2025 Sao Martinho Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

#2024TravelReview Sintra’s Monserrate Palace (Palácio de Monserrate) may not be as famous as other attractions, but this elegant 19th-century architectural wonder will amaze photography enthusiasts! The main body of the palace is made of light-colored stone, with three circular towers topped with eye-catching red domes. The building's exterior is dotted with delicate pointed-arch Gothic windows that sparkle in the sunlight. The octagonal dome in the central hall of the palace is breathtaking! The exquisite Arabic geometric patterns extend from the ceiling to the walls, and paired with marble colonnades, create a unique fusion of Eastern and Western beauty. Exquisite ceiling designs in the palace: Each room has a unique decorative theme, ranging from classical Victorian patterns to Moorish style, and European, African and Middle Eastern cultures add a sense of mystery to the entire space.

#Castle The Quinta da Regaleira used to be a private estate of a wealthy Portuguese manor. The main part is the Quinta da Regaleira and the Quinta da Regaleira. Its biggest feature is the mysterious symbology, the strange spiral well, and the small monster decorations, which are rare in Europe. What impressed me most was the 27-meter-deep Initiation Well (Poço Iniciático), which has 9 layers, symbolizing Dante's nine-fold cycle of heaven, hell, and purgatory. There are also hidden underground cave routes, some of which are natural caves and some are artificially carved. There are various small waterfalls and moss-covered stone steps in between. It is very interesting and worth the trip! 🎯Quinta da Regaleira 10:00-18:00, closed on January 1, December 24-25, and December 31 It is recommended to arrange a one-day trip with the Pena Palace. Sintra attractions are not far away. After visiting the Pena Palace, you can have a leisurely lunch and walk to it #100 ways to travel #Sintra #Spiral staircase #Underground cave #Portugal travel #Portugal castle #World Heritage

A trip to Sintra wouldn’t be complete without seeing Quinta da Regaleira, one of the most stunning estates recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the "Cultural Landscape of Sintra." This neo-gothic mansion was designed and constructed in the late 1800s. The estate’s main attractions include its enchanting gardens and the iconic initiation well. Though called a well, it isn’t actually a water source but rather an underground tower used for ceremonial purposes. The well features a 27-meter spiral staircase, approximately six stories high, and at its base, there are two main tunnels, one leading out to the garden. Walking down the well and through the tunnels felt like a surreal and magical experience! #citydaytours #100WaysofTravel #europetrip #portugal #sintra

| 7 beautiful travel destinations in exotic gardens. Sintra, Portugal | 7 beautiful travel destinations in exotic gardens Sintra is like a fairy tale: full of castles, palaces, gardens and forests Transportation: Sintra-Lisbon, about 29km, about half an hour Weather: Sunny most of the time Suggested time to visit: 1-2 days Reference to the itinerary Lisbon-Pena Palace-Moorish Castle-Sintra Palace-Regaleira Palace-Monserrate Palace-Cabo da Roca-Azenhas do Mar-Lisbon Worthy check-in place Palacio da Pena The palace is famous for its Disney-like appearance, with vaulted arches, medieval elements, and carvings of mythical monsters. : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

#newyearadventure Sintra is a UNESCO world heritage site in Portugal famed for its historic palaces and castles. It is about 50 minutes from Lisbon by train so you can easily make a day trip to Sintra while you're in Lisbon. We visited Pena Palace, a fairytale palace built in 19th century, and Quinta da Regaleira, a neo-gothic mansion with the iconic initiation well. We had lunch in Sintra town centre and thereafter travelled to Cabo da Roca - the westernmost point of mainland Europe. It may be cheaper to go from one location to another by Uber or other ride hiring platforms instead of hiring tour guides touting outside Sintra train station. The tour guide we hired charged us 35 euros per pax by fetching us from point A to point B. #portugal #sintra #lisbon #palace #mansion #unesco #penapalace #regaleira #cabodaroca

For breathtaking views head for Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra. Located on the way to Palácio da Pena, it can be reached on a tuk-tuk or on foot if you don't mind the walk (roughly 45 minutes from the bottom of the hill.) There are some trails that lacks signs, but on the day of my visit, I saw plenty of people heading to the same place and I just confirmed I was on the right track with them. Entry is 8 euros and cards are accepted. The ticket vending machine doesn't work, so go through the stone passageway opposite the vending machine and walk along the path to find the entrance and ticket office. You need at least 45 minutes to visit the place. Walk along the the wall and enjoy the stunning views.

Me and my family went to Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal! We spent a beautiful morning going trough the park where you can see different sculptures, towers, etc! Truly romantic and outstanding! A must if you visit Sintra!

◆Access └ 20 minutes walk from Sintra Station Although it is a tourist spot called a palace, the most impressive thing is the unique garden. In particular, the spiral staircase leading to the underground labyrinth makes you feel like you are in another world whether you look down from above or up from below. However, there are long lines at both the ticket booth and the entrance to the underground labyrinth inside the palace. Tickets can be purchased online, so we recommend making arrangements in advance. #historical ruins #breathtaking views

◆Access └ About 30 minutes by bus from Sintra Station (20 minutes on foot from Pena Palace) A spectacular spot where you can see the cityscape of Sintra in 360°. It is a historical site of the Moorish invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. The contrast between the cityscape and the blue sky over the decadent castle walls is breathtaking! You can also see the Royal Palace of Sintra. Even if you have limited time to visit Sintra, we recommend that you visit the Moorish Castle ruins. ※ You will need to climb quite a few steps to reach the top of the castle ruins. #historicalresort #spectacularview

Sintra, near Lisbon, the capital of Portugal A palace in this city that has been registered as a World Heritage Site. Built in the 12th century as a villa for Portuguese royalty, it is like a maze, with a mysterious worldview that resembles a fantasy world straight out of a game. The palace is located on top of a mountain, and there are caves, wells, waterfalls, and ponds, so you can enjoy it as if you are on an adventure. #World Heritage Site

The ruins of the Moorish castle in Sintra, a city registered as a World Heritage Site in Portugal. Sintra flourished as a summer resort for the royal family, and these are the ruins of a castle built on a mountain by the Moors, and you can walk along the castle walls. The view was great and it was a lot of fun. I've never been to the Great Wall of China, but I strolled along the walls, wondering if this is what the Great Wall of China was like. #WorldHeritage

In a foggy day, the Palácio de Sintra behind me looks very special. Despite the fog, the photo looks good with me in!

Nestled in Sintra, Portugal, Quinta da Regaleira is a must-visit palace and estate, filled with hidden tunnels, lush gardens, and mysterious symbolism. 🏰🌳 Built in the early 20th century, it reflects a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline architecture, designed by Carvalho Monteiro with the vision of a mystical retreat. 📍 What to Expect The Initiation Well 🕳️—A spiral descent into mystery! Secret tunnels & caves—Adventure through hidden pathways. 🔦 The palace itself—Richly decorated with stunning details. 🖼️ Lush gardens—Wander through exotic plants, statues, and fountains. 🌿⛲ 🎒 How to Prepare Wear comfortable shoes—There’s a lot to explore! 👟 Bring a flashlight—For the underground tunnels. 🔦 Check the weather—Best enjoyed on a sunny day! ☀️ Buy tickets in advance—Avoid long lines. 🎟️ A visit to Quinta da Regaleira feels like stepping into a storybook filled with mystery and enchantment—perfect for history lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers! ✨📸 #springwander

Beneath the mystical Initiation Well in Quinta da Regaleira, a secret world awaits—a network of caves and tunnels winding through the depths of this enchanted estate. 🌿🏰 These underground passageways connect the well to other mysterious spots, like the Lake of the Waterfall, creating an atmosphere straight out of a fairy tale. 🌊💫 Dimly lit, with natural rock formations and eerie silence, the caves feel like a portal to another realm. Some passages open up to breathtaking views of the gardens, while others lead to hidden towers and grottos. 🌙🔦 In spring, when the estate is lush with greenery, the caves feel even more like a lost world waiting to be explored! ✨🔍 #springwander

Deep within Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal, lies one of its most mysterious wonders—the Initiation Well. 🌿🏰 This spiraling underground tower isn’t just a well; it’s a symbolic journey, believed to represent rebirth and transformation. 🌌🔮 As you walk down the stone staircase, circling the nine levels of the well, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into another world. The design, inspired by secret rituals and Masonic traditions, leads to hidden tunnels that connect to the mystical gardens above. 🌲🌙 In spring, soft light filters through the opening, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. 🌸☀️ Whether you visit for its symbolism, history, or pure adventure, the Initiation Well is an unforgettable experience in Sintra’s enchanted landscape! 💫✨ #springwander

#2024mapped #2024mapped Exploring the mystical beauty of Sintra, Portugal, felt like stepping into a fairytale. These photos capture the essence of its enchanting landscapes and historic wonders. Looking up from the bottom of the Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira. This spiraling stone staircase, steeped in Masonic and alchemical symbolism, leads from the depths of the earth toward the light above. Walking down into it felt like descending into a hidden world, each step echoing the whispers of ancient mysteries. Looking up, the contrast between the dark, textured walls and the bright opening at the top created a striking perspective, as if symbolizing a journey from darkness into enlightenment. The eerie yet mesmerizing underground tunnels of Quinta da Regaleira. This cave-like passage, partially submerged in water, felt otherworldly. The jagged, moss-covered rock formations reflected in the still water, creating an illusion of infinite depth. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional drip of water, reinforcing the place’s secretive and mystical aura. It was easy to imagine how these tunnels were once used for enigmatic ceremonies or as hidden escape routes. Standing on the castle’s walls, of Pena Palace overlooking the lush landscape below, felt surreal. The blend of red and yellow hues, intricate stone carvings, and domed turrets made the palace seem like a dream brought to life. The misty sky added an air of mystery, making the whole experience even more magical. Sintra is a place where history, legend, and nature intertwine effortlessly. Walking through its wonders felt like being part of a living fairytale—one filled with hidden passageways, majestic views, and stories waiting to be uncovered.

Fairytale castles, mystical gardens, and breathtaking views! 🚆 Getting There • Take a train from Lisbon Rossio Station to Sintra (40 min, €2.30 one way). • Once in Sintra, use bus 434 (€11.50 hop-on-hop-off). Top Tip: Don’t use Uber/Bolt if you could, they don’t follow the normal fare and will keep cancelling even though the drivers accepted your booking, waiting you to raise the fares! 📍 Itinerary Morning ☀️ 🔹 Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) – The most famous and colourful palace in Sintra! Arrive early (opens 9:00 AM) to beat the crowds. Enjoy the stunning views and explore the romantic gardens. (€14 entry) 🔹 Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros) – A short walk from Pena Palace, these medieval ruins offer incredible panoramic views over Sintra and the coast. (€8 entry) Afternoon 🌿 🔹 Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate filled with underground tunnels, enchanting gardens, and the famous Initiation Well. A must-visit! (€11 entry) 🔹 Sintra Historic Centre – Stroll around the charming old town, grab a Travesseiro pastry from Piriquita Bakery, and explore the little shops. 💡 Extra Time? Visit Palácio de Monserrate, a hidden gem with gorgeous gardens and Moorish-Gothic architecture. 🚆 Heading Back • Take the train back to Lisbon Rossio Station (last train ~11 PM). 💡 Tips ✅ Wear comfortable shoes – Lots of walking and hills! ✅ Book tickets online to avoid long queues. ✅ Bring a light jacket – Sintra can be cooler than Lisbon. A magical day trip that feels like stepping into a storybook! ✨ #Favouriteitinerary #sintra #sintramagic

For Spring Festival travel, here are the 12-day itinerary suggestions for Spain and Portugal! Follow this guide to easily explore Spain and Portugal and start your European journey! -------- Spain and Portugal have rich historical heritage, with both magnificent castles🏰 and charming coastlines🌊. Here, you can feel the passion of flamenco💃 and taste the mellowness of wine🍷, don’t miss it! -------- 🎉Travel route: D1: Shanghai ⇒ Frankfurt ⇒ Lisbon Depart for Lisbon and prepare to start your journey to Spain and Portugal! D2: Lisbon ⇆ Sintra ⇆ Cabo da Roca Visit the town of Sintra and the Regaleira Estate, and taste Portuguese cuisine. D3: Lisbon⇒Evora⇒Seville Travel to Seville and enjoy a flamenco show in the evening. D4: Sevilla⇆Ronda⇆Mijas⇆Granada Visit the white town of Mijas and the elopement city of Ronda. D5-D6: Granada ⇆ Cordoba ⇆ Spanish Town ⇆ Consuegra ⇆ Toledo ⇆ Madrid Travel through Spain and encounter ancient cities and beautiful scenery. D7: Madrid⇆Segovia Visit Segovia and try the delicious roast suckling pig. D8-D9: Madrid ⇒ Barcelona City tour of Madrid, then to Barcelona. D10-D11: Barcelona Visit Barcelona in depth and feel the charm of the art city. D12: Barcelona ⇒ Zurich ⇒ Shanghai At the end of the journey, we returned from Barcelona and arrived in Shanghai the next day. -------- 🧳 Travel list: 📞 Purchase a local phone card to facilitate contact and access the Internet more conveniently. 🔌 Don’t forget to bring a plug adapter to adapt to Spanish and Portuguese sockets. 🪪 Make sure to check your passport, visa and air tickets before traveling. 👔 Depending on the weather in January, prepare warm jackets and comfortable shoes. 🔋 Charger and mobile power supply to ensure continuous power supply for the device. 💊 Bring your usual medicines, just in case. 💰 Prepare some cash and credit cards for emergencies. -------- During the journey to Spain and Portugal, every step is a scenery, and every moment is worth cherishing. May your trip to Spain and Portugal be an unforgettable memory! 🌟

The Initiation Well in Sintra, Portugal, is a magical spiral staircase descending into the depths of mystery and symbolism. Found within the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira estate, this well was never a water source but rather a ceremonial structure tied to esoteric rituals. Each step echoes with history, making it a must-visit for those seeking an extraordinary journey. Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and take time to explore the surrounding gardens and grottoes for a complete experience. Start the day by visiting the well first, after you can explore caves and the castle later. Comfortable shoes are a must, and booking tickets online can save time. #portugal #sintra #travel #staycation #thingstodo

#Overseas travel #Portugal The Villa Regaleira is a tourist attraction in Sintra designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is a palace built by Antonio Augusto Carvalho Montero and was completed in 1910. There are many things to see, including the palace, fountains, and caves. Location: R. Barbosa du Bocage 5, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal

This is by far the cutest and most feminine of the tourist spots in Sintra, so I highly recommend it for those who want to feel like a princess❣️ It's a little far from the Sintra Palace and Regaleira Palace, so there are fewer tourists and it's easy to take photos👍 And the vast garden outside the palace is also worth seeing❗ There are plenty of plants that are not often seen in Japan, such as tall cacti and large agaves🌱 If you want to see the whole place properly, it's a good idea to have 2-3 hours⏰ Taxi is the most convenient way to get there🚕 Please go and check it out🎵 ⋈ ････Spot details･････････ ⋈ Business hours: 09:00-17:00 Closed days: None #tripOverseas travel

It is recommended to buy tickets and choose a time directly on the official website. It will be more reassuring. I am afraid that I will queue up to buy tickets on site but cannot enter because the current session is full. Or I can only choose to visit at the next time, but it may delay the next trip. Then I will stay for at least two hours. It is really worth visiting and every place I go is worth exploring.

#castle Monserrate Palace is a building that will A dream place perfectly integrated with nature Every room in the palace is decorated very beautifully The gardens feature a wide variety of exotic plants The palace is a unique blend of Gothic style Indian and Moorish patterns Its design reflects different A harmonious blend of cultural influences Sir Francis Cook's Dream If you appreciate history, architecture and nature Monserrate Palace is something you can’t miss Historical architectural design

#castle This castle is majestic and has a long history Even more impressive are its outbuildings Especially the famous Enlightenment Well Quinta da Regaleira simply unbelievable Immerse yourself in a mysterious universe It's filled with secret caves, hidden passages and winding staircases Every corner of this huge estate is full of surprises We enjoyed getting lost in its flowery gardens Regaleira Chapel and a luxurious park There are lakes, caves, wells and benches Fountains and many beautiful buildings This building is also known as "Montero's Palace" Architectural styles include Romanesque Gothic, Renaissance and Manueline architectural styles The building was built in 1904 Very beautiful historical architectural design

#100WaysOfTravel This is the most worth-seeing attraction in Sintra. The architecture is beautiful, and the garden is also very interesting. It is not very large inside. The garden covers a relatively large area. There is also a very famous Internet celebrity check-in point: the underground well, which is said to be more similar to the nine-story demon tower. Because of the Internet celebrity, there are quite a lot of people queuing up. If you look for the angle carefully, you can really make a movie. You can see the Moorish castle on the top of the opposite mountain. #ancienttown

If you're planning a trip to Lisbon, don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby gems of Sintra and Cascais, two of Portugal's most captivating destinations. Just a short drive from the capital, these locations are perfect for a day trip filled with history, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of magic. **Pena Palace: A Fairytale Castle** Perched high on a hill in Sintra, Pena Palace is straight out of a fairytale. With its vibrant colors, eclectic architecture, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, it's easy to see why this palace is one of Portugal's most visited sites. The palace's blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles is a visual feast, while the lush gardens surrounding it provide a tranquil escape. Don't forget to snap some photos of the stunning views from the palace's terraces! **Quinta da Regaleira: Mystical and Mysterious** Just a short distance from Pena Palace is the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira. This estate is known for its elaborate gardens, secret tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well, a spiral staircase that descends deep into the earth. Walking through the grounds feels like uncovering the secrets of an ancient world, with each turn revealing something new and intriguing. It's a must-visit for those who love history, architecture, and a touch of mystery. **Cascais: Coastal Charm** After exploring the wonders of Sintra, head to the coastal town of Cascais for a relaxing end to your day. Known for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and vibrant marina, Cascais is the perfect place to unwind. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant, or simply take in the stunning ocean views. **Final Tips** When planning your trip, consider taking a guided tour to make the most of your visit. This way, you can sit back, relax, and let the experts show you the best of Sintra and Cascais. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a picturesque escape, this tour will leave you with unforgettable memories. #LisbonDayTrip #SintraMagic #PenaPalace #QuintaDaRegaleira #ExploreCascais #PortugalWonders #TravelLisbon #SintraCascaisTour #TravelInspiration# #100waysoftravel

Ah, Lisbon! A city where every corner whispers tales of history and every vista is a postcard waiting to be sent. Let's dive into some must-visit spots that'll make your travel-loving heart skip a beat! 🏰 National Palace of Pena, Sintra A hilltop wonder that looks like it's been plucked straight from a fairytale book! The National Palace of Pena is a riot of color and architectural styles. Wander through rooms that blend Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish designs, or roam the magical park with its exotic plants. Pro tip: Skip the shuttle, the walk up isn't long and the queues are a doozy! Remember, the early bird avoids the crowds. 🌊 Cape Roca, Colares Ever wanted to stand at the edge of the world? Cape Roca is as close as it gets! Europe's westernmost point offers dramatic cliffs and endless ocean views. The wind here tells stories of old explorers, and the lighthouse and cross monument add a touch of elegance. Splurge on a cab from Lisbon; it's an experience you won't regret. Don't forget to bundle up, the Atlantic breeze is brisk! 🌿 Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra Step into a mystical realm at Quinta da Regaleira, where gothic architecture meets enchanting gardens and secret tunnels. The initiation well is a sight to behold, and the palace is nothing short of stunning. It's a cultural treasure trove that will have you feeling like you're in a storybook. Wear comfy shoes; this adventure involves quite a bit of walking! ⛪ Porto Cathedral, Porto When in Porto, a visit to the city's grand cathedral is a must. This medieval marvel has stories etched into every stone, and its beauty has stood the test of time. It's a serene spot to reflect and soak up some diverse cultural vibes. Just around the corner, treat yourself to the famous Portuguese egg tart – a sweet end to a divine visit!

📍Attraction address: Quinta da Regaleira is located in Sintra 🚗Access to the attraction: Take bus 435 to get there, and you can buy a bus ticket for 13.5 euros in Sintra to take buses 434 and 435 for the whole day. 👍️Must-visit attractions: Quinta da Regaleira has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The estate includes the romantic Regaleira Palace, the Regaleira Chapel, and a luxurious park with lakes, caves, wells, benches, fountains, and a multitude of exquisite buildings. This building is also known as 'The Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire', named after the nickname of its first owner, who was a tobacco merchant and had a smoking room inside, furnished with a chair resembling a dragon throne. The estate has a very three-dimensional garden with unexpected ingenuity. Quinta da Regaleira is a quirky attraction, where all the large and small buildings have pure white, intricately carved facades, giving a delicate yet eerie feeling.