Tag: portugal

Cascais, Portugal: The land of palm trees and custard tarts

Published on by McKennaLeave a comment

Happy Friday!

Hope you are as excited for the weekend as I am! I’m heading to the cinema this evening and then to a brewery tomorrow afternoon. Bring on delicious craft beers 🙂

Even though I’m seriously looking forward to the weekend, I’ve still been reminiscing about my recent trip to Portugal — aka my favourite citybreak so far! I’ve covered the fabulous cities Lisbon and Sintra so far on the blog, but now it’s time to focus on this little gem — the sea-side Portuguese town of Cascais. Only 30 minutes away from car or metro, this is the perfect day trip from Lisbon.

What is there to say about this darling little palm-tree lined town? For starters you have quaint streets filled with shops, cafes and bars. Every shop window seems to have something that literally triggers stars and hearts in your eyes — whether that’s a cute little leather crossbody bag or a healthy scoop of gelato.

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.08.28

Clearly, I could not resist from indulging in the traditional Portuguese custard tarts. These are absolutely to die for! If you go to Portugal and do not try one (or two or three!) of these perfects little treats you might as well not have even gone! I’m serious, they’re just that delicious! Why not pair it with a little cappuccino for a caffeine boost 🙂

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.08.43

Although the streets that weave in and out of Cascais are absolutely adorable, the real gem is where the sand meets the sea. We enjoyed fab views of a turquoise marina and a quiet little beach… the perfect place to perch up and get lost in your favourite book or have a picnic (if it’s not too windy!).

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.09.02

Screen Shot 2016-04-01 at 13.38.21

Although Lisbon seems to be the star attraction in this part of Portugal, Cascais is the perfect little day trip to break up your sightseeing in the capital. I mean, just look at that view 🙂

xxx

Screen Shot 2013-10-20 at 8.54.30 PM

Advertisement

Sintra, Portugal: Colourful castles and sun-kissed sea

Published on by McKennaLeave a comment

Good morning loves! Hope your morning is off to a fab start!

It’s sad the Easter weekend has come and gone, but at least spring days are on their way! Definitely something to look forward for 🙂

As you may have read in my last post, I recently went to Portugal and literally FELL. IN. LOVE. I spent most of the trip in Lisbon, but also ventured out to Sintra to see the stunning Pena Palace. Just look at those colours! It’s a short drive from Lisbon – about 30 minutes or so. A day trip well worth it!

sintra

The palace is just outside the city centre of Sintra, where you’ll find an abundance of quaint shops, cute cafes and cobblestoned streets. It’s the absolute dream 🙂

sintra cobblestones

And strolling through the town isn’t even the cherry on top. On the way back from Sintra, you will enjoy GORGEOUS views of the water — I mean it looks like an air-brushed painting! I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

sintra water

Sintra is an added bonus to travelling to Lisbon. It’s like winning the golden ticket, meeting your celebrity crush AND finding the most perfect pair of pumps all in one day!

I think it’s time for you to pack your suitcase and head to Portugal! You won’t be sorry 🙂

xxx

Screen Shot 2013-10-20 at 8.54.30 PM

Lovely Lisboa! Why you need to go right now

Published on by McKenna4 Comments

Hello, lovelies!

Hope you’re having a fab Saturday! Today I’m dodging this dreadful Easter weekend storm in London and staying put on my sofa. Sometimes you just need a little Netflix in your life, am I right?

I’ve finally had a chance to post gorgeous pictures of a recent trip I took. If you’re wondering where to go for your next city break… I have the answer right here: LISBON, PORTUGAL.

Not only is this city absolutely beautiful, with its rustic charm and unique mosaic tiled buildings, it has everything you need in a weekend getaway: gorgeous sunshine, restaurants to die for, beautiful architecture and the most friendly culture I have ever encountered while traveling. Even our AirBnb host left a delicious bottle of traditional Portuguese green wine in the fridge, awaiting our arrival 🙂

lisbon art

Our days were filled with sightseeing, strolling down the city’s cobblestone streets (clearly obsessed!) and experiencing gorgeous castles and palaces. And, of course, indulging in traditional Portuguese food including custard tarts, seafood rice and codfish cakes.

One HUGE advantage of Lisbon is its affordable nature — you can find a delicious glass of Sangria for only 1.50 Euros (literally I could not believe it, especially coming from London). A daily travel card, which includes metro, bus, tram and water taxi, is only 6 euros. This place is a steal 🙂 not to mention our adorable AirBnb was authentic and in a prime location (in the Alfama waterfront neighbourhood) for an incredible price. Have I convinced you yet?

lisbon view

lisbon waterfront

lisbon square

And not only were we able to explore Lisbon, we were also able to experience palaces, castles and quaint cafes in the neighbouring cities of Sintra and Cascais. Just think colourful castles, waterfront restaurants and adorable family owned shops. Posts to come on those, of course 🙂

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time for you to experience Lisbon yourself!

xxx

Screen Shot 2013-10-20 at 8.54.30 PM