Portugal Travel

Sintra is located in the Lisbon Region of Portugal, and it is a major tourist center of this region. It is frequently visited by tourists on day trips from the nearby capital city of Lisbon, and it is popular for its architecture and landscapes that are reminiscent of the Romantic era. It boasts a population of approximately 33,000 residents, and it is located 18 kilometers east of the Atlantic Ocean at the foot of the Sintra Mountains.

Attractions

Many of the attractions in Sintra focus on the rich history and architecture of this area. For example, many visitors choose to visit the Castelo dos Mouros, and this location was conquered in 1147 by Alfonso Henriques for the Christians. It was restored in the mid-19^th century and offers its visitors spectacular views and a glimpse at Portuguese history.

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra is also known as the Royal Palace, and it was built in the 14^th century. This home served as a summer house for kings of Portugal, and it is currently used as a museum. Each room within the palace has a different story, and many visitors enjoy the exterior style that features a mixture of Manueline and Gothic influences.

Lodging Information

Although Sintra makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip from Lisbon, many visitors choose to spend the night in order to allow for more time to see all of the sights in the area. Lawrence’s Hotel is one of the most popular locations, and this is said to be the oldest hotel found on the Iberian Peninsula. The Pestana Sintra Golf is located 3 km away from Sintra’s historical center, and it is also conveniently located near the beaches of Estoril and Cascais.

Museu de Arte Moderna

This is an art museum that is located a few minutes a way from the Estefania train station. It features works from a wide range of collections, and it includes conceptual art, kinetic art, minimalism, and pop art throughout its three floors. The exhibits change every two months, and the collection features works from Jackson Pollock, Roy Lichtenstein, and other famous artists.