Two Days in Sintra, Portugal: A Magical Trip from Lisbon, Sintra, Portugal

Portugal’s old playground for the royalty and the rich and one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see, Sintra is an easy day trip from Lisbon, but make it two days with an overnight stay. Castles galore, and a lovely walk through the woods await you at this UNESCO World Heritage site. This is one of my very favorite travel memories. Everything you need to plan your trip!

Sintra, Portugal, less than an hour from Lisbon by train, is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited and my most enthusiastic recommendation for an excursion. I still sigh when I think of of my magical two days in Sintra.Historically a retreat for Portuguese royalty and the very wealthy, Sintra offers a playground of castles, mansions and wooded hills, all surrounding a charming little village. While the Castelo dos Mouros dates back centuries (it was used by the Moors, but dates back earlier), much of famous Sintra was built up after the devastating 1755 earthquake that leveled Lisbon. It’s a romantic vision.

There’s so much to explore in lovely Sintra, and while you can make a day trip of it if you’re willing to really edit your plans, Sintra is best experienced as an overnight. Even with the overnight, you’ll likely not see it all (I didn’t), and nor should you try.An overnight in Sintra is surprisingly affordable. You can expect to spend around €110-€120 for transportation, lodging, and entrance fees, plus whatever you choose to spend on food and drink (very affordable options available). Considering everything you’re getting, this is a bargain at twice the price. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).