Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

I have seen photos over and over of Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal and as someone who is always attracted to color I knew I had to go. I didn’t make it the first time I was in Portugal but when I knew I was going back a second time, I made sure I found time to visit this stunning palace that sits atop a hill. I highly recommend going as early as possible and even possibly buying your tickets in advance to avoid the massive crowds that flock to this place.

I also suggest you give yourself plenty of time because there is a ton to walk around and see just on the grounds of this palace alone, not to mention the other castle that sits very close by. Pena Palace looks like it came straight out of a fairy-tale and my little fantasy/sci-fi nerd heart couldn’t have felt happier.

You can walk the several km to the entrance gate or you can take a taxi/uber or go with a day tour. However once you pass through the gate you can still take a shuttle bus to the Palace entrance however I suggest walking it as you pass this fantastical fountain and wooded areas that are gorgeous and covered in moss.

We had some locals recommend going later in the day as there would be a clearer view of everything surrounding the Palace however I personally felt like the foggy views made the place more magical and mysterious.