What to see in a day in Sintra with your hire car 

By car, it will be much easier for you to get to know those must-see places that you just have to visit in Lisbon. One of the most popular and frequently visited of these is Sintra. At Record go we want to make it easy for you, making sure that you know about things to see and do, and how to get around Sintra. 

If you arrive in the Portuguese capital by air, by hiring a car at Lisbon airport you will be able to check out all those corners of the city that you have marked in your guidebook in the easiest and most comfortable way. Having a car available for your sole use gives you all the flexibility, security, and comfort you could wish for on your Portuguese getaway with your family or friends. 

And as no doubt you will already have realised, Sintra is one of the Portuguese towns that you simply have to see and explore. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site located 25 kilometres from Lisbon. Getting there by hire car is one of the most popular options. Because it’s one of the most visited towns close to Lisbon, public transport may not offer the same sort of flexibility and comfort in order for you to make the very most of the time you have. 

Sintra is a great choice for a day trip from Lisbon and it’s one of the prettiest places in the whole of Portugal. Read on and find out why. Here you have a suggested route that will guide you around Sintra, taking in all the important sights. 

Must-see places in Sintra

Sintra is a town that is famous for its many palaces, villas, monuments and castles. Getting around all of them will be much easier if you go by car. That way you won’t miss anything along the way. 

Palacio da Pena 

The best way to start to get to know Sintra is without doubt by visiting the Palacio da Pena. In the 19th century it was the residence of the Kings of Portugal, and the palace is located in the highest part of the city.  

The mix of different architectural styles, the well-preserved interior where you will find rooms with the original furniture dating from the period when it was lived in, as well as the opportunity to take a walk in the surrounding parks and gardens, make a visit to this lovely place one of the very best things you can do in Sintra. 

Quinta da Regaleira  

Definitely the most spectacularly beautiful place in Sintra. The Quinta da Regaleira has more than a touch of magic about it; here you will find a variety of landscapes, secret pathways, caves, old stone wells, and spectacular gardens with lush exotic vegetation. The Palácio da Regaleira is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a place that is as photogenic as it is difficult to forget. 

Castelo dos Mouros

The castle was built by the Moors in the 9th century and it’s a place where you can take a walk along the extensive walls and marvel at the spectacular views out over Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Palacio Nacional de Sintra 

Another place that you absolutely must visit in Sintra is this palace. Originally of Moorish origin, it was later rebuilt in the Manueline style in the 15th century. Visitors fall in love with its open spaces, the odd conical-shaped twin chimneys, and its many rooms, such as the Sala dos Archeiros, the Sala Moura, or the Sala dos Cisnes. 

Other things to see and do in Sintra

A visit to Sintra is not only about castles and palaces; a walk through the streets of the old quarter, discovering craft shops and trying the traditional local cuisine are also a must on your trip menu.  

But if what you are really into is hiking and enjoying the natural world, the route through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a chance to get to know the area that is not to be missed. 

As you can see, if you are travelling to Lisbon, a day trip to Sintra is well worth your while. And what better way to visit this spectacular area of Portugal than by car. So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of the car rental deals. Book your hire car in Lisbon airport, and go on a fantastic getaway.