TOP THINGS TO DO IN SINTRA

Embark on an Adventure to Praia da Ursa

For those seeking an active endeavor, hiking to Praia da Ursa is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating things to do in Sintra. This breathtaking sandy cove showcases golden shores that will mesmerize you. The aquamarine waters crash onto the beach, forming frothy white waves, while majestic rocky cliffs adorn the coastline.

What sets this beach apart is its secluded nature, with only a few visitors making the journey. The reason for its exclusivity lies in the challenging path required to reach it. However, if you possess a fearless spirit and surefootedness, navigating the rugged dirt trail leading to the sandy bay will be a rewarding experience.

The rugged rocks lining the beach not only add a dramatic touch to the landscape but also serve a practical purpose. They break the force of the waves, creating ideal conditions for swimmers of all ages and skill levels.

Be Enchanted at Quinta da Regaleira

To witness some of the most captivating sights in Sintra, dedicate a day to exploring Quinta da Regaleira. This awe-inspiring palace was conceived by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, the son of affluent Portuguese parents. Driven by a fascination for Divination, the Knights Templar, and the Masons, he constructed a castle that exudes grandeur.

Quinta da Regaleira appears as if it were plucked from a child’s imaginative drawing rather than a design by an architect. It abounds with hidden corners, including seemingly endless tunnels and secret grottoes, all crafted to astonish and bewilder visitors.

On the ground level, you will encounter intricate gazebos, benches adorned with sculptures, and, most captivating of all, initiation wells. These remarkable features consist of deep shafts lined with mind-boggling spiral staircases that descend into sanctuaries used for tarot ceremonies.

The palace’s magical and distinct character has earned it the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The allure is heightened by the overgrown vegetation that engulfs numerous sections of the garden, with moss blanketing nearly every inch of stonework.

Explore the City by Tram

When you crave a moment of respite while still yearning to discover more, one of the finest things to do in Sintra is to hop on the city’s tram and embark on a sightseeing adventure. This option is particularly appealing if you are accompanied by children or if walking long distances is challenging.

The tram, known as the Electrico de Sintra, commences its journey from the heart of the city and transports you eight miles westward to the charming beach resort of Praia das Maçãs. The trams operating along this route date back to the 1930s, and stepping aboard will transport you into the realm of a classic black-and-white movie.

Despite its popularity, the tram service operates on a limited schedule. During summer, it runs only a few times each day, and in winter, it operates just once daily. To ensure you don’t miss out, arrive at the tram stop as early as possible, securing your place at the front of the line.

Experience the Breathtaking Views of Pena Palace

Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring vistas at Pena Palace, offering some of the most remarkable sightseeing opportunities in Sintra. Recognized as one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders, this magnificent palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II in 1838.

Resembling a castle from a Disney fairy tale, Pena Palace stands proudly atop a lofty position, overlooking the town of Sintra. Its ostentatious design and prestigious location might bring to mind Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle, but Pena Palace predates it by several decades. The palace showcases a blend of historical styles, ranging from Renaissance to Moorish, which were in vogue during its construction, making it an intriguing place to admire and explore today.

Not only is the palace itself a sight to behold, but the panoramic views from its windows and grounds are truly magnificent. Perched high above, Pena Palace offers sweeping vistas that stretch across the countryside, allowing you to gaze far into the distance, even capturing the city of Sintra below.

Indulge Your Palate with Bacalhau

When you seek a reprieve from the exhilarating activities in Sintra, take a moment to savor the flavors of bacalhau, a classic Portuguese dish enjoyed by locals for centuries. Bacalhau refers to salted cod, a preservation method that not only imparts rich flavors to this otherwise subtle dish but also enables the fish to be stored without refrigeration. Despite modern advancements in refrigeration, bacalhau remains incredibly popular.

For an exceptional bacalhau experience in Sintra, visit Bacalhau na Vila, a remarkable restaurant that serves a variety of bacalhau delicacies, including salted cod soup, salted cod croquettes, salted cod towers, and salted cod salad. The visually stunning salted cod towers are a highlight, and even if you’re accompanied by someone who doesn’t consume fish, the restaurant offers a vegan version of this gastronomic delight.

Ascend to Cruz Alta with a Hike

To discover some of the finest attractions in Sintra, embark on a hike to Cruz Alta. This elevated spot, aptly named “High Cross” in English, features an ornate twisted cross perched high above the city, offering breathtaking views. The cross’s vantage point is so elevated that it overlooks the majestic Pena Palace.

To reach Cruz Alta, follow the hiking trail that winds through Pena Park. This enchanting route is adorned with tall trees that provide shade throughout the year. Despite the mystical forest setting, the path is paved, ensuring ease of navigation regardless of your choice of footwear.

If you possess the endurance to undertake the ascent of 1,732 feet, you will be rewarded with some of the most magnificent vistas you’ve ever witnessed. From this elevated position, you can admire the entirety of Sintra and, on clear days, even catch a glimpse of Lisbon and the Tagus Estuary in the distance.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture at Feira das Mercês

Indulging in the vibrant atmosphere of Feira das Mercês is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Sintra during October. This culturally rich event has been a cherished tradition for over 250 years, making it one of Portugal’s oldest fairs.

Spanning a long weekend (check for precise dates and times), the fair offers something for everyone to partake in. Locals dressed in traditional Portuguese attire distribute classic dishes and showcase traditional dances. Delightful small markets showcase handicrafts, national cuisine, and stunning artwork inspired by the local region. A dedicated stage hosts performances by popular folk groups, and there’s plenty of family-friendly entertainment for the little ones.

For an immersive experience, explore the stalls offering traditional clothing and visit local shops where you can find typical costumes. Grab an outfit and blend in with the locals for an authentic experience!

Discover the Wonders of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

When you yearn for a connection with nature, visiting Sintra-Cascais Natural Park tops the list of things to do in Sintra. As one of Portugal’s 13 remarkable national parks, this enchanting attraction is brimming with both natural and man-made wonders. With so much to explore, you could easily spend your entire vacation within the park’s boundaries.

History enthusiasts will revel in the exploration of Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors, while those seeking relaxation can soak up the sun at Praia da Adraga or Praia do Magotio. As expected from a national park, Sintra-Cascais Natural Park offers an abundance of hiking and cycling trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. These diverse routes lead to breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the splendor of Sintra.

Witness Sintra Plunge into the Ocean at Cabo da Roca

A truly unique experience in Sintra is visiting Cabo da Roca, where you can walk to the edge of the city and witness its dramatic plunge into the ocean. This remarkable attraction will leave a lasting impression, and you’ll be sharing stories about it for years to come.

Standing at Cabo da Roca feels like being at the edge of the world. As the westernmost point of continental Europe, this location showcases towering, rugged cliffs that dramatically descend into the deep blue sea. The cape rises impressively 460 feet above the water and is crowned by an adorable lighthouse.

Take the time to explore further, and you’ll encounter a stone monolith adorned with a cross, symbolizing the headland. This significant landmark has served as a navigational reference point from Roman times to the Age of Discovery.

Celebrate Summer with Grilled Sardines

For seafood enthusiasts, indulging in sardinhas assadas is a must when in Sintra. Portugal is renowned for its exquisite fish and seafood dishes, and sardinhas assadas definitely ranks among the finest.

This traditional Portuguese delicacy, meaning “roasted sardines” in English, goes beyond simple roasting in an oven. The sardines are threaded onto wooden skewers and grilled over open flames on outdoor grills during the summer season.

Freshly caught sardines require minimal seasoning to bring out their incredible flavor. In Sintra, you’ll mostly find them marinated in a touch of olive oil and sprinkled with salt. Restaurante da Adraga is a fantastic place to savor sardinhas assadas in Sintra. Here, the sardines are generously sized and served alongside buttery pan-fried potatoes and fluffy white rice. The menu also offers a tempting array of local fish and seafood options.

Relive History at the Castle of the Moors

The Castle of the Moors, also known as the Moorish Castle or Castelo dos Mouros, is an absolute must-visit among Sintra’s top attractions. Majestically perched atop one of the city’s tallest peaks, the castle stands today mostly in ruins. Nevertheless, the remaining structures provide glimpses of the fortress’s former grandeur.

Originally constructed by the Moors and expanded after the Reconquista, the Castle of the Moors features undulating walls reminiscent of the Great Wall of China, interspersed with four square towers. Embracing the contours of the mountaintop, the castle boasts breathtaking views from every angle. Stand at one of its highest points, and you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of Sintra’s dramatic countryside and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean along the rugged coastline.

Discover One of Portugal’s Most Captivating Villages in Azenhas do Mar

If capturing Instagram-worthy photos is your passion, then visiting the tranquil village of Azenhas do Mar is a must-do in Sintra. Situated on the outskirts of the city, this enchanting village is one of Sintra’s most photographed locations.

Perched precariously atop a golden cliff that plunges into the ocean, the picturesque Mediterranean village resembles a scene from a fairytale. Rows of tiny whitewashed houses cascade down the cliffside until they reach a golden sandy beach and a natural rocky pool. The village itself is the true highlight, exuding a blissful and laid-back Portuguese atmosphere. Seafood lovers will be spoiled for choice with the abundance of tempting restaurants offering stunning seaside views.

Unleash Your Musical Spirit at the Sintra Music Festival

The Sintra Music Festival is undoubtedly one of the top highlights in Sintra during the autumn season. Taking place between September and October each year, this vibrant festival has a rich history dating back to 1957 when it was known as Sintra Musical Days. Since then, it has continued to thrive, attracting talented artists from around the world to its renowned stages.

Dedicated to classical music, the festival features performances predominantly by Portuguese orchestras, but also welcomes international artists, ensuring a diverse and captivating program for all attendees. Over the course of several weeks, cultural events unfold in various prestigious locations throughout Sintra. Be sure to check the festival’s website for the latest schedule and details.

Immerse Yourself in the Historic Center of Sintra

The historic center of Sintra possesses an irresistible charm, making it an essential destination during your visit. It is advisable to explore the area early in the morning when the town awakens, basking in the gentle glow of the rising sun and offering a serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive. As the day progresses, the streets become livelier, but the initial allure remains.

The compactness of the Historic City Center allows for easy exploration on foot. However, keep in mind that its narrow, winding cobblestone streets ascend a steep valley, requiring some energy to navigate. Yet, the effort is well rewarded as you wander through a place that seems to have emerged from a captivating Bavarian fairy tale. Discover intriguing museums, delectable bakeries, stunning parks, and charming artisan boutiques. Be sure to have ample space on your phone to capture countless picture-perfect moments!

Spice Up Your Palate with Frango Assado

Frango assado, commonly known as piri piri chicken, is a beloved culinary delight throughout Portugal due to its exceptional taste. If you haven’t tried it yet, frango assado involves butterflying whole chickens and marinating them in a spicy sauce made from olive oil, lemon juice, and fiery piri piri oil.

Once the chicken has absorbed the flavorsome marinade, it is grilled over an open fire until it becomes tender and juicy on the inside, with a slightly crisp and charred exterior. To enhance the flavor, the remaining marinade is used to baste the chicken during the cooking process.

For the ultimate frango assado experience in Sintra, head to Restaurante Bonjardim. This traditional Portuguese eatery serves generous portions of piri piri chicken alongside crispy fries and fresh salad. Don’t forget to request extra piri piri sauce to enhance your fries with its delectable spiciness!