Convent of the Capuchos

The basics

The Capuchos Convent is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cultural Landscape of Sintra, offering insight into the lives of the monks who lived there. Take a guided tour of the complex for a deeper historical understanding. An audio guide also provides context as you explore. Day trips from Lisbon to Sintra often tour the convent, as well as Pena Palace, Castle of the Moors, and Cabo da Roca.

Things to know before you go

• The convent is a must-see for history buffs, spiritual travelers, and those looking for a serene escape from Lisbon.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.

• Due to the tight and restricted spaces within the convent, tours are not recommended for those suffering from claustrophobia.

How to get there

The convent sits about 4.5 miles (7.3 kilometers) from the village of Sintra along a remote road. With no public transportation to the convent, you’ll either have to hire a taxi, drive, or join a guided tour from either Sintra or Lisbon.

When to get there

Though it is located outside of Sintra, the convent grounds can still get busy during the high season (July and August), especially around midday. Plan to visit first thing in the morning during the spring or autumn if possible.

Residents and visitors

The convent’s most famous resident was Friar Honório, who spent 36 years in isolation before his death at age 95 in 1596. Lord Byron refers to the monk in his poem Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage. King Felipe I visited in 1581 and stated, “In all of my kingdoms, there are two things I have that greatly please me: El Escorial because it is so rich and the Convent of Santa Cruz because it is so poor.”

Ways to explore

Many visitors explore the Convent of the Capuchos as part of a guided tour from Lisbon that covers a selection of Sintra’s top landmarks. Tours typically offer round-trip transportation, some include entry tickets, and most add additional stops, such as Pena National Palace, Cabo da Roca, and occasionally destinations further afield such as Cascais, Óbidos, Nazaré, or Fátima.

Book a private tour if you’d like more flexibility and a personalized itinerary, plus the opportunity to state how long you’d like to spend at each stop or attraction.

Accessibility

Due to its historical nature and uneven ground, it may be difficult for wheelchair users to access the convent.

Age limits

None; children aged 5 and under enter for free.

What to pack

Camera, sun or rain protection, small bag

What to wear

Layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Littering, climbing on the ruins

Amenities

Ticket office, ticket vending machines

Address

The Convent of the Capuchos is located around a 30-minute drive from Sintra train station in a remote location. With limited public transportation, it’s best to travel by car—either independently, in a taxi, or on a guided tour.

Driving

If driving from Lisbon, take the IC219 followed by the EN247—once in Colares, head towards Cabo da Roca towards Pé da Serra, and turn left along the EN 247-3 until you get to the Convent of the Capuchos.

Public transportation

It’s easy to get to Sintra from Lisbon by train; however, once in Sintra, public transportation options to the convent are limited, so it’s best to get a taxi. Alternatively, head to the area on a guided tour that covers all transport.

Best times to visit

Due to its remote nature, it’s best to arrive earlier in the day, ideally in the morning close to opening time.

Best days to visit

Aim for a weekday visit to skip the potential Saturday and Sunday tourist crowds.

Best months to visit

Come during the warmer months of the year, such as March, April, or May, when the weather is usually good and crowds are fewer than in summer.

Special events

Festivals and special events: While the convent doesn’t hold festivals, the nearby town of Sintra hosts the Festival de Sintra—usually in June—with performing arts and music celebrations across the city’s landmarks.