Enchanting Escape to Sintra: Exploring Portugal's Fairytale City

A Royal Day in Sintra

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Sintra, exploring its historical palaces, delving into local legends, and, of course, finding a cozy spot to enjoy some of Portugal’s finest craft beer. With Liam by my side, I was ready to uncover more of what makes this UNESCO World Heritage site so special. I was particularly grateful that I packed my comfortable walking shoes, as I knew that today would involve a lot of exploring on foot!

Our first stop was the National Palace of Sintra. Unlike the fairytale extravagance of Pena Palace, this palace offered a more grounded, yet equally fascinating, look into Portugal's royal history. As we walked through the palace, I couldn't help but imagine the kings and queens who once walked these halls, making decisions that shaped the nation. The architecture was a beautiful blend of Moorish and Gothic styles, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped Portugal over the centuries. The iconic twin chimneys in the kitchen were particularly impressive, and I learned they were designed to keep the royal kitchen smoke-free.


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

One of the palace's most striking features was the Swan Room, with its ceiling adorned with 27 intricately painted swans, each in a different pose. The intricate tile work throughout the palace was also mesmerizing, with each tile telling a story of its own. It’s amazing how well-preserved everything is, giving you a real sense of stepping back in time. As someone who appreciates organization, I couldn't help but admire how efficiently the palace was run back in its day. It reminded me of my own attempts to keep our Dublin apartment tidy, though I doubt I'd ever achieve royal standards!

The best journey in life is the journey inward, exploring the depths of your own being and the world around you.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, we decided to engage our minds in a different way at the Sintra Science Workshop. This interactive museum was a delightful surprise, offering a hands-on experience with various scientific principles. Although I work in marketing and Liam is a software engineer, we both have a keen interest in science and technology, so we were in our element here. The workshop was particularly engaging, with exhibits explaining everything from physics to environmental science. It was great fun to see Liam, usually so composed, getting excited over a water exhibit, and I couldn't resist joining in on a waste recycling simulation. It was refreshing to see how science could be made accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their background.


Explore the interactive exhibits of Sintra Science Workshop, where curiosity meets creativity in a captivating cultural experience.

Our next adventure took us into the realm of myths and legends at Sintra Mitos & Lendas. This interactive center was a unique way to explore the folklore of Sintra, using multimedia exhibits to bring the stories to life. We donned 3D glasses and journeyed through ancient tales, encountering mythical creatures and historical figures along the way. It was a bit dark inside, but the audio guide helped us navigate through the exhibits and understand the stories behind each legend. Though it was perhaps more geared towards children, I found myself enjoying the immersive experience, letting my imagination run wild with the fantastical tales.


Explore the enchanting legends of Sintra at Sintra Mitos & Lendas, a captivating museum that celebrates the rich folklore and history of this magical town.

By this point, we were both ready for a bit of retail therapy, so we hopped over to Alegro Sintra. This modern shopping mall provided a stark contrast to the historical sites we had visited earlier in the day, but it was a welcome change of pace. I had been meaning to pick up a few gifts for my family back in Germany, and Liam needed a new travel adapter, as he had forgotten to pack one. The mall had a great variety of stores, and we were able to find everything we needed, plus a few extra treats for ourselves.


Discover Alegro Sintra, a vibrant shopping mall offering fashion, dining, and entertainment experiences in the heart of Rio de Mouro.

As the day wound down, we decided to treat ourselves to some local craft beer at Villa Craft Beer & Bread. This cozy spot was just what we needed after a long day of exploring. They had a great selection of craft beers, and we decided to try a few different varieties. I opted for a light and refreshing Jasmin Pale Ale, while Liam went for a robust stout. The bruschettas were also delicious, and we enjoyed sitting outside, soaking in the atmosphere of Sintra as the sun began to set. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the heart of Sintra at Villa Craft Beer & Bread, where craft brews meet artisanal bread in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Travel is not about the destination, but the experiences and memories created along the way.

Pure Taste provided a delightful start to our day with a hearty breakfast. The food was fresh and flavorful, giving us the energy we needed for a day of exploring. Sabores de Sintra was a fantastic choice for lunch, offering traditional Portuguese dishes in a cozy setting. The flavors were authentic and satisfying, and we left feeling full and content. For dinner, we chose A Lanterna, a charming restaurant with a romantic ambiance. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable, making it a perfect ending to our day.

As we walked back to Sintra Marmoris Camelia, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Sintra had truly revealed its secrets to us, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern-day delights. It reminded me of why I love traveling – the opportunity to immerse myself in new experiences and create lasting memories with Liam.


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're heading to Lisbon for the final day of our trip. We plan to take a boat tour, visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, and explore the Oceanário de Lisboa. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure, but I'll always cherish the memories we made in Sintra. And, of course, I'll make sure to pack my portable phone charger this time – lesson learned!

Until tomorrow,
Ursula