A Romantic Escape to the Enchanting Town of Sintra

A Day of Fairytales and Hidden Depths

Today marked the beginning of our Sintra adventure, and what a start it was! Jean-Pierre and I dove headfirst into the heart of this magical town, ready to explore its famed palaces and unravel its mysterious depths. The air was crisp, a typical April morning, with the promise of both sunshine and the occasional drizzle – perfect weather for exploring. I couldn't wait to share our discoveries with you all.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sintra Terrace. The reviews online raved about their goat cheese salads and octopus, but this morning I was drawn to something more traditional. I opted for a strong café au lait accompanied by a Pastel de Nata, Sintra's famous custard tart. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. Jean-Pierre, ever the adventurous one, tried their octopus, declaring it a delightful start to our culinary journey in Portugal.


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

Fueled up and ready to go, we set off to explore the National Palace of Sintra. The palace, with its striking white facade and conical chimneys, stood proudly against the backdrop of the Sintra Mountains. Stepping inside was like stepping back in time. The palace is a beautiful blend of Moorish and Manueline architecture, showcasing Portugal's rich history. I was particularly captivated by the Swan Room, with its ceiling adorned with 27 unique swans. Jean-Pierre, ever the history buff, was fascinated by the palace's evolution from a Moorish castle to a royal residence.


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

The beauty of Sintra lies not just in its grand monuments, but in the hidden stories whispered through its ancient stones.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, it was time for something a bit more mysterious. We ventured to Quinta da Regaleira, a place that had been highly recommended. As we entered, I immediately understood the hype. The estate is a whimsical wonderland filled with hidden tunnels, grottoes, and the famous Initiation Well. The well is an inverted tower that descends into the earth, and it is believed to have been used for Masonic initiation ceremonies. Walking down the spiral staircase, with water trickling down the stone walls, felt like entering another world. The number nine is a recurring theme, with nine levels, each having fifteen steps. This is said to represent everything from the nine founders of the Knights Templar to Dante's Nine Circles of Hell. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and mystery as we explored the underground passages, wondering about the secrets they held.


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

Jean-Pierre, always the pragmatist, was intrigued by the engineering and design of the well, while I was lost in the symbolism and legends surrounding it. It's these differences that make our travels so enriching – we each bring a unique perspective to our experiences.



After our subterranean adventure, we surfaced, blinking in the sunlight, and decided it was time for lunch. We headed to Romaria de Baco, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist. Nestled on a side street near the National Palace, it felt like a local secret. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with soft music playing in the background. We opted for the *petiscos* tasting menu for two, eager to sample a variety of flavors. The garlic shrimps were a standout, as were the mushrooms with cornbread. Jean-Pierre, a wine enthusiast, asked the staff for a wine pairing, and they suggested a crisp Vinho Verde that perfectly complemented our meal. As we savored the delicious food and wine, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the authentic flavors of Portugal.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We strolled through Sintra Centre, browsing the quirky shops and boutiques that lined the winding streets. Sintra is known for its artisan items, including hand-painted ceramics, lace, and *azulejos* (traditional tiles). I was particularly drawn to the *azulejos*, each one a unique work of art. I ended up buying a few small tiles as souvenirs, each depicting a different scene from Portuguese history. Jean-Pierre, meanwhile, found a beautiful hand-embroidered linen tablecloth for our dining room back in Lyon. It's always special to bring back unique pieces that remind us of our travels.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Tascantiga for dinner. This tapas restaurant had rave reviews, particularly for its vegan options. The restaurant itself is charming, with beautiful carvings and tile work. We decided to try a selection of tapas, including the grilled octopus, candied pork cheeks, and fried prawns with garlic and coriander. The vegan options, including mushrooms with grilled vegetables and ratatouille, were equally delicious. Tascantiga definitely lived up to its reputation, providing a perfect ending to our first day in Sintra.


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

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Park and Palace of Monserrate, the Moorish Castle, and Villa Sassetti. I'm particularly excited about the Park and Palace of Monserrate, known for its exotic gardens and stunning architecture. And perhaps we will end the day at Bar Fonte da Pipa, since I heard they have great drinks!



Today was nothing short of magical. Sintra has a way of captivating you with its beauty, mystery, and charm. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!