Things to do in Sintra

Activities, attractions and tours

Ursa Beach featuring rocky coastline, a sunset and general coastal views
Sintra
Sintra which includes heritage architecture and a castle
Sintra as well as a small group of people
Moorish Castle which includes a castle, tranquil scenes and heritage elements

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Most popular experiences in Sintra

Tours & day trips

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Small group tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, pass by Regaleira, Cabo Roca, Casc...

Small group tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, pass by Regaleira, Cabo Roca, Casc...

Activity duration is 8 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 124 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €86 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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Lisbon: 5-Hour All-inclusive Tour on a Exclusive Tuk Tour

Lisbon: 5-Hour All-inclusive Tour on a Exclusive Tuk Tour

Activity duration is 5 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €50 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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From Lisbon: Arrábida Natural Park Kayak Tour with Lunch

From Lisbon: Arrábida Natural Park Kayak Tour with Lunch

Activity duration is 8 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €69 per adult
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Water activities

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Lisbon: Sailing Tour on the Tagus River

Lisbon: Sailing Tour on the Tagus River

Activity duration is 1 hour
9.4 out of 10 with 15 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €20 per adult
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Classes & workshops

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Lisbon: Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class

Lisbon: Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class

Activity duration is 3 hours
8.0 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €85 per adult
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What to do in Sintra

Popular places to visit

Rossio Square which includes street scenes, a fountain and a square or plaza

Rossio Square

See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.

Rossio Square
Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Avenida da Liberdade, a popular shopping spot in Santo Antonio. Discover the charming cafes in this family-friendly area or seek out the local tours.

Avenida da Liberdade
Belem Tower showing general coastal views, a sunset and heritage architecture

Belém Tower

Lisbon constructed a fortification along a waterway to defend its riches. Now access the structure from the shore for lovely views.

Belém Tower
Marquis of Pombal Square

Marquis of Pombal Square

Learn about the local history of Lisbon with a stop at Marquis of Pombal Square. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed art galleries in this culturally rich area.

Marquis of Pombal Square
Campo Grande

Campo Grande

You can learn about the history of Alvalade when you stop by Campo Grande. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Campo Grande
Carcavelos Beach

Carcavelos Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Carcavelos Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Carcavelos. Amble around the area's seaside or seek out its surfing spots.

Carcavelos Beach
Santa Justa Elevator featuring outdoor eating, nightlife and night scenes

Santa Justa Elevator

Ride the elevator designed in the 19th century to connect the districts of hilltop Bairro Alto and downtown Baixa. Enjoy views from the café atop the gothic lift.

Santa Justa Elevator
Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

Enjoy an underwater adventure at one of the world’s largest and most diverse aquariums right on Lisbon’s beautiful waterfront.

Lisbon Oceanarium
Commerce Square featuring a statue or sculpture

Commerce Square

People-watch in this historic square while you enjoy a coffee and pastry in the café where the city’s literati once gathered.

Commerce Square

Areas of Sintra

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Azenhas do Mar

While there might not be top attractions in Azenhas do Mar, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Magoito Beach and Macas Beach.

Azenhas do Mar
Moorish Castle featuring a castle and tranquil scenes

Santa Maria e São Miguel

If you're spending time in Santa Maria e São Miguel, check out sights like Castle of the Moors or Sintra Mountains and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Sintra Tram Stop or Monte Santos Tram Stop.

Santa Maria e São Miguel
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São João das Lampas

While São João das Lampas may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Magoito Beach and Foz de Lizandro Beach.

São João das Lampas
Pena Palace

São Pedro de Penaferrim

While visiting São Pedro de Penaferrim, you might make a stop by sights like Penha Longa Golf Course and Pestana Golf Resort.

São Pedro de Penaferrim
Macas Beach featuring a sandy beach, general coastal views and rocky coastline

Praia das Macas

The beaches and restaurants make Praia das Macas worth a stop. Make a stop by Macas Beach, and jump on the metro at Praia das Maçãs Tram Stop to get around the area.

Praia das Macas
Sintra National Palace which includes a garden, a sunset and tranquil scenes

Historic Center

While visiting Historic Center, you might make a stop by sights like Sintra Mountains and Sao Martinho Church.

Historic Center
Oeiras

Oeiras

Photo by Emilian Cirtina

Alcabideche

Cascais as well as a small group of people

Cascais

Miradouro de Santa Luzia which includes a coastal town and a lake or waterhole

Lisbon District

Mafra

Mafra

Frequently asked questions

Is Sintra worth visiting?
Providing a mix of history and walking trails, there's no shortage of things to do in Sintra. When you're here, visit Carcavelos Beach, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Sintra?
Once you've checked off leading attractions like Carcavelos Beach and Guincho Beach, spend some time exploring the food and retail options in Sintra.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sintra?
You can't go home without visiting Carcavelos Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Sintra.
Is three days enough to stay in Sintra?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off popular city attractions, including Guincho Beach, Sintra National Palace and Grande Beach. The average stay in Sintra is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Lisbon District isn't far away.
Is Sintra a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Sintra. Several attractions, such as Sintra National Palace and Moorish Castle, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Sintra's best neighbourhoods, Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim is 0.64 kilometres away from downtown, while Santa Maria e São Miguel is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Sintra with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all the family, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Sintra with kids.

What to do in Sintra for adults?
National Hotel School and Lagoas Park are just a couple of the things to do in Sintra. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Sintra?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Sintra. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Guincho Beach is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.