Sintra

A mist-shrouded World Heritage hill town on the western outskirts of Lisbon, where Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and Regaleira Palace hide in the forest, and to the west lies Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

Sintra lies about 25 km northwest of Lisbon, on the northern slope of the Sintra Mountains. The forested hills are often wrapped in clouds. Since the 19th century, it has been a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family and nobility, and in 1995 it was inscribed as the UNESCO World Heritage site 'Cultural Landscape of Sintra'. The core sights fall into three areas. The first is on the mountain: Pena Palace, Pena Park (including the Chalet of the Countess of Edla and the High Cross), and the Moorish Castle. The second is around the old town: Sintra National Palace, Regaleira Palace, Biester Palace, and Seteais Palace. The third is to the west: Monserrate Palace, the Capuchos Convent, and along the Atlantic coast, Cabo da Roca, Praia da Ursa, Azenhas do Mar, and Praia Grande. To the south it extends to Cascais and the Golden Sands beach, while to the east Queluz Palace lies on the way to Lisbon. The climate is mild and humid. April–June and September–October are best. Summer draws huge crowds, so book Pena Palace time-slot tickets in advance on the official website. The mountain is cooler and foggier than Lisbon, so bring a jacket. Transport: from Lisbon's Rossio station, take a train for about 40 minutes to Sintra station, then transfer to bus 434, a loop route up the mountain. The mountain roads are narrow and parking is scarce, so driving into the old town in peak season is not recommended. Plan at least one full day for Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and Regaleira Palace. Two days allow you to add Monserrate Palace and the coastline. Most palaces are run by Parques de Sintra, and combined tickets offer savings. Some sights remain open on Mondays.

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