Sintra, Portugal is a magically beautiful place nestled in the mountains not far from Lisbon. The forests, groves, grottos, astronomical observation towers, and much more, will make you feel like you have somehow found your way into a magical forest or fairytale.
Home to at least five palaces tucked in the hillsides, and on the top of the highest hill, this is a must see when visiting Lisbon.
We spent most of our time in the gardens at Quinta da Regaleira. This UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1900, has something beautiful to see at every turn.
We worked up an appetite with all that exploring, and since it was my birthday, we headed to Incomum for a delicious lunch. Run by Chef Luis Santos who trained with Chef Giles Dupont at the popular Lyon D’Or in Geneva, this restaurant will not disappoint. It was a perfect birthday lunch, made even more special by the delicious food, impeccable service, and attention to detail.
I apologize for the lack of details about Sintra; theTravelsketcher and I have been traveling for several weeks and we both came home with a bad case of the flu; needless to say, we’re both feeling a little battle weary. However, you’ll find additional information about Sintra here.
As always, I would love to hear from you!
Stay safe and healthy,
Tricia
Travels Through My Lens 
Yes quite a place for sure, even in winter, it must be amazing in the spring.
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I hope you feel better soon. If I get to Portugal next year (distinct possibility), Sintra will definitely be on my itinerary.
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Thank you! I hope you’re able to get to visit Portugal soon.
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Pena Palace is really an amazing place, but you missed to post the red and yellow color view.
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We wanted to see the gardens, next time we’ll see Pena. Thanks for your comment!
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Oh, now I regret not being able to pay a visit to Sintra! It really does look like a fairytale … no story really needed because as always, your photos tell their own lovely story! Hope you both get better soon (oh yes, and happy birthday, may it be a blessed year 🌻).
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Maybe you’ll get to visit Portugal again someday. I’m glad you enjoyed the photos; and thanks for the birthday and well wishes!
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Oh wow, there are so many gorgeous pictures. I love the fountains, the mossy covered arches, and I really love the picture of the palace tower with an open doorway. It really makes me want to explore behind that door. Hope you feel better soon. Maggie
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Thanks Maggie! I’m glad you enjoyed the photos.
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I loved Sintra when I was in Portugal in 2016! Highlight was definitely the Pena Palace; did you go there? I’d return in a heartbeat!
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We didn’t visit Pena, since we were so wrapped up at the gardens; but we’ll visit again someday. Thanks, Rebecca, for your comment!
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Sintra really does look like an enchanting fairytale land, no wonder you were so charmed by it. Sladja has been to Sintra, so was eagerly scanning your photos for bits she could recognise. The Initiation Well looks quite stunning, I like the perspective showing its different layers. So much greenery and gorgeous stonework on offer throughout, I definitely wouldn’t want to miss this if we ever make it to Lisbon. Belated birthday wishes to you Tricia and hope you are both back to full strength soon!
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Thanks so much Leighton. I’m glad that both you and Sladja enjoyed the photos. I’ve never experienced any place quite like it in my travels. Thanks also for the birthday, good health wishes, and for your comments as well!
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wow, it really looks like you stepped into a fairy tale! Beautiful pictures that have me wishing to be in Portugal right now 🙂
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It really is like a fairytale. Thanks Meg, for stopping by!
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A lovely birthday treat Tricia 🙂 I loved Sintra when we visited and thought the National Palace and Moors Castle were the highlights. Thanks for sharing your trip with us and hope you’re enjoying your weekend.
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Thanks Hannah! It was a lovely birthday getaway. We hope to return someday to see even more. Thanks for your comment!
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Just WOW! Beautiful I would love to visit
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I hope you get to visit someday. Thanks for your comment!
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Thank you for the beautiful pictures! They are awesome to say the least…and it was your birthday I believe? So happy Birthday to you as well!
Thanks,
Chris n Lori Burchfield cbsbeefjerky.net 317-809-4161
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As always, Tricia, your post is wonderful. Thank you.
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Thank you Lisa. ❤️
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You have a gift — through your photos and your words (information) — of bringing all of us readers to the places you are.
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Thanks so much Lisa; your comment means so much to me.
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I’ve been to Sintra this summer but since I only had about an afternoon there, I could only visit the Pena Palace and its gardens, but even just that was absolutely magical! You are perfectly right when you say that it feels like you ended up in a fairytale! I hope you’ll feel better soon! Take care!
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One definitely needs several days to see all Sintra has to offer. I want to go back. Thanks Juliette, for your comment!
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Beautiful photos! It looks like an amazing place to visit. I especially liked the stone arches! Hope you and Terry are feeling better!
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Thanks Nancy! We were amazed at the beauty of the area. We’re beginning to feel better, thanks!
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Thank you for these beautiful pictures! We just have nothing to compare here in the US. And the food….looks so delicious! Wonderful post!
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Thanks Peg! Sintra is a special place.
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