Built from 1747 for the future King Pedro III, the National Palace of Queluz was originally created as a summer residence for the Portuguese Royal Family.
Later, between 1794 and 1807, it became a permanent royal residence, until the Portuguese court left for Brazil during the French invasions.
Today, the palace is one of the best places near Lisbon to see how the Portuguese court lived during the 18th and early 19th centuries.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful rooms decorated in Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles, including the Throne Room, the Music Room and the impressive Hall of Ambassadors.
🌿 Don’t skip the gardens
They were an important part of life at the palace. The royal court used them for parties, theatre, music, hunting and even gondola rides along the tiled canal.
You can still walk through the French style gardens, see the fountains and sculptures and visit the Canal dos Azulejos, one of my favourite parts of Queluz.
👑 One interesting detail
D. Pedro IV, known in Brazil as Emperor Pedro I, was born at Queluz Palace and later died there, in the same room, the Quarto D. Quixote. He was only 35 years old.
🍰 And while you’re in the area...
If you have a car, make a small detour to nearby Belas and try a Fofo de Belas.
These small sponge cakes filled with custard and covered with sugar have been made at the famous Casa dos Fofos de Belas since 1850, traditionally baked in a wood fired oven.
🚆 Getting there
Queluz is easy to reach from Lisbon. You can take the Sintra train line from Rossio, Oriente or Entrecampos and get off at Queluz-Belas or Monte Abraão. From either station, it is around a 15 minute walk to the palace.
If you are driving, take the IC19 and the Queluz-Palácio exit.
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