National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets

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Pena Palace FAQs

• Are pets allowed in Pena Palace?
• No. Only guide dogs are allowed.
• When is the best time to visit Pena Palace?
• Given its popularity, you will not have the palace to yourself but for quieter visits, try the afternoon.
• Is Pena Palace wheelchair accessible?
• Pena Palace isn’t fully accessible for wheelchair users I’m afraid due to the present of steps in the property and some narrow corridors. The gardens are more accessible for wheelchairs.
• Is Pena Palace open to the public on Christmas day?
• No. Pena Palace is closed to the public on Christmas eve and Christmas day and New Years eve and New Years day.
• Do you need to book tickets in advance for Pena Palace?
• Although it isn't compulsory no, we do strongly suggest it yes. During peak tourist months, the palace can get very busy, so booking tickets guarantees your place and help you to avoid the queues!

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Fun Facts About National Palace of Pena

• Eclectic Architectural Style: The Palace of Pena is a wonderful mix of architectural styles, blending elements of Gothic, Renaissance, Manueline, and Moorish influences! Its colourful facades, with vibrant shades of red and yellow, make it one of the most visually striking palaces in Europe!
• A Romantic Vision: The palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II in the 19th century as a romantic summer residence for the Portuguese royal family. He was deeply inspired by the romantic movement in art and architecture, and this is reflected in the palace's whimsical design!
• From Monastery to Palace: Before becoming the National Palace of Pena, the site was home to a modest 16th-century monastery which was dedicated to Our Lady of Pena. After the monastery was damaged by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, King Ferdinand decided to build the palace over the ruins, incorporating the original chapel!
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The National Palace of Pena, along with the surrounding Sintra Hills and other historic sites in the region, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995!
• ‍Stunning Hilltop Location: The palace sits on one of the highest peaks in the Sintra Mountains, providing amazing views of the surrounding forests, the town of Sintra, and even the Atlantic Ocean on a clear day. Its location adds to its fairy-tale-like aura!