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Nestled in the lush hills of Portugal, Sintra is a town brimming with fairy-tale palaces, mystical gardens, and ancient castles. With its UNESCO World Heritage status and proximity to Lisbon, it’s no wonder Sintra is a must-visit for travelers. However, with so many enchanting sites to see, planning your visit can be overwhelming. Fear not! This guide will show you how to visit multiple Sintra palaces by bus, providing you with a perfect order of visiting to maximize your time and experience.
Getting to Sintra
First things first, you’ll need to get to Sintra. The most convenient way is by taking the train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Sintra’s train station, you’re ready to embark on your palace-hopping adventure.
The Bus Routes
Sintra's public transportation system makes it easy to explore its many palaces. The main bus lines you'll use are the 434 and 435 loops, which connect the town’s most popular attractions.
Bus 434
The 434 bus, operated by Scotturb, is specifically designed for tourists. It connects Sintra train station with the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace, running every 15 minutes during peak times and it drives back to Sintra National Palace and finally to Sintra train station. A round-trip ticket costs €15, and the bus stops directly at the gate of the Moorish Castle. From the castle, you can walk to Pena Palace, which is about a 10-minute uphill walk.
Bus 435
This bus follows a different route and does not go to the Moorish Castle. It connects the Sintra train station with the National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Seteais Palace Tivoli, and Monserrate Palace. This bus is useful for visiting other attractions in Sintra but not for reaching the Moorish Castle.
Order of Visiting
To make the most of your day and avoid the crowds, follow this recommended order of visiting:
1. Moorish Castle
Start your day early with a visit to the Moorish Castle. Catch the 434 bus from the train station to the castle, which is the second stop on the route. This ancient fortress offers stunning panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding countryside. The ruins and ramparts are perfect for a leisurely exploration and photography. Remember that the Moorish castle comes before Pena palace and it would be the best order to start with the Moorish castle and then go to Pena Palace.
Tip: The castle opens at 9:00 AM, so aim to be on the first bus out of the station to maximize your time.
2. Pena Palace
After exploring the Moorish Castle, take a short walk or catch the 434 bus to Pena Palace. One of Sintra’s most iconic landmarks, Pena Palace’s vibrant colors and whimsical architecture are a must-see.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as there are plenty of steps and uneven surfaces around the palace.
3. National Palace of Sintra
Next, hop back on the 434 bus and head to the historic center of Sintra. Here, you’ll find the National Palace of Sintra, easily recognizable by its twin chimneys. This palace, with its blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish architecture, provides a fascinating insight into the history of Portuguese royalty.
Tip: Take a break and enjoy a traditional Portuguese pastry, such as a travesseiro or a queijada, at one of the local cafes.
4. Quinta da Regaleira
From the historic center, switch to the 435 bus and make your way to Quinta da Regaleira. This palace is renowned for its enchanting gardens, hidden tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well. The entire estate is filled with mystical symbols and secret spots waiting to be discovered.
Tip: Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate the gardens and the palace’s unique features.
5. Palace of Monserrate
Finally, take the 435 bus to the Palace of Monserrate. This lesser-known gem is a masterpiece of Romantic architecture, surrounded by exotic gardens. It’s a perfect place to unwind and soak in the serene beauty after a day of exploring.
Tip: The palace and gardens close earlier than other sites, so make sure to check the opening hours and plan accordingly.
Practical Tips
Tickets: Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and avoid long queues, especially for Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
Bus Pass: Consider buying a day pass for the 434 and 435 buses, which offers unlimited travel on both routes.
Timing: Start your day as early as possible to avoid the midday crowds and give yourself ample time to explore each site.
Packing: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring water, and pack a light snack.
Conclusion
Visiting Sintra’s palaces by bus is a convenient and efficient way to see the town’s top attractions. By following this order of visiting, you can make the most of your time and experience the magic of Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces without the stress of navigating transportation logistics. Enjoy your adventure in this enchanting corner of Portugal!
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