Once a summer escape for Portuguese royalty, today the charming hillside town on Sintra is a thriving tourist location offering some of the most jaw-droopingly beautiful places to visit in Europe. Located only over 20 km from Lisbon, the town is a must-visit for first time visitors travelling to Portugal. Some of the most impressive tourist places include palaces like Palácio Nacional de Sintra and Palácio de Seteais. In addition there are ancient wonders like the Moorish Castle and Convento dos Capuchos giving insights into the town’s rich history. There is some unique place to visit here to suit every kind of visitor’s needs.

One of the most popular places to visit in the city, the Sintra Palace has bordering cones on each side and is known for its distinctive white colour façade that can be observed from anywhere in the city. Its interiors are designed with a variety of influences that include the Moorish, Gothic and even Renaissance styles. It is a great place to visit for tourists of all ages to learn more about Sintra’s rich and diverse history.

The Moorish Castle of Sinatra is another one of the must-visit places in the city, ideal for lovers of architecture and history alike. The pathway up to the castle has been exquisitely built into the surrounding mountain area where the castle sits at the top overlooking the town. This structure was constructed way back in the 10th century.

The Pena Palace, as it is commonly known is yet another magnificent, historic structure located on the highest point of Sintra. The view of the surrounding natural landscape and town extends as far as Lisbon itself on a clear day. This palace seriously looks like something out of a fairy-tale with its stunning frescoed interiors, Arab Room and Ballroom, all of which are unique in their own way. This is a true highlight of the town, with thousands of tourists flocking to check it out all through the year.

A tourist-favourite and with good reason, this stunning mansion created by António August Carvalho Monteiro, the bizarre tycoon back in the 19th century. The surrounding courtyard is exquisite in its design, with an eclectic mix of statuettes, fountains, benches and a trees scattered all over. There is an air of mystery and opulence about this place that makes it a must-visit destination.

Hidden away in the Sintra Valley lies one of the most shining examples of Roman architecture exhibited anywhere in the world. The stunning Monserrate Park and Palace are not be missed for visitors coming to Sintra. The combination of Gothic, Moorish infused with the base of Roman architecture is what gives it its unique design. The park is what existed earlier by itself. It was only in the 1700’s when Sir Francis Cook created the stunning palace at the top of the hill.

Arguably the most unique in terms of location, design and concept, the Convento dos Capuchos is also one of the best places to visit in the Serra de Sintra hillside. Majority of the entrances and accommodations are simple yet tasteful in its creation. Historically this location was home to monks looking for shelter nearly 300 years ago. Hidden away in the forest it is easy to see why visitors are charmed instantly by this ancient wonder.

More opulent and romantic in its design, the Palacio de Seteais was built in the 18th century, but now serves as a luxury hotel. The most unique feature of the property is the magnificent arch which allows visitors to walk onto a promenade where they can check out the sprawling Atlantic coastline in the background. This is a great way to spend the day and a fantastic place for couples and families alike.