A fairytale city full of palaces and castles. Ideal for a day trip from Lisbon, but keep in mind that you can’t see everything in one day. It’s best to buy tickets in advance.
Recommendations:
• Pena Palace – a colorful, enchanting palace. Start your day here. Free parking is available at Estacionamento Largo São Pedro Penaferrim, from where you can take a lovely walk up.
• Quinta da Regaleira – a romantic palace and park full of secrets. Be sure to visit the Initiation Well, a 27-meter-deep well with a spiral staircase and underground tunnels. For lunch, I recommend Fatto, an Italian restaurant.
Moorish Castle – remains of a Moorish fortress, with stunning views. You could combine this with the Pena Palace, but plan realistically: three palaces in one day is more than enough.
• Monserrate Palace – a jewel with Arabic and Indian influences, surrounded by a lush botanical garden. Less crowded, ideal for a peaceful end to your day in Sintra.