Sintra In January: Weather, Travel Info, & More
Are you wondering what it’s like to visit Sintra in January?
Sintra is a fairytale-like destination where you’ll enjoy exploring palaces, forested areas, and a charming town center. This destination is a perfect day-trip option from Lisbon as it’s only around a 40-minute train ride.
No matter what time of the year you decide to visit, a trip to Sintra will be enjoyable! I had a great time during my visit in January of 2023!
However, some important factors must be considered if you plan to make the trip in January. This post will explore some pros and cons of visiting in January and some things to do in the town.
Going On A Trip To Sintra? Check Out These Resources!
🛌 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com for my lodging.
🚘 Car Rentals: To find the best prices, I use Discover Cars!
✈️ Flights: To find great flight prices, I check on Skyscanner.
📍Tours: I use Viator to find memorable experiences.
Is January a Good Time to Go to Sintra?
Yes, January is a great time to visit Sintra. While temperatures are colder, you get to avoid the intense summer heat. In addition, you won’t have to deal with large crowds and skyrocketed hotel prices.
Sintra Weather in January
Sintra’s weather in January is cooler compared to most months of the year. Average temperatures in January reach a high of 15°C (59°F) and a low of 9°C (48°F).
Despite the cooler weather, Sintra is warmer than many places in Europe in January, including London and Milan. In return, this allows you to explore the historical town, palaces, and gardens Sintra is known for.
Even though there are chances of rain, Sintra has plenty of sunny days in January. Moreover, Sintra’s rainy season is far from what you’d experience in Southeast Asia or Central America.
Sadly, if you want a winter wonderland during your visit, Sintra does not have annual snowfall. However, this makes travel plans go much smoother.
In addition, you get to escape the high summer temperatures by taking a trip in January. For comparison, July typically experiences an average high of 25°C (77°F) and a low of 17°C (63°F), while August encounters an average high of 25.5°C (78°F) and a low of 18°C (64°F). During the months of July and August, the town can also be subject to heat waves, potentially halting your plans.
Is Sintra Busy in January?
For visitors who prefer a quieter and serene experience, January is an optimal time to visit Sintra.
January is generally less busy than the peak tourist season months of July and August. Because it’s the off-season, tourists benefit from fewer crowds and shorter queues at popular attractions. I bought a ticket for the palace 2 hours before my visit without a problem!
The reduced crowds and quieter atmosphere allows tourists also to have a more immersive experience and appreciate the charming nature of Sintra. You’ll be able to take in the magical beauty of the town center and sites like the Quinta da Regaleira without swarms of tourists everywhere.
However, it’s important to note that Sintra is one of the most popular destinations in Portugal. That said, there’s a chance for increased crowds over weekends and days with special events.
In January, you can expect around 6 days of rainfall in Sintra. Total rainfall for the month will be around 101 mm (4 inches).
What to Wear for January in Sintra
If you visit Sintra in January, you must be prepared for the cooler temperatures and potential rainy days. This will make sure that you are comfortable exploring the magical town.
While you won’t need to bring your heavy-duty winter coat, it’s recommended that you bring a waterproof jacket or coat and long pants. Sweaters and cardigans will help keep you warm.
An umbrella and waterproof footwear will also come in handy to stay dry for your outdoor excursions in the event of rain. In addition, good walking shoes will be great as Sintra can be hilly like Lisbon.
Packing certain accessories like a scarf, hat, gloves, and thermal socks for the lower temperature days will also be a good idea. It was windy for my visit, and since it made the temperatures even cooler, I was glad I had all my extras to stay warm!
If you forget to pack any items for the weather, there are plenty of stores you can shop at in the center.
Is Sintra Worth Visiting in Winter?
Yes, Sintra is absolutely worth visiting in winter! As mentioned, it’s a great time to go due to fewer crowds and shorter waiting times for tourist attractions. In addition, it will be easier to catch a train if you’re coming from Lisbon.
The natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site will still shine in the winter months. You’ll be able to wander leisurely around the town’s center and various tourist attractions without worrying about swarms of tourists. This allows you to gain a more serene experience at this fairytale destination.
While the temperatures will be among the coldest of the year, don’t let that deter you. Visitors won’t have to deal with potentially intense heat from the summer months.
Best Things to Do in Sintra in January
Sintra offers a variety of exciting and unique activities to do. Everything from its majestic palaces to its lush greenery and gardens gives the town a unique and charming nature. Whether you’re a history fanatic, a nature lover, or want a memorable experience, Sintra has something for anybody!
As the peak tourist season falls in the summer months, locations are more pleasant to visit thanks to the reduced crowds. Next, we’ll look at some of the best things to do in Sintra in January to help you plan your trip.
✅Wander Around Pena Palace
Pena Palace is one of the most popular reasons Sintra is worth visiting. Pena Palace is located on a hill and is a magnificent castle that looks like it came out of a fairytale.
The palace, completed in the 19th century and demonstrates Neo-Gothic and Romanticist architecture. This castle is a must-visit with its bright colors, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and stunning gardens!
Be sure to check out its equally impressive interior, full of detail and gorgeous furnishings. Everything from the frescoes and royal decor will make visiting the palace an unforgettable experience.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Avoid your desired time being sold out by purchasing your tickets in advance here.
If you feel overwhelmed by navigating the palace, guided tours give great detail about the palace and its history.
➡️If coming from Lisbon, check out this excellent Group Tour to Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
✅Visit Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira is a captivating and mysterious estate in Sintra. This site is renowned for its stunning Romanticist architecture, lush gardens, and enigmatic symbolism.
Completed in the early 20th century, the palace features exquisite detailing, a chapel, and a vast park with winding paths, lakes, and tunnels.
The estate’s crown jewel is the Initiation Well, a deep, spiral staircase lined with moss-covered stone walls leading to an underground tunnel. Quinta da Regaleira is a mesmerizing place that exudes an air of mystery and intrigue. The attraction invites visitors to explore its hidden secrets and uncover its mystical symbolism.
It’s no surprise why tourists flock to this attraction.
✅Explore the Town Center
Sintra’s town center is a picturesque destination nestled in the lush forests of the Sintra Mountains. With its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic architecture, Sintra’s town center exudes a fairytale-like charm that visitors will appreciate.
The town center has numerous boutique shops, cozy cafes, and local traditional Portuguese cuisine restaurants. The prominent National Palace of Sintra, with its distinctive twin conical chimneys, draws in tourists with its rich history and architectural grandeur.
As visitors wander the town, they can immerse themselves in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Castle of the Moors.
✅Day Trip to Cascais
A day trip from Sintra to Cascais is a delightful adventure that takes visitors on a scenic journey along the stunning coastline of Portugal. Cascais, a charming town just a short distance from Sintra, is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
Upon arriving in Cascais, visitors can explore its quaint streets lined with colorful buildings, browse local shops, and indulge in delicious seafood at one of its many restaurants. One of the most popular attractions in Cascais is the Boca do Inferno, an impressive rock arch and cliff formation.
While there is no train between the two destinations, you can travel between them with the 1623 and 1624 buses.
If you’re staying in Lisbon and wondering about a great way to see Cascais and Sintra, some tours go to both destinations on the same day!
➡️I highly recommend this Sintra and Cascais Group Tour that leaves from Lisbon!
A fantastic way to see two stunning towns!
How Many Days in Sintra is Enough?
Sintra is an enchanting town with several different sites that can be experienced with one day or an extended stay. One day in Sintra will give you enough time to see its main attractions and even do it as a day trip from Lisbon.
It’s only around a 40-minute train or 30-minute drive from Lisbon, making it very feasible as a day trip. You can either rent a car or take an Uber or taxi if you opt out of a train.
However, with a stay of two to three days, you’ll be able to enjoy the attractions more leisurely and explore the town’s hidden gems. A more extended stay would also allow you to visit nearby towns such as Cascais and Colares.
Where to Stay in Sintra?
Staying in or near the town center is the best area in Sintra. This is where the most activity will be, and it has the best access to transportation methods. The center has different stores, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy homestay, a contemporary hotel, or a luxurious stay, there is something to cater to various budgets and preferences.
📍Tivoli Palacio de Seteais ($$$)– If you prefer an elegant stay when visiting Sintra, look no further than Tivoli Palacio de Seteais. Once a palace, this luxury 5-star hotel features a spa, swimming pool, and a bar. Amenities also include a tennis court, restaurant, and room service.
📍Sintra Boutique Hotel ($$)– This 4-star boutique hotel has an optimal location in Sintra’s center. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast, relax by the garden, and grab a drink at the bar. This hotel offers 24-hour front desk assistance, room service, and a restaurant.
📍Sintra Green Chalet Bed & Breakfast ($)– This comfortable guesthouse has a great location in the town center at a great rate. The rooms are simple yet cozy and are equipped with toiletries and coffee makers. In addition, the guesthouse has a shared kitchen if you want a home-cooked meal.
To Sum Up: Sintra in January
If you’re visiting Sintra in January, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s a great time and comes with several pros: fewer crowds, lower costs, and temperatures that are still warmer than much of Europe and North America.
While peak season has the warmest temperatures and tons of sun, it doesn’t matter when you come to Sintra. There is a chance for rainy and overcast days; however, you can still experience sunny days during the month too.
You are guaranteed an excellent time if you know what comes with visiting in January. I hope this post has assisted you if you are considering making a trip in January!
