Sintra inspired a lot of authors for his beauty, mystery and history. Located next to the western point of Europe, Sintra is known for the wonderful castle sitting on the top of the hill. This is only 40 min by train from Lisbon (and 4 euros return tickets) , and clearly it's worth going out of the way to see this gorgeous city. Indeed, a lot of palaces are part of the charming Sintra. Unfortunately you can't visit them all.
I had the chance to go to Sintra for one day and even if the weather was a bit foggy, I felt like a princess in the Castle of Pena.
In Sintra there are so many things to visit, garden, castle, old buildings. But as this day I arrived at noon I had to choose. So, thanks to the advices of my friends, I decided to go and see the castle where many queens and kings lived : the Pena Castle. Pena castle is also one of the most visited locations in Portugal and also the most singular. To reach this castle you can either take a bus, or you can get through a huge forest. Unlike me, you must take good shoes to cross the forest, indeed, even if the way is made of cobblestone, you need to climb for 1h30 (as well take BOTTLES of water). Inside the forest you will be able to see the fortification and defensive walls, all still in good condition. Furthermore, you will get at the foot of Castelo dos Mouros, souvenir from the Moor's visit.
The Castle of Pena is a combination of different kinds of architectures, styles, colors. All was inspired by the king Fernando II, considered as an artistic and dreamy king. When he decided to build this castle it was to run away from the politic way of life. Fernando II loved the countryside.
To get inside the castle and also visit the garden you will have to pay around 11/12 euros. In the different rooms you will find pieces of period furniture whereas outside you will find a sentinel way that goes all around the castle. Then, if you have more time you should definitely go to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe.
