Sintra Continued | Cabo da Roca and the National Palace of Sintra

| Cabo da Roca and the National Palace of Sintra. Beyond the previously mentioned Quinta da Regaleira and Pena Palace, Sintra has two more must-visit spots: Cabo da Roca and the National Palace of Sintra. Keep reading this guide to learn more! Location: Still in Sintra, Portugal. Cabo da Roca is at the westernmost tip of the Sintra Peninsula, while the National Palace of Sintra is in the heart of Sintra town. 🚗Transportation: To reach Cabo da Roca, take Bus 403 from the station near Sintra Railway Station. The ride takes about 40 minutes, and tickets are very affordable—just a few euros for a round trip. The National Palace of Sintra is right in the town center, just a 10-minute walk from Sintra Railway Station, making it super convenient. 🌊Cabo da Roca Opening Hours: Open all day, but sunrise or sunset visits are recommended for the most breathtaking views. Highlights: Known as "Europe's Edge of the World," Cabo da Roca features a monument inscribed with a famous line by Portuguese poet Luís de Camões: "Where the land ends and the sea begins." The atmosphere here is magical. Standing on the cliffs, you’ll witness the vast Atlantic Ocean, waves crashing against the rocks, and the wind howling—a scene so grand it makes all worries fade away. Photo Spots: Don’t miss a shot in front of the monument with the Atlantic as your backdrop—it’s incredibly cinematic. The cliffside railings are also perfect for photos; stand sideways, let the wind tousle your hair, and snap a shot that exudes freedom and ease. 🌆National Palace of Sintra Opening Hours: 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). Highlights: One of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval royal palaces, the National Palace of Sintra boasts a unique blend of Gothic and Moorish architecture. Its most iconic features are the twin conical chimneys, resembling giant mushrooms—adorable yet majestic. Inside, you’ll find opulent rooms like the Swan Room and the Magpie Room. The Swan Room’s ceiling is adorned with 27 exquisitely painted swans, while the Magpie Room gets its name from the many magpie motifs on its walls, each magpie holding a rose—a symbol of love’s fidelity. Photo Spots: The palace’s exterior, especially the chimneys, is highly photogenic—capture it head-on for a stately vibe. Inside, the Swan Room is ideal for elegant shots; stand in the center with the swan murals as your backdrop. 📌Tips: Cabo da Roca is extremely windy—even in summer, bring a jacket to avoid catching a chill. Some cliff areas lack railings, so prioritize safety when taking photos. The National Palace of Sintra is less crowded, but it’s still best to avoid peak hours (10 AM–2 PM) for a quieter visit and unobstructed photos.