Exploring the Enchantment of Sintra with Family

Lisbon Beckons!

Today, Lena and I embarked on a day trip to Lisbon, leaving the fairytale castles of Sintra behind for a taste of the capital's vibrant energy. It's always exciting to see how different, yet equally captivating, two places so close to each other can be. We were both eager to dive into Lisbon's rich history and bustling modern life.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Metamorphosis. It’s a charming little place, and I was excited to try it after reading some great reviews. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy – a perfect way to start our day. Lena particularly enjoyed the coffee, saying it was the best she'd had so far on this trip.


Experience exquisite Portuguese cuisine at Metamorphosis in Sintra - where tradition meets modern flavors.

Fueled up, we set off for our first destination: the Queluz National Palace. It was a relatively short train ride from Sintra, and soon we were standing before what's often called the Portuguese Versailles. The palace is beautiful, with its elegant architecture and stunning gardens. It felt like stepping back in time to the 18th century, imagining the royal family strolling through the manicured lawns and attending lavish parties. Lena, with her background as a kindergarten teacher, was particularly fascinated by the stories of the children who lived here, picturing their lives within these grand walls. I was impressed by the architecture and the intricate details in every room. The gardens were especially lovely, even in January, and we spent a good hour wandering through them, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere.


Explore the grandeur of Queluz National Palace, a historic gem showcasing the elegance of 18th-century Rococo architecture and stunning gardens.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

Next on our list was the Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé de Lisboa as the locals call it. After a short train ride into the heart of Lisbon, we found ourselves standing before this imposing Romanesque structure. The cathedral is the oldest church in Lisbon and has survived earthquakes and numerous renovations over the centuries. Inside, the atmosphere was serene and peaceful, a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. We lit a candle and took a moment to reflect. I found myself thinking about the layers of history contained within those walls, the countless prayers and hopes that had been offered here over the centuries. It was a humbling experience.


Explore the Lisbon Cathedral, a stunning blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, steeped in over 800 years of history and spirituality.

For lunch, we decided to try Petiscaria Casa, a place recommended for its authentic Portuguese tapas. We weren't disappointed. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a selection of petiscos – small dishes – including grilled chorizo, cod cakes, and marinated olives. Everything was delicious, bursting with flavor and made with fresh, local ingredients. Lena especially loved the cod cakes, declaring them the best she'd ever tasted. I enjoyed the grilled chorizo, which had a smoky, spicy kick. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of sightseeing.


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

Our final stop for the day was the Oceanário de Lisboa, located in the Parque das Nações. This modern aquarium is one of the largest in Europe, and it was truly an awe-inspiring experience. We spent hours wandering through the various exhibits, marveling at the incredible diversity of marine life. From playful sea otters to graceful sharks, from colorful coral reefs to deep-sea creatures, there was something to fascinate everyone. Lena was particularly excited to see the sea otters, which she had been talking about since we planned the trip. I was mesmerized by the massive central tank, which held a variety of large fish, sharks, and rays. It felt like stepping into another world, a world of silent beauty and endless wonder.


Explore the captivating marine life and ecosystems at the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of Europe's largest aquariums, located in vibrant Lisbon.

Before heading back to Sintra, we made a quick stop at ZID lounge Bar for a nightcap. This place had been recommended to us for its relaxed atmosphere and great cocktails. We sipped on some local wine, reminiscing about the day's adventures and enjoying the lively ambiance.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sintra at ZID Lounge Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Dona Maria, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. After our tapas lunch, we were looking forward to a more substantial meal. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I decided to try the *feijoada*, a hearty bean stew with various meats, while Lena opted for the grilled fish. Both dishes were delicious, showcasing the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine. We left feeling satisfied and content, our bellies full and our hearts happy.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine in the heart of Sintra at Dona Maria—where every meal tells a story.

As we made our way back to Sintra Bliss Hotel, we reflected on the day. Lisbon had exceeded our expectations, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It was a day filled with unforgettable experiences, from the grandeur of Queluz National Palace to the serenity of Lisbon Cathedral, from the flavors of Portuguese tapas to the wonders of the Oceanário de Lisboa. It was a day that we would cherish for years to come.


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.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Parque Nacional da Pena and Cabo da Roca. I'm particularly excited about Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. I've heard the views are breathtaking, and I can't wait to experience them firsthand. We're also hoping to visit the Sintra Science Workshop, which sounds like a fun and educational experience. And of course, we'll be indulging in some more delicious Portuguese cuisine along the way! I think Lena is keen to visit Casa Vidi, as she wants to buy some souvenirs before we leave.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” I feel like with every day, every new experience, we are turning another page in our own travel book. And I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings!