Sintra's stunning setting on the north slopes of the granite Serra de Sintra, among wooded ravines and fresh water springs, made it a favourite summer retreat for the kings of Portugal. The tall conical chimneys of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (National Palace of Sintra) and the fabulous Palácio da Pena, eerily impressive on its peak when the Serra is blanketed in mist, are unmistakable landmarks.
In the pretty cobbled streets of the old town, Sintra Vila, which is centred on the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, are the museums and beautiful buildings. The curving Volta do Duche leads from the old town, past the lush Parque da Liberdade, Fonte Mourisca (Arab Fountain, named for its Neo-Moorish decoration), north to the striking Neo-Gothic Câmara Municipal (Town Hall). To the south and east, the hilly village of São Pedro spreads over the slopes of the Serra, with the Miradouro da Vigia offering impressive views.