Sintra is a cool, green mountain hideaway—a stark contrast to the city of Lisbon less than an hour away. The atmosphere is magical and mystical and refreshing; A fairytale parkland full of castles and palaces and gardens and lots of hidden wonders to discover.
Entering the UNESCO protected landscape of Sintra.
Quinta de la Regaleira
This manor house and its gardens were build by a wealthy merchant obsessed with Freemasonry. Maze-like pathways meander through lush, green gardens allowing visitors to discover its secrets: towers and tunnels, grottoes, ponds and pools, trees, flowers, brush, mystical statues, and architectural elements rich with symbology.
The Initiation Well, Sintra, Portugal.
Underground tunnel, grotto and stepping stones at the bottom of the Initiation Well.
Pena Palace, Sintra
Duck houses in Sintra, Portugal.
More fantasy duck houses in Sintra, Portugal.
Monserrate Palace and Park, Sintra, Portugal
The Basics: Sintra, Portugal
Currency: Euro
Thank you: If you are a man say, “Obrigado.” If you are a woman say, “Obrigada.”
Water: Tap water is ok to drink, bottled water tastes better.
Local Coffee: “Bica” is small back espresso. “Garoto” is half espresso, half milk.
Restaurant Customs: Say “No” to the cover (bread, olive, snacks, etc… that the waiter puts down without ordering them) if you don’t want to pay for it.
Tipping: Round up for a sandwich or coffee. 5-10% tip in restaurants if a service charge is not included on the bill.
Accommodations: Moon Hill Hostel