Sintra - The Portugués Riviera

Sintra was the get away place for Portugal's aristocracy for hundreds of years. Now it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has amazing fairytale like palaces perched on steep, lush hills and is only about 30 minutes from Lisbon. Ian thinks it is the Swampscott of Lisbon. 

We spent most of Friday touring two magnificent palaces in Sintra. First we visited the National Palace which is the oldest, surviving royal palace in Portugal.

It's known for its two, tall conic towers which are actually kitchen chimneys.

It also has amazing azulejo tiles from the 16th century.

Next we hiked around the Pena Palace created by a 19th century romantic prince. It has gothic, renaissance and moorish architecture. We couldn't stop taking photos there as at the every turn there was another stunning site.

 Ian's favorite part was the monastic cloister the palace was built around.



Pam's favorite part was the beautiful tile work and varied architecture.