🏰 Sintra: Portugal’s Fairytale Mountain Escape 🇵🇹🌿✨

#summerbudgettrip

📍Sintra, Portugal

Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a dream. Nestled in the hills of the Serra de Sintra, this UNESCO-listed town is packed with colourful palaces, ancient castles, mysterious gardens, and forested trails that look like a fantasy novel come to life.

🏰 Pena Palace

We started at the vibrant Pena Palace, perched high above the town — a bold mix of colours, domes, and towers. The views from the terrace stretch all the way to the Atlantic on a clear day. Inside: intricate ceilings, royal furnishings, and plenty of tilework.

🌿 Into the Forest

From there, we wandered through Parque da Pena, where moss-covered paths and exotic trees lead to quiet lookouts and hidden ruins. You’re never quite sure what’s around the corner.

🌀 Mysteries at Quinta da Regaleira

The highlight? The Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira — a spiralling stone staircase that feels like it leads to another world. The estate is full of symbolism, tunnels, and enchanting gardens.

🏰 Moorish Walls & Sunset

For a more ancient vibe, we climbed the Castelo dos Mouros, a ruined fortress with stone walls tracing the ridgelines. The sunset from here — with palaces below and ocean in the distance — was unforgettable.

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Quick Tips:
🚉 Take an early train from Lisbon (approx. 40 mins)
🎟️ Book Pena Palace tickets in advance — and go early to beat the crowds
👟 Wear walking shoes — there’s a lot of uphill!
🧭 Don’t miss Quinta da Regaleira — it’s a must-see

#tripmoments #sintra