Sintra, The City of Art and Natural Landscapes

Sintra, The City of Art and Natural Landscapes
Sintra
is a beautiful city in Portugal located in the mountainous region of
the Sintra Mountains, just a few kilometers from Lisbon. It is a popular
tourist destination due to its impressive architecture and natural
landscapes, which have inspired artists and writers for centuries.
The
city also boasts delicious local food and wine, as well as beautiful
nearby beaches where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets and a variety of
activities they have to offer.
Architectural works
Here are some popular architectural works in Sintra. You can't miss them!
- Sintra
National Palace: This beautiful palace was built in the 14th century
and features a fusion of architectural styles including Gothic,
Manueline, and Mudéjar. Its interiors are decorated with beautiful
Portuguese tiles and hand-painted ceilings.
- Quinta da Regaleira:
This dreamlike mansion was built in the early 20th century and is famous
for its magical garden filled with esoteric symbolism.
- Pena
Palace: This Romantic-style palace is located on top of a hill and
features a mixture of architectural styles including Neo-Manueline,
Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Islamic. The interiors are equally impressive, with
ornate ceilings and antique furnishings.
Historical Sities
Here are some of the most popular historical places. Come and enjoy them!
- Castle
of the Moors: This castle was built in the 8th century by the Moors to
defend the city. From its peak, you can enjoy stunning views of the
surroundings, including the coast and the National Palace of Sintra.
- Monserrate
Palace: This romantic-style palace was built in the 19th century and is
famous for its beautiful gardens filled with exotic plants from all
over the world. It also features a pond, a waterfall, and an artificial
cave.
- Convent of the Capuchos: This small convent is
characterized by its modest architectural style and integration with
nature. It is an ideal place to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the
area.
- Queluz National Palace: This palace was built in the 18th
century as a residence for the Portuguese royal family. It is famous for
its baroque gardens and impressive architecture.
Discover some of the recreational activities you can enjoy on Sintra
- Electric
bike tour: Enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air on an electric
bike. Don't worry about the effort, the bike helps you climb the steep
hills of Sintra!
- Paragliding: Want a panoramic view of Sintra?
Get on a paraglider and feel the freedom of flying! With an experienced
instructor, you can enjoy the beautiful views of Sintra from the sky.
- Surfing:
Surf the waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the nearby beaches of Sintra.
There are a variety of surf schools available for all levels.
- Hot
air balloon ride: Can you imagine floating in the air and enjoying
panoramic views of Sintra at sunrise or sunset? It's possible! Dare to
get on a hot air balloon and enjoy a memorable flight over Sintra.
Cuisine
Don't miss out on trying the delicious cuisine of Sintra. Here are some of its most popular dishes.
- Queijadas
de Sintra: A typical Sintra dessert, consisting of a creamy cheese
pastry, sugar, and cinnamon. It is delightfully sweet and smooth, a true
treat for cheese lovers!
- Cozido à portuguesa: A meat and vegetable stew that is slow-cooked for hours to achieve an intense and delicious flavor.
- Bacalhau com natas: a dish of cod and potatoes in a creamy sauce made of milk, egg, and cheese.
- Travesseiros:
another famous Sintra dessert, which are pastry pillows filled with
ground almonds and powdered sugar. Their pillow-like shape makes them
irresistibly soft and crispy.
It's a magical place worth visiting if you're in Portugal.