A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Lisbon is a hidden treasure on Europe’s western coastline, increasingly recognized for its appeal. The locals refer to it as the city of seven hills, while globally, it is emerging as one of Europe’s trendiest destinations for gastronomy. Therefore, a visit to Lisbon remains incomplete without indulging in its exceptional culinary offerings.
Located in the Greater Lisbon area along the Portuguese River, Sintra is a city with a population of approximately 400,000 residents, renowned for its numerous castles and palaces.
Portugal’s capital has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over recent years, and its appeal is evident. With vibrant colonial architecture, a lively nightlife scene, and accessible coastal beauty, it is becoming a formidable contender against traditional European favorites.
Upon departing from the splendid Pena Palace, we proceeded to our next destination in Sintra – the Moorish Castle (also referred to as The Castle of The Moors, depending on your preferred nomenclature).
Located about 30km (19 miles) from Lisbon, Sintra is one of the most visited places in Portugal. The proximity to the capital and the beauty of this village and nature park make it a must-see destination, translating into millions of visitors a year. Yes, you read that right – millions. Considering that Sintra’s entire municipality has an estimated population of around 380,000 people, the number of annual visitors to this picturesque location far surpasses its resident population.
Monserrate Palace, often overlooked in travel guides about Sintra, Portugal, is an architectural gem. Despite its beauty and historical significance, many visitors tend to skip this location in favor of more prominent landmarks. Interactions with local residents from nearby Cascais confirmed that Monserrate Palace is a must-see. This distinctive site showcases stunning Arabesque architecture, set in beautifully landscaped gardens.
One of the most notable day trips from Lisbon, a journey to Sintra should rank high on every visitor’s itinerary. Once a royal retreat, today, you are more likely to encounter tour buses than elegant carriages; however, this charming town and its surrounding attractions remain deserving of your exploration.
Planning a Sintra day trip from Lisbon? Get ready to be captivated by the splendor of Pena Palace, the mysteries of Quinta da Regaleira, and the timeless beauty of the Moorish Castle. This Sintra guide cuts to the chase, offering you streamlined travel advice, insider secrets, and a snapshot of the enchanting experiences in this popular tourist destination. Discover Sintra’s most cherished sites, as well as savvy tips to navigate the town, all within an easy day’s journey from Portugal’s capital.
There are so many things to do in Sintra, Portugal. The history of the area dates back to the 1400s when a single monastery was placed on a hilltop in Sintra during medieval times. When the Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 destroyed most of the city, the area sat untouched and empty for many years. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s when one of the King’s sons was so fascinated by the forested area, that his father decided to acquire all the surrounding land and bring it back to life.