Hidden Cities: Discovering Europe's Best-Kept Secrets

2. Sintra, Portugal: The Enchanted Hills

Just a stone's throw from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairy-tale town nestled in the lush hills of the Serra de Sintra. Known for its 19th-century Romantic architecture, Sintra's palaces and gardens evoke a sense of magic and mystery. The colorful Pena Palace, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while the Moorish Castle and the Quinta da Regaleira, with its enigmatic initiation wells, reveal the town's rich history and cultural layers. Sintra's unique microclimate, with misty mornings and sun-drenched afternoons, adds to its enchanting allure, making it a must-visit for those seeking Europe's hidden charms.