cross, the Temple of Columns, St. Catherine’s Heights, the Grotto of the Monk, the Little Birds Fountain, the Queen’s Fern Valley and the Valley of the Lakes. Sadly, I did not have time to visit these today.

About the history of the Pena Palace.

In the 12th century, there was a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena close to where the modern-day palace stands. At this same location, King Manuel I ordered the construction of a Monastery, the Royal Monastery of Our Lady of Pena, which he subsequently handed over to the Hieronymite Order.

The earthquake which struck Lisbon in 1755 left the monastery practically entirely in ruins. Despite the state of disrepair, the Monastery remained active, and it would only be almost a century later, in 1834, following the abolition of religious orders in Portugal, that it was abandoned.

Ferdinand II was one of the most cultured men of 19th century Portugal. Throughout his life, he maintained a deep connection with the arts whether as an artist, collector or sponsor and became known nationally as the King Artist. Shortly after he arrived in Portugal, he acquired the Monastery of Saint Jerome, then in ruins, as well as all the lands surrounding the property. The original plan was to restore the building as the summer residence for the royal family, but he finally opted to construct a new palace.

The Pena Palace, located in Sintra, Portugal, is a striking example of Romanticist architecture, blending Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance styles. Built in the 19th century under the direction of King Ferdinand II, the palace sits atop a lush, forested hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Its whimsical design features colourful façades, ornate battlements, fairy-tale towers, and intricate tilework, creating an almost dreamlike appearance. The influence of Moorish and medieval elements is evident in its horseshoe arches and elaborate carvings, while the interior showcases lavish stuccoes, vaulted ceilings, and azulejo tile panels. As one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks, Pena Palace epitomizes the grandeur and eclecticism of Romantic-era architecture, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination.

Following the death of Queen Maria II in 1853, Ferdinand would later marry Elise Hensler, an opera singer and the Countess of Edla. Together, they built the Chalet of the Countess of Edla located in the Park of Pena.

Queen Amelie was in the Palace of Pena when taken by surprise by news of the Declaration of the Republic on 5th October 1910, and where she departed from for Mafra to meet up with mother-in-law, Maria Pia, and her son, Manuel, before embarking on the royal yacht D. Amélia in Ericeira and setting sail for Gibraltar.

For me, the outside of the palace was the most eye-catching feature, so I spent about 30 minutes looking around and taking pictures, waiting for my time slot to go in.

When I entered the palace I was curious as to whether I would be as impressed with the interior as I had been with the exterior. I was not disappointed.

The main rooms I visited during my tour are detailed below.

Manueline Cloister
The access of visitors to the interiors of the Palace of Pena runs along the route reserved for the Royal Family up until 1910, and that also corresponds to the entranceway of the monks into the monastery in the period prior to 1834. Ferdinand II redesigned this entrance to establish a double staircase with parallel flights that led to a small Manueline cloister.

The construction of this cloister took place in 1511 and clearly reflects the small scale of the religious community that was living there. The small size of the convent spaces also contributed to the intimacy of the residence of Ferdinand II, which furthermore fitted in with the concepts of privacy and comfort prevailing in the 19th century.

This features galleries that open up onto a central, square patio through round arches on the lower floor and segmental arches on the upper floor. The walls enclosing the patio are finished in various types of Hispano-Mudéjar tiles applying the cuerda seca technique (grooved so as to separate the surfaces which are filled with different colours) with geometric motifs.

Dining Room and Pantry
Ferdinand II adapted the former refectory of the convent and its 16th-century Manueline vaulted ribbed ceiling into the private royal family Dining Room.

The table is set, exhibiting a set of plates from a porcelain dinner service that has been in the palace ever since the earliest days of the palace.

In the pantry cupboard, there are two of the (19th century) dinner services belonging to Ferdinand II, each bearing the king’s monogram.

Chamber of King Carlos
The Chamber of King Carlos at Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, is a strikingly intimate and historically significant room that reflects the refined taste of King Carlos I. Adorned with elegant furnishings, intricate wood paneling, and richly decorated textiles, the chamber showcases the king’s personal style and his fondness for artistic expression. The room exudes a sense of warmth and sophistication, with its carefully selected furniture, paintings, and personal artifacts offering a glimpse into the private life of the monarch.

The bedroom of King Ferdinand II
The Bedroom of Ferdinand II is a richly decorated and historically significant space that reflects the eclectic tastes of the 19th-century Romantic monarch. The room is adorned with intricate wood carvings, elaborate wallpaper, and neo-Gothic influences, showcasing Ferdinand II’s fascination with various artistic styles. The furniture, which includes a grand bed with exquisite detailing, complements the room’s regal ambience. Notably, the bedroom also features a small adjoining chamber, where the king spent his final moments in 1885.

The Queen’s Office
The Queen’s Office at Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, is a beautifully preserved room that reflects the refined tastes of Queen Amélie, the last queen of Portugal. Located within the Romanticist palace, this intimate space is adorned with delicate furniture, intricate woodwork, and exquisite decorative details that showcase the elegance of the 19th century. The room served as her private study, where she would write letters, read, and engage in personal reflections. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Sintra Mountains and lush forests.

The Sitting Room
The Sitting Room at the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, is a striking example of 19th-century Romantic design, reflecting the eclectic tastes of King Ferdinand II. Adorned with intricate stucco ceilings, richly upholstered furniture, and gilded decorative elements, the room exudes an air of opulence and comfort. Large windows offer breathtaking views of the lush Sintra Mountains, while elegant chandeliers cast a warm glow over the detailed woodwork and patterned tiles.

The Green Room
The Green Room is a strikingly elegant space that exemplifies the palace’s Romantic-era opulence. Adorned with intricate stucco detailing and richly decorated in shades of green, the room reflects the 19th-century fascination with nature and exoticism. It served as a reception room for the Portuguese royal family, where distinguished guests were entertained in an atmosphere of grandeur. The elaborate ceiling, gilded accents, and ornate furnishings contribute to the room’s regal charm, while the large windows offer glimpses of the lush Sintra hills, reinforcing the harmonious blend of architecture and landscape that defines Pena Palace.

The Great Hall
The Great Hall at Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, is a grand and opulent space that reflects the palace’s eclectic and romantic architectural style. This hall, often regarded as one of the most impressive rooms in the palace, features elaborate stucco ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and richly decorated walls adorned with intricate patterns and motifs. The furnishings and décor are influenced by a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles, showcasing the 19th-century fascination with revivalist aesthetics. Large arched windows flood the hall with natural light, offering stunning views of the surrounding Sintra mountains and lush forests. Historically, the Great Hall served as a gathering place for Portuguese royalty and nobility, where lavish banquets and courtly events took place

The Kitchen
The kitchen at Pena Palace in Sintra offers a fascinating glimpse into the culinary operations of Portugal’s 19th-century royal household. Located in a separate wing of the palace, it features an expansive layout with high vaulted ceilings, large chimneys, and a well-preserved collection of copper pots, utensils, and traditional cooking equipment. The kitchen was designed to accommodate the elaborate banquets of King Ferdinand II, with spacious workstations and advanced (for the time) facilities, including massive stoves and ovens. Visitors can still see the carefully arranged cookware, reflecting the grandeur and efficiency of a royal kitchen that once served lavish meals to the aristocracy.

The Chapel
The chapel at the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, is a beautifully preserved relic of the original Hieronymite monastery that once stood on the site before the palace was built in the 19th century. Dedicated to Our Lady of Pena, the chapel features a stunning 16th-century alabaster altarpiece by renowned sculptor Nicolau Chanterene, showcasing intricate Manueline-style carvings. The interior is adorned with gothic ribbed vaults, azulejo tiles, and religious artwork that reflect its monastic origins. Despite the Romantic-era renovations introduced by King Ferdinand II, the chapel retains a serene and historic ambiance, standing in contrast to the palace’s vibrant and eclectic architectural styles.

Other places to visit in Sintra
You definitely need more than one day in Sintra to visit all the sights. Despite having a packed day I did not get to see some of the things I would have liked to. Here are a couple of things I will definitely check out on my next visit here.

Quinta da Regaleira
A mystical estate with underground tunnels, gardens, and the famous Initiation Well.

Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate)
A hidden gem with exotic gardens and intricate architecture.

Planning your visit to Sintra

Getting to Sintra, Portugal depends on where you’re coming from. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to reach Sintra:

From Lisbon:

Sintra is about 25 km (15 miles) west of Lisbon, and there are several ways to get there:

1. By Train (Best Option)

Take the Sintra Line (Linha de Sintra) from Lisbon’s Rossio Station or Oriente Station.
The journey takes 40-45 minutes.
Trains run every 15-30 minutes.
A one-way ticket costs about €2.30 (or included in the Lisboa Card).

✅ Pros: Cheap, convenient, no traffic. ❌ Cons: Can be crowded during peak tourist hours.

2. By Car

Drive via the A37 (IC19) highway, which takes about 30 minutes (without traffic).
Parking in Sintra can be very difficult, especially near the historic center.
Many streets are narrow and restricted to residents.

✅ Pros: More flexibility. ❌ Cons: Parking is a nightmare, and some areas are pedestrian-only.

3. By Bus

Take Bus 35 (Scotturb) from Marquês de Pombal in Lisbon.
Takes about 1 hour.
Less frequent than the train.

✅ Pros: An alternative if the train isn’t an option. ❌ Cons: Slower and less convenient than the train.

4. By Taxi or Uber/Bolt

A taxi/Uber from Lisbon to Sintra costs €20-€35.
Takes 30-40 minutes.

✅ Pros: Comfortable, door-to-door service. ❌ Cons: More expensive than public transport.

From Other Cities in Portugal:

If you’re coming from Porto, Coimbra, or the Algarve, you’ll first need to travel to Lisbon, then take the train from Rossio or Oriente Station.

Once in Sintra:

Sintra is best explored on foot and by bus/tuk-tuk.
Use Bus 434 to visit Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
Walking between major sights can be steep and tiring.

Planning your time in Sintra:

purchase tickets in advance. All entrances are timed.
Book an early entrance. This is a very popular attraction and you’ll want to enter in the morning to avoid a long wait
You can park at the bottom of the castle. We were there early, it got much more crowded later so if you are driving, again, go early
The palace entrance is about a 30-minute walk from the bottom of the grounds. They offer a bus ride up for a nominal fee. You can purchase those tickets in advance as well

Check out the opening times and ticket costs for each of the palaces here

Getting around Lisbon

Getting around Lisbon is easy, thanks to its well-connected public transport system, walkable streets, and affordable rideshares. Here are the best ways to navigate the city:

Public Transport

Metro – The fastest way to travel long distances. Four color-coded lines connect major areas, including the airport.
Trams (Eléctricos) – The iconic yellow Tram 28 is a must-ride for tourists, but trams also serve practical routes.
Buses & Trolleys – Extensive coverage, great for reaching places not served by the metro.
Trains (Comboios) – Take the train from Cais do Sodré to Cascais or from Rossio to Sintra.
Ferries – Cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas or Almada for great views of Lisbon.

Tickets & Passes

Viva Viagem card (€0.50) – Rechargeable and valid on all public transport.
Zapping fare – A pay-as-you-go system that offers discounted fares.
24-hour ticket (€6.80) – Unlimited rides on metro, buses, and trams.

Other Transport Options

Walking – Many areas like Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto are best explored on foot.
Taxis & Ubers – Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow are cheaper than traditional taxis.
E-scooters & Bikes – Available throughout the city via apps like Lime, Bird, and Gira.
Tuk-tuks – A fun but pricey way to tour Lisbon’s hilly streets.

The Lisboa Card

The Lisboa Card is Lisbon’s official tourist pass, designed to help visitors save time and money while exploring the city. It offers free or discounted access to numerous attractions, unlimited use of public transportation, and additional perks.

Key Benefits:

Free Admission: Access up to 51 museums and monuments, including notable sites like the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Santa Justa Elevator.
Unlimited Public Transportation: Enjoy unlimited travel on Lisbon’s metro, buses, trams, and funiculars. The card also covers train journeys to nearby destinations such as Sintra and Cascais.
Additional Discounts: Benefit from discounts ranging between 10% to 50% on various tours, shopping, and nightlife activity

Pricing (as of 2025):

Adults:
- 24-hour card: €27
- 48-hour card: €44
- 72-hour card: €54
Children (ages 4-15):
- 24-hour card: €18
- 48-hour card: €24.50
- 72-hour card: €30.50

The card becomes active upon its first use and remains valid for the duration purchased (24, 48, or 72 consecutive hours).

Where to Purchase and Collect:

You can purchase the Lisboa Card online through the official website. After purchasing, you’ll receive a voucher via email, which can be exchanged for the physical card at various pick-up locations across Lisbon, including:

Ask Me Lisboa | Airport: Located at the arrivals area of Lisbon Airport.
Ask Me Lisboa | Terreiro do Paço: Situated at Praça do Comércio.
Codfish History Center: Found at Terreiro do Paço – Torreão Nascente.
Ask Me Lisboa | Centro Tejo: Also located at Terreiro do Paço.
Ask Me Lisboa | Cais do Sodré: Located at Praça do Duque de Terceira, Cais do Sodré.

Operating hours for these locations vary, so it’s advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

The Lisboa Card is an excellent option for travellers aiming to maximize their experience in Lisbon, offering both convenience and savings.

Eating out for vegans in Lisbon

My Mother’s Daughters My Mother’s Daughters is a nature-based café located at Largo de São Sebastião da Pedreira 49 in Lisbon, Portugal. Founded by a mother and her three daughters, the café emphasizes plant-based, organic, and seasonal cuisine. Their menu features a variety of healthy meals and drinks made from wholefood ingredients, including options like green smoothies, benedict no egg, and avocado.
Veganeats Caffe is a charming vegan bakery and coffee shop located at Rua Cavaleiro de Oliveira 42 in the Arroios neighbourhood of Lisbon. They offer a daily menu that includes a hot dish, soup, savoury items, and various cakes. The café also specialises in custom cake orders. Their operating hours are Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Please note that they are closed on Sundays.
The 26 Vegan Food Project is a renowned vegan restaurant located in Lisbon, Portugal. Situated at Rua da Horta Seca, 5, 1200-213 Lisbon, the restaurant offers a diverse menu that includes vegan versions of traditional Portuguese dishes, such as “Francesinha” and “Bifana,” as well as international options like burgers and salads. They also provide a variety of desserts, including vegan cheesecake and chocolate mousse.
The establishment operates daily with lunch hours from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM and dinner service from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.
O Gambuzino is a fully vegan restaurant and bar located at Rua dos Anjos 5A, Intendente, Lisbon, Portugal, 1150-032. They specialize in conscious food from around the world, using locally sourced and fresh ingredients. The restaurant ferments its own kimchi, kombucha, and tempeh, and all pickles, preserves, dips, and marinades are house-made. They support the worldwide slow-food movement.
The restaurant is open daily from 17:00 to 00:00, with the kitchen operating between 18:30 and 22:00. Happy hours are from 17:00 to 18:00 and 22:30 to 23:30.
Reservations are highly recommended, and you can make one by calling +351 218 208 406 or emailing hello@ogambuzino.com.
For more information, including their menu and updates, you can visit their official website at https://www.ogambuzino.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook

The best time to visit Lisbon

Seasonal Overview:

Winter (December – February)

Temperatures: 8–16°C (46–61°F)
Rainfall: Frequent but moderate
Conditions: Winters are mild compared to much of Europe, though occasional Atlantic storms can bring strong winds and heavy rain. Frost and snow are extremely rare.

Spring (March – May)

Temperatures: 12–22°C (54–72°F)
Rainfall: Decreases progressively
Conditions: Spring sees pleasant temperatures and increasing sunshine hours, making it an ideal time to visit.

Summer (June – September)

Temperatures: 18–30°C (64–86°F), occasionally exceeding 35°C (95°F)
Rainfall: Minimal
Conditions: Summers are hot and dry, though the Atlantic breeze provides some relief. Heatwaves can occasionally push temperatures higher, particularly inland.

Autumn (October – November)

Temperatures: 14–24°C (57–75°F)
Rainfall: Gradually increases
Conditions: The transition from summer to winter is marked by mild temperatures and increasing chances of rainfall, though early autumn often remains sunny.

Additional Climate Features:

Sunshine: Lisbon is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, receiving over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually.
Winds: The city often experiences the “Nortada” (north wind), particularly in summer, which helps to moderate high temperatures.
Humidity: Generally moderate, but can feel higher in winter due to moisture from the Atlantic.
Extreme Weather: Heatwaves occur occasionally in summer, and strong storms can bring heavy rain and wind in winter, though these are not frequent.

Overall, Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate makes it an attractive destination year-round, with warm summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine.

Where to stay in Lisbon

1. Mid Range: Ikonik Lisboa

Ikonik Lisboa is a modern 3-star hotel situated in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações district, known for its contemporary architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The hotel offers 231 spacious and comfortable rooms, each featuring an elegant design inspired by the city of Lisbon. Guests can choose between double or twin rooms, some of which provide city or river views.

The hotel’s location is particularly convenient, being within walking distance of key attractions such as the Lisbon Oceanarium, Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre, and the Altice Arena. Additionally, the Gare do Oriente train and metro station is nearby, offering easy access to other parts of the city.

2. Luxury – EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel

The EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel is a 5-star luxury establishment situated in the heart of Lisbon, near the renowned Marquês de Pombal Square and Avenida da Liberdade. This prime location offers guests convenient access to the city’s cultural landmarks, upscale shopping districts, and beautiful parks.

Accommodations: The hotel boasts 379 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each crafted to provide a modern luxury experience. Amenities include king-size or twin beds, luxury Aromatherapy Associates bathroom products, LCD TVs, USB sockets, minibars, and complimentary welcome amenities such as water and espresso coffee facilities.

3. Budget – Patria Hotel

Patria Hotel is a centrally located accommodation in Lisbon, situated at Avenida Duque de Ávila 42, near Saldanha Square. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and private bathrooms with hairdryers. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. A continental breakfast buffet is available each morning. The hotel’s proximity to the Saldanha Metro station, just a minute’s walk away, provides convenient access to Lisbon’s historic center, including areas like Chiado, Rossio, and Bairro Alto, reachable within a 10-minute metro ride.