Biester Palace - Manor Kuskovo, Moscow
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Biester Palace

4.7
·864 reviews·Sintra, Portugal

Discover Biester Palace, a Sintra gem with opulent interiors, enchanting gardens, and a cinematic past as a filming location for 'The Ninth Gate'.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoons

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
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Biester Palace - Manor Kuskovo, Moscow

Biester Palace

Best Time

Late afternoons

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Biester Palace, a Sintra gem with opulent interiors, enchanting gardens, and a cinematic past as a filming location for 'The Ninth Gate'.

4.7
(864 reviews)

"Absolutely incredible palace. There was also no crowds around 5:30pm, and I had the whole place to myself."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Consider booking your tickets in advance to secure your spot and potentially save time.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring both the palace and extensive gardens, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Palace Interiors

The Palace Interiors

Inside Biester Palace

Explore fully furnished rooms showcasing exquisite design and a glimpse into a bygone era of opulence.

Enchanting Gardens

Enchanting Gardens

Gardens of Biester Palace

Wander through meticulously maintained gardens with diverse flora, offering beautiful viewpoints and a serene atmosphere.

Filming Location for 'The Ninth Gate'

Filming Location for 'The Ninth Gate'

Biester Palace exterior and grounds

Discover the mysterious ambiance that attracted filmmakers, imagining Johnny Depp walking these very grounds.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Biester Palace

Biester Palace, a hidden gem in Sintra, offers a more intimate experience than its famous neighbors. Opened to the public recently, it's less crowded, especially later in the day. Plan your visit to avoid peak times for a truly serene exploration of its opulent interiors and enchanting gardens. TikTok

Unlock the Mysteries of Biester Palace

Step into the world of 'The Ninth Gate' at Biester Palace, a filming location for the Johnny Depp movie. This lesser-known estate boasts stunning architecture and a rich history. Arrive prepared to be captivated by its 'old money' vibe and intricate details. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Late afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, magical light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend tourist rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Abriu ao público no dia 30 de abril 👌🏻 #fyp #sintra #portugal #fypage
@vensouficasblog
13.7K likes • 149.3K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Consider booking your tickets in advance to secure your spot and potentially save time. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring both the palace and extensive gardens, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

Palácio Biester is one of the lesser known mysterious estates in Sintra, only opened to the public in 2022. It was designed by a famous portuguese architect José Luís Monteiro, the same mind behind the beautiful Rossio Railway Station in Lisbon. Biester Palace also served as a filming location for Roman Polanski’s «The Ninth Gate» with Johnny Depp (1999). 📍 Palácio e Parque Biester, Sintra #portug...
@lisbonweekendtrips
9K likes • 84.7K views
Old Money Vibe in Lisbon. ⎯⎯⎯⎯ 𝄞 ⎯⎯⎯⎯ Biester Palace, Sintra — the place where “The Ninth Gate” with Johnny Depp was filmed. Classy atmosphere. Elegant people, true old money vibes. Afrohouse echoing through the palace walls. Thank you, @iammariasenn for showing me this side of Lisbon. And special thanks to @valtinhodelcampo for creating unforgettable vibes and classy events that stay in the so...
oleg.serafyn
132 likes • 0 views

⏳ Allow 1-2 Hours

Allocate enough time to fully appreciate the palace interiors and the beautiful, sprawling gardens. Reddit

📸 Capture the Vibe

The palace and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with the 'old money' aesthetic. :camerawithflash:

🌺✨ Baile da Flor | Danças com História no Palácio Biester 📅 20 de setembro | 🕒 15h30 | 📍 Palácio Biester, Sintra Celebre as Jornadas Europeias do Património com uma viagem ao Renascimento, através das danças históricas que homenageiam o património floral de Sintra. 🌿💃 Entre miradouros, jardins exuberantes e espécies raras, assista a um espetáculo único com Pavanas, Galhardas, Spanholetas e Casca...
biesterpalace
81 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Consider booking your tickets in advance to secure your spot and potentially save time. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring both the palace and extensive gardens, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:

⏳ Allow 1-2 Hours

Allocate enough time to fully appreciate the palace interiors and the beautiful, sprawling gardens. Reddit

📸 Capture the Vibe

The palace and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with the 'old money' aesthetic. :camerawithflash:

📍 Ask About Milena!

If you meet Milena, the castle attendant, you're in for a treat! She's known for being marvelous and helpful. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(864 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Biester Palace's magnificent interiors and meticulously detailed gardens, often comparing them to fairytale settings. The 'old money' vibe and the palace's role as a filming location for 'The Ninth Gate' add to its allure. While generally not crowded, some visitors noted occasional garden closures due to maintenance.

"Magnificent place. Palace with full of knowledge and high taste of design. Perfectly detailed every centimeter of the palace and its yard. Yard full of trees and bushes. Worth to visit in any kind of temperature and weather."

Shalva Getsadze

"What a beautiful Garden! It reminded me for some reason about the beauty & the beast castle. I love how much effort was put in the garden and each individual section. It took us about 2 hours to look at everything and enjoy all the different view points and plants. Unfortunately some of the garden was closed off due to some fallen trees. But we most definitely will be back to explore the rest. Staff was very friendly and helpful."

Sanja Bono

"The castle and grounds are beautiful. It was not crowded. The rooms are fully furnished and give you a great idea of what living there must have been like. The castle attendant, Milena, is marvelous, charismatic and was extremely helpful. I highly recommend visiting.

Randy, San Francisco, CA"

Randall Sylvester

What People Like

Magnificent palace interiors
Beautifully detailed gardens
Less crowded experience

What People Dislike

Occasional garden closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Biester Palace from Lisbon is by taking a train from Rossio Station to Sintra. From Sintra station, you can walk to the palace (about 20-30 minutes) or take a local bus or taxi. Some visitors opt for e-bikes to explore Sintra's hilly terrain. Reddit

While the train from Lisbon is convenient, getting around Sintra itself can involve hills. Biester Palace is walkable from the town center, but consider local buses or ride-sharing for easier access, especially if you have mobility concerns. Reddit

Driving to Sintra and Biester Palace is possible, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. It's often recommended to park in Sintra town and walk or use local transport to reach the palace. Reddit

Many visitors combine Biester Palace with other Sintra attractions. Consider a day trip from Lisbon by train and then using local buses or walking to navigate between sites. Renting an e-bike is also a popular option for families. Reddit

Absolutely! Biester Palace is an excellent addition to a Sintra day trip from Lisbon. You can easily reach Sintra by train and spend a few hours exploring the palace and its grounds before returning to Lisbon. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Biester Palace is typically around 15 euros per adult. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking your Biester Palace tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to guarantee entry and potentially avoid queues. Reddit

Biester Palace generally opens in the afternoon, often around 1:00 PM or later, and closes in the early evening. It's best to verify the exact opening and closing times on their official website before your visit. TikTok

Yes, Biester Palace occasionally hosts special exhibitions and events, such as art displays or historical dance performances. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements. TikTokInstagram

There is no strict dress code for Biester Palace, but it's a place of historical significance and beauty. Dressing comfortably and respectfully is recommended, especially for exploring the interiors. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore both the palace interiors and the gardens thoroughly. However, you can easily spend longer if you wish to linger and soak in the atmosphere. Reddit

Compared to other Sintra palaces, Biester Palace is generally less crowded. Visiting later in the afternoon, especially around 5:30 PM, can offer a very serene experience with few other visitors. Reddit

The gardens are a highlight, featuring diverse trees, bushes, and beautiful viewpoints. Some areas might be temporarily closed due to maintenance, but the overall experience is enchanting and reminiscent of fairytale settings. Reddit

Yes, the rooms in Biester Palace are fully furnished, providing an excellent sense of what life was like for its former inhabitants. This detail greatly enhances the visitor experience. Reddit

Visitors highly recommend climbing to the overlook viewpoint within the palace grounds for incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Biester Palace, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or in certain exhibition areas. Instagram

The palace interiors, with their elegant decor, and the meticulously landscaped gardens offer numerous picturesque spots. Don't miss the overlook viewpoint for stunning vistas. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites like Biester Palace to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

The 'old money' aesthetic and the palace's historical charm lend themselves well to elegant, atmospheric photography. Consider capturing details of the architecture and the lush garden landscapes. Instagram

For professional photoshoots or commercial filming, you will likely need to obtain special permission and potentially pay a fee. Contact the palace administration in advance for such requests. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Biester Palace can be a wonderful experience for families, offering a blend of history and enchanting gardens. While younger children might not grasp the full historical context, the beautiful gardens can spark their imagination, perhaps reminding them of fairytale settings. Reddit The palace interiors, with their furnished rooms, can also be engaging for older children who can appreciate the visual details. Reddit

Practical Tip: Consider visiting later in the afternoon when crowds are thinner, allowing children more space to explore. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there will be walking involved in both the palace and the extensive grounds. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

At around 15 euros, Biester Palace offers good value for money, especially considering the detailed interiors and expansive gardens. It's a more intimate experience than some of Sintra's larger, more crowded attractions. Reddit Tip: Pack your own snacks and water to save on potential on-site costs. The palace is also a great option if you're looking for a less tourist-heavy experience in Sintra. Reddit

💖 Couples

Biester Palace offers a romantic and elegant setting, perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated outing. The 'old money' vibe and the beautifully maintained gardens provide a charming backdrop for a leisurely stroll and intimate conversations. Instagram Consider visiting in the late afternoon for a more serene and atmospheric experience, perhaps followed by a sunset view from the overlook. Reddit

🎬 Film Buffs

For fans of Roman Polanski's 'The Ninth Gate,' Biester Palace is a must-visit. You can walk in the footsteps of Johnny Depp and explore the very locations that lent the film its mysterious ambiance. TikTok Imagine the scenes unfolding as you tour the palace and its grounds, adding a unique layer to your visit. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of Biester Palace

Biester Palace is a testament to Portuguese architectural brilliance, designed by the renowned José Luís Monteiro, the same architect behind Lisbon's iconic Rossio Railway Station. The palace, built in the early 20th century, showcases a distinctive style that blends historical influences with modern sensibilities. Its interiors are a showcase of high taste and design, with every centimeter meticulously detailed, offering visitors a rich visual experience. TikTok

The palace's design emphasizes elegance and a sense of grandeur, contributing to its 'old money' vibe. The attention to detail extends from the ornate ceilings and intricate woodwork to the carefully selected furnishings that evoke a bygone era. This commitment to aesthetic quality makes Biester Palace a standout example of Portuguese architectural heritage. Instagram

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the palace's historical significance is amplified by its role as a filming location for Roman Polanski's film 'The Ninth Gate,' starring Johnny Depp. This connection adds a layer of mystique and intrigue, drawing visitors who are fans of the film or simply appreciate its cinematic history. TikTok

Exploring the Enchanting Gardens of Biester Palace

The gardens of Biester Palace are as captivating as the palace itself, offering a serene escape with a touch of fairytale magic. Visitors often compare their beauty to the castle in 'Beauty and the Beast,' highlighting the immense effort put into their creation and maintenance. The gardens are a vibrant tapestry of trees, bushes, and diverse plant species, meticulously arranged to create picturesque viewpoints and tranquil pathways. Reddit

While exploring, you might encounter some areas temporarily closed due to natural events, such as fallen trees, but the accessible sections still provide a delightful experience. The effort invested in each individual section of the garden is evident, making it a joy to wander through. The lush greenery and varied flora create a refreshing contrast to the palace's interiors, offering a different kind of beauty to admire. Reddit

For those seeking the best views, make sure to ascend to the overlook viewpoint within the garden grounds. This elevated spot offers incredible panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, providing a perfect opportunity for photography and a moment of quiet contemplation. The gardens are truly a highlight, contributing significantly to the overall charm and appeal of Biester Palace. Reddit

Biester Palace: A Cinematic Gem

Biester Palace gained international recognition as a key filming location for Roman Polanski's supernatural thriller, 'The Ninth Gate,' starring Johnny Depp. The palace's mysterious and opulent atmosphere perfectly suited the film's dark and intriguing narrative, making it an iconic backdrop for several scenes. This cinematic connection adds a unique allure for visitors interested in film history and the mystique surrounding the movie. TikTok

The 'old money' vibe and the elegant, somewhat secluded nature of Biester Palace made it an ideal choice for filmmakers seeking a location that exuded both grandeur and an air of secrecy. Walking through the palace and its grounds, visitors can easily imagine the scenes from the movie unfolding, adding an extra layer of immersion to their visit. Instagram

This association with 'The Ninth Gate' has contributed to Biester Palace's reputation as a place of hidden depths and captivating stories. It’s a destination that appeals not only to those interested in architecture and history but also to fans of cinema looking to step into the world of their favorite films. TikTok

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