Exploring the Enchanting Palaces of Sintra

Sintra's Enchanting Embrace

Today marked the beginning of our much-anticipated journey to Sintra, a town that has long captured my imagination with its fairytale-like aura. Elke and I embarked on a day filled with historical exploration and architectural marvels, a perfect start to our twelve-day adventure. I'm eager to share the highlights of our first day, hoping to inspire you to experience the same wonder we felt.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Casa das Minas. The café offered not only a delicious start to the day but also stunning views of Sintra. The warm welcome from the staff made our experience even more special, and the traditional Portuguese pastries were the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. It was a great spot, tucked away from the main tourist trail, with a peaceful garden and beautiful views of the National Palace of Sintra. Sipping coffee while overlooking such a historic site was a moment I savored. It reminded me of simpler times back in Gmunden, enjoying a quiet morning by the Traunsee lake.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Casa das Minas in Sintra – where culinary tradition meets charming ambiance.
Fueled and ready, our first stop was the National Palace of Sintra. As we approached, the palace's iconic chimneys immediately caught our eye. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time. The palace is remarkably well-preserved, showcasing a blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline architectural styles. It's fascinating to think that this palace was inhabited almost continuously from the early 15th to the late 19th century.
Wandering through the rooms, I was particularly struck by the Swan Room, with its elegant décor, and the Magpie Room, with its ceiling adorned with chattering magpies, each holding a rose. Elke was captivated by the intricate tile work and the detailed craftsmanship evident throughout the palace. The history of the palace is palpable, with each room telling a story of Portugal's royal past.

To walk through Sintra is to walk through the pages of a history book, each palace and garden whispering tales of kings, queens, and the artists who shaped their world.

Experience the majestic beauty and rich history of the National Palace of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and architectural gem in Portugal.
After immersing ourselves in royal history, we ventured to Quinta da Regaleira. This estate is unlike anything I've ever seen. Built in the early 20th century by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro and designed by architect Luigi Manini, Quinta da Regaleira is a place of mystery and intrigue. From the moment we entered, we were transported to a world of hidden symbols and esoteric architecture.

The highlight of Quinta da Regaleira was undoubtedly the Initiation Well. Descending into this inverted tower felt like entering another world. The spiral staircase led us down to a Knights Templar cross inscribed on the floor, a design inspired by secret religious ceremonies. It was both awe-inspiring and a little eerie, a true testament to the vision of its creator. Elke, ever the librarian, was particularly fascinated by the esoteric symbolism and the possible connections to secret societies. I couldn't help but think about the antique clocks I restore back in Heidelberg; each one, like Quinta da Regaleira, holding its own secrets and stories.


Explore the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, where Gothic architecture meets lush gardens and rich symbolism in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
For lunch, we stopped at Tascantiga, a local restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese tapas. It was bustling with activity, and we had to wait a short while for a table, but it was well worth it. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the prego on bread, pica pau, and shrimp with garlic. The flavors were authentic and delicious, and the portions were perfect for sharing. It was a delightful culinary experience that gave us a taste of Sintra's local cuisine.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Tascantiga in Sintra—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
In the late afternoon, we strolled through the charming streets of Sintra and stumbled upon Casa Vidi, a souvenir shop that caught our eye. The shop was filled with unique items, from handcrafted jewelry to traditional Portuguese ceramics. We picked up a few small mementos to remind us of our trip. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering recommendations on local artisans and products. It's always a pleasure to support local businesses and find unique treasures to bring home.


Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Casa Vidi, the charming souvenir store in the heart of Sintra, Portugal.
As the day drew to a close, we decided to relax at Casa do Fauno, a medieval-themed bar. The atmosphere was whimsical and enchanting, with décor that transported us back in time. We enjoyed a couple of drinks and soaked in the unique ambiance. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. The bar also had a magick/occult shop. It was certainly a unique experience, adding to the mystical feel of Sintra.


Discover Casa do Fauno, a unique pub and bookstore in Sintra, where literature meets leisure in a charming atmosphere.
Finally, for dinner, we chose Romaria de Baco, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Portuguese cuisine. Tucked away next to a church in Sintra's historic center, the restaurant exuded a cozy and intimate atmosphere. We started with the black pork starter, which was absolutely delicious, followed by some traditional Portuguese dishes. The service was excellent, and the staff were knowledgeable and attentive. It was a perfect end to our first day in Sintra.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Romaria de Baco in Sintra's historic center – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
As I reflect on our first day, I'm filled with excitement for what the rest of our trip holds. Sintra has already proven to be a place of magic and wonder, and I can't wait to explore more of its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we plan to visit The Moorish Castle and the Park and Palace of Monserrate, two more sites that promise to be just as captivating. Until then, I bid you adeus from this enchanting town.

Before I close for the night, I must make a note of a couple of travel essentials we forgot to pack: a reusable water bottle and a portable phone charger. These would have been incredibly useful today, and I'll be sure to pick them up tomorrow. It's a small reminder that even the most meticulous planners can overlook something. Good night from Sintra!

Looking ahead to tomorrow, Elke and I are eager to visit the Moorish Castle and the Park and Palace of Monserrate. We will also have breakfast at Incomum, lunch at Apeadeiro, and dinner at Taverna dos Trovadores. In between visiting the landmarks we plan to stop by Sintra Centre for some shopping, and enjoy a drink at The Old Bull Bar&Lounge.