Where to Stay in Sintra: Best Hotels & Areas

Updated 19th March 2026

Looking for the best place to stay in Sintra? This guide helps you choose the right area and accommodation based on how you want to experience Sintra, whether that’s staying in the historic centre, somewhere quieter with views, or within easy reach of the main sights.

I’ve been visiting and exploring Sintra for over 18 years, and while it has changed, I still believe it deserves more than a rushed day trip. Most visitors come on a day trip, but staying overnight gives you a completely different experience, especially early in the morning and after the crowds leave. Staying overnight lets you enjoy the more peaceful moments and gives you time for places like Monserrate and the coastal walks.

To help you plan well, I’ve selected unique hotels, guesthouses and apartments that stand out for location, comfort and consistently strong guest reviews.

Best areas to stay in Sintra

• Historic centre – best for atmosphere, restaurants and walking access to key sights
• Near the train station – most convenient for transport and day trips
• Seteais / Regaleira area – quieter, more scenic, but requires transport
• Surrounding countryside – best for space, nature and a more relaxed stay

Not sure how best to fit Sintra into your Portugal itinerary?

If you’re juggling Lisbon, Sintra and the coast, I can help you choose the best base for your itinerary and travel style.
👉 Book a Portugal Trip Planning Consultation and get personalised advice before you book.

Practical considerations when choosing where to stay in Sintra

Staying near the train station is convenient; you’ll stand more chance of getting a seat on the buses that go to the monuments, there are less touristy restaurants nearby and the walk to the historical centre is pleasant, although it’s uphill on the way back.

If you choose to stay in the historical centre, you can easily walk to Sintra National Palace, around the old town and even to Quinta da Regaleira. If you’re fit, you can walk up the hill to Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, although you may prefer to use transport to get to the highest point and then walk back down. Central accommodations may involve a short climb. There are plenty of restaurants in this area, although they tend to be tourist-oriented.

An important point to consider is that driving in the historical centre is not allowed, and that there is a one-way system and narrow winding roads surrounding it. For these reasons, if you are coming by car, you need to choose somewhere that’s relatively easy to drive to and which offers parking facilities.

Sintra is a 40-45 minute train ride from Lisbon or drive from the airport and you can get around by bus, taxi, Uber or tuk tuks once there so a car is not essential for this leg of your trip.

Now let’s look at some specific Sintra hotels…

Best boutique hotels in Sintra, Portugal

Right in the heart of the historic centre but slightly tucked away from the busiest streets, this well-run boutique hotel combines modern comfort with a genuinely helpful team. The restaurant is better than most in this area and the small garden is a welcome place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Choose this if you want to stay in the centre without sacrificing comfort or service. Check availability and prices

Casa Holstein Quinta de Sao Sebastiao Sintra

This is one of the most distinctive places to stay in Sintra, set in a historic property with beautiful grounds, a pool and views across the town. Despite its peaceful setting, it’s within walking distance of both the train station and the centre, which makes it unusually convenient. The video below shows you how lovely it is.

Ideal if you want a characterful stay with space, views and easy access to town. Check availability and prices

Best guesthouses in Sintra

Close to the train station but with a refined, boutique feel, this guesthouse stands out for its elegant interiors, excellent breakfast and consistently warm service. It’s a practical location without feeling generic.

A great choice if you want style and convenience in equal measure. Check availability and prices

Águamel Sintra, Boutique Guest House

Set right in the historic centre, this small 19th-century townhouse offers a very personal experience, with attentive hosting and a handful of thoughtfully decorated rooms. Lack of parking is the trade-off for such a central location. Superior rooms have a private balcony.

Best suited to travellers without a car who want to stay right in the middle of Sintra’s old town. Check availability and prices

This restored historic villa combines period charm with comfortable modern rooms, plus access to romantic gardens with ponds and shaded seating areas. Its location near the station makes it easy to get around without a car.

Choose this if you like characterful buildings with a slightly nostalgic feel. Check availability and prices

Casa da Estefanea Boutique GuestHouse

Located in a quieter residential area, this guesthouse offers spacious, individually decorated rooms with artistic touches and a more local feel than central properties. You’ll need transport to reach the main sights, but it’s a calmer base.

A good option if you want to stay outside the tourist centre but still within easy reach by bus or Uber. Check availability and prices

Best luxury hotels in Sintra

Sintra Marmoris Palace

This beautifully restored manor house offers a more relaxed luxury experience, with large gardens, a pool and elegant interiors. It’s a little outside the centre but includes parking and plenty of space to unwind.

Choose this if you want a quieter luxury stay with room to breathe. Check availability and prices

Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais

One of Sintra’s most iconic hotels, this 18th-century palace delivers a full luxury experience with formal gardens, refined interiors and views across the surrounding hills. It feels removed from the crowds while still being close to key sights.

Ideal if you want a classic palace hotel experience in Sintra.

Check availability and prices

Best budget accommodation in Sintra

Hotel Nova Sintra

Vila Município, “Urban Chic”, Sintra

Penha Longa Resort

Arribas Sintra Hotel

Paço do Bispo Boutique House