When coming to Portugal, especially if it’s for the first time, you are most probably likely to land at Lisbon airport. After probably getting your Lisbon airport transfer to your destination, you will start exploring the town and its surroundings. And there is much to see and do indeed!

In Sintra, about an hour’s drive away from Lisbon city, the whole world of fairy-tales will open up before your very eyes, exhibiting the greenest mountains with flower pastures, the perfect setting for rich European royals to build their palaces. The styles vary from 15th century to 19th century. Apparently, even great romantic poet Lord Byron, who traveled the world, praised the forests of Sintra as a “glorious Eden”.

Two excellent examples are the National Palace and the colorful, funny Pena Palace, looking a lot like a huge ice-cream with different flavors. Perched on a hill, in an idyllic landscape, Pena Palace, built in the 19th century, is a herald of European romanticism in architecture. It is one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal and part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The Sintra National Palace is also a symbol of Portugal and a part of the UNESCO patrimony. It served as royal residence from the 15th to the 19th century and is currently one of the most popular museums in the country.

The Quinta da Regaleira is another romantic castle worth visiting near Sintra.

If we haven’t yet convinced you that Lisbon is the place to dream your fairytale dream, come see with your own eyes!