Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira featuring heritage architecture
Sintra which includes heritage architecture and a castle
Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira featuring heritage elements as well as a small group of people


Marvel at the unique and unconventional design of this elaborate and whimsical folly-filled estate created by Italian set designer Luigi Manini.

The fantastical villa and gardens of Quinta da Regaleira encompass elements of Roman, Renaissance and Manueline styles. Explore the property and soak up its otherworldly atmosphere. With its offbeat architecture, mysterious follies and network of underground tunnels and caves, the site seems to more closely resemble a movie set than it does a real-life abode.

The villa and gardens were the result of efforts by two men: opera-set designer Luigi Manini and wealthy Brazilian businessman António Carvalho Monteiro, who commissioned Manini in 1904. The elaborate property remained in private hands until 1997, when Sintra authorities purchased it. Shortly thereafter, it opened to the public.

Upon first approach, notice the ornate stone façade of the main house, which is adorned with gothic-inspired features including gargoyles and turrets. Venture inside the house for a closer look at the building’s unexpected and often intricate decorations. The interior, which spreads across five floors, is adorned with various carvings, frescoes, glass mosaics and other whimsical design elements.

Take a guided tour around the gardens. The atypical grounds are said to be rich in symbolism and include several unusual structures including statues, water features, caves, towers and an underground labyrinth of tunnels. Knowledgeable guides will help explain the symbolic significance of the garden’s weird and wonderful features, which are said to reference everything from ancient mythology to the Knights Templar.

Don’t miss the garden’s most famous attraction, the 100-foot-deep (30-meter) Initiation Well, which somewhat resembles an inverted tower. Enter the bottom of the well via the network of underground tunnels and climb up the spiral staircases of the well to reach the light.

Reach Quinta da Regaleira on foot from Sintra in just 15 minutes. The estate is open daily. Opening hours change depending on the season so check ahead before your visit. An entrance fee applies and guided tours of the property are available for an additional cost.

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Things to do near Quinta da Regaleira

When visiting Quinta da Regaleira, indulge in a round of golf at nearby courses while also exploring the enchanting gardens and intricate architecture of the estate. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a captivating blend of nature and historical intrigue, making it a must-visit destination in Sintra.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Quinta da Regaleira, visit Cascais Municipal Market, located 11.3km away, offering local goods and fresh produce. Oeiras Parque, 12.9km away, provides a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment and shops. If you're up for a drive, Colombo Shopping Centre is 19.3km away, featuring a wide range of stores.

Recreation

Penha Longa Golf Course offers an inviting outdoor atmosphere perfect for golf enthusiasts, located 3.2km from Quinta da Regaleira. For tennis lovers, Clube de Tenis do Estoril, 9.7km away, provides excellent facilities. Meanwhile, the Estoril Wellness Center, also 9.7km distant, promises rejuvenating body treatments and relaxation.

Adventure

At Quinta da Regaleira, you can experience thrilling motor racing at Autódromo Fernanda Pires da Silva, located 4.8km away. For an exhilarating zipline adventure, visit the Adventure Park, 14.5km distant. Additionally, enjoy stunning views aboard the Telecabine Lisbon Cable Car, situated 25.7km from the estate.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting atmosphere at Calouste Gulbekian Planetarium, where you can marvel at the stars and enjoy unique shows. Alternatively, visit Bowling Playcenter for a fun-filled evening of bowling and entertainment, both conveniently located 19.3km from Quinta da Regaleira.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira offers a captivating blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the enchanting gardens and historic palace, while those seeking relaxation can venture to nearby beaches. For adventure enthusiasts, the surrounding outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for exploration. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply unwinding by the sea, the attractions in and around Quinta da Regaleira cater to all tastes, making it a perfect destination for travellers.

  • Pena Palace: Nestled atop a hill, Pena Palace is a stunning example of Romanticism, blending vibrant colours and eclectic architectural styles. Its picturesque gardens and panoramic views make it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
  • Carcavelos Beach: Renowned for its golden sands and inviting waves, Carcavelos Beach is perfect for sunbathing and water sports. The lively atmosphere and beachside cafés offer a delightful escape from historical sightseeing.
  • Moorish Castle: This ancient fortress offers a captivating glimpse into the past, with its sweeping views and charming stone walls. The romantic setting, rich in history, makes it an enchanting spot for exploration.

Best time to go to Quinta da Regaleira

The best time to visit Quinta da Regaleira can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Quinta da Regaleira falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Quinta da Regaleira falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.1°F (21.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.0°F (22.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
September70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Quinta da Regaleira

To save money on your visit to Quinta da Regaleira, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking a hotel around one month in advance often yields the best rates, with Mondays being the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly options and look for last-minute deals. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings. Exploring the area on foot is a great way to enjoy free activities while keeping costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Quinta da Regaleira are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Quinta da Regaleira is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Quinta da Regaleira is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Quinta da Regaleira is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at Quinta da Regaleira with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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