Welcome to Sintra!
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About Sintra
Sintra is a municipality just outside of Lisbon. The population of the area was 377,835, in 2017. Sintra is known for its historic and breathtaking castles and palaces. This is adjacent to an area called the Sintra-Cascais Nature Park through which the Sintra Mountains run. Sintra’s landmarks include the medieval Castle of the Moors, the romanticist Pena National Palace, and the Portuguese Renaissance Sintra National Palace. The town of Sintra has been classification a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cascais is another popular area of Lisbon. Cascais’s history as a popular seaside resort originated in the 1870s, when King Luís I of Portugal and the Portuguese royal family made the seaside town their residence every September, thus also attracting members of the Portuguese nobility, who established a summer community there.
Cabo da Roca is an incredible area with steep cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. It is a beautiful coastal area, that is part of Cascais. It is actually the westernmost part of continental Europe. If you followed a line westward you would land in Delaware in America. (Wikipedia: Sintra)
*A special thank you to to Francisco Rodrigues who captures this incredible region of Portugal spectaularly! There is so much to see and do in this magical place, not far from Lisbon! *Click Visit Sintra for their Official Travel site.
Area Planning Guide
Maps & Other Resources
Visit the website: GPS My City for many types of self-guided walks in Sintra and Cascais. This site also contains information on some of the best places to see. You can even read about and choose the sites to create your own custom map. The maps cover everything from historical landmarks to world-class museums, charming neighborhoods and shopping. You will also find many articles that are super helpful as you plan your trip. Click Explore Maps for access to Sintra and click HERE for Cascais.
Google Map with Markers
Eat, Play & Stay
For some of our top recommendations and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, check out the slider below. We have vetted these based on past stays or future bucket list goals. There are many other choices that fit each style and taste, so be sure to click the additional links below to narrow down options on things to do, and where to eat & stay.
Feel free to click on the slider or the icon at the top right to stop the slide and the arrow to continue.
Bar do Fundo restaurant is very affordable with a priceless view! This restaruarnt is regarded as one of the best in the area. Click on the name to learn more. There are so many other amazing restaurants in Cascais and Sintra as well! You can find a multitude over looking the ocean, and even on the beach. Be aware that some of these restaurants can have a higher price tag so take a look at Tripadvisor (click Explor More)
You have to check out this affodable jeep tour to some of the most amazing places in Sintra. The reviews on Airbnb Experiences are excellent. Or check out other experiences below. The prices are round $68pp for a 7 hour private tour!
These are breathtaking sites in SIntra. Each is a marvel and is part of its own special place in history. The Pena Palace, with its vibrant colors began as a monastery in the 12th century but later was built up by King Ferdinand to its grand appearance. The Moorish Castle, was established as a fortress by the Moors in the 10th century. It fell into abandon in the 15th century when they were forced to leave. King Ferndinand began restoration on the castle and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You Can hike to both the castle and palace but it will take a bit of time (and is all uphill) or there is a bus that will meet you at the bottom of the hill for transport to the sites.
There are so many options with Frederico. Also check him out on Youtube by searching for Frederico Alma. He gives some of the most comprehensive tips for Lisbon and other parts of Portugal. If you have time for Sintra, it is a great idea to get a personalized guide that can share the immense history of the ara. Also it is great not to have to worry about transportation & parking.
Located only 5 minutes from Cabo de Roca, the western most coastal area of Europe, this lovely winery is run by two architechs that have put their personal touch on the property. The guest house contains 6 rooms that all face the Atlantic. The property offers peace and relaxation and amazing hospitality! You can find accomodation on booking.com with a 9.7 rating!
For the most comprehensive travel guides out there, click Trip Savvy and Culture Trip below! These travel sites hire local writers and expert travelers to share the most relevant articles and best tips in the industry! Branding belongs to each respecitve company.
Get Your Guide Options
Local Spotlight
In the Mood
for Sintra
Janz Anton-Iago left his desk job and moved to Lisbon. His take on what to see in Sintra is so valuable. Janz always finds a way to inspire. Check out his Youtube Channel with many other wonderful videos from Portugal and all over the world and his website at In the Mood for Life
Jan Anton-Iago
Hiking in Sintra
We guarantee you will be hooked after the first video. Janz takes you to the off the beaten path in Sintra for an amazing experience!
More on Sintra...
Fred & Friends
Pena Palace
Frederico Alves, Fred & Friends Tour Company, shows some great tips on visiting Pena Palace and other places in Sintra. This video takes you to some incredible places in Sintra.
Sintra Private Tour
Fred, a local tour guide shares some his best tips on visiting Pena Palace in Sintra. Be sure to follow him on Youtube and view his other great videos on Portugal.
Near From Home(Ben & Camille) spends time in Sintra and we are so glad they did. If you have the time, check out their Youtube videos on Germany and Austria. You will be inspired. Click on Explore More for their Youtube Channel and check out their blog by clicking HERE!
More on Sintra...
Polychronis Video
Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca is a magical place on the coastline that is often called the end of the world. It is the farthest point west in Europe. Frederico Alves takes you to this popular landmark. It is worth the fantastic view! Polychronis captures the beauty in this stunning video. If you have the time, sit back and take in this breathtaking part of the world! See below for their work.
Praia da Ursa Beach, just about 1 km north of Cabo da Roca, is a tucked-away beach that is recognized for its two tall sea stacks. It is oftentimes, deserted because the water is cold and the waves are strong, and it takes a bit of a hike to get there but the views at sunset are unlike any other. Beautiful Destination’s Diego Bras shot an incredible video that makes you feel like you are right there. For more information on the hike to the westernmost point in Europe click Explore More for All Trails information.
explore
Obidos & Peniche
Day Trips From Sintra
About 45 minutes north of Sintra, this winery offers tastings and tours. It is one of my favorite wines. We actually found this wine at a local supermarket and put it on our bucket list. The red blend is so well balanced and quite affordable. Casa Santos Lima is a family-owned company dedicated to the production, bottling, and selling wine, and winning many awards. Look for it locally, or online. If you are able to visit, they even offer a horse and carriage tour with wine tasting.
8 Miles from Home
Obidos
Our favorite family of vloggers that spent some years in Portugal gives us a tour of this historic town with an immense castle. It is just north of Sintra and worth a stop as you travel through Portugal. Follow them on Youtube as they make their way to the Philippines as their next home. Click below for more information on Obidos from Portugal Tourism.
We follow everything Janz creates! He is a master story teller and has inspired us to explore Portugal off the beaten path. Peniche is an amazing town just north of Sinta that offers local flavors and authenticity. Click below for more information from Portugal Tourism.
Virtual Walking Tour ~ Sintra Cabo da Roca
by POV Tours
