7 Best Hotels in Sintra, Sintra, the Estoril Coast, and the Setúbal Peninsula

The oldest lodging on the Iberian peninsula, this 18th-century grande dame has hosted such illustrious guests as Lord Byron and, more recently, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. It's easy to see the appeal: the intimate rooms with beamed ceilings and wood floors are bathed in light from French windows. The ambience channels British high society from centuries past, right down to the five-o'clock tea with scones and jam. In the old-world restaurant, braised meats with berries and other local specialties are often served, alongside good plant-based options. A more informal restaurant-bar next door is a pleasant spot for late afternoon cocktails after a day's sightseeing.

Hidden among the rolling green hills of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, this dreamy resort has breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and the gorgeous grounds. Along with indoor and outdoor pools and a championship golf course, the resort's luxurious spa offers a private garden with thermal-regulated pools and a cascading waterfall. The resort has eight places to dine—including the restaurants LAB by Sergi Arola and Midori by Pedro Almeida, both holding Michelin stars—that consistently win awards for their cuisine. 

With its own winery on-site, chic boutique hotel Quinta Vale Da Roca will delight fans of Portugal's excellent vinhos. It's tucked away in the hills between Sintra and Cascais, and makes a relaxing retreat for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts as well as city-weary Lisboetas arriving by car. The eight spacious, stylishly appointed suites all have living areas and terraces with sweeping sea views, and even the fitness room and jacuzzi have been positioned to make the most of those panoramic vistas. A large outdoor infinity pool completes the picturesque scene, and there's a tasting room where the enthusiastic owners will introduce you to the estate's highly regarded wines.

Built in the 18th century as a home for the Dutch consul, this suitably grand hotel is surrounded by pristine grounds. You enter on the left side of an elaborate arch that joins the building's two wings. Inside, public rooms have period furnishings, delicate frescoes, and Arraiolos carpets; guest rooms are individually styled, some with hand-painted wallpapers. The elegant restaurant serves à la carte dishes and tasting menus. In summer, having coffee or tea on the terrace is a delight. A plush spa and outdoor pool are among the amenities.

Keen swimmers will be in their element at this family-focused hotel: not only does it sit right on the beachfront at Praia Grande, Colares, but it also boasts one of Europe's largest saltwater swimming pools. The 100-meter outdoor pool comes complete with diving boards, and a poolside bar and restaurant means adults can keep an eye on the kids while enjoying a drink and a snack. The hotel, which features in the 1982 Wim Wenders film The State of Things, is a local landmark, and regular refurbishments mean the rooms, restaurants, and communal areas all look cool and contemporary. Rooms are generously proportioned, and all have balconies facing the ocean.

Each of the eight suites in this candy-striped building dating from 1890 is named for a different palace (you might spot photos of your room's namesake on the walls). All have wrought-iron beds, polished tile floors, and have grand views of the countryside. The downstairs breakfast room opens onto a terrace. It's a little out of town, but you can pour yourself a drink from the honor bar and soak up the peaceful ambience.

A 20-minute stroll from the historic center of Sintra, this beautifully restored 19th-century estate sits among carefully maintained gardens with a pool shaded by fruit trees. The slightly remote location means it is wonderfully quiet at night, when the crowds of tourists in the town center feel a million miles away. Although it feels like taking a step back in time, Villa das Rosas offers modern must-haves such as Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs.