Just one day to experience the beautiful Portuguese town of Sintra? No visit is complete without a little castle exploration. First, the magical Pena Palace, replete with multicolored towers and princess-worthy turrets. Built in 19^th-century Romanesque Revival architecture, it’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and includes fabulous gardens and numerous winding pathways on its massive grounds. The structure was commissioned by King Ferdinand II in 1842 with direction it should be strike visitors and guests as a scene pulled from a lavish opera.

Next up, tour the 9^th-century Castle of the Moors. This hilltop fortress was constructed to act as a fortified observatory. After suffering earthquake and lighting damage, it’s been restored and the grounds include deeply forested slopes.

Take a coffee and cake break at Café Saudade on Avenida Doutor Miguel Bombarda, where the royal connection continues. Originally launched as a bakery catering to King Ferdinand II, the menu includes a range of coffees and sweets.

Fully fortified with caffeine and sugar, head to Monserrate Palace to tour the estate’s flowering gardens or enjoy the interior’s sumptuous spaces, strongly influenced by Indian and Arabic architecture. Decorative tiles, lace-like lattices, curved arches and carved stone are among the design highlights.

To get the full royal experience, spend the night in the stunning Pousada Palacio de Queluz, once home to the Royal Guard. Elegant, fully modernized spaces with original soaring ceilings include complimentary WiFi in rooms and suites. Also a stunning choice, the Tivoli Palacio de Seteias Sintra Hotel is a luxury palace experience with UNESCO World Heritage status, membership in The Leading Hotels of the World, 5-star services and a historic pedigree as the summer resort of the Royal Family.

Before you leave, take time to wander the coastal sands of Sintra’s dramatic, rock-strewn beaches or book a sailing excursion. Sintra is just a 45-minute train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio Station.