With a history rooted like much of Portugal and Spain in Moorish occupation for a number of centuries, Sintra is not only a historic place but a beautiful one, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and gardens. It was a residence of the Portuguese royal family in the 18th century, and famous English poet Lord Byron even found himself writing about the beauty of Sintra, calling it a “glorious Eden.”
While it is an easy day trip from Lisbon, Sintra deserves more than just a few hours to properly soak up its wonderful landscapes and colorful, stately homes and castles. You can hike up mountains, indulge in the cuisine, or simply stroll around the charming streets. There are many places to stay, from intimate boutique hotels to all-out resorts, meaning you’ll be able to find something to suit you.
8. Vila Gale Sintra
Located in Várzea de Sintra, a short distance from Sintra town center, this 5-star hotel has been designed with comfort in mind – and with a large helping of style, too. The rooms are simple but stylish and boast a natural color palette, along with views of the surrounding mountains and natural scenery.
This family-friendly hotel has an adult’s and a children’s outdoor swimming pool, plus a library, a kid’s club, and even a fairground carousel. Grown-ups can indulge in spa treatments and cocktails at the bar. The Sintra Natural History Museum, as well as Sintra train station, are both just over two miles away.
7. Lawrences Hotel
This elegant, old-fashioned, and historic hotel oozes old world charm. Opened in 1764, Lawrences Hotel claims to be the oldest hotel in operation on the whole of the Iberian Peninsula.
The interiors definitely reflect the heritage of the building, with think vaulted ceilings, hardwood flooring, exposed stone walls. Guests can enjoy tucking into a spot of delicious local cuisine in the onsite restaurant, or maybe sipping on some fine wines at the late-night bar.
This centuries-old hotel also boasts a convenient location, with Sintra train station a five-minute drive away. In terms of interesting sights nearby, the medieval Castello dos Mouros is also within easy walking distance.
6. Chalet Saudade
Dating back to the 19th century, Chalet Saudade is yet another stunning heritage hotel in Sintra set in a beautiful historic building. With its ornate blue facade, the hotel has been completely renovated inside and now boasts modern interiors, combined with the traditional, original features of the building.
The rooms are elegant and understated, with frescos and views from large windows that look out over the charming gardens – complete with fountains and ponds. Some rooms include a small kitchen. Breakfast is served each morning in a nearby coffeehouse; also nearby is Sintra train station. The colorful and historical Pena National Palace is three miles from here.
5. Pestana Sintra Golf Resort
With a beautiful pink color scheme outside, Pestana Sintra Golf Resort is themed on Sintra’s Moorish heritage, with archways, geometrically-shaped fountains, and other design touches throughout. This large hotel is set inside an 18-hole golf course (great for golf fans) just under two miles from central Sintra.
The restaurant at the hotel serves up Portuguese dishes, while the bar offers cocktails and light bites. There are two swimming pools to take a dip in, as well as a spa for maximum indulgence and relaxation. Rooms are decorated with warm, earthy tones, and feature large, comfortable beds, hardwood floors, and plenty of space.
4. Sintra Boutique Hotel
The Sintra Boutique Hotel is situated in the heart of Sintra. That means being close to sights like the imposing Sintra National Palace and the Natural History Museum. The train station is also nearby for extra convenience.
Rooms at this hotel feature golden hues and patterned carpets with a vintage touch, a mix of retro and modern for a decidedly boutique stay. There is a high-end restaurant onsite serving up contemporary cuisine, as well as a guest lounge and a sun-drenched courtyard to relax in.
The staff here can arrange tours around town, or for outdoorsy guests, you can hike to Pena National Palace with a guide.
3. Penha Longa Resort
An elegant, high-end resort, Penha Longa Resort is a 5-star offering that has a lot to brag about. It features a 27-hole golf course, a spacious spa center, and even a Michelin star restaurant; however, there is a total of eight restaurants onsite.
There is direct access to the surrounding parkland, which means hiking opportunities are just on the doorstep, making it perfect for nature lovers – or maybe just a feeling of seclusion! The rooms are sophisticated, with chocolate tones reflecting the natural parkland all around. Guests can take time out on the private terraces or balconies, included with each room.
2. Sintra Bliss Hotel
Set inside an old house, Sintra Bliss Hotel is all about its quirky boutique style. There is a mix of antique and modern furnishings, exposed brick archways, funky pink carpets, and pop art throughout this century-old building.
The rooms are equally boutique, with white furnishings, high ceilings, geometric patterned carpets, and French doors that open onto small balconies. There is a breakfast offered each morning; in the summer months, this is served in the chilled out garden area.
Set in central Sintra, there are many restaurants and bars to choose from just on the doorstep of this hotel. Nearby sights include Sintra National Palace, amongst other things.
1. Tivoli Sintra
Tivoli Sintra is a tranquil hotel with calming rooms boasting a simple white color scheme, comfortable beds, and large windows with views of the town and mountains. It is located in the historic center of Sintra, with interesting attractions like the Castello dos Mouros and the beautiful Quinta da Regaleira within easy walking distance.
Staying at this hotel means dining in the onsite Monserrate Restaurant and soaking up the splendid views of Sintra’s rooftops from the restaurant terrace. There are equally panoramic views from the intimate bar at Tivoli Sintra – great for late-night drinks and snacks. The hotel can arrange tours around town or the surrounding area.
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