Where to Stay in Sintra
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Santa Maria
Provides more affordable accommodation options compared to the immediate historic center.
See full Sintra neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Sintra
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Santa Maria
A quieter, more residential area just outside the main tourist hub, offering local charm.
Our top picks in Santa Maria
Colares
A rural village known for its unique wines and proximity to the coast, offering a relaxed escape.
Our top picks in Colares
Sintra Historic Center
A charming, bustling heart surrounded by fairytale palaces and dense forests.
Our top picks in Sintra Historic Center
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Santa Maria | Budget | A quieter, more residential area just outside the main tourist hub, offering local charm. | familiescouples |
Colares | Budget | A rural village known for its unique wines and proximity to the coast, offering a relaxed escape. | couplesfoodies |
Sintra Historic Center | Mid-range | A charming, bustling heart surrounded by fairytale palaces and dense forests. | first-timersculture |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Sintra
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Sintra
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Sintra. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Sintra
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Sintra
Santa Maria
BudgetA quieter, more residential area just outside the main tourist hub, offering local charm.
- +More peaceful than the absolute center
- +Authentic local feel
- +Good value for accommodation
- -Fewer dining and shopping options directly in the neighborhood
- -Slightly further walk to some attractions
Colares
BudgetA rural village known for its unique wines and proximity to the coast, offering a relaxed escape.
- +Excellent local wine tasting experiences
- +Closer to beaches
- +Escape the main tourist crowds
- -Requires transport to reach Sintra's main attractions
- -Limited nightlife
- -Fewer accommodation options
Sintra Historic Center
Mid-rangeA charming, bustling heart surrounded by fairytale palaces and dense forests.
- +Access to major attractions
- +Abundant dining options
- +Atmospheric old town
- -Extremely crowded, especially in peak season
- -Can feel very tourist-focused
Daily Budget (Budget)
EUR 70/day
Hidden Gems in Sintra
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Casa Piriquita
Indulge in the legendary Queijadas and Travesseiros, traditional Sintra pastries, at this historic bakery loved by locals. It's a delicious and authentic taste of the region.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Sintra
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Sintra Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Sintra on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Sintra Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Sintra with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Sintra: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Sintra's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Sintra: Scenic Excursion
Escape Sintra for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Sintra Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Sintra's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Sintra
Backpackers in Sintra: FAQ
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