Sintra

Sintra, located just a short distance from Lisbon, is a true fairy tale town. The colorful palaces, lush gardens, and winding streets make it seem like something from a movie. It's no wonder that Lord Byron once called it "the most beautiful village in the world" and that it's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The town is mostly known for its stunning palaces. The colorful Pena Palace sits on top of a hill and can be seen from miles away. Quinta da Regaleira has mysterious gardens with secret tunnels and the famous initiation well. The National Palace, right in the center of town, is easily recognized by its two massive chimneys.

Sintra has been a retreat for Portuguese royalty since the Middle Ages. The cooler climate made it the perfect summer escape from Lisbon's heat. Many of the palaces and mansions were built during the Romantic period in the 19th century, which explains their fantastical and eclectic designs. The mix of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance styles creates a unique architectural landscape.

Despite being a small town, Sintra has a vibrant atmosphere. The historic center is filled with shops selling local crafts and pastries, like the famous travesseiros (pillow pastries) and queijadas (cheese pastries). The surrounding Sintra-Cascais Natural Park adds to the magical feeling with its misty forests and hidden corners.