Sao Martinho Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)

Day trip to Sintra and Cabo da Roca

#newyearadventure Sintra is a UNESCO world heritage site in Portugal famed for its historic palaces and castles. It is about 50 minutes from Lisbon by train so you can easily make a day trip to Sintra while you're in Lisbon. We visited Pena Palace, a fairytale palace built in 19th century, and Quinta da Regaleira, a neo-gothic mansion with the iconic initiation well. We had lunch in Sintra town centre and thereafter travelled to Cabo da Roca - the westernmost point of mainland Europe. It may be cheaper to go from one location to another by Uber or other ride hiring platforms instead of hiring tour guides touting outside Sintra train station. The tour guide we hired charged us 35 euros per pax by fetching us from point A to point B. #portugal #sintra #lisbon #palace #mansion #unesco #penapalace #regaleira #cabodaroca

Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra 💝

Me and my family went to Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal! We spent a beautiful morning going trough the park where you can see different sculptures, towers, etc! Truly romantic and outstanding! A must if you visit Sintra!

Real-life Disney Castle

Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating Portuguese town known for its opulent palaces, extravagant villas, historic sites, lush forests and jagged hills. Must-see attractions include:🌟 1.The whimsical Palácio da Pena 2. Moorish castle ruins 3. Mystical Quinta da Regaleira gardens 4. Arabian-inspired Palácio de Monserrate. Beyond the tourist routes, Sintra offers dense forests, rugged coastlines, secluded religious sites, and breathtaking viewpoints for adventurous travelers.⛰️ How to get there:🛣 Sintra is a town in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, about an hour northwest of Lisbon. 1. I don't recommend driving to Sintra. Parking at the palaces and within the town is tough (as in, parking options are virtually nonexistent).🚘 2. Trains run regularly from Lisbon's Rossio station (up to 6 times per hour during the busy season). Tickets are €4.60 return (5.10 Euro total if you don't already have a Viva Viagem card, which is Lisbon's transport card).The journey from Lisbon to Sintra takes about 40 minutes.🚆 3. There's also a combo ticket you can purchase for the train and Sintra buses for €14. If you're going to try to get this combo ticket, I recommend purchasing in- person at the station. Getting around Sintra:🚍 The most affordable way to get around is by taking the tourist buses that run regular routes to Sintra's most popular attractions. These buses are 434 and 435. #cherryblossom2024

Immerse Yourself in the Enchanting Jardim da Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Lisbon, Portugal 🌳

Step into a world of magical beauty and natural wonder at the Jardim da Quinta da Regaleira, nestled in the picturesque city of Sintra, Lisbon, Portugal. This stunning garden paradise invites visitors to escape the bustling city and embrace the tranquility of nature. As you wander through the Jardim da Quinta da Regaleira, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and towering trees. The carefully designed pathways guide you through a tapestry of colors and scents, creating a sensory experience that is nothing short of captivating. Discover hidden gems along the way, such as elegant statues, charming fountains, and secluded alcoves. Each corner of the garden holds a surprise, inviting you to pause and marvel at the artistry of its design. From the grand perspectives of the open lawns to the intimate charm of serene ponds, every view is a picture-perfect moment waiting to be captured. As you explore deeper into the Jardim da Quinta da Regaleira, you'll encounter whimsical features like the enchanting waterfall and the hidden grotto, adding an element of mystery to your journey. Lose yourself in the calming sounds of nature as you meander through the winding paths, immersing yourself in the tranquility that surrounds you. The Jardim da Quinta da Regaleira is not just a garden; it is a sanctuary for the soul. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat, a romantic escape, or simply a place to reconnect with nature, this hidden gem in Sintra, Lisbon, Portugal provides an oasis of serenity. Escape the demands of everyday life and indulge in the natural beauty of the Jardim da Quinta da Regaleira. Let the lush gardens and captivating surroundings transport you to a state of pure bliss and rejuvenation. 🌳

In a foggy day, the Palácio de Sintra behind me looks very special. Despite the fog, the photo looks good with me in!

Cascais: Lisbon Surrounding Tour 2

Cascais is a holiday resort on the Portuguese coast, known for its pleasant climate, rich culture, and magnificent beaches. Just 25 kilometers from Lisbon, it is a wealthy area in Portugal. The livable town plus the Atlantic scenery, and the mild climate, of course, will be occupied by the rich, and the luxurious atmosphere is born. The ancient city relics are well preserved, exquisite and delicate, and the repairs are thoughtful. 🍠 Must-visit attractions Cascais Beach (Praia de Cascais): This golden beach is one of the most popular coastlines in Cascais, with delicate beaches, clear waters, and surrounding scenery forming a pleasant coastal landscape. Santa Marta Lighthouse (Farol de Santa Marta): As one of the iconic buildings in Cascais, the lighthouse is white and red, and it is a popular check-in shooting point. Guia Lighthouse (Farol da Guia): This historic lighthouse is located by the sea and is an ideal place to enjoy the sea view and sunset. Cascais Marina (Cascais Marina): There are various restaurants, cafes, and shops around the marina. You can stroll on the pier and enjoy various sailboats and blue sky. Cascais Fortress (Fortaleza de Cascais): The 17th-century fortress next to the pier overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is an iconic building in Cascais. Climb the city wall and you will enjoy the magnificent sea view. Summer Villa (Condes de Castro Guimaraes Palace): A unique building located next to the beautiful Pombal Beach. There is a museum in the palace, displaying collections. Sintra Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra): If time permits, it is recommended to visit the fairy-tale Sintra Palace on the top of the mountain, which is one of the most magnificent buildings in Cascais. 🍠 Food culture Fresh seafood: As a coastal city, Cascais is famous for its fresh seafood, tasting lobster, seafood stew, and Portuguese-style grilled fish. Pastel de Nata: This is a traditional Portuguese egg tart, the crispy skin and sweet taste are memorable. 🍠 Shopping area Cascais Market (Mercado da Vila de Cascais): This market gathers local food, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Cascais Shopping Center (Cascais Villa): A place for shopping, with various fashion brands, handicraft shops, and local specialty stores. 🍠Travel Tips Bicycle tour: Rent a bicycle and ride along the coastline to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Beautiful sunset: At sunset, go to the beach or near the lighthouse to enjoy the magnificent sunset, which is the perfect end to a romantic trip.

Must Visit in Portugal | Pena Palace

| Pena Palace. How can you travel to Portugal 🇵🇹 without visiting Sintra? This is a small town on the west side of Lisbon, the summer retreat of the Portuguese king 🌺. Here you can find Moorish-style city walls, fairy-tale castles, and mysterious and deep old manors... Pena Palace is the summer villa of the Portuguese king in Sintra. You can see the style of the Portuguese royal palace, which is unique. Personally, I feel that there are more beautiful things indoors, various beautiful arches and wooden windows, coupled with the scenery outside, it's absolutely amazing. 🌈Transportation: It takes about 50 minutes by train from Lisbon East Station. Because there are many attractions in Sintra and each attraction is quite far apart, you can directly buy a 'Sintra Day Ticket' at the East Station, which is very convenient! 🌈Accommodation: Sintra is a town at the foot of the mountain, with many ups and downs, and it is very inconvenient to carry luggage. Moreover, Sintra is very small. If you don't want to check in all, one day is enough to play, so it is not recommended to stay here. 🌈Play: The opening hours of all attractions in Sintra are basically the same. You can buy tickets for other attractions at one of the attractions, which is not only cost-effective but also saves the time of queuing to buy tickets!

Sintra National Palace

#weekendgetaways Beautiful castle, if you're up for it, walk to the castle through the pena Park, it is quite nice, but your legs will feel like marshmallow when you finish the climb up. You need to buy the ticket outside the castle and you go in by time slot. Try to be on time, but they might let you in if you are a bit late. From the entrance to the castle it takes about 30 minutes walking but there is a bus that can take you to the castle. However, the queue is quite long.

Monserrate Park and Palace.

My trip to the Monserrate Park and Palace was a magical experience. Located in Sintra, Portugal, this historic palace is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the area. When I arrived at Monserrate Park and Palace, I was amazed by its unique beauty and enchanting atmosphere. The palace features a beautiful and romantic design with a mix of Moorish-Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. You will wander through beautifully decorated corridors and rooms, exploring the picturesque gardens surrounding the palace. The garden is a highlight of Monserrate with a variety of rare plants and giant trees. You will enjoy walking through the green meadows and taking in the splendid views of the surrounding landscape. The garden's tropical suite is one of the most recommended spots, where you can see an amazing selection of tropical plants and beautiful waterfalls. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the many lavishly decorated rooms inside the palace. The palace is characterized by beautiful and artistic details, reflecting the culture and art of that historical period with exhibition halls, offices, and living rooms to explore.

Discover the Enchanting Park of Monserrate Palace in Sintra, Portugal 🇵🇹

🇵🇹The Park of Monserrate Palace in Sintra, Portugal 🇵🇹 is a mesmerizing destination that will take your breath away. Nestled in the stunning Sintra Mountains, this park is a true gem for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The park features lush green gardens, vibrant flowers, and enchanting pathways, creating a picture-perfect setting for a peaceful stroll or a romantic picnic. As you explore the park, you will come across the magnificent Monserrate Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace's intricate architecture and exquisite detailing are a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Portugal. Inside, you can admire stunning art collections and intricate tile work, showcasing the country's artistic prowess. One of the highlights of the Park of Monserrate Palace is the iconic viewpoints, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. From these vantage points, you can marvel at the breathtaking vistas, including the Sintra Mountains and the nearby coastline. The park also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, including music festivals and art installations. This adds an extra element of excitement and entertainment to your visit, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Indulge in the beauty and tranquility of the Park of Monserrate Palace in Sintra, Portugal 🇵🇹. Immerse yourself in nature, admire architectural wonders, and create lasting memories in this captivating destination. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this park has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this magical place.

Park and Palace of Monserrate

#weekendgetaways Stunning park with church ruins that are beautifully overgrown. The Palace itself is intricate and beautiful. The grounds were open at 9am to stroll leisurely without any other people, that’s the way to truly enjoy them. The Palace opens at 9:30, again only minimal people so loud voices didn’t spoil the serenity.overlall this place are awesome and best To visit

Park and Palace of Monserrate

#hiddengems The grounds around the palace are wonderful. The variety of trees and other plants is impressive, and the atmosphere (except when you find yourself near the loud citizens of a certain neighboring country) is relaxing. My only complaint would be the condition of the rose garden, although that is easily explained by the need to save water during the summer.

PLS visit during golden hour 🌅😍🇵🇹

#timetotravel We visited in the late afternoon and managed to catch the golden hour, it was so magical!! 🌅 We took the train from Lisbon to Sintra and called an uber to drive up to the National Palace of Peña, from what I recalled, ubers in Portugal were not very expensive. There is an entrance fee of around $120 HKD but it was so worth it to visit. The red and yellow exterior of the palace is stunning 😍 and this makes the palace unique from other palaces I have seen!! The National Palace of Peña is situated at the top of the peak, therefore it offers a panoramic view of Sintra which is a plus!! #sintra #portugal #境外遊

🏰✨ Majestic Fairy-tale: Explore the Enchanting Pena Palace

#wecreate Welcome to the magical world of Pena Palace, nestled amidst the stunning Sintra Mountains in Portugal. 🌲🏰✨ Immerse yourself in the allure of this 19th-century masterpiece, with its vibrant colors, intricate architecture, and breathtaking views. 🌈✨ Discover the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at the blend of Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish influences. 🏰✨🌹 Uncover the secrets of the royal past as you wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and stumble upon hidden nooks and crannies. 🌺🌳✨ Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience - Pena Palace will leave you spellbound! 💫📸 #Sintra #TravelGoals #Fairytale #Architecture #History #BucketList #Wanderlust #MagicalMoments #PalacePerfection #DreamDestination

Must Visit Lisbon 🇵🇹 Pena Palace

We arrived at the Park/garden at 9:20AM on Sunday (the gardens open at 9AM) There was already a line of people buying tickets and a line of people entering the park. Although the line to get into the park was very quick, since security just needed to scan our tickets. 📍Do yourself a favor buy your tickets online, you don't need to choose a date when you are just visiting the park and outer terraces. 📍No need to buy a shuttle bus ticket, the line is longer than the walk up itself. It's a pretty easy up hill walk, that takes about 10-15 minutes. 📍It's a bit tricky to buy tickets for the garden & outer terraces online. But It is worth your money and there is no wait to walk around the outer terraces! 📍I would highly recommend coming to the gardens when they open at 9AM before the line of people starts. When we were leaving the castle terraces, the line was super long around 10:15AM After visiting the castle terraces, we walked around the garden. There are some nice viewpoints like Elizabeth's hights. We went to the farm area, but we didn't see any animals which was disappointing. If you follow these tips you will also have a nice trip like we did.

Pena Palace, a fairytale palace in Sintra

#newyearadventure The Park and National Palace of Pena in Sintra is one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe. The palace was built on top of Serra de Sintra on the site of a former monastery built in the 16th century. In 1838 the monastery was acquired by King Fernando II. He was the main driving force behind the construction of Pena Palace by refurbishing the old buildings and constructing a new wing. The palace served as a summer palace for the royal family. Be prepared to send at least 2 hours there as the palace is huge and if you have time you should also spend some time at the beautiful park around the palace. Buy your tickets online to save 5% and save time queuing at the gate. #portugal #sintra #lisbon #palace #unesco #penapalace #monastery #fairytale #tripblazers

Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra

For breathtaking views head for Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra. Located on the way to Palácio da Pena, it can be reached on a tuk-tuk or on foot if you don't mind the walk (roughly 45 minutes from the bottom of the hill.) There are some trails that lacks signs, but on the day of my visit, I saw plenty of people heading to the same place and I just confirmed I was on the right track with them. Entry is 8 euros and cards are accepted. The ticket vending machine doesn't work, so go through the stone passageway opposite the vending machine and walk along the path to find the entrance and ticket office. You need at least 45 minutes to visit the place. Walk along the the wall and enjoy the stunning views.

Real-life Disney Castle

Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating Portuguese town known for its opulent palaces, extravagant villas, historic sites, lush forests and jagged hills. Must-see attractions include:🌟 1.The whimsical Palácio da Pena 2. Moorish castle ruins 3. Mystical Quinta da Regaleira gardens 4. Arabian-inspired Palácio de Monserrate. Beyond the tourist routes, Sintra offers dense forests, rugged coastlines, secluded religious sites, and breathtaking viewpoints for adventurous travelers.⛰️ How to get there:🛣 Sintra is a town in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, about an hour northwest of Lisbon. 1. I don't recommend driving to Sintra. Parking at the palaces and within the town is tough (as in, parking options are virtually nonexistent).🚘 2. Trains run regularly from Lisbon's Rossio station (up to 6 times per hour during the busy season). Tickets are €4.60 return (5.10 Euro total if you don't already have a Viva Viagem card, which is Lisbon's transport card).The journey from Lisbon to Sintra takes about 40 minutes.🚆 3. There's also a combo ticket you can purchase for the train and Sintra buses for €14. If you're going to try to get this combo ticket, I recommend purchasing in- person at the station. Getting around Sintra:🚍 The most affordable way to get around is by taking the tourist buses that run regular routes to Sintra's most popular attractions. These buses are 434 and 435. #cherryblossom2024

Moorish Marvel: Sintra's Timeless Citadel

Certainly! Moorish Castle in Sintra offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, and panoramic views. Here are some travel notes for exploring the Moorish Castle in Sintra: **1. Location and Overview:** - The Moorish Castle is situated on a hilltop in Sintra, Portugal, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. - It dates back to the 8th or 9th century and played a strategic role in the region's history. **2. Access and Transportation:** - Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by train or bus. - Once in Sintra, consider taking a local bus or taxi to reach the Moorish Castle, or it's a scenic walk for the more adventurous. **3. Entrance and Tickets:** - Purchase tickets at the entrance or consider buying them online to avoid queues. - A combined ticket might be available if you plan to visit other attractions in Sintra, such as Pena Palace. **4. Architecture and Features:** - Admire the Moorish architectural elements, including crenellated walls, towers, and the iconic Gateway of the Moorish Castle. - Explore the well-preserved remains of the castle, including the cistern and walls. **5. Scenic Walks:** - Enjoy the picturesque walks along the castle walls. - Don't miss the stunning views of the Sintra hills, Pena Palace, and the Atlantic Ocean. **6. Historical Significance:** - Learn about the castle's history, including its Moorish origin and subsequent reconstructions by the Christians. - Discover the strategic importance of the castle during the Moorish and medieval periods. **7. Timing and Duration:** - Plan to spend a few hours exploring the castle and its surroundings. - The morning or late afternoon is ideal for pleasant weather and beautiful lighting. **8. Photography Opportunities:** - Capture the panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding countryside. - Look for unique angles to photograph the castle's architecture. **9. Nearby Attractions:** - Combine your visit with other attractions in Sintra, such as Pena Palace and the town center. - Check the schedule for any cultural events or festivals in Sintra. **10. Comfort and Practical Tips:** - Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. - Bring water, especially on warm days. - Check for any restoration or maintenance schedules that might affect your visit. **11. Local Refreshments:** - Explore local cafes or bring a picnic to enjoy within the castle grounds. - Sample traditional Portuguese treats and refreshments. **12. Respectful Exploration:** - Be respectful of the historical site, follow designated paths, and adhere to any guidelines provided. Visiting the Moorish Castle in Sintra offers a unique journey through time and provides a deep appreciation for the rich history of the region. Enjoy your exploration!

Moorish Castle in Sintra! 🌹🌄

#wecreate The castle is only 400-500 metres downhill from Pena Palace, so a good option to visit and there is no need to catch a bus as you can just walk downhill. Be prepared to climb up and down the castle – you will be rewarded with great views but may also end up with muscle fatigue. Wander through history, uncovering tales of knights and kings, and marvel at the architectural splendor that transports you to another era. 🛡️🌿 Don't forget your camera to capture those picture-perfect moments! #MoorishCastle #Sintra #Portugal #HistoryUnveiled #BreathtakingViews #ExplorationGoals #EnchantedLandscapes #MedievalMagic