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Palace · Sintra, Lisboa
Palácio Nacional da Pena
19th-century romantic palace high on the sierra, painted yellow and red, built by King D. Fernando II over an old convent. Around it, the Parque da Pena has lakes, trails and viewpoints.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Palácio Nacional da Pena
In 1838 King D. Fernando II, husband of Queen D. Maria II, bought the ruins of a 16th-century monastery high on the sierra, and the palace works were carried out between 1842 and 1854. The project, executed by Baron Ludwig von Eschwege, blends Manueline, Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance references.
The facades painted yellow, red and gray and the terraces with views over the sierra and the sea make it one of the most photographed palaces in Portugal. The former cloister and the monastery chapel were incorporated into the palace.
Inside, the saloons show how the royal family lived at the end of the 19th century, with furniture, tableware and objects from the time, kept as they were when the monarchy ended in 1910.
Around it, the Parque da Pena, planted by D. Fernando II with trees from various parts of the world, has lakes, paths, the Chalet da Condessa d'Edla and the Cruz Alta, the highest point of the sierra.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, including the park.
Best time
Right at opening, with a timed ticket. Foggy days are common in the hills; on clear days the view reaches the sea. The European summer is the busiest period.
How to get there
It's up on the hilltop, about 3 km from Sintra's center. The shuttle buses run from the station and from the center. On foot, the climb is long and steep.
Tip
Buy a timed ticket in advance. From the park entrance to the palace it's a steep climb; there is a paid internal shuttle. Bring a jacket.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Palácio Nacional da Pena
Do you need to reserve a timed entry for Palácio da Pena?
Yes, entry to the palace is timed. Buy tickets in advance, especially during the European summer.
Who built Palácio da Pena?
King D. Fernando II, between 1842 and 1854, on the ruins of a 16th-century monastery.
How to get to Palácio da Pena?
By the circular bus from the station or Sintra center, by taxi, or on foot — a long uphill walk.
What is the Cruz Alta?
The highest point of the Serra de Sintra, within Parque da Pena, with wide views.