Sintra, Portugal - January 2026

Brief History/Information

Sintra is a town in western Portugal, about 16 miles from Lisbon, in the Serra de Sintra mountains. This is considered one of Portugal’s most enchanting places. Sintra was captured in 1147, from the Moors by Portugal’s first king, King Afonso Henriques. In the 19th century, it became a favored spot for Portuguese royalty. In 1995, Sintra was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a “Cultural Landscape”, recognizing the unique blend of: Natural scenery, Historic palaces and castles, and Romantic-era architecture.

What we did

We took an Uber straight to the Castelo dos Mouros and got there about 9:00am, since they open at 9:30am. Our Uber driver, dropped us off in a small residential area (of course we didn’t know any better, so we got out). There was a sign indicating the Castelo dos Mouros, but it was nowhere in sight. We found a sign/map showing us where we were and how to get to the castle, so we took the path and hiked! It was a beautiful hike, well marked and paved with cobblestones. We arrived to the castle before it opened, so we had a few minutes of rest. Once inside, you have a choice to go up to the left or the right… we chose left. Amazing! It was windy, but absolutely gorgeous. Every time you turn, you see more beauty. From a few points, you can see Palacio da Pena, just sitting there in all of its glory.

After the Moors Castle, we walked to Palacio da Pena. We chose to not pay to go inside the castle, but we got to walk all around the outside and the grounds. This place too was just amazing! **Special Note: if you choose to pay to go inside, get your tickets online, in advance-there are long lines at the ticket machine, then lines to get in for your assigned entry time (get there early).

Places of Interest

• Pena Palace – Colorful, dramatic, and iconic

• Moorish Castle – Medieval fortress with sweeping views

• National Palace of Sintra – Oldest royal palace in Portugal

• Quinta da Regaleira – Mysterious estate with tunnels, symbolism, and the famous Initiation Well

• Monserrate Palace – Exotic, ornate palace with botanical gardens