Where to Stay in Sintra
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families 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
🛡️ Very safe during the day and night, with a strong community feel.
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
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas; at night, stick to well-lit main streets.
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
🛡️ Extremely safe, a quiet rural area with minimal crime.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
EUR 150/day
Hidden Gems in Sintra
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Parque e Palácio de Monserrate
Wander through exotic gardens with plants from all over the world and admire the romanticist palace with its unique architectural details. It offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded palaces.
Vila Sassetti
Discover a beautifully restored historic villa and its enchanting terraced gardens, complete with waterfalls and grottoes. It provides a peaceful, less-visited green space with stunning views.
Museu de História Natural de Sintra
Explore the natural history and geological heritage of the Sintra mountains in this charming, intimate museum. It's a quiet place to learn about the unique ecosystem.
Safety in Sintra
SafeSolo Female Travel
Sintra is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist spots, especially around the train station and main palace entrances, to avoid pickpockets.
At Night
The historic center is quiet at night, with most tourist facilities closing early. Stick to well-lit main streets if walking late.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced tuk-tuk tours: agree on price and itinerary beforehand.
- 2Misleading information about attraction tickets: always buy from official sources.
- 3Pickpocketing: common in crowded areas near attractions and the train station.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Sintra