Explore Pena Park | Best Things to do, Visitor's Guide & More

Park of Pena Palace

Pena Park | A guide to exploring the lush gardens surrounding Pena Palace

Pena Park, known locally as Parque da Pena, is a 200-hectare expanse of lush forest, carefully designed landscapes, and dramatic scenery surrounding the stunning Palácio da Pena. Though it may initially seem like a dense and wild woodland, Pena Park is an intentionally crafted environment that complements the Romantic architecture of the palace, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Serra da Sintra.

Whether you are taking a leisurely stroll through secluded footpaths, admiring breathtaking views from craggy hilltops, or exploring the park’s many hidden gems like fern gardens and a mock-Alpine chalet, Pena Park offers a serene escape into nature.

Most visitors begin their experience of Pena Park with a 15-minute uphill walk from the ticket office to the palace. However, those who choose to explore beyond the immediate surroundings of the palace can easily spend three hours or more wandering through the park’s diverse landscapes. This guide will help you make the most of your visit to Pena Park.

Know all about Pena Palace

Visitor information for Pena Park

Pena Park surrounds the Palácio da Pena and can be visited independently of the palace itself. A ticket for the park alone costs €15, which is ideal if you’ve already toured the palace on a previous visit.

If it’s your first time at the Pena Palace complex, it’s recommended to explore the palace and its colorful terraces first before venturing into the park. The park serves as a perfect side attraction, either while waiting for your timed entrance to the palace or as a relaxing way to end your visit.

Pro Tip: The Palácio da Pena requires a timed ticket for entry, which grants you a 30-minute window to enter the palace. It’s best to purchase these tickets in advance, ideally at least a day before your visit, to secure a convenient time slot. Get pre-booked tickets online to avoid hassle.

Pena Park does not have time restrictions, making it a flexible option to explore while waiting for your scheduled palace entry. Often, visitors spend 2 to 3 hours in the park after securing their palace tickets.

Note: Despite its proximity, very little of the Pena Palace is visible from Pena Park due to the palace’s elevated position atop a rocky outcrop. If you wish to see the palace up close, you’ll need a timed ticket for access to its terraces and interior.

For a day trip, prioritize the palace and its terraces before immersing yourself in the tranquility of Pena Park. If you’re staying in Sintra for an extended period, consider dedicating a full day to exploring the park.

Tours of Pena Park

Pena Park is expansive, with a maze of paths that weave through steep hills and dense forest. The park’s primary attractions are located to the south and west—confusingly at the top and right on most tourist maps.

Two popular routes circle the park, both exiting via the quieter Lake Entrance (Entrada dos Lagos). The shorter route, taking about an hour, stays close to the palace and passes through the Jardim das Camélias (Camellia Garden), Gruta do Monge (Grotto of the Monk), Feiteira da Rainha (Queen’s Fern Valley), and the Vale dos Lagos (Valley of the Lakes).

The longer route, which takes about 2.5 hours, loops around the southern and western edges of the park. This route includes the Templo das Colunas (Temple of the Columns), Estátua do Guerreiro (Warrior Statue), Cruz Alta viewpoint, Alto do Chá viewpoint, Chalet da Condessa d’Edla, Pedras do Chalet (Chalet Rocks), Feteira da Condessa, Cavalariças (Stables), Jardim Inglês (English Garden), and Vale dos Lagos.

Another popular option is the walk to the Cruz Alta viewpoint via the Warrior Statue. Though Cruz Alta is the highest point in the park, the view of the palace is partially obstructed by the treetops.

Frequently Asked Questions and answers about Pena Park

What is Pena Park, and where is it located?

Pena Park, or Parque da Pena, is a 200-hectare park surrounding the stunning Palácio da Pena in Sintra, Portugal. The park is a lush expanse of carefully designed landscapes and natural beauty, blending Romantic architecture with the Serra da Sintra's natural scenery.

Do I need a ticket to enter Pena Park?

Yes, a ticket is required to enter Pena Park. The ticket costs €15 if you wish to visit only the park without entering the palace.

How long should I plan to spend in Pena Park?

Visitors typically spend 2 to 3 hours exploring Pena Park. The park's expansive trails and diverse landscapes make it easy to spend a half or full day, especially if you enjoy leisurely walks and discovering hidden spots.

What is the best time to visit Pena Park?

The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the park. Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the park's natural beauty.

Is advance booking required for Pena Park tickets?

While advance booking is not mandatory for the park alone, it is recommended to purchase tickets for Pena Palace in advance due to timed entry slots.