Exploring the Enchantment of Sintra with Family

First Impressions of a Fairytale: Sintra Beckons

After months of anticipation, Lena and I finally set foot in Sintra, ready to explore its famed palaces and enchanting landscapes. The journey from Berlin was smooth, and the train ride from Lisbon offered a tantalizing preview of the natural beauty that awaited us. I was particularly excited to share this experience with Lena, hoping that Sintra would captivate her as much as it had captured my imagination. As a sound engineer, I am always keen to experience new soundscapes, and Sintra, with its mix of natural and historical sounds, promises to be a symphony for the ears.



Our first stop was the National Palace of Sintra, right in the heart of town. From the outside, the palace is striking, with its bright white facade and those distinctive conical chimneys that I had read so much about. Inside, we were immediately transported back in time. The palace is a fascinating mix of architectural styles, reflecting the many centuries it served as a royal residence. The Manueline and Moorish influences were particularly striking, with intricate tile work and ornate ceilings that told stories of Portugal's rich history.


Experience the majestic beauty and rich history of the National Palace of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and architectural gem in Portugal.

We wandered through the various rooms, each more impressive than the last. Lena was particularly taken by the Swan Room, with its ceiling adorned with paintings of swans, each slightly different from the others. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the Magpie Room, where legend has it that King John I had the ceiling painted with magpies to silence gossiping court members. The acoustics in the rooms were also remarkable; I couldn't help but imagine the sounds of royal banquets and courtly intrigue echoing through the halls.

The true voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After immersing ourselves in the palace's history, we ventured into the mystical world of Quinta da Regaleira. This place is like stepping into a surrealist painting. The gardens are a labyrinth of hidden tunnels, grottoes, and wells, each with its own symbolic meaning. The Initiation Well was particularly awe-inspiring – a deep, spiraling staircase leading down into the earth, designed for esoteric rituals. Lena and I explored the tunnels hand in hand, marveling at the sense of mystery and wonder that permeated the air. It felt like we were characters in a fantasy novel, uncovering secrets with every step.


Explore the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, where Gothic architecture meets lush gardens and rich symbolism in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

By late afternoon, we decided to delve into Sintra's mythical side at the Sintra Mitos & Lendas (Myths and Legends) interactive center. It was a fun, engaging experience that brought the local legends to life through multimedia displays and sensory experiences. Lena, with her kindergarten teacher background, appreciated the way the center made history accessible and exciting. I found myself particularly drawn to the stories of the Moorish occupation and the legends of enchanted forests and magical creatures. It added another layer of depth to our understanding of Sintra's unique character.


Explore the enchanting legends of Sintra at Sintra Mitos & Lendas, a captivating museum that celebrates the rich folklore and history of this magical town.

As the day drew to a close, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time to sample some of Sintra's culinary delights. For breakfast, we had started our day at Sintra Terrace, a modest tapas bar with pretty views. The complimentary bread was substantial and we enjoyed the views. For lunch, we chose Romaria de Baco, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Tucked away on a side street near the National Palace, it felt like a hidden gem. The medieval atmosphere and cabin vibes made it a unique experience. We shared a variety of petiscos (Portuguese tapas), including garlic shrimp, mushrooms, and cod cakes, each bursting with flavor. Lena particularly enjoyed the slow-cooked pork with mashed potatoes, while I savored the local wine, which perfectly complemented the meal. The service was a little slow, but the staff were very friendly. The prices were extremely affordable, which was a bonus.


Experience exquisite dining at Sintra Terrace, where delicious local cuisine meets stunning panoramic views in the heart of Sintra.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Romaria de Baco in Sintra's historic center – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

For dinner, we decided to try A Raposa, drawn in by its promise of traditional Portuguese dishes in an elegant setting. The interior was indeed grand, and the menu offered a tempting selection of local delicacies. We started with caldo verde, a traditional Portuguese soup made with potatoes, kale, and chorizo, followed by arroz de marisco, a flavorful seafood rice dish. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a romantic evening. I was very impressed by the local delicacies and international dishes prepared by Chef Sergio.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at A Raposa in Sintra, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.

To cap off our first day in Sintra, we decided to check out Casa do Fauno, a bar known for its medieval-themed decor and lively atmosphere. Tucked away beside Quinta da Regaleira, it was a bit tricky to find, but well worth the effort. The bar was filled with quirky decorations, and the music was a mix of medieval tunes and contemporary rock. We sampled some local beers and chatted with the friendly bartenders, soaking in the unique vibe. It felt like stepping back in time, and I couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to record the sounds of a medieval tavern.


Discover Casa do Fauno, a unique pub and bookstore in Sintra, where literature meets leisure in a charming atmosphere.

As we walked back to our hotel, Sintra Bliss Hotel, under the starlit sky, Lena and I reflected on our first day in Sintra. It had been a whirlwind of palaces, myths, and flavors, a sensory feast that had left us both enchanted. The Sintra Bliss Hotel was family-friendly and situated in the heart of Sintra, which made it an ideal base for our exploration. I felt a sense of excitement for the days ahead, eager to uncover more of Sintra's hidden treasures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Park and Palace of Monserrate, the Moorish Castle, and the Chalet of the Countess of Edla. I'm particularly excited about the Moorish Castle, as I've always been fascinated by medieval fortifications. I'm also looking forward to exploring the Sintra Centre, as I'm always on the lookout for unique souvenirs and local crafts.


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.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy an umbrella tomorrow. We had forgotten to pack one, and the weather forecast predicted a chance of rain. I also realized that my phone was running low on battery, so I added a portable charger to my shopping list. As a sound engineer, I rely heavily on my phone for recording sounds and taking notes, so it's essential to keep it charged. Despite these minor oversights, I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that our Sintra adventure had only just begun.