Hello, my friends! Today, I will take you on a journey to explore the charm of Portugal. After concluding my travels in Italy, I’m excited to guide you to another European gem—Portugal.
Welcome to Lisbon: The Cozy Capital
I arrived in Lisbon on a crisp morning, greeted by the aroma of coffee and freshly baked bread wafting through the air. The first sight that caught my eye was the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, seemingly welcoming me to the city. After checking in at Hotel Borges Chiado, I couldn’t wait to begin my exploration of Lisbon.
I strolled along the cobbled streets, each corner unveiling picturesque views that made me pause in awe. I marveled at the ancient São Jorge Castle, perched majestically and overlooking the entire city of Lisbon. Next, I hopped on the emblematic Tram 28, which took me on a delightful ride through the historic neighborhoods of the city—a truly unique experience.
Lunchtime arrived, and I indulged in a sumptuous meal at “Cervejaria Ramiro,” a renowned seafood restaurant. The seafood stew and the Portuguese-style egg tart were particularly delightful, leaving my taste buds craving for more.
Sintra: A Living Fairy Tale Town
After lunch, I hopped on a train to Sintra. This place is often referred to as the fairy tale town of Portugal due to its enchanting palaces and captivating forests.
My first stop was the Sintra National Palace, distinguished by its conical chimneys and exquisite tile decorations—a sight to behold. I then took some time to explore the nearby Moorish Castle, situated atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Sintra.
In Sintra, I also had the pleasure of tasting a local specialty dessert called Travesseiro. This exquisite puff pastry is filled with almond and egg yolk cream—a true delight for the senses.
As the first day’s itinerary concluded, I returned to my hotel, feeling content and eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited me the next day. I hope you, too, will fall in love with the culture and beauty of this country. Stay tuned for my upcoming articles, where I will continue to share the highlights of my journey in Portugal. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts and comments—I’m excited to engage with you!