Convent of the Capuchos Sintra
A 16th-century Franciscan convent built into the forest, showcasing extreme simplicity and a deep connection with nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Convent of the Capuchos Sintra
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century Franciscan convent built into the forest, showcasing extreme simplicity and a deep connection with nature.
"A place of profound peace, where architecture and nature merge in stark, beautiful simplicity."
🚗 Taxi or Ride-Share Recommended
Public transport is limited. Taxis or ride-sharing from Sintra center are the easiest ways to reach the convent.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven paths and potentially some inclines. Good footwear is a must for exploring the grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cork Cells
Monastic Cells
Tiny, austere cells lined with cork, showcasing extreme monastic simplicity and a deep connection to nature.
Integration with Nature
Throughout the Convent Grounds
Buildings seamlessly blend into the forest, with moss-covered walls and natural rock formations becoming part of the architecture.
The Monastery's Simplicity
Main Convent Area
Experience a profound sense of peace in this Franciscan monastery, built with natural materials and devoid of luxury.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Simplicity: Prepare for a Minimalist Experience
Getting There: Plan Your Transport Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Taxi or Ride-Share Recommended
Public transport is limited. Taxis or ride-sharing from Sintra center are the easiest ways to reach the convent.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven paths and potentially some inclines. Good footwear is a must for exploring the grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a place of contemplation. Keep noise levels low to preserve the serene atmosphere. :personinlotus_position:
📅 Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, and the site may close for fire risk. Always check the official website before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Taxi or Ride-Share Recommended
Public transport is limited. Taxis or ride-sharing from Sintra center are the easiest ways to reach the convent.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven paths and potentially some inclines. Good footwear is a must for exploring the grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Respect the Silence
This is a place of contemplation. Keep noise levels low to preserve the serene atmosphere. :personinlotus_position:
📅 Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary, and the site may close for fire risk. Always check the official website before your visit.
🌳 Embrace the Natural Setting
The convent's beauty lies in its integration with the forest. Take time to appreciate the moss, trees, and rocks. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently struck by the Convent of the Capuchos' profound simplicity and its remarkable integration with the natural landscape. Many find the minimalist design and serene atmosphere deeply moving, offering a unique contrast to Sintra's more opulent attractions. Some note the limited amenities and the need for careful transport planning.
"Such a magical place. We bought tickets for a night guided tour. It was amazing. It was beyond our expectations. Even to get there was an adventure.I think everyone owes this place a visit just to see monks humble lifestyle and their respect for the nature. Beautiful and sad at the same time.
Guide Bertrand was very passionate and interesting. Highly recommended."
Ksenia Held
"If you are interested in History related to prayer & devotion..
Seeing how the friars lived, there devotion to faith is exceptional..🙏"
velma Fernandes
"It is breathtaking beautiful. A beautiful and peaceful place one created for prayer meditation to honor God so unlike your everyday convent evident by the humility in which, it is evident, the friars leaved! As you walk through the facolity you are transported to a different time, a period... a way of life different than ours. It is a place i recommend people definitely visit!"
Susan Ramos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way to reach the Convent of the Capuchos from Sintra is by taxi or ride-sharing service, as public transport options are limited. Some visitors suggest renting a car for more flexibility in exploring Sintra's more remote sites.
Yes, it is possible to visit without a car. Taxis or ride-sharing services from Sintra are a viable option.
The Convent of the Capuchos is approximately a 30-minute drive from Lisbon by car.
Direct public bus routes to the Convent of the Capuchos are not readily available. It's best to rely on taxis, ride-sharing, or a private tour.
The Convent of the Capuchos is located about 16km west of Sintra town and is not easily walkable from the main palaces like Pena Palace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While advance booking is highly recommended for Sintra's more popular attractions like Pena Palace, it's advisable to check the official Parques de Sintra website for the Convent of the Capuchos to see if advance purchase is necessary or offers any benefits.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change, especially due to fire risk. It's crucial to check the official Parques de Sintra website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee for the Convent of the Capuchos, managed by Parques de Sintra. Check their official website for current pricing.
The Convent of the Capuchos, along with other Sintra sites, has been subject to temporary closures due to fire risk. Always verify current status before visiting.
To experience the convent's tranquility, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and peak tourist seasons will naturally be busier.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Its uniqueness lies in its extreme simplicity and integration with nature. Built by Franciscans, it features tiny cork-lined cells and structures that seem to grow from the forest floor, offering a stark contrast to Sintra's grand palaces. 
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven terrain. Dress in layers as the forest can be cooler, and consider bringing water and snacks as facilities are limited. :athletic_shoe:
A visit typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the cells, cloisters, and surrounding natural landscape at a relaxed pace. :stopwatch:
While children can visit, the convent's minimalist and quiet nature might be less engaging for very young children compared to Sintra's more interactive palaces. It's best suited for families who appreciate history and nature. :child:
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful of other visitors and the serene atmosphere. Avoid flash photography in enclosed spaces. :camerawithflash:
🎫 🌳 Nature & Surroundings
The convent is nestled within the lush Sintra forest, characterized by ancient oak trees, ferns, and mosses. The architecture is designed to blend seamlessly with this natural environment.
Yes, the Convent of the Capuchos is integrated into the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, which is classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
The area surrounding the convent is part of the Sintra Mountains, offering opportunities for nature walks and exploration within the dense forest. :hiking_boot:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the quiet and contemplative atmosphere might not hold the attention of very young children for long. Ensure they have comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths and consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities are limited. It's best suited for families who appreciate historical sites and natural beauty, and who can encourage a respectful and quiet demeanor during the visit. :child:
🧘 Solo Travelers & Contemplatives
+1Take your time to wander the grounds, absorb the silence, and appreciate the profound connection between the architecture and the natural world. It's a place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with oneself. The lack of crowds on weekdays further enhances this solitary experience. :personinlotusposition: :evergreentree:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Franciscan Way of Life
+1The architecture itself reflects this philosophy. Structures are carved into the landscape, using natural rock formations and local materials like cork, stone, and wood. The goal was to minimize human impact and live in harmony with nature. This integration creates a unique atmosphere of peace and introspection, a stark contrast to the opulent lifestyles often associated with religious orders.
Visitors often remark on the profound sense of quiet and serenity that pervades the convent. It's a place that encourages reflection on a more minimalist existence and the beauty found in simplicity. The small scale of the cells and communal areas serves as a powerful reminder of the monks' dedication to a life free from material possessions and worldly comforts.
+1Navigating Sintra's Unique Transport
For those exploring multiple Sintra sites, renting a car can provide greater flexibility, allowing you to easily hop between attractions like the Convent of the Capuchos, Pena Palace, and Monserrate Palace. However, be prepared for narrow, winding roads and limited parking at some popular spots.
It's worth noting that public buses in Sintra primarily serve the main tourist hubs. While some hop-on-hop-off services exist, they may not have direct routes to the Convent of the Capuchos, making private transport or a dedicated taxi the most reliable options for reaching this more remote gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit