Solo Adventure in Enchanting Sintra

A Day of Discovery in Sintra

Today was a day of unexpected delights, a journey into the less-trodden paths of Sintra. I ventured beyond the palaces and gardens, eager to uncover the town's hidden gems. It was a day of science, history, and art, a reminder that Sintra offers more than just its fairytale facade. I was excited to see what hidden treasures I could find, and to share them with you all.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at COMO Restaurante. I opted for the Portuguese Benedict, curious to taste the local twist on this classic dish. The Linguica sausage added a spicy kick, a delightful start to a day of exploration. Fuelled and ready, I set off to my first destination: the Sintra Science Workshop.


Explore the interactive exhibits of Sintra Science Workshop, where curiosity meets creativity in a captivating cultural experience.

Sintra Science Workshop: Unleashing My Inner Child

The Sintra Science Workshop was an absolute blast. It’s not every day that I get to unleash my inner child and dive into the world of science with such enthusiasm. I must admit, I was initially drawn in by the promise of interactive exhibits. It's a fantastic place for kids, but it was great fun for me too. It was a refreshing change of pace from the historical sites, offering a chance to engage with something completely different. I found myself engrossed in the hands-on displays, learning about physics, chemistry, and biology in a way that felt both educational and entertaining. It was great to see children's faces light up with curiosity as they conducted experiments and explored scientific principles.

Museu de História Natural de Sintra: A Journey Through Time

Next on my list was the Museu de História Natural de Sintra, a place that promised a journey through time. I've always been fascinated by natural history, and this museum did not disappoint. Housed in a 19th-century building, the museum boasts a collection of over 10,000 fossils, minerals, and other natural artifacts. The exhibit begins with the formation of the Early Earth and the changes it underwent over millions of years, over different Geological Periods spanning from the Pre-Cambrian to the Quaternary, revealing the entire evolution of the life through the Municipal Palaeontology, Mineralogy, Malacology, and Petrography collections, originating from the most diverse parts of the world. I was particularly impressed by the dinosaur fossils and the meteorite collection. It was amazing to see pieces from all continents on the planet. The museum’s star attraction, the Blaesodactylus sp, a flying reptile from Brazil, was a sight to behold. I spent a good couple of hours wandering through the exhibits, learning about the Earth's history and the evolution of life.


Explore the Museu de História Natural de Sintra, where fascinating natural history exhibits meet the enchanting beauty of Sintra.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Anjos Teixeira Museum: Sculptures that Speak

After my prehistoric adventure, I headed to the Anjos Teixeira Museum. Tucked away in a former watermill, this museum showcases the works of two great Portuguese sculptors, father and son Artur Gaspar and Pedro Augusto dos Anjos Teixeira. Their creations, ranging from naturalist to neo-realist styles, explore themes of human and animal anatomy, work, freedom, and historical figures. I was moved by the sculptures' raw emotion and technical skill. It was fascinating to see how both artists explored similar themes through different lenses. The museum itself is a charming space, and I enjoyed learning about the history of the building and the artists' lives. I was particularly touched by the story of Pedro Augusto dos Anjos Teixeira, who donated his and his father's work to the Sintra City Council. It was inspiring to see his dedication to sharing his art with the public. The museum is located in a property constructed in the early 20th century to house a water-mill, in Azinhaga da Sardinha, driven by water from River Porto.


Explore the vibrant collection of contemporary art at Museu Anjos Teixeira in Sintra, a cultural hub surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

A Vida Portuguesa: A Nostalgic Shopping Trip

With my cultural appetite satisfied, it was time for some retail therapy. I made my way to A Vida Portuguesa, a shop that I had read about before arriving in Sintra. This charming store sells traditional Portuguese products with a retro twist. From soaps and perfumes to toys and kitchenware, everything in the shop evokes a sense of nostalgia. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs for Hans and Saoirse, little reminders of our trip to Portugal. The shop itself is a feast for the eyes, with its high wooden cabinets and beautifully displayed products. I felt like I had stepped back in time, surrounded by the sights and smells of old Portugal.


Explore A Vida Portuguesa in Lisbon for authentic Portuguese home goods, artisanal treasures, and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Portugal.

Curral dos Caprinos: A Taste of Tradition

For lunch, I ventured a little outside the center of Sintra to Curral dos Caprinos, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant’s location, in a former sheep and goat farm, added to its rustic charm. I decided to try the roast kid, a local specialty. The meat was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection. The portions were generous, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It felt like I was dining in someone's home, surrounded by family and friends. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Curral dos Caprinos in Sintra, where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.

Petiscaria Casa: A Culinary Finale

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Petiscaria Casa for dinner. This restaurant, known for its petiscos (Portuguese tapas), offered a perfect way to end my day of exploration. I sampled a variety of dishes, from seafood to meat, each one bursting with flavor. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and I enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff. It was the perfect way to reflect on the day's adventures and savor the flavors of Sintra.


Experience authentic Portuguese petiscos in the heart of Sintra at Petiscaria Casa – where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Convento dos Capuchos, Quinta da Ribafria, and Gruta do Labirinto. I am also hoping to enjoy a drink at ZID lounge Bar. I am looking forward to another day of discovery in this enchanting town.

Today was a testament to the fact that Sintra is a town that continues to surprise and delight. It's a place where history, science, and art come together in unexpected ways. As I head back to the Sintra Bliss Hotel, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this magical place. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, what new adventures await me in this enchanting corner of Portugal. As I always say, the best view comes after the hardest climb, and I look forward to climbing more of Sintra tomorrow.


Discover the charm of Sintra at Sintra Bliss Hotel, a cozy retreat in the heart of the city with modern amenities and easy access to iconic landmarks.

And as I settled in for the night, I realized how much I missed Hans and Saoirse. I imagined Saoirse's eyes widening at the dinosaur fossils, and Hans's appreciation for the Anjos Teixeira sculptures. I promised myself to bring them back to Sintra someday, to share these experiences with the people I love most. For now, I'll have to settle for sharing my stories with you, my dear readers. Goodnight from Sintra!