Frequently Asked Questions

According to Parques de Sintra policy, tickets can be automatically rescheduled on their official website for a period of one year after purchase. Tickets are generally non-refundable except in the event of a date change or cancellation by the palace. For specific cancellation policies, please check with your ticket provider or the general conditions of sale on the Parques de Sintra website.

Pena Palace offers reduced rates for youth (6-17 years), seniors (65+), and family tickets. Children under 6 years enter free.

For current pricing, ticket options, and detailed information about discounts and ticket types, please visit our Tickets page.

Note: Valid ID must be presented at entry for reduced rates. Additional discounts may be available when booking in advance through the official Parques de Sintra website.

We recommend allowing 2-3 hours for a complete visit of the palace interior and park. The palace interior takes about 1-1.5 hours. For exploring the full park including the Chalet and Garden of the Countess of Edla, allow 3-4 hours for a leisurely experience.

Park of Pena:
Open: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Last admission: 6:00 PM)

Palace Interior:
Open: 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM (Last admission: 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM)

Chalet of the Countess of Edla:
Garden: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM | Chalet: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Closed: December 24-25, January 1
Limited hours: December 31, January 2-3 (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

The palace is quietest during early morning hours (9:00-10:00 AM) and late afternoon (after 4:00 PM). Winter months (November-March) are generally less crowded than summer. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be quieter than weekends. Avoid visiting on Portuguese public holidays. Booking your timed entry slot in advance helps guarantee entry at your preferred time.

The most convenient way is by train and bus:

• Take the Sintra Line train from Rossio, Oriente, or Entrecampos stations to Sintra (40 minutes)
• From Sintra station, take Scotturb bus No. 434 to Pena Palace (buses depart every 15-20 minutes)

By car: Take IC19 from Lisbon, IC30 from Mafra, or EN9 from A5 motorway. GPS: 38° 47' 16.45" N, 9° 23' 15.35" W. ⚠️ Limited parking at park entrance (extra cost).

Visit our Visiting Information page for detailed directions.

The palace has limited accessibility due to its historic nature and mountainous location:

• Park: Main paths are accessible with assistance. Transfer shuttle available (€3 round trip)
• Palace Exterior: Accessible via shuttle service from park entrance
• Palace Interior: Limited access - only ground floor due to many stairs
• Restrooms: Accessible facilities available

Free entry for visitors with disabilities and one companion. Please contact Parques de Sintra in advance at +351 21 923 7300 to arrange assistance.

Strollers are allowed in the park areas but not inside the palace interior due to narrow passages and stairs. A baby carrier/sling is recommended for palace visits. Stroller parking is available at the palace entrance.

Yes! Photography is allowed for personal use with the following restrictions:

• No flash photography (damages historical artifacts)
• No tripods or selfie sticks
• No commercial photography without permission
• Be respectful of other visitors

Drone photography is strictly prohibited. Professional photo shoots require advance permission.

Pets are not allowed inside the palace or park areas, with the exception of certified service animals. Service animals must be properly identified and remain on a leash at all times. There are no kennel facilities available on site.

There is no formal dress code, but we strongly recommend comfortable walking shoes as there are many stairs and cobblestones. Wear weather-appropriate clothing - it can be windy and cooler at the top of the hill. Bring layers as temperatures can vary. Modest attire is appreciated as this is a historic and cultural site.

Food and beverages are not permitted inside the palace interior. However:

• Water bottles are allowed everywhere
• Designated picnic areas available in the park
• Café and kiosks available for snacks and drinks

According to legislation, smoking is strictly prohibited within the entire site.

Yes! Cafeterias and restaurants are available:

• Café: Light snacks, drinks, and pastries near the entrance
• Park Kiosk: Beverages and ice cream in the gardens
• Picnic Areas: Designated areas in the park (outside food allowed here only)

Food and drinks are not permitted inside the palace interior. Water bottles are allowed everywhere.

Yes, official stores are located near the main entrance. You can purchase books, postcards, replicas, local crafts, and exclusive palace merchandise. The shops are open during palace operating hours and accept cards and cash.

Tours are available in several formats:

• Audio Guides: Free access via Zoomguide app (PT, EN, ES, FR) - included with your ticket
• Self-Guided Visits: Information placards available throughout the palace
• Group Tours: Available for groups (booking required)

Note: Radio-guide rental for external groups is currently unavailable. External guides must bring their own radio-guide system.

All exhibits and signage are available in Portuguese and English. The Zoomguide audio app is available in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French. Information materials at the entrance are available in multiple languages.