Sintra (Nov. 9, 2025):
History of Sintra in a few lines:
Origins:
Sintra has roots that go back to prehistoric times, with settlements in its hills and caves. Its privileged location made it a strategic place from ancient times.
Middle Ages:
After the Muslim occupation, Sintra was reconquered by the Christians in the 12th century. The Castle of the Moors is a testament to that era.
19th Century:
It became a romantic haven for European nobility and artists, most notably the Pena Palace, a symbol of Romanticism in Portugal.
Present:
Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its palaces, gardens and landscapes that combine history and nature.
If you like castles and mansions, Sintra has a wonderful charm, but be warned, parking is a nightmare. And the roads leading to them are probably the narrowest and most winding I've ever seen. It's like stepping into another world, and the scenery is amazing, but when cars are coming from the opposite direction and you realize you can't fit in the same lane, it's not so great anymore 😅.
Information obtained from the web https://www.exteriores.gob.es
Passport/ID: Valid with either of the 2.
European Health Insurance Card: It's necessary, it's free and very easy to request online and they send it to your home. Request.
Vaccines: There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry.
International driving permit: There's no need.
Payment card/currency exchange: Your regular card, since the currency is the euro.
Roaming: YEAH.
Where to eat: If you want to eat at a restaurant, there's also the app. TheFork which has many discounts. If you book with the code 7C1B79A3 When you are finishing the booking, you will get 1000 Yums = €10 discount at your next meal. In addition to other special offers they often have, or simply to accumulate points and use them for discounts on your next payments.
It operates in several countries, including Spain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Portugal, Denmark, Sweden, and Australia.
Other destinations in Portugal: 
