Palácio Nacional da Pena is a magnificent Palace located on a hilltop in Sintra, Portugal. With its unique architectural features, colorful facade and stunning views, Pena Palace is a must-visit destination for visitors to Portugal.

Only a 40 to 45 minute drive away from central Lisbon, the palace is surrounded by gardens containing hidden grottos, winding paths and intriguing water features.

Dating back as far as the Middle Ages the palace has expanded to intentionally include a mix of eclectic architectural styles including Gothic, Romanticist and Renaissance.

Here's all you need to know about Pena Palace, one of the most magnificent attractions near Lisbon.

How much do Pena Palace tickets cost?

Two types of Pena Palace tickets can be booked. You can choose between a ticket that only gives you entrance to the Park or a ticket that provides you with access to the Palace and the Park.

Pena Palace and Park

Adults (age 18-64 years): €15 per person
Youth (age 6-17 years) and Seniors (age 65+): €13
Family ticket (2 adults and 2 youths): €50

Pena Park only

Adults (age 18-64 years): €10 per person
Youth (age 6-17 years) and Seniors (age 65+): €7
Family ticket (2 adults and 2 youths): €30

Infants under 5 years old can enter Pena Palace and Park free of change when accompanied by an adult.

Are there any discounted ticket rates?

Children under the age of 6 can visit for free, while children between the ages of 6 and 17 can also get a discounted ticket. Students with a valid student identification and senior citizens over the age of 65 can also receive a discount on their entry.

These discounts are only available when purchasing tickets at the palace ticket office and can’t be obtained when booking tickets online.

When can I visit for free?

Pena Palace only has certain days of the year where it waives entry fees to all visitors. February 18, May 18, and September 24 are the three days when all visitors can enter for free.

Should I book my tickets in advance?

It is highly recommended that you book in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season, during which you can queue for up to an hour to purchase tickets.

You can book your tickets online through the palace website, through tour operators, or at the ticket office at the palace entrance. Pre-booking ensures that you will get your preferred time slot for your visit and saves time on the day.

What are the best Pena Palace tours?

You can visit Pena Palace as a standalone activity, or you can decide to join a tour that includes a visit to this marvelous architectural masterpiece. Here are some of the best tours on offer from Lisbon to Pena Palace:

Pena Palace and Park audio guided tours

If you want a tour with a bit of structure but independence to roam free as well, book tickets that include access to a multimedia audio guide.

With full access to the palace, chalet and park, your audio guide will provide step-by-step commentary as you navigate the many halls and rooms inside of the palace. You will need to download the necessary application for the audio narration, and will need to bring your own headphones along for use.

Small group guided tour including Pena Palace

Join your guide as you are transported from Lisbon to Pena Palace and other top attractions nearby. Your expert guide will provide you with fascinating insights about the rich history of Portugal and all of the landmarks and attractions you see on the excursion.

These types of tours pre book entrance tickets into the destinations listed on the itinerary and will schedule the day to accommodate any specific access times.

Private guided tour from Lisbon including Pena Palace

For a more customized and personal experience, you can book one of several tours from Lisbon that are available on a private basis and include a visit to Pena Palace. Private tours also include the services of an experienced guide for the duration of the tour.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including Pena Palace and other attractions?

Combo tours from Lisbon typically include round trip transport from Lisbon to several popular local or regional attractions on a day tour.

Buying combined tickets or joining a tour that includes more than one attraction can be a great way to save money and help you to make the most of your available time.

Combo tour of Pena Palace and Park plus Moorish Castle: A tour from Lisbon with optional round-trip transport that includes entry tickets to the National Palace of Pena and to the Castle of the Moors.
Combo tour of Pena Palace and Park plus Queluz Palace: A tour from Lisbon with optional round-trip transport that includes entry tickets to the National Palace of Pena and to the National Palace of Queluz and gardens.
Combo tour of the Oceanarium, Pena Palace and National Palace of Sintra: A tour from Lisbon with optional round-trip transport that includes entry tickets to the Lisbon Oceanarium, National Palace of Pena and the National Palace of Sintra.

What will you see inside?

The inside of Pena Palace is just as impressive as its eclectic exterior. Rooms are filled with ornate decorations, stunning artwork and intricate detailing. The Throne Room, the Noble Room, the Arab Room and the Music Room are some of the main rooms you will view on a tour of the palace.

Each room is uniquely styled and artwork on display in the rooms includes tapestries, paintings and sculptures. The palace’s chapel is also a highlight of a tour. It is decorated with colorful stained-glass windows and delicate wood carvings.

The gardens at Pena Palace are just as much of a reason to visit as the palace itself. The 200 hectare gardens are filled with a wide variety of plants. Areas like the Queen’s Fern Valley, Mexican Garden and the Lakes all form part of the landscaped property.

High Cross is a popular vantage point that offers stunning views across the surrounding countryside. Waterbirds including swans and ducks as well as striking peacocks can be found on your stroll through the peaceful natural surroundings.

Where is the Pena Palace located and how do I get there?

Pena Palace is located just outside of the town of Sintra, to the west of Lisbon. You can self-drive or book a tour or transfer to Sintra along the IC19 from Lisbon after which you will need to consider one of the walking routes or public transport options to access the Palace and Park.

You can also travel using public transport for your entire journey, catching the train from Lisbon to Sintra and then Bus 343 from Sintra to Pena. If you are looking for some moderate exercise, you can also enjoy a one hour, 1,7 kilometer hike (each way) along the Santa Maria Trail between the town of Sintra and Pena Palace.

A shuttle service between the entrance and palace can be pre booked in advance at an extra cost.

What are the opening times?

Pena Palace is open to visitors all year, with the exception of 25 December and 1 January. Opening hours are from 09:30 AM to 7 PM during peak season from April to October and from 10 AM to 6 PM during the quieter months.

Tickets only allow you to access the palace at a scheduled time, so ensure you plan according to your allocated time slot. It will take you approximately 30 minutes to reach the palace from the entrance point, regardless of whether you choose to walk or use the shuttle.

When is the best time to visit the Pena Palace?

The best time for a visit to Pena Palace is during the off-season months from November to March when there are fewer visitors and shorter queues. It can, however, be quite rainy and cool during this time of the year.

During peak periods, the weather is better and the days are longer, but you may have to contend with larger crowds and longer waiting times to access the landmark.

Which other attractions can be visited in Lisbon?

Travel tips

To avoid crowds during peak season, visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
Wear comfortable shoes to make it easier for you to climb the steep inclines to reach the palace.
Book online to secure your preferred date and time or book in person at the ticket office if you qualify for a discounted ticket.

Pena Palace: Tickets and Tours