On my third day in Lisbon, I decided to take a trip to the city of Sintra; it is an easy 40-minute train ride from Lisbon. I had heard it was beautiful, but that does not even begin to describe it! Sintra is full of some of the most beautiful architecture and greenery I have ever seen. I highly recommend taking a day trip if you are ever able to visit! I actually chose to visit two of the less popular castles, but I am so glad I did.
I started my trip by taking the bus up to the Castle of the Moors which, despite the name, is not a traditional castle; it is actually a series of walls and towers built on the Serra de Sintra mountain range. It was A LOT of walking, but it was amazing. I then stopped in the small town in the middle of Sintra and grabbed a bite of frozen yogurt, which was so much better than any I had had in the States. I also bought some jewelry in the town; there are lots of little stands set up along the roads.
Then, it was time to head to the Palace of Monserrate, one of the most underrated castles in my opinion. The castle itself is beautiful, but the gardens are even more gorgeous! They were one of my favorite things I saw. I then ended the day eating at a local bakery near the train station. The coffee abroad is so much better than at home because they use fresh, locally sourced espresso beans.
Then, after an all-day trip, it was time to head back. I took the train back to Lisbon, that same simple 40-minute ride as before, and grabbed dinner upon arriving back in Lisbon. So, my biggest tip is to take a day trip! Find a nearby city or country and go on an adventure. You never know, it may be the best part of the trip!
