Is it Worth Visiting Sintra?

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, Portugal, it’s likely that you’ve heard of the picturesque town of Sintra. Known for its stunning palaces and beautiful landscapes, Sintra is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon. But with so many other beautiful places to visit in Portugal, is it really worth dedicating a day of your itinerary to Sintra? In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why visiting Sintra is definitely worth it.

The History of Sintra

Sintra has a rich history that dates back to the eighth century. The town was originally inhabited by the Moors, who built a fortress on the hilltop overlooking the valley. The castle changed hands over the centuries, and in the twelfth century, it was conquered by King Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. Under the rule of King Dinis (1279-1325), Sintra became a popular summer retreat for the royal family. It was during this time that many of the palaces and gardens were built, which have since become some of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.

The Palaces of Sintra

The town of Sintra is home to several stunning palaces that are definitely worth a visit. One of the most popular is the Pena Palace, which is perched on a hilltop overlooking the town. The palace was built in the nineteenth century and features a whimsical blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance. Another must-see palace is the Quinta da Regaleira, a gothic-style palace that features gardens, grottos, and a spiral staircase that leads to an underground chamber.

The Natural Beauty of Sintra

In addition to the palaces, Sintra is also known for its natural beauty. The town is located in the lush hills of the Serra de Sintra, which are covered in dense forests and dotted with ancient castles and palaces. The landscape is so idyllic that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. Some of the most beautiful spots in Sintra include the Monserrate Palace Gardens, the Seteais Palace Gardens, and the Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

The Food and Drink in Sintra

No trip to Portugal would be complete without sampling the local cuisine, and Sintra is no exception. The town is known for its traditional pastries, such as the famous queijadas and travesseiros, which are available in many cafes and pastry shops throughout the town. For a more substantial meal, try some of the local seafood dishes or stews, which are often made with fresh fish caught off the coast of Portugal.

The Accessibility of Sintra

One of the best things about Sintra is that it’s easy to get to from Lisbon. The town is located just 30 minutes west of Lisbon by train, and there are several trains that run between the two cities every day. Once you arrive in Sintra, getting around is also easy, as there are several buses and taxis that can take you to the different palaces and attractions.

The Conclusion

So, is it worth visiting Sintra? The answer is a resounding yes. With its rich history, stunning palaces, natural beauty, delicious food, and accessibility, Sintra is a place that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to sample some of the best food and drink that Portugal has to offer, Sintra is a destination that won’t disappoint. Just make sure to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to explore all of the amazing attractions that the town has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Sintra: Is it Worth Visiting?

Sintra is a picturesque town located in the Lisbon region of Portugal, known for its stunning palaces, lush forests, and charming streets. If you are wondering if Sintra is worth visiting, the answer is a resounding yes! Sintra is a unique destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make the most of your visit to Sintra.

Top Attractions in Sintra

Sintra is brimming with incredible attractions that showcase the town’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the top must-visit attractions:

1. Pena Palace – Pena Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sintra, with its brightly colored exterior and ornate architecture. The palace was commissioned in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II, and it sits atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Quinta da Regaleira – Quinta da Regaleira is a unique estate that features lush gardens, underground tunnels, and a stunning palace. The estate was built in the early 20th century by a wealthy Brazilian businessman, and it is known for its spectacular architecture and intricate design.

3. Castle of the Moors – The Castle of the Moors is an ancient castle that was built during the 8th and 9th centuries. It is located on top of a hill and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Dining Spots in Sintra

Sintra is also known for its delicious cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, delectable pastries, and traditional Portuguese dishes. Here are some of the best dining spots in Sintra:

1. Tábuas, Copos e Outras Coisas – This restaurant offers contemporary cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and local flavors. It has a cozy atmosphere and a lovely outdoor terrace that overlooks the town center.

2. Apeadeiro – Apeadeiro is a traditional Portuguese restaurant that serves hearty dishes like grilled octopus, roasted lamb, and codfish fritters. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is incredibly friendly.

3. Casa Piriquita – Casa Piriquita is a must-visit spot in Sintra for its famous pastries. The pastry shop has been around for over 150 years, and it is known for its travesseiros and queijadas, two traditional Portuguese pastries made with almonds and cheese.

Cultural Experiences in Sintra

Sintra is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience both. Here are some cultural experiences you won’t want to miss:

1. Sintra National Palace – The Sintra National Palace is a historic palace that dates back to the 14th century. It was the summer residence of the Portuguese monarchs, and it is known for its ornate design and beautiful tiles.

2. Toy Museum – The Toy Museum is a quirky and fun museum that showcases a collection of vintage toys from around the world. It’s a great spot to visit if you’re traveling with kids or if you’re a toy enthusiast yourself.

3. Sintra Cultural Center – The Sintra Cultural Center is a modern performing arts center that hosts a variety of cultural events, including theater performances, concerts, and exhibitions.

Local History in Sintra

Sintra has a rich history that spans back thousands of years. Here are some historical sites that you can visit to learn more about the town’s past:

1. Convent of the Capuchos – The Convent of the Capuchos is a historic monastery that was built in the 16th century. It is known for its humble design and tranquil atmosphere.

2. Monserrate Palace – Monserrate Palace is another historic palace in Sintra that was built in the 19th century. It is known for its unique architecture, which blends Gothic, Indian, and Moorish styles.

3. São Martinho Church – São Martinho Church is a beautiful church that was built in the early 18th century. It is known for its elaborate Baroque design and stunning interior.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Sintra

While the above attractions are a must-visit, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for those looking to explore more unique spots in Sintra:

1. Praia da Adraga – Praia da Adraga is a stunning beach located just a short drive from Sintra. It offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and it is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

2. Cork Factory – The Cork Factory is a unique factory that produces cork products from local cork trees. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and learn about the history of cork production in Portugal.

3. Cabo da Roca – Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point in Europe and offers stunning views of the coastline. It’s a great spot for a scenic hike or picnic.

In conclusion, Sintra is definitely worth a visit for its incredible attractions, delicious cuisine, rich cultural experiences, and fascinating local history. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this charming Portuguese town.