Sintra and Coba de Roca

The city Sintra (which is derived from the Celtic word Cynthia literally meaning the moon) is slightly higher situated than Lisbon and it is not surprising that dignitaries came here to cool down. One of Sintra's palaces - that of Quelez, is the former summer residence of several Portuguese kings.

But Sintra has more to offer; for example, there is the UNESCO World Heritage the Vila, the old town with a labyrinth of alleys and streets leading to the aforementioned castle and a fantasy castle similar to the castle in Bavaria, Germany of King Ludwig. Finally, there are wonderful parks where you can walk and enjoy yourself. 

Sintra - Cabo da Roca: go early from home early because not so many buses depart from here to Cabo da Roca. This journey takes about 45 minutes (18 km) and costs 3.75 euros. The bus returns to Sintra at 09:30 in the morning.

Sintra - Lisbon: You can take the train (which looks more like a metro) from Sintra station to Lisbon (40 minutes).

• Name: Palacio Nacional de Sintra

Address: Largo Rainha Dona Amelia

Price: 5 euros (free on Sunday morning)

Time: 10:00 - 17:30 (Thursday to Tuesday)

Content:

The Moors started building this palace while the building was expanded considerably in the 13th century. Adorned with two gigantic large chimneys that come from the kitchen. It is a mix of Moors and "Manuelien" which makes the building so special. There are courtyards, columns and a number of rooms decorated with beautifully carved ceilings and the well-known azujelos which are claimed to be the oldest in the country.

The swan and magpie-room are the highlights.

• Name: Palacio Nacional de Pena

Price: 12 euros

Time: 10:00 - 17:30 (Tuesday to Sunday)

Content:

High in the mountains lies this fantasy palace which is a mix of a Royal Palace with all its splendor and an amusement park with an eastern slant. Yellow and golden domes, large heavy wooden doors, attributes (not photographable) that you did not know it existed and Playmobile-like walls and towers.

Purple walls, a red bell tower, Islamic decorations and gates and a mix of stone arrangements and architecture that amaze you. A castle like you have never seen before.

• Name: wild camping spot "Cabo da Roca"

Content:

To the north of the lighthouse there is a small forest where you can hide for the elements - beware because there are many fishermen passing by but in the evening it is dead quiet. Before the sun sets you can sit here (like a frost) in the dunes and see the sun set and then enjoy the Atlantic Ocean.