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How to Go to Quinta da Regaleira: Complete Transport Guide 2024-2025
- Pedro Ferreira
- Jul 23, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 4
Nestled in the heart of Sintra, Portugal, Quinta da Regaleira is a mesmerizing estate that captures the essence of romanticism, mystery, and architectural grandeur. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic estate was designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini and completed in 1910. The property spans four hectares and features a striking palace, a chapel, and an enchanting park filled with grottoes, lakes, fountains, and underground tunnels. The most iconic structure within the estate is the Initiation Well, an enigmatic underground tower often linked to secret Masonic rituals. Quinta da Regaleira is a testament to eclectic architectural styles and the esoteric symbolism that permeates its structures, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Sintra. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get there and what to expect:
By Train and Bus:
From Lisbon:
Train: Take the Sintra Line train from Lisbon’s Rossio, Oriente, or Entrecampos stations. The train ride is about 40 minutes and offers scenic views of the Portuguese countryside.
Bus: Once you arrive at Sintra station, transfer to the Scotturb bus 434. This bus departs every 15 minutes and stops at Estrada Pena N16, which is approximately 1.1 km from Quinta da Regaleira. The walk from the bus stop to the estate takes about 13 minutes, providing an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Sintra.
By Car:
From Sintra:
Driving Directions: Remember when you reach Sintra, you cannot drive to Quinta da Regaleira. Driving is only allowed for locals in Sintra's city center. Therefore, you need to park your car at the parking and choose another means to get there.
Parking: Since Quinta da Regaleira doesn’t have on-site parking, you’ll need to use nearby options:
Estacionamento: Located 1.1 km away.
Quinta dos Lobos: Just 450 meters away.
Sintra Parking: Free parking area about 2.2 km away.
Parque de Estacionamento P1 Norte: Another option 2.8 km away, offering a good chance to explore Sintra as you walk to the estate.
By Taxi:
From Sintra:
Taxi Service: Taxis (Bolt app) are a convenient and fast way to reach Quinta da Regaleira. The ride from the Sintra city center to the estate takes about 4 minutes and costs between $7 to $10. This is a good option if you’re short on time or prefer direct travel.
By Foot:
From Sintra:
Walking Route: For those who enjoy walking, Quinta da Regaleira is within a comfortable distance from Sintra’s town center. The walk is about 25 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 2 km. This route allows you to immerse yourself in Sintra’s picturesque streets and historic ambiance.
Accommodation Options
1. Tivoli Palácio de Seteais
Once an 18th-century retreat for Dutch consuls and Portuguese nobility, Tivoli Palácio de Seteais is Sintra’s crown jewel—a 5-star palace hotel dripping in regal splendor. Imagine waking up in a grand double room or a suite with frescoed ceilings, sipping coffee on a terrace framed by Pena Palace views. Prices hover around $300–$400 per night, and special features include a serene spa, an outdoor pool nestled in manicured gardens, and bathtubs fit for royalty. It’s a 10-minute walk to Quinta da Regaleira—book now on Trip.com to live like nobility!
2. Penha Longa Resort
Tucked into the rolling hills of the Sintra-Cascais Nature Reserve, Penha Longa Resort began as a 14th-century monastery before evolving into a luxurious 5-star estate. Today, it offers plush doubles and suites with private balconies overlooking golf courses and pools, averaging $250–$350 per night. With two Michelin-starred restaurants, a sprawling spa, and an infinity pool, it’s a haven 4 km from Sintra’s center—perfect for a post-hiking soak. Secure your spot on Trip.com for a slice of paradise.
3. Sintra Boutique Hotel
Steps from the National Palace in Sintra’s historic heart, this modern boutique gem opened in 2012 with a chic nod to the town’s heritage. Its airy doubles and themed suites—some with clawfoot tubs and palace views—range from $140–$200 per night. The on-site restaurant dazzles with local flavors, and its prime location means you’re 30 minutes from Moorish Castle treks or cozy café evenings. Don’t wait—check availability on Trip.com for an unbeatable stay.
4. Lawrence’s Hotel
Claiming the title of the Iberian Peninsula’s oldest hotel since 1764, Lawrence’s Hosted famous guests like Lord Byron, its country-style doubles and suites exude vintage charm with bathtubs and antique furnishings, costing $150–$220 per night. A library and elegant restaurant with French windows add to the allure, while its spot near Quinta da Regaleira (a 5-minute walk) makes it a history lover’s dream. Book via Trip.com to step back in time.
5. Vila Galé Sintra
Built in 2018 as a wellness-focused retreat just north of Sintra’s center, Vila Galé Sintra offers a modern escape with doubles and family suites averaging $120–$180 per night. The standout? A panoramic indoor pool, sauna, and Turkish bath in its Satsanga Spa—plus an outdoor pool for sunny days. Snag a deal on trip.com and relax in style.
6. Sintra Marmòris Palace
This 19th-century manor, revamped in 2017, sits a 7-minute walk from Sintra’s historic center and oozes romance with its palatial vibe. Luxurious doubles and suites—some with marble bathtubs—cost $180–$260 per night, while a heated outdoor pool with Moorish Castle views steals the show.
Additional Tips:
Opening Hours:
April to September: Open from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
October to March: Open from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Last Entry: The last entry is one hour before closing time.
Ticket Information:
Prices: Adult tickets cost €15, while youths and seniors can enter for €5. There are special rates for families and free entry for children under 5, seniors over 80, handicapped visitors, and local residents.
Booking: It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues and ensure availability.
Exploring Quinta da Regaleira:
Regaleira Palace: The palace features five floors with richly decorated interiors inspired by Manueline, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Highlights include the Porch, Hunting Room, King’s Room, and the octagonal turret.
Park and Gardens: The expansive park is a maze of grottoes, towers, wells, fountains, and lakes. The Initiation Well, a spiraling underground tower, is particularly famous and believed to have been used for Masonic rituals.
Underground Tunnels: These tunnels connect various parts of the estate, adding an element of mystery and adventure to your visit. Key points include the Lake of the Waterfall and the Portal of the Guardians.
Visiting Quinta da Regaleira offers a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination in Sintra. Whether you travel by train, bus, car, taxi, or on foot, the journey itself can be a delightful part of the experience.