Guide To A Day Trip Or Longer Stay • Indie Traveller

Sintra is a fairytale-like place — and one you definitely shouldn’t miss on your Portugal trip. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed area includes many resplendent palaces, whimsically landscaped gardens, a scenic historical town as well as lush natural forests.

I love to visit Sintra and, thanks to living in nearby Lisbon, I’ve done so often. I’ve seen the sights, hiked the forests, and explored the coast — leaving no stone unturned. I’ve visited Sintra on daytrips, but also twice stayed overnight. In this guide, I’ll share with you my best tips.

Planning a trip to Sintra? Then there are 3 important things to know:

1. A day trip is barely enough to see the highlights. I think the Quinta da Regaleira is a must-see, as well as the Pena Palace and/or Moorish Castle, but you may not have time to do all three. If you have only one day, consider an early start.
2. The best times to visit are spring or autumn. Some parts can get very crowded in…