Family Adventure in Enchanting Sintra

First Day Fairytale: Sintra's Royal Embrace

After months of planning and dreaming, our family adventure in Sintra has finally begun! The journey from Berlin to Lisbon was smooth, and the train ride to Sintra offered glimpses of Portugal's stunning countryside. I was excited to finally show Hans and Sophie the place I had been talking about for so long. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Sintra's historical charm.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Romaria de Baco. Tucked away in a cozy corner, Romaria de Baco had a charming, rustic feel [cabin vibes, as some would say]. We fueled up with strong coffee and traditional pastries. I opted for a *pastel de nata*, of course, and Sophie couldn't resist a chocolate croissant. Hans, ever the traditionalist, went for a *torrada* with butter. It was the perfect way to kick off our Sintra adventure.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we made our way to the National Palace of Sintra. Even from the outside, the palace was impressive. The two enormous chimneys immediately caught Sophie's eye. I was immediately transported back to my studies in Cultural Anthropology, as I considered the many architectural styles that have shaped this unique palace.


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

Inside, the palace was a treasure trove of history and art. The intricate tilework, the stunning chandeliers, and the beautifully decorated rooms transported us back in time. Sophie was fascinated by the Swan Room, pointing out each of the painted swans on the ceiling. Hans, ever the history buff, was captivated by the Coat-of-Arms Room, identifying the different noble families represented. I was particularly drawn to the Magpie Room, where I learned the story of King John I and his supposed encounter with a chattering magpie. It's these little stories that bring history to life for me.

The beauty of Sintra lies not just in its monuments, but in the way history and nature intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, it was time for lunch. We strolled through the charming streets of Sintra, eventually settling on Tascantiga. This cozy restaurant promised authentic Portuguese tapas, and it did not disappoint. We ordered a selection of dishes to share: grilled octopus, mushrooms with grilled vegetables, and a flavorful ratatouille. The vegan options were plentiful, which was a relief, and everything was bursting with flavor. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the warm May sunshine and soaking in the atmosphere of the town.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Tascantiga in Sintra—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

With renewed energy, we ventured to Quinta da Regaleira. This place was unlike anything I had ever seen. The gardens were a labyrinth of hidden tunnels, grottoes, and wells. Sophie was in her element, running around and exploring every nook and cranny. Hans and I followed close behind, marveling at the architectural wonders and the mysterious symbolism hidden throughout the estate. The Initiation Well was particularly impressive, spiraling deep into the earth. We descended into the darkness, feeling a sense of adventure and intrigue.


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

One of my favorite moments was discovering a hidden waterfall tucked away in a grotto. The sound of the water was so peaceful, and the cool mist on our faces was refreshing. It was moments like these that made me realize how special Sintra is. It's a place where you can truly escape the everyday and immerse yourself in beauty and wonder.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to do a little shopping in Sintra Centre. The winding streets were full of quirky shops selling everything from hand-painted ceramics to traditional lace. We picked up a few souvenirs to remind us of our trip: a hand-painted tile for our kitchen, a lace doily for my mother, and a small wooden toy for Sophie. I was impressed by the variety of artisan goods and the quality of the craftsmanship.


Explore Sintra Centre, where authentic Portuguese souvenirs and local crafts come together in a charming shopping experience.

For dinner, we had reservations at Incomum, a contemporary restaurant known for its creative cuisine. The restaurant was a bit more upscale than our lunch spot, but it was worth it. The atmosphere was elegant and relaxed, and the service was impeccable. We started with a cheese board featuring a selection of local Portuguese cheeses, served with a delicious tomato chutney. For our main courses, Hans ordered the oxtail risotto, Sophie had the duck confit, and I opted for the grilled sea bass. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were complex and satisfying.


Experience the best of local flavors at Incomum – where tradition meets innovation in Sintra's culinary scene.

After dinner, we strolled back to our hotel, Sintra Marmoris Camelia, feeling tired but content. The hotel was cozy and comfortable, with a lovely garden where we could relax. Before heading to bed, we sat on the patio, sipping tea and reflecting on our first day in Sintra.


Discover the charm of Sintra at Sintra Marmoris Camelia, where comfort meets culture in a perfect blend for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.

I did miss having my portable charger today. It would've been nice to have it to keep my phone fully charged throughout the day, especially with all the photos I was taking. And I wished I had packed a raincoat, just in case the weather turned. But these were minor inconveniences, and they didn't detract from our overall experience.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Moorish Castle and the Park and Palace of Monserrate. I'm particularly excited about the Moorish Castle, as I've heard the views from the top are breathtaking. We're also planning to have breakfast at Nau Palatina, lunch at Sabores de Sintra, and dinner at A Raposa. And, if we have time, we might stop by Bar Fonte da Pipa for a drink in the evening.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to travel with my family. Sintra is a truly magical place, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring. I'm so glad we decided to come here. It's the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, and I know we're going to create memories that will last a lifetime.