An unforgettable night in a palace? A breathtaking view of the Portuguese Serra? An unforgettable stay in a resort with beach and pool? It’s hard to choose, but we’ve made a selection for you! You will find in this article:
- our tips on the best areas to stay in Sintra,
- our list of the 11 best hotels in , plus a few extras.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The best hotels in Sintra: our 4 favorites
Before discovering our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our 4 favorite addresses.
Best luxury hotel: Hotel Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais
Located near the city center, this 18th-century palace offers a unique luxury experience. We were impressed by its elegance and refinement. With its breathtaking views of the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace, it’s the ideal place for a royal stay in Sintra!
See photos, prices and availability.
Best boutique hotel: Rosegarden House by Unlock Hotel
This charming boutique hotel brilliantly combines history and modernity. Its chic, colorful decor creates an intimate, romantic ambience. We particularly appreciated our cosy, hushed room. Just 1.3 km from Sintra’s National Palace, it’s an ideal haven for exploring the surrounding area.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best nature hotel: Hotel Penha Longa Resort
Nestled in an exceptional natural setting 4 km from Sintra, Hotel Penha Longa Resort offers a complete change of scenery. Its 1,500m2 spa and 27-hole golf course make it an ideal destination for rejuvenation. We were seduced by the beauty of the estate, punctuated by woods, waterholes and large expanses of grass. A perfect place to combine relaxation and discovery of the region.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best boutique hotel: Hotel Sintra Jardim
Hotel Sintra Jardim, 700 meters from the city center, is a haven of peace. Its lush garden and large swimming pool make it a pleasant place to relax. We loved the old-fashioned charm of this 19th-century manor house. With its classic decor and family atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for an authentic stay in Sintra.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to stay in Sintra: best districts
Why stay in Sintra?
Sintra, a former royal resort, offers a selection of accommodation to suit all tastes. We were won over by the variety of options, from historic palaces to modern boutique hotels. It’s one of the most popular places to stay in Portugal! The town is famous for its romantic palaces, mountain scenery and seaside beaches and cliffs.
The best places to stay in Sintra: map
Here’s our map to help you get your bearings, with the main areas to stay in Sintra:
Staying in downtown Sintra
Sintra’s historic center is a small maze of steep streets, popular with tourists and enlivened by the moving colors of the tuk-tuks. We loved strolling around! Take the time to admire the heights surrounding the city, where you’ll find some wonderful palaces to visit. The Palácio Nacional de Sintra, with its emblematic conical chimneys, dominates the urban landscape, as does the Town Hall with its striking Manueline architecture, typical of Portugal. Staying in the center of Sintra means being at the heart of the town’s tourist attractions.
Benefits:
- Close to palaces and museums
- Close to all amenities
- Easy access to public transport (train station, bus)
- Charming center
Disadvantages:
- Difficult to park, few parking lots and parking spaces
- Lively center
- Many visitors
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Sintra Jardim
Sleeping in the Sintra countryside
Surrounded by mountains, the Sintra countryside is at the heart of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. It is bordered to the south by Cascais, and to the west by the Atlantic Ocean. We enjoyed exploring these wide-open spaces, where nature expresses itself with luxuriance. Lost in the greenery, you’ll see palaces, old buildings and beautiful hotels.
Benefits:
- Tranquillity
- Ideal for those who love green spaces and wide-open spaces
- Beautiful landscapes
- Close to attractions such as the Capuchos Convent and the Sanctuary of Peninha, as well as palaces such as the Palace of Monserrate.
Disadvantages:
- The need for a car
- Few public transport services in the area
- Further from Sintra’s main attractions (palaces and museums)
- Fewer restaurants
Our favorite hotel: Penha Longa Resort Hotel
Sleeping by the sea
Sintra’s seafront stretches west of the city center, some ten kilometers along the Atlantic coast. We discovered magnificent beaches and stunning cliffs. Here you’ll find wild, sea-lashed capes like Cabo da Roca and pretty villages like Azenhas do Mar. Seaside hotels offer breathtaking ocean views.
Benefits:
- Superb coastal scenery
- Close to the sea and beaches (Praia da Ursa, Praia da Adraga, Praia Grande…).
- Sea-related activities (surfing, boat trips)
- Seafood restaurants not to be missed
Disadvantages:
- Busy summer season
- Parking may be difficult
- Area farthest from Sintra’s palaces
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Arribas Sintra
Other useful tips to keep in mind
Sintra is a very popular destination, especially in summer. If you’re planning a stay at this time of year, we strongly recommend that you book your hotel in advance. In spring, autumn and even winter, prices are more affordable and the destination is still very pleasant! What’s more, it may be a little less crowded. To explore the city center, it’s not a good idea to have a car, as there’s very little parking available. It’s best to take the 434 and 435 buses to the various palaces. On the other hand, to explore the countryside and the coast, having a car is the best way to get around, as there is little public transport.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
1. Hotel Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais (5 stars)
Why stay there?
Hotel Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais is an 18th-century architectural gem offering a luxurious stay. We were impressed by the elegance of this palace. Its refined decor, with Dona Maria-style furniture and wall paintings, will immerse you in the atmosphere of Portuguese nobility. The establishment offers top-of-the-range facilities, including a swimming pool with panoramic views and a wellness center. The restaurant serves Portuguese and international fusion cuisine in a pleasant setting. What sets this hotel apart, in our opinion, is the setting. In addition to a setting fit for royalty, the venue boasts breathtaking views of the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace. It is also located right next to Quinta da Regaleira. If you’re looking for a royal stay in Sintra, we highly recommend this establishment.
Pool
- Open all year round
- Breathtaking view of the palaces
- Pool towels and sun loungers available
- Umbrellas also available
Practical information
- 20 minutes walk from downtown and 5 minutes by car
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: wellness center, bike rental, outdoor activities such as golf and hiking.
- Free private parking
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. Rosegarden House by Unlock Hotel (boutique hotel)
Why stay there?
Located 1.3km or 20min walk from Sintra’s National Palace, Rosegarden House by Unlock Hotel is a charming boutique hotel. We loved staying there. Our room was very comfortable and we really appreciated its soft colors. Exquisitely decorated interiors, with colorful wallpapers and elegant furniture, create a warm, intimate atmosphere. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast, which we found very appealing. The hotel really stands out for its romantic ambience, ideal for couples. Its proximity to the main tourist sites made it a perfect starting point for our exploration of Sintra. For a romantic getaway, this charming place is sure to meet your expectations!
Pool
- Open all year round
- Heated
- Deckchairs and parasols
Practical information
- 700m from downtown
- Restaurant: no, breakfast only
- No dedicated parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
3. Penha Longa Resort Hotel (5 stars)
Hotel Penha Longa Resort, located 4km from the center of Sintra, is a luxurious resort nestled in the heart of nature. We were charmed by the beauty of its immense park, made up of woods and clearings bordering the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The establishment also boasts a 1500m2 spa, several indoor and outdoor pools, and a 27-hole golf course. Interiors are not to be outdone. The decor elegantly blends natural elements and contemporary style, creating a refined yet soothing atmosphere. You’ll also be able to enjoy an exceptional gastronomic offer with the resort’s 8 restaurants, including two Michelin-starred ones! We recommend this establishment, which stands out for its exceptional natural setting and top-of-the-range facilities.
Pool and spa
- 3 pool types: indoor, outdoor family, outdoor overflow
- Pool activities: yoga, meditations and Shiatsu treatments
- 1500m2 spa
- Jacuzzi and sauna
- Wellness center
- Fitness center
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Sintra countryside, 4km from Sintra
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurants: 8 restaurants including 2 Michelin-starred
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: 1500m2 spa, 27-hole golf course, gym, tennis court
- Free private parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Portugal a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
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4. Hotel Sintra Jardim (bucolic)
Why stay there?
Hotel Sintra Jardim, a 15-minute walk from the city center, is a charming family-run hotel set in a garden that we found magnificent. Its classic decor, perhaps a little old-fashioned, creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The establishment boasts a large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by greenery, with a superb view of the Château des Maures! We also enjoyed the continental breakfast buffet with its regional products. Its proximity to Sintra’s National Palace makes it an ideal base for exploring the town. Families will also feel welcome. There’s also a playground with a soccer goal for children. We were delighted with our stay in this former 19th-century manor house.
Pool
- Outdoor pool with exceptional view
- Deckchairs and parasols
- Towels provided
Practical information
- Neighborhood: close to the center of Sintra, 700m away
- Price range: 2 stars
- Restaurant: no, breakfast only
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: garden, children’s playground, games room, table tennis
- Free private parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
5. Hotel Sintra Marmòris Camélia (romantic)
Why stay there?
The Hotel Sintra Marmòris Camélia, a charming bright pink house, intrigued us from the very first moment we saw it! The hotel’s unique decor makes it a pleasant and romantic place to stay. Each of the 9 rooms is inspired by one of Sintra’s historic personalities and features a different decor. The hotel is located in downtown Sintra, close to the National Palace. It’s also just across the street from one of the city’s must-visit restaurants, the Portuguese Incomun. In our opinion, its central location is one of its greatest assets, providing easy access to the main tourist attractions. For a romantic and cultural stay in Sintra, we recommend this unique establishment.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown Sintra
- Restaurant: à la carte and in-room breakfast
- Massages available
- Some rooms are equipped with whirlpool baths
- No dedicated parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
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6. Hotel Nova Sintra (central)
Why stay there?
Hotel Nova Sintra, located 5 minutes’ walk from the center of Sintra, is a charming, family-run establishment. We recommend this welcoming hotel for a comfortable, affordable stay in the heart of the city. Its simple yet pleasant decor, with colorful touches, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel boasts a sun terrace with magnificent views of the Sintra massif. The buffet breakfast, served in a bright dining room, features a variety of local produce. What sets this hotel apart, in our opinion, is its friendly atmosphere and excellent value for money. Its proximity to downtown makes it a convenient base for exploring the city.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: the hotel is 550 meters from the center of Sintra
- Price range: 2 stars
- Restaurant: no, breakfast only
- Facilities: terrace with view, car rental service
- No dedicated parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
7. Sintra Boutique Hotel (4 stars)
Why stay there?
At the Hotel Sintra Boutique Hotel, located in the heart of historic Sintra, you’ll enjoy a stay that combines modern comfort with a central location. Rooms are well-equipped and comfortable, including flat-screen TVs and minibars. The establishment also features a restaurant serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine based on local produce. We found the hotel’s location really ideal, within walking distance of Sintra’s main attractions. Finally, its proximity to the train station makes it the perfect starting point for getting to Lisbon.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown Sintra
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, contemporary Portuguese cuisine
- Family rooms: yes
- No dedicated parking
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
8. Hotel Sintra Arribas (sea view)
Why stay there?
Hotel Arribas Sintra is on the seafront at Praia Grande in Colares, a 25-minute drive from the center of Sintra. We had a very pleasant stay! The bright, contemporary decor enhances the spectacular ocean views. From the terrace of our room, the panorama was literally breathtaking. What’s more, the facility boasts a 100m-long saltwater pool, one of the largest in Europe, offering an unforgettable swimming experience. We also enjoyed the Arribas Terrace Restaurant, which offers a blend of Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine. Finally, the establishment’s proximity to Praia Grande makes it a paradise for beach and water sports enthusiasts.
Swimming pool and beach
- 100m-long saltwater swimming pool
- Two levels: one for children (0.65m) and one for adults (0.80 to 3.95m)
- Two 3.10m-high jumping boards for diving enthusiasts
- Free access for customers, chargeable for external customers
- Open from May to October, depending on ocean conditions
- Towels, deckchairs, parasols
Practical information
- Neighborhood: seaside, Praia Grande, Colares
- Price range: 4 stars
- Dining: Arribas Terrace Restaurant and Arribas Caffé
- Family rooms: yes
- PMR rooms
- Indoor playground, evening entertainment available, fitness center, yoga classes, massages at extra charge
- Private parking lot
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
9. Hotel Sintra Bliss (modern)
Why stay there?
Located in the city center, Hotel Sintra Bliss is, in our opinion, in a prime location, close to the train station and the main tourist attractions. Perfect for discovering the treasures of Sintra. You’ll enjoy a modern, comfortable stay. Its contemporary, functional decor creates a clean, welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are well-equipped. The establishment also offers a continental breakfast, which can be enjoyed in the garden during the warmer months. Finally, the staff is attentive and friendly!
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown Sintra, near the train station
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no, breakfast only
- Family rooms: yes
- PMR rooms
- No dedicated parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
10. Hotel Lawrences (historic)
Why stay there?
Hotel Lawrences is a beautiful establishment steeped in history. We were charmed by its period decor with wood panelling, noble fabrics and antique furniture, creating a romantic country atmosphere. The rooms, with their authentic charm, also offer breathtaking views of the Serra de Sintra. The establishment has a restaurant serving Portuguese cuisine and a cocktail bar for relaxing after a day’s sightseeing. Located in the historic center of Sintra, it’s close to the Biester Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, two places that really impressed us. For a luxurious stay steeped in history in Sintra, we recommend this hotel, which has real cachet!
Practical information
- Neighborhood: historic center of Sintra
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes, Portuguese cuisine
- Family rooms: yes
- PMR rooms
- Cocktail bar, library, fireplaces, babysitting at extra charge
- No dedicated parking
- Check photos and availability — and book!
11. NH Sintra Centro Hotel (4 stars)
Why stay there?
The centrally located NH Sintra Centro Hotel faces one of the city’s most beautiful buildings, the National Palace. We were won over by the location and the panorama! For a modern, comfortable stay in the heart of Sintra, we recommend this establishment. The decor is contemporary, with soft colors and designer furniture. The recently renovated rooms feature balconies or terraces with spectacular views over the valley, the palace or the city. You can also enjoy a varied breakfast including continental and English options. The establishment also has a restaurant, Restaurant Miranda, serving Mediterranean cuisine with vegetarian options.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Sintra’s historic center, near the train station and Sintra’s National Palace
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, Restaurant Miranda
- Family rooms: yes
- Bar, terrace, gym, outdoor activities, babysitting service at extra charge, business center, hair salon
- Private pay parking lot
- Check photos and availability — and book!
DISCOVER Sintra
- What to do in Sintra
- Best hotels
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- How to get to Sintra (coming soon)
Other options and cheap hotels in Sintra
In this section, you’ll find some hotels we’d also like to mention.
Other boutique-hotels in Sintra
- Hotel Sintra Marmóris Palace for its swimming pools, romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views – See prices, photos and availability
- Quinta dos Lobos Boutique Hotel – Nature Experience – for its garden and country decor – See prices, photos and availability
Other villa-hotels in Sintra
- Hotel Vila Bella Vista, an establishment combining history and modernity – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Vila Gale Sintra, a natural setting with an innovative wellness concept – See prices, photos and availability
Cheap hotels in Sintra
- Chalet Saudade Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Chalet Relogio Guesthouse – See prices, photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Things to do in Portugal (coming soon)
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon)
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Portugal (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Portugal (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Things to do in Lisbon (coming soon)
Things to do in the Algarve
Things to do in Porto (coming soon)
Things to do in Sintra (coming soon)
