Majestic Castles and Palaces

Sintra is famous for its majestic castles and palaces that seem to be straight out of a fairytale. The most iconic landmark is the Pena Palace, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town below. The palace’s colorful exterior features a mix of Gothic, Islamic, and Renaissance architectural styles. Other notable castles include the Castle of the Moors, which dates back to the 9th century, and Quinta da Regaleira, which features elaborate gardens and underground tunnels.

Lush Gardens

Sintra’s lush gardens are another highlight for visitors. The Pena Palace gardens alone cover over 200 hectares and feature exotic plants from around the world as well as hidden pathways leading to scenic viewpoints. Other notable gardens include Monserrate Park, which features a mix of European and Oriental landscaping styles, and Quinta da Regaleira’s gardens which feature grottoes, lakes, fountains, statues and more!

Breathtaking Views

Sintra offers stunning views from its many vantage points scattered throughout the town. Visitors can hike up to Cruz Alta for panoramic views of Pena Palace or take a ride on one of Sintra’s iconic tuk-tuks for a scenic tour through some of the town’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Delicious Cuisine

Sintra may be small but it doesn’t lack delicious cuisine options! Visitors can try traditional dishes like cozido (a hearty stew) at local restaurants throughout town or sample local pastries like travesseiros (almond-filled puff pastry) at Casa Piriquita – one of Sintra’s most famous bakeries!

Beaches

While not technically in Sintra itself – Praia Grande is just a short drive away from this charming town! This beautiful beach is perfect for surfing during summer months while offering stunning vistas all year round.

Overall, Sintra offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its rich history, majestic castles & palaces paired with lush gardens full of exotic plants – making it one-of-a-kind destination in Portugal! Whether you’re exploring ancient landmarks or sampling local delicacies paired with refreshing drinks on terraces surrounded by amazing vistas – this magical place should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Beyond these attractions that we’ve listed above there are many other things that make Sintra unique such as:

Cultural Events

Throughout summer months there are several cultural events held in Sintra such as music festivals at Palácio Nacional de Queluz or outdoor cinema sessions organized by Casa da Cultura de Moraes.

Hiking Trails

For those who love nature – there are plenty hiking trails available in Serra de Sintra Natural Park where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views while exploring forests filled with wildlife!

Boutique Stores

In addition to souvenir shops selling popular items like miniature replicas of Pena Palace or castle-shaped magnets – there are several boutique stores located in downtown area offering designer clothes & accessories made by local artisans!

In conclusion – whether you’re interested in history & culture or simply want to relax in beautiful surroundings while enjoying delicious food & wine – Sintra has it all!

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10 Things to Do in Sintra

Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon, Portugal. It’s known for its fairy-tale castles and palaces, stunning gardens, and breathtaking views. Here are ten things to do during your visit to Sintra!

1. Visit Pena Palace

Pena Palace is a colorful palace that looks like it was taken straight out of a fairy tale! It’s one of the most popular attractions in Sintra and offers stunning views over the surrounding landscape.

2. Explore Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is a magical estate with beautiful gardens, lakes, tunnels, grottos and even an initiation well! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is definitely worth a visit.

3. Hike in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park offers plenty of hiking trails with breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding hills. It’s also home to some unique flora and fauna.

4. Visit Moorish Castle

Moorish Castle was built in the 8th century by Moors who controlled the region at that time. Climb up its ramparts for panoramic views over Sintra and beyond!

5. Explore Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace is another stunning palace located on the outskirts of Sintra. Its architecture blends influences from Gothic, Indian and Moorish styles making it quite unique.

6. Discover Convento dos Capuchos

Convento dos Capuchos is a small monastery built into rocks covered by moss creating an almost surreal atmosphere! The monks who lived here practiced self-sufficiency growing their own food and living very simply.

7. Stroll Through Old Town

Sintra’s old town has charming narrow streets lined with cafes, shops selling souvenirs, local products or handicrafts that make for an enjoyable stroll around town.

8. Relax at Praia da Ursa

Praia da Ursa is one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches located just outside of Sintra! Access can be tricky but once there you’ll be rewarded by its wild beauty!

9. Visit Seteais Palace

Seteais Palace was built during the late eighteenth century as a summer residence for Dutch consul Daniel Gildemeester . Nowadays it operates as luxury hotel that welcomes visitors into its lush gardens .

10. Taste Queijadas de Sintra

Queijadas de Sintra are small pastries made with cheese that are famous in this region – they’re deliciously sweet and slightly tangy making them perfect after any meal or snack!

Sintra has something for everyone – whether you’re interested in history or nature or just want to relax on the beach! These ten activities should give you plenty to explore during your next visit to this magical town!