This charming town is situated within the cooling hills of the Serra de Sintra. Hidden within these pine-covered hills are whimsical palaces, extravagant villas, and the ruins of a Moorish castle. The variety of fascinating historic buildings and beautiful natural scenery combine to form an outstanding tourist destination. 

Considered not only one of the wonders of Portugal but indeed of Europe, Sintra is truly a gem. The historic center of the Vila de Sintra is famous for its 19th-century Romanticist architecture, historic estates and villas, gardens, and royal palaces and castles, which resulted in the classification of the town as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sintra's landmarks include the medieval Castle of the Moors, the romanticist Pena National Palace, and the Portuguese Renaissance Sintra National Palace.

Hans Christian Anderson found inspiration here, describing Sintra as the most beautiful place in Portugal and Lord Byron during his time here christened it his glorious Eden. However, perhaps the most distinguished homage is paid by Portugal's national poet Luís de Camões in his epic poem Os Lusíadas.