Sintra a picturesque town nestled in the hills of the Portuguese Riviera, is one of the most enchanting destinations in Portugal.
Known for its lush landscapes, romantic palaces, and mystical atmosphere, Sintra has been a favorite retreat for royals, poets, and travelers for centuries.
1. Pena Palace: A Colorful Masterpiece
One of the most iconic landmarks in Sintra, Pena Palace sits atop a hill, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and the Atlantic Ocean. Built in the mid-19th century, the palace is a striking example of Romantic architecture, blending Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline styles into a colorful and whimsical structure.
2. Quinta da Regaleira: Mystical Gardens and Secret Tunnels
Another must-see attraction in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical estate known for its ornate palace and enchanting gardens filled with symbolic structures and hidden tunnels. Designed by architect Luigi Manini at the request of a wealthy Portuguese businessman in the early 20th century, the estate reflects an obsession with mysticism, alchemy, and secret societies.
3. Moorish Castle: Ancient Fortress with Stunning Views
Built in the 8th and 9th centuries during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, the castle served as a strategic defense point and looked out over the surrounding lands. Today, visitors can walk along the castle’s ancient walls, which snake along the ridges of the mountain, offering stunning panoramic views of Sintra, Pena Palace, and the distant coastline.
4. Palácio de Monserrate: A Hidden Gem of Exotic Beauty
Less visited but equally stunning, Palácio de Monserrate is a hidden gem in Sintra. Built in the 19th century as a summer residence for English merchant Sir Francis Cook, Monserrate Palace is a fine example of Romantic architecture with Moorish, Indian, and Gothic influences.
5. National Palace of Sintra: A Royal Residence with a Rich History
Located in the heart of Sintra, the National Palace of Sintra is one of the best-preserved medieval royal residences in Portugal. Its distinctive twin chimneys and understated exterior conceal a stunning collection of Moorish-inspired rooms and Manueline architecture inside.
6. Sintra National Park: Nature’s Wonderland
While Sintra’s palaces and castles are often the main attractions, the natural beauty of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is not to be overlooked. The park, which surrounds much of Sintra, is a lush green landscape filled with dense forests, winding hiking trails, and hidden viewpoints. Visitors can explore the Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering dramatic cliffs and views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Sintra is a town that feels straight out of a fairy tale, with its stunning palaces, mystical gardens, and ancient castles set against a backdrop of lush hills. Sintra’s must-see attractions will leave lykkers enchanted!
