Enchanting Escape to Sintra: Exploring Portugal's Fairytale City

Sintra's Enchanting Trio

Today was everything I imagined Sintra to be – a place where fairytales come to life amidst stunning landscapes and historical wonders. Liam and I embarked on a journey through three of Sintra’s most iconic landmarks, each offering a unique glimpse into Portugal’s rich past and breathtaking beauty. I can't wait to share our experiences with you!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Adega do Saloio. It's a cozy spot, and exactly what we needed before a day of exploring. We enjoyed some traditional Portuguese pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. I made sure to have a little extra, knowing how much walking we'd be doing! Adega do Saloio is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine in a rustic environment. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, setting a perfect tone for the day. Liam enjoyed a strong espresso, while I savored a 'pastel de nata,' a classic Portuguese custard tart.

Pena Palace: A Burst of Color and History

Our first stop was the magnificent National Palace of Pena. As we approached, the palace revealed itself in all its vibrant glory, a kaleidoscope of colors perched high on the hill. It truly felt like stepping into a storybook! The palace is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and I'd advise anyone to get there early to avoid the crowds.


Discover the National Palace of Pena in Sintra, a majestic castle blending rich history with stunning architecture, set in a breathtaking landscape.

The palace is a stunning mix of architectural styles, blending Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish influences. Each room was more breathtaking than the last, filled with intricate details and opulent furnishings. We wandered through the state rooms, marveling at the painted ceilings, ornate tiles, and historical artifacts. The views from the palace terraces were simply incredible, stretching out over the Sintra hills and all the way to the Atlantic coast. We spent a good few hours exploring every nook and cranny, snapping photos, and soaking in the magical atmosphere.

The beauty of Sintra lies not just in its monuments, but in the way they blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a harmonious and unforgettable experience.

The Moorish Castle: A Step Back in Time

Next on our list was the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortress with roots stretching back to the 8th century. After the vibrant colors of Pena Palace, the rugged stone walls of the castle offered a stark but equally captivating contrast. The castle is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM during these months, and it's worth checking out the opening hours before you go. We walked along the ancient ramparts, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago when the Moors ruled this land. The views from the castle were panoramic, offering a unique perspective on Pena Palace and the surrounding landscape. Liam, with his interest in history, was particularly fascinated by the castle's strategic importance and its role in Portugal's past.


Discover the ancient allure of The Moorish Castle in Sintra, a stunning historical landmark with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

The wind was strong as we walked along the walls, making me wish I hadn't forgotten my scarf. I made a mental note to add a portable phone charger to our list of travel essentials, especially after my phone battery dipped dangerously low from taking so many pictures. We spent a couple of hours exploring the castle, climbing the towers, and soaking in the history. It's amazing to think that this structure has stood for over a thousand years!

Park and Palace of Monserrate: A Serene Escape

Our final stop for the day was the Park and Palace of Monserrate, a hidden gem that offered a tranquil escape from the crowds. This palace is known for being a symbol of Romanticism in Portugal. By the time we arrived, the crowds had thinned out, and we felt like we had the place almost to ourselves. The palace itself is an architectural marvel, blending Gothic, Indian, and Moorish influences. We wandered through the opulent rooms, admiring the intricate details and exotic designs.


Explore the enchanting Park and Palace of Monserrate, a stunning blend of lush gardens and exquisite architecture in Sintra, Portugal.

But the real highlight of Monserrate was the gardens. They are open from 9 AM to 7 PM. We strolled along winding paths, discovering hidden waterfalls, exotic plants, and serene lakes. The gardens are divided into different sections, each representing a different part of the world. We wandered through the Mexican garden, with its cacti and succulents, and the Japanese garden, with its tranquil ponds and delicate cherry blossoms. Monserrate felt like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Sintra, a place where we could relax and reconnect with nature. I found myself particularly drawn to the rose garden, with its vibrant colors and intoxicating scents.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Sintra town, our hearts full of memories from our day of exploration. We stopped at Queijadas da Sapa to sample Sintra's famous cheese pastries. The shop was small and quaint, and the pastries were warm and delicious. It was the perfect way to end our day of sightseeing. Queijadas de Sintra are popular snacks that go well with coffee, tea, a glass of port or a ginjinha, and you can easily find them in markets, at concerts and football matches.

Dinner and Drinks in Sintra

For dinner, we chose Incomum, a restaurant that came highly recommended for its modern take on Portuguese cuisine. The dining room is elegantly lighted with crisp linens on the tables. Chef Luis Santos, trained in Switzerland, had already made a name for himself with his Lisbon restaurant, Tágide, before making waves in Sintra's culinary landscape. I opted for a seafood dish, while Liam chose a traditional meat dish. Both were delicious, and the service was impeccable. The menu is fully marked for gluten, which I appreciated.

After dinner, we decided to experience Sintra's nightlife. We stopped by Bar Saloon Cintra for a nightcap. The bar had a cozy atmosphere, and the bartender mixed us some amazing cocktails. It was the perfect way to wind down after a long day of exploring. The bar is well-regarded, with many visitors giving it positive reviews.

As we walked back to our hotel, Sintra Marmoris Camelia, under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences we had today. Sintra had exceeded all our expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, beauty, and magic. I highly recommend that anyone visiting Portugal add Sintra to their list. It's a place that will stay with you long after you leave.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Sintra National Palace, Villa Sassetti, and Castelo dos Mouros. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Pic Nic I, lunch at A Raposa, and dinner at Curral dos Caprinos. And of course, we'll make sure to check out the local shops, including A Loja, and maybe grab a drink at ZID lounge Bar.

Good night from Sintra!