Mafra National Palace Lisbon
A monumental Baroque palace and convent, home to a world-renowned library and opulent royal apartments.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Mafra National Palace Lisbon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Baroque palace and convent, home to a world-renowned library and opulent royal apartments.
"Step back in time at this breathtaking palace, a true gem of Portuguese history and architecture."
Book tickets in advance
Avoid long queues by purchasing your tickets online before your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast palace and grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Royal Palace
Mafra National Palace
Explore the opulent royal apartments, a testament to Portugal's monarchy and baroque grandeur.
The Basilica
Mafra National Palace
Marvel at the magnificent basilica, a central piece of the complex with impressive architecture.
The Library
Mafra National Palace
Discover one of the world's most beautiful libraries, housing thousands of rare books.
The Convent
Mafra National Palace
Wander through the former convent, offering a glimpse into monastic life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds in Sintra
Getting to Mafra National Palace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets in advance
Avoid long queues by purchasing your tickets online before your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast palace and grounds.
Consider a guided tour
Enhance your understanding of the palace's history and architecture.
Combine with Sintra sites
Mafra is often visited alongside other Sintra attractions for a full day trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets in advance
Avoid long queues by purchasing your tickets online before your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast palace and grounds.
Consider a guided tour
Enhance your understanding of the palace's history and architecture.
Combine with Sintra sites
Mafra is often visited alongside other Sintra attractions for a full day trip.
Check for free entry days
Portuguese residents can visit for free on Sundays and holidays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and grandeur of Mafra National Palace, particularly its magnificent Royal Library and Basilica. While some find the journey from Lisbon a bit time-consuming, the historical richness and architectural splendor make it a worthwhile destination. It's often praised for being less crowded than other Sintra attractions, offering a more serene experience.
"Mafra Palace is truly unforgettable. The scale is simply beyond imagination – endless corridors that seem to stretch forever, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the grandeur. The rooms are beautifully consistent in their style, so you never get distracted by sudden changes or surprises.
The atmosphere is calm and undisturbed, with very few exhibits to clutter the space – a refreshing change from other overcrowded attractions. You can easily spend hours wandering without being interrupted by anything that might break the serene emptiness.
Highly recommended for those who appreciate space, silence, and the rare luxury of having so little to look at."
Andrey M
"This imposing Palace from the reign of King João V is the most important example of Baroque architecture in Portugal. It is the only national monument that incorporates a Royal Palace, a Basilica and a Monastery.
It covers more than 40,000 m2 and has 1,200 rooms, many of which are unique. The Library is an example of this, housing knowledge in a collection of over 36,000 volumes."
Jonathan Parr
"Beautiful Palace. My husband is Portuguese so he didn't pay for the entrance and since half of it had just been closed for renovation; literally the day before we went, ticket was half price. Definitely will come back to see the rest of the tour."
Monica Iraheta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Mafra National Palace from Lisbon is by car or ride-sharing service like Uber, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Public transport involves taking a bus from Campo Grande station in Lisbon, which can take over an hour.
Yes, Mafra National Palace is often included in a day trip from Lisbon that also visits Sintra's other attractions. It's a bit further out than the main Sintra sites but easily accessible.
It's possible to visit Mafra National Palace and some Sintra palaces in one day, but it will be a very packed itinerary. Consider prioritizing or dedicating separate days if you want to explore thoroughly.
If you're visiting both Sintra and Mafra in one day, using Uber or a pre-booked taxi is the most efficient way to travel between them, saving time compared to public transport.
Yes, there is parking available near Mafra National Palace, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, admission to Mafra National Palace is affordable. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts.
While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues and guarantee entry.
Opening hours can change seasonally. Typically, the palace is open from morning to late afternoon, but it's advisable to check the official website for current operating times before your visit.
Yes, Mafra National Palace offers free admission to Portuguese residents on Sundays and national holidays.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance, but to save time and ensure entry, especially during busy periods, purchasing online in advance is the preferred method.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning Royal Library, the grand Basilica, the opulent Royal Apartments, and the former Convent. Each section offers a unique glimpse into the palace's history and grandeur. 
To fully appreciate Mafra National Palace, allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit. If you're combining it with other sites, you might need more time.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the vast palace and its many rooms. The sheer scale and history can be captivating for younger visitors.
Guided tours are often available and can greatly enhance your understanding of the palace's rich history and architectural details. Check onsite for availability or book in advance.
Mafra National Palace is a prime example of Portuguese Baroque architecture, with neoclassical influences. Its monumental scale and ornate decoration are characteristic of the era.
📸 📸 Photography
The Royal Library, the Basilica's interior, and the exterior facade offer incredible photographic opportunities. The intricate tilework, known as azulejos, is also a popular subject.
Photography is generally allowed inside Mafra National Palace, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artifacts and artworks. Always check for signage.
Morning light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while late afternoon can offer softer light for interiors. Consider the direction of the sun when planning your shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and national monuments to ensure safety and preservation. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for both wide shots of the architecture and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the library and basilica. A tripod might be helpful for low-light interiors, but check if they are allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sheer size of the complex means there's plenty of space to explore. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options within the palace might be limited. The journey itself, especially if using a car or Uber, can be part of the adventure.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the intricate details of the architecture, the religious art within the Basilica, and the historical artifacts in the Royal Apartments. The library, with its collection of rare books, offers a unique insight into the intellectual life of the era.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magnificent Royal Library
+1Visitors often describe the library as feeling like stepping back in time. The intricate details, from the carved wooden shelves to the ornate chandeliers, create an atmosphere of grandeur and scholarly pursuit. It's a testament to the wealth and intellectual curiosity of the Portuguese monarchy during the 18th century.
When visiting, take your time to absorb the atmosphere. While you can't touch the books, simply being in their presence and admiring the architectural splendor is an unforgettable experience. It's a highlight that many visitors rave about and a key reason to make the journey to Mafra.
+1Planning Your Sintra Day Trip
Many travelers suggest prioritizing Mafra National Palace for its grandeur and fewer crowds compared to some of Sintra's more popular spots. If you're short on time, consider visiting Mafra and perhaps one or two key Sintra attractions, rather than trying to see everything. Booking tickets in advance for all sites is crucial to avoid disappointment and long waits.
For an efficient day, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber to navigate between these spread-out locations. This can save significant time compared to relying solely on public transport, allowing you to make the most of your day exploring these historical gems.
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