This article has links to products and services we recommend, which we may make a commission from.
Have you ever been to a wonderland? If you visit Lisbon, don’t miss the chance to explore nearby Sintra with its fairytale palaces and great food.
From cafe fare to fine dining, find out where to eat in Sintra. You’ll enjoy amazing Portuguese cuisine at these Sintra restaurants.
Map of Things to Do and Where to Eat in Sintra
Sintra is a long-time royal family destination, with lush forests and magical palaces. Just 40 mins by train from Lisbon, this Unesco World Heritage Site offers the perfect haven for a Lisbon day trip.
Because any journey to wonderland should involve food, we put together the perfect guide to eat your way in Sintra in one day.
On your journey refer to the map for a better sense of the different places and their location relative to each other.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: If you don’t feel like organizing your trip to Sintra, consider a day trip in Sintra with a local guide. We recommend this private guided tour of Sintra that gets you to visit the main Unesco sites in Sintra and avoid the entrance queues. You also have the opportunity to enjoy the local gastronomy with lunch and snacks breaks included.
Start Your Day at Cafe Saudade
Start the day with a delicious cup of Portuguese coffee at Cafe Saudade which is located close to Sintra’s train station.
This cozy spot offers a variety of coffee drinks, including the signature Portuguese style Galão coffee, which is similar to a latte or cappuccino.
Served in a tall glass, it is made with half milk and half coffee, perfect for breakfast or with a sweet puff pastry on the side.
READ MORE: The 10 Best Things To Do in Lisbon for Food Lovers
Things to Do in Sintra – Morning Visit at Palacio Nacional de Sintra
Once fueled up, make your way to the Palacio Nacional de Sintra and be impressed by the two unusually enormous chimneys.
Palacio Nacional de Sintra was built on a site that was once a Moorish castle. New parts were added over time and it was a favorite amongst Portuguese nobility from the early 15th to the late 19th century.
The palace is lavishly decorated with richly decorated rooms, galleries, and corridors. You will be dazzled by the eclectic blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline architectural styles.
Don’t forget to stop by the kitchen and look up the 33 meter high massive chimneys. This is also where royal banquets were prepared and on display are the original roasting spits and various copper and iron kitchenware.
Located in central Sintra, the Palace is an easy 10-15 mins walk from Cafe Saudade. You can also take the tourist bus 434 that departs from the train station from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, with four departures per hour.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: An alternative we recommend is to jump on this fun self-guided twizzy car tour instead. Only 2 mins from the Sintra train station, this “Talking Car” with a built in GPS system takes you to all the key Sintra sites. At each stop you’ll hear the stories and legends as you whizz around Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and other sites.
Incomum Restaurant – The Best Restaurant in Sintra for Lunch
The kitchen visit at the Palacio Nacional de Sintra will leave you hungry, so it’s time to discover what to eat in Sintra.
We bet that you’ll be eager to taste the local Portuguese cuisine unique to the region.
For lunch, don’t bother weighing any other options, the menu executivo at Incomum Restaurant is a no brainer.
At one of the best Sintra restaurants, Chef Luis Santos offers creative cuisine with local products at a defying price of only €12.50 euros.
Lunch Menu at Incomum
The lunch menu includes the choice of soup or salad, fish or meat, a dessert and a drink. A sample of Portuguese wines, of course, is highly recommended.
The price includes the famous “couvert” which is bread, olives, and olive oil, that is typically paid for.
You can also choose your meal from the menu or opt for the tasting menu.
Rosemary was tempted by the bacalhau a bras, one of our favorite ways to eat the famous Portuguese codfish dish.
I chose the all-inclusive menu executivo. It featured Portuguese pork, also called Iberian pork, served with beans, vegetables, and sausages, served with white wine.
The restaurant is upscale yet accessible with tasteful decor and soft lighting, and it’s a must when you visit Sintra.
READ MORE: 7 of The Best Lisbon Food Tours You Want to Try – Review
Sintra Castles – An Afternoon in Wonderland
Work your lunch off as you make your way up the hills to the Palacio Nacional da Pena.
Perched on a scenic overlook is one of Portugal’s fairytale castles, the Palacio Nacional da Pena.
This whimsical building is the magical realization of 19th century King Don Fernando II, also known as the “Artist King.”
Stop For Queijada de Sintra at Fábrica das Verdadeiras Queijadas da Sapa
On your way up to the Palace, stop by Fábrica das Verdadeiras Queijadas da Sapa for some sustenance. This store has been making the famous pastries called Queijada de Sintra since 1756.
These small, sweet cakes are made of a thin shell filled with soft cheese, eggs, sugar, milk and flour. Order at least one of each kind of queijada de Sintra: almond, milk and orange for less than €5.
You can also get coffee at this shop where you can admire the view of Sintra in the tea room at the back of the store.
These pastries will be your reward after the 45 minute hike up. We promise the combination of breathtaking views and delicious pastries to be sublime.
Hiking Up To Palacio Nacional da Pena
The hike to Palacio Nacional da Pena will take about 45 minutes. It is a pleasant gradual hike to admire the views of the city and the region.
To do so, follow the signs to the Villa Sassetti. You will walk through the Parque de Sintra up to the base of the Pena Palace.
If your time is limited or your legs need a rest, hop on the 434 bus back at the train station or across from Sintra Palace.
Visit Palacio Nacional da Pena
The Palacio Nacional da Pena is a remarkable example of Portuguese Romanticism architecture. The fanciful architecture includes a mix of Manueline and Moorish styles.
After your visit, walk around the 85-hectare park, which surrounds the palace. Waterfalls, ponds, pavilions and exotic plants and trees make this an exceptional place to explore.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: We recommend buying the combined ticket which gives you access to both the palace and the park grounds. The park, as much as the Palacio da Pena, is worth touring and exploring. Buy your ticket online to skip the line. Be warned that the Palacio can get really busy in the high season from the spring to the fall. We recommend going really early or late in the day to avoid the large crowds. Buy your Pena Palace and Park entrance ticket.
Breathtaking Views from the Moors Castle
Your next stop should be Castelo dos Mouros or Moors Castle. This castle is reminiscent of the Moors era in the Iberian Peninsula during the 8th and 9th centuries.
Although the castle was fortified in the 14th century, it was slowly abandoned until 1840. That’s when King Don Fernando II set out to rebuild the castle and make it what it is today.
Surrounded by the forest, the castle stands 412 m above sea level. The views from Sintra to the Atlantic are breathtaking.
From the castle, the well-marked path leads you back to the center of town via the rampa do Castelo and the Calçada dos Clérigos. It takes about 25 mins for the 1.5 miles or 2.4 km descent.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: The Castle of the Moors doesn’t get as busy as the Palacio Nacional de Pena. However, if you are visiting in the middle of the peak season, you may have to wait in line to get your ticket. You can skip the line by buying your ticket online.
More Things To Do in Sintra – Quinta da Regaleira
There are many monuments and parks to see in Sintra. To complete your tour of this wonderland destination, we recommend visiting Quinta da Regaleira.
Stop at Tascantiga for Tapas – Best Restaurant With A View in Sintra
Tascantiga is a great stop after your visit to Moors Castle. You’ll have worked up an appetite and this Sintra restaurant offers a seasonal tapas menu.
Choose from a variety of traditional dishes and sample Portugal’s traditional cuisine. You’ll not go wrong with lightly fried cod fritters or the savory juicy and tender mini tenderloin bites.
Other popular options include grilled octopus, fried cuttlefish, and the creamy dipping cheese with port-soaked dates and ham, served with crispy bread. And of course, they have a wonderful selection of local wine.
Don’t miss the pumpkin petit gateaux for dessert. This warm cake is not too sweet and goes perfectly with ice cream.
Tascantiga is also one of the best restaurants in Sintra with a view. Their additional outdoor seating offers great views of the surrounding area.
If you ask the locals where to eat in Sintra, they’ll likely suggest Tascantiga. It’s a bit uphill from the town center, just above the Pipa Fountain.
As it’s off the main track of tourist crowds, reservations are not typically needed.
From Tascantiga, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to your next castle.
Quinta da Regaleira – A Romantic Castle in Sintra Portugal
Located on the outskirts of the city center, Quinta da Regaleira was first built at the end of the 19th century.
The romantic property was then acquired by Carvalho Monteiro nicknamed Monteiro dos Milhões or Monteiro the Millionaire due to his vast fortune.
The construction of the Palace as we know it started in 1904 and was completed for the most part in 1910.
Quinta da Regaleira is an amazing, romantic palace to explore. Don’t miss the Initiation Well, the surprising caves and the many winding paths through the gardens.
It is easy to spend two hours wandering through this vast, magical estate.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: If you would like to explore the four main monuments in Sintra in one day without having to take care of the logistics, consider a private Sintra tour with a local guide. We recommend the Full-Day Monuments Tour from Lisbon that gets you to visit the four main monuments in Sintra.
A Sweet Finish at Casa Piriquita – Sintra Must Eat Desserts
Finish the day at Casa Piriquita to enjoy their two delicious and famous Sintra desserts. This pastry shop has been “fattening up” royalty and visitors alike since 1862, and you too will be tempted.
The famous Queijada de Sintra (similar to the one at the Fábrica) is what got this pastry shop started, and was propelled to success by King Carlos I.
These delicious little pies have a crusty exterior and a soft inner batter made with cheese, sugar, eggs, flour, and a little cinnamon. They are not too sweet and have a hint of a fresh cheese taste. Delectable!
Our absolute favorite and another signature dessert from Sintra and also created at Casa Piriquita is the Travesseiro. This dough-based pastry, which is long and slender like a “pillow,” absolutely melts in the mouth.
This light puff pastry filled with almond cream and other secret ingredients is heavenly. As you eat your way through Sintra, don’t miss the Travesseiro dessert.
Keep in mind this is one dessert you cannot share. We first ordered one to share and after the first bite, knew we made a mistake. We quickly ordered a second one and recommend you order enough for everyone.
RELATED: 12 of the Most Authentic Portuguese Desserts and Where to Enjoy Them
How To Get to Sintra from Lisbon
The best and easiest way to go from Lisbon to Sintra is to take the train. You can catch a direct train departing from the Rossio train station in Lisbon.
There is a train departing every 10 to 20 minutes during the week or every 30 minutes during the weekends from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm. For more information about the schedule, check the Omio platform.
You can buy your ticket directly at the train station and it only costs €2.30 for the 40-minute ride. You will need to get a Lisboa card which you can pick up at the same time for an additional 50 cents.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: If you are sightseeing in Lisbon for a few days, it’s best to consider a Lisbon Card. The train ride to Sintra is free and there are additional perks provided with the card. For example, you get 10% off on the Palacio Nacional de Sintra entrance. The card gives you free public transportation throughout Lisbon as well as many free or discounted museum entrances and tours.
Consider a Hotel in Sintra To Prolong Your Stay
You will be surprised how a day in Sintra can go by so fast. If time isn’t a concern, you should definitely plan to spend two days or more exploring – and eating! – in this wonderland.
Budget Friendly – Sintra Guesthouse
For budget friendly stay, consider Sintra 1012 Boutique Guesthouse.
Located in the historical center of Sintra within walking distance of the train station and the National Palace, you will feel at home in this charming guesthouse. The breakfast included is copious and freshly made every morning.
Prices start at $102 a night for a standard queen room breakfast included.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Mid Range – Sintra Boutique Hotel
Sintra Boutique Hotel offers excellent comfort at an affordable rate with views of the historic quarter and Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Guests can relax in the garden and sample Portuguese wines at the courtyard bar.
What we like about this hotel is their local restaurant serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast can be prepared upon request.
Prices start at $171 a night for a comfort king room breakfast included.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Luxury – Tivoli Palacio de Seteais
After a day in wonderland, you might has well splurge on a royal stay at Tivoli Palacio de Seteais.
This elegant 5-star hotel is set in the mountainside of Sintra with privileged views of the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace.
Located next to Quinta da Regaleira, it features a swimming pool, tennis courts and an equestrian center as well as an upscale restaurant. A perfect retreat to prolong your stay in Sintra.
Prices start at $416 a night for a superior double room breakfast included.
See more prices, read reviews or to find similar hostels check: Booking.com
Have you been to Sintra, Portugal before? In the comments below, please tell us your favorite part about the visit?
Savor the Adventure!
More Local Food Experiences and Recipes
The 5 Best Areas to Stay in Lisbon for Food Lovers
The Best Things To Do in Porto for Food Lovers
Where to Stay in Porto for Food Lovers
Pataniscas de Bacalhau Recipe: Easy to Make Portuguese Cod Fish Fritters
How to Make Bacalhau a Bras Portuguese Favorite Dish
Bacalhau Com Natas Recipe: How To Make Portuguese Baked Cod With Cream
Best Easy Authentic Pao de Lo Recipe – A Moist Portuguese Sponge Cake
Love Eating Your Way Sintra? Pin It!
Claire is co-founder of Authentic Food Quest and a lover of simple and exquisite cuisine. Since 2015, with her partner, Rosemary, she has been traveling the world as a digital nomad, creating content about local food experiences.
Her advice from visiting 45 countries and more than 240 food cities has been featured in Lonely Planet, Business Insider, Honest Cooking, Food Insider, and Huffington Post. She has also co-authored three books, including one in collaboration with Costa Brava Tourism.
An ex-mechanical engineer, Claire is responsible for SEO, keeping the website running, and the fun food & travel videos on YouTube.
When Claire is not eating, she can be found running or cycling. Find out more about Authentic Food Quest
Great information here! Thank you. I am going to be in Sintra on December 25th and I’m wondering where I can find food to eat since most things will be closed 🙂 Thanks!
Hi Denise, thanks for your feedback and so glad you enjoyed the article. Our recommendation would to check the nearby restaurants and see their holiday hours. Sintra is a popular place to visit and there might be some places open. Have fun and check out our other Portugal articles. Cheers.
Hi. We are looking for a nice dinner place for 4 in Sintra. We are staying at the Penha Longa which has fab restaurants but are looking for something in town. Could you suggest please?
Our recommended choice is Incommum. One of the best local experiences in Sintra 🙂 Do let us know what you think. Cheers.
Wow I didn’t know about Sintra but the food looks delicious. I’d love to hike up to see the different buildings. The architecture is very unique and im glad they rebuild the Moore Castle, so cool!
Thanks, Dylan and glad you got to learn more about Sintra. It is a magical place with lots to see and eat. I do hope your travels take you to Portugal where you can enjoy the stunning architecture and food. Cheers.
You had me at egg custards! Sintra is so beautiful with its architecture and now the food too!
Indeed, Nicole. Sintra is worth visiting for so many reasons. Have you been to Portugal?
We are impressed by the architecture and beauty in Sintra and the food is really to droll over. Everything looks so tempting especially the pastry shop and Portuguese coffee. Loved your post and pictures.
Thank you so much Suruchi. Sintra is quite a magical place and certainly worth visiting 🙂 Cheers.
I loved Sintra! I was so busy trying to squeeze everything into one day I wished I had stayed the night. I did find time to eat a few pastries though lol. I also ‘tried’ a few shots of Ginja from a chocolate cup!
You are right, Sherianne, one day in Sintra is simply not enough. And, there is always room for those delicious local pastries. Did you like the Ginja? Cheers.
Love these off the Beaten path questions. Sinatra sounds wonderful as do the many food tour options you recommend. Thanks so much.
Appreciate your feedback Sharon. So glad you enjoy the articles we share. Have you been to Sintra?
Sintra is 3 hours from Porto where we would like to base ourselves. Is that desert the same as the pastel in Lisbon?
Yes, Sintra is pretty accessible and a great day trip from Porto (although we would recommend spending a couple of nights in Sintra). The desserts are unique to Sintra and best enjoyed on site. When are you planning your Portugal trip?
We are so sorry we missed Sintra when e visited Lisbon. But a great reason to head back. Starting the day with a Galao coffee is the perfect idea. Good idea to take the tourist hop on hop off bus up to the top. And to get the combined ticket for the palace and park grounds. Your lunch at Incomum looked like a great way to enjoy a little downtime before continuing your exploration of Sintra.
Bummer that you missed Sintra…though that is a perfect reason to go back. The chance to visit this extraordinary city is worth it. Keep the itinerary in mind for when you finally make it back to Portugal 🙂
This post really brought back the memories. I was in Sintra in 2012 and really loved exploring the palace and the moorish castle. I cant remember where I was eating, some sort of small restaurant near the pena palace but I do remember how good the local wine was. One of the highlights of the day that was. 🙂
You are right Danik, so many wonderful things about exploring Sintra. Lots to see and eat and in our humble opinion, the food is the best part 🙂 Thanks, Danik for stopping by.
Unfortunately, I’ve missed Sintra when visiting Lisbon, but it’s on the bucket list for the next round. I know about the benefits of the Lisbon Card when it comes to the city transportation, but didn’t know that it also includes Sintra trip. Thanks for the tip. 😉
My mouth watered when I read about the lunch menu at Incomum. Fish and deserts are always good idea in Portugal, so I’d definitely visit the restaurant, sounds delicious and affordable.
You are most welcome about the tips about Sintra. There is so much to see and do, and when you go back to Portugal again, we definitively recommend staying more than one night 🙂 So glad you enjoyed the article.
I love finding yummy authentic food locally wherever we visit! I would love to take a bite out of the travesseiro, it looks divine!
xo -Kam
Glad you liked the article, Kamree. Have you been to Portugal before?
I love prix fix meals and that one looks perfect especially when you are touring and it is in the right location and your hungry. What a great tour, I definitely would do everything you recommend and would love to go back to Portugal and visit this city.
Awesome, Noel so glad you enjoyed reading the article about the delights of Sintra. Definitively worth exploring on your next trip back to Portugal 🙂 Cheers
Which was your favorite? I like the desserts and want to try that “melting pillow”!
It’s hard to pick a favorite Dan. We loved them all and particularly the rich historical connection to the city. Have you been to Sintra?
Sintra is always on my wishlist and it would great to know so many eating out options. I would love to try out Portuguese coffee and some sugary desserts at Casa Piriquita. Thanks for sharing nice eating out options.
You are most welcome Yukti, and so glad you enjoyed the article. Definitively keep this options in mind for your trip to Sintra, Portugal.
Sintra looks like a super colorful city with a lot of things to do! I have never heard about it, is there a lot of tourists? Your tips are awesome, thanks 🙂
Sintra is a popular destination in Portugal and has been for centuries and with the royal family. It is certainly a destination worth exploring if your travels take you to Portugal. Hold on to this article for your future trip. Thanks for stopping by 🙂
The photos have made me hungry and I’ve find a snack now! The desserts in Sintra look so delicious. This is great comprehensive guide.
So glad you enjoyed the article. The desserts are that good and worth traveling for 🙂 Cheers
The coffee looks amazing! I love coffee so am always interested in trying new varieties. The castles look lovely. I love castles too so this would definitely interest me 🙂
Great to hear Michelle. Do you have any plans to visit Portugal soon?
Reading about the different foods you guys tried has got my mouth watering! That codfish looks and sounds decadent. I don’t know if you’ve been to Prague, but the different ways they prepare coffee in Portugal reminds me of all the different ways beer is poured in the Czech Republic!
Thanks for the note about the Czech Republic. We will actually be visiting later this Summer, so that’s really good to know. Glad you enjoyed the article 🙂
Ah I love Sintra so much! I’ve been there once and it was amazing!! I wish I had seen this before our trip – so many interesting places and tasty sounding dishes to eat here!
Since you already know and love Sintra, another trip with this guide is absolutely worth it 🙂 Do you have plans to visit Portugal soon?
Thanks Hayley, glad you love the guide. Something to keep in mind for your next Portugal trip. Cheers 🙂
I’ve been in Sintra few years ago and I liked it so much. But I have to admit that my favourite part was ginja tasting. White, milk or dark chocolate…I liked them all. 🙂
Lol…that’s great to hear Unta. The ginja is a unique part of Portugal’s gastronomy, though there is much more 🙂 What was your favorite part about Sintra?
Adding these to the bucket list- especially the Travesseiro! I’m technically a little allergic to almonds, but I always make exceptions for the best desserts ;P. Thanks also for sharing on the Guided Sintra Palaces tour. I love that combination of both food and sightseeing!
You are most welcome Angelica. Glad you enjoyed the article and the Traveesseiro is worth the exception 🙂 Cheers
I’ve never been to Portugal yet, but it’s on my list! My mother in law is Spanish, so it will be interesting to compare the food – your pictures look delicious. I’d love to stay in that quirky stone cottage, it looks idylic.
Glad you enjoyed the article. Do you have any plans of visiting Portugal soon?
Sintra looks incredible! I’ve seen so many good things about it. Love all the food recommendations and will for sure keep this post for when I can finally make it there.
That is great to hear Caro. Hope your travels take you to Sintra, Portugal soon. It’s absolutely worth it!!
This is such a complete guide!! And I love how foodie centered it is. The cheese dessert looks to die for. Portugal is one of those places I HAVE to make it to one day. So many cool things to do even in just one city.
Glad you enjoyed the article Geena. Sintra is truly a magical place worth visiting for the food. Hope you get a chance to visit Portugal soon 🙂
I’m a sucker for good coffee… and that Portuguese coffee though!!
Fantastic post! I’m going to Sintra 1 day in the Summer, and I will take your recommendations with me. I love to eat while travelling and you’ve found so many delicious treats!!
Awesome to hear Stine. Do keep this list in mind for a delicious time in Sintra. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Cheers 🙂
Such a beautiful place with food that looks very delicious. I’m hoping to make a visit to Sintra one day.
I have never been to Sintra! This looks like a beautiful place to visit and all the foods are wonderful, too! I love getting a taste of local and authentic cuisine when traveling.
You are right, Amy tasting the local flavors is one of the best parts of the experience. Hope your travels take you to Sintra, Portugal soon. You will love the city and amazing flavors. Cheers
Portugese coffee sounds like my way to start the day! And the Palacio Nacional de Sintra does look like a fabulous spot to sightsee. Incomum Restaurant sounds incredible though, and I love that they create amazing food that’s affordable too! €11 euros is a steal for lunch!! I’ve seen photos of the Palacio Nacional da Pena and it really does look as though it belongs in a fairytale. Thanks for this great guide for what to eat and see in a day 🙂
You are most welcome Meg, Sintra is truly magical and worth visiting, even for the food!! Thanks for stopping by.
I would love to visit Sintra for the history and architecture but now seeing all this food, I have another reason to go there! The pork and the desserts seem delicious!
There are plenty of reasons to go to Sintra and the food ties it all together 🙂 Hope you get there soon! Cheers.
That bacalhao looks fabulous. It always amazes me how salt dried cod can end up tasting so fresh. Sintra is beautiful isn’t it – lovely tips for where to eat the next time I go!
You are right, all the different preparations for bacalhau are incredible and so fresh. It truly is amazing how something so dried up can taste so good! Indeed, to keep the food recommendations for your next trip. Thanks for stopping by, Fiona.
We hardly explored the food scene at Sintra and now I regret. The pastries are so delicious looking 🙂
The Sintra interiors look grand, my memories got revived seeing them.
That’s too bad you missed the food scene in Sintra. It is fascinating because it goes hand in hand with the Portuguese nobles. Glad you enjoyed the article!!
I did not know that Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! I love that coffee by the way, just the way I like to have mine. Since I have a sweet tooth, my eyes always follow sweet food and I couldn’t help noticing how yummy the travesseiro looks (I have never heard of it but it looks yum). Would love to try all sorts of Portuguese food when I am there, thanks for these suggestions!
Thanks, Medha, and it sounds like Portugal is for you!! The sweets are everywhere and with amazing coffee options, you’ll be right at home. Hope you make it to Portugal soon!!
OMG… I swear I am drooling right now:) We were in Sintra 10years or more ago and had some yummy foods (can’t remember LOL). Traditional cuisine is the way to go…. great job and thanks for sharing:)
You are most welcome and so happy to read that the article reflects your amazing memories of Sintra. Hope the article inspired to make another trip to Sintra soon 🙂
Hope this doesn’t say too much about my food naivety, but I had never really thought about Portuguese food as being outstanding until we toured Thailand with a chef. He told us about how the best flavors we loved from Thai cooking were actually imported by the Portuguese. That opened my eyes. Ever since then, I have been noticing Portuguese cooking and influence every where I look. Sinatra looks like a true fairy tale town, right down to its castle. We are sweet lovers, so it is calling us. We are also coffee lovers and that Galão looks better than anything Starbucks has on their menu.
OMG, the galao is amazing…much better than anything you’ll find in most places. The Portuguese influence is global, from the age of discovery and it is reflected in the food. If you are sweet lovers, Portugal is your country. Be on the lookout for a future article about the sweets of Portugal soon. It’s amazing how much you learn on food tours…thanks to your chef in Thailand!!
We loved the fairytale Pena Palace in Sintra but unfortunately didn’t have time to eat there. We intend to go back in the future because we somehow missed the The Quinta Regaleira and when we do I definitely want to try one of those Queijadas. They sound so good. And I like the look of that coffee poster at Cafe Saudade.
It’s too bad you missed eating the local treats which are authentic to Sintra. I guess that means a trip is in the near future. Save this article to guide you on your next trip to Sintra. Thanks for stopping by.
Palacio De Pena looks so stunning with those bright yellow and red colors against a blue sky. I am not a much of a food tourist and being a vegetarian comes with its own limitations. How would you rate Sintra for vegetarians?
Pena Palace is truly amazing. The architecture and colors are unlike anything else. From my experience traveling through food, you’ll always find vegetarian dishes and Sintra is no exception. Go for the architecture and delight in the vegetarian-friendly cuisine!!
We had a great visit to Sintra last April. The Pena Palace was beautiful and yes, we did end up in the Casa Piriquita eating too much food. The Portuguese love their sweet foods.
Indeed, Casa Piriquita is tempting and the sweets are divine. Did you enjoy the local desserts? Agreed, Pena Palace is not to be missed in Sintra. Thanks for stopping by!
I would love to try Portugeuse coffee and Queijada de Sintra. And the buildings look so colourful. Great post!
You are most welcome Clio. So glad you enjoyed the article and discovering the delights in Sintra!!
Your post made me so hungry, I should’ve read it after lunch! Good idea trying the menu executivo at Incomum Restaurant, it’s cheap and if they have local products and traditional recipes, then I’d definitely be up for it!
Glad you enjoyed reading about the delightful food at Incomum. It is certainly an experience not to be missed. Hope you make it to Sintra soon!!
Seems like you had a really tough time conducting research for this. Seriously, the food looks incredible, and your pictures of Sintra are gorgeous.
Thanks so much Yvette…lol it is our sincere pleasure to seek out the local and traditional foods and write about them. Glad you enjoyed the article!!
I’ve never been to Portugal before, but I sure do want to now! That Queijada de Sintra looks and sounds like a cheesy version of creme brulee, and I’m all for it. The Palacio da Pena also looks pretty stunning and worth a visit!
You would love Portugal Rachelle, there is so much to see and do. Sintra is quite exceptional and conveniently located close to Lisbon. The Queijada de Sintra is more like a cake than a creme brulee, and all around divine. The Pena Palace is quite amazing and worth a visit. Hope you get to Portugal soon!!
I’ve never heard of Sintra but you have it on my radar now! The simple richness of the food and architecture has me salivating! Thanks for bringing this wonder to my attention 🙂
You are most welcome, Alicia. It is our pleasure to share the wonderful local Portuguese food in Sintra. The architecture is outstanding and it has the local food scene to go along with it!. Hope you get to visit Sintra soon!!
Since Portugal has became pretty popular on the past couple of years, I have read quite a lot about Sintra. Now, it is the first time I read about the food scene there. Seems like you would not have to rough it there! I love those executive / three courses menus (I had several in Spain). The food is good and the price is better. I have not been to Portugal yet but I know I will love the food there.
That’s awesome that we introduced you to the food scene in Sintra. This is something that we also felt as missing in the midst of all the Sintra information. It truly is a wonderful place to explore and the local dishes are incredible too. Hope you get a chance to visit Portugal and Sintra soon!! Appreciate you stopping by Ruth.
Yum! What an awesome day with some fab food. I think if I ate like this every day I’d be massive and potentially have indigestion! Ah well!
That’s so funny…lol!! This is certainly not for everyday eating, but a must-eat experience in Sintra, Portugal’s wonderland!! Cheers.
That pastry shop is calling my name. The food looks so yummy!
This posts was exactly what I was looking for! Headed to Sintra in May 🙂 great tips
Perfect Shareen…glad the post came in handy. Perfect timing and feel free to ask if you have any questions as you prepare for your trip!! Cheers.
Love your post! So funny that I have been to Lisbon, but to none of those places! Good to keep this in mind for my next visit.
Love,
Brigitte
That’s too bad if you were in Lisbon and missed Sintra…it truly is a wonderland that must be explored. I guess that means a trip to Portugal is the making 🙂 Cheers, Brigitte!