Things To Do
What to do in Sintra
Europe’s capital of romance is just 30 minutes from Lisbon. From hiking in the national park, to wineries, to castles... there is so much to do around this town! You need an entire day to see all of the fairytale castles & palaces, but the must-sees are: Pena Palace: It’s one of the world’s most spectacular palaces & one of Europe's most eclectic constructions. Buy tickets online in advance. Quinta da Regaleira: An enigmatic neo-Manueline (Portuguese Gothic-Renaissance) monument is a magical place of fantastic gardens, grottoes, lakes, and a well with a monumental staircase spiraling down nearly 100 ft. Buy tickets online in advance. Monserrate: The palace mixes different styles, from the neo-Gothic to the neo-Moorish, and is topped by a dome inspired by the Duomo in Florence. It’s surrounded by a lush park with a remarkable botanical collection, with species from around the world, waterfalls & lakes, many of them created by Beckford and Cook. Buy tickets online in advance.
Where to Eat in Sintra
WHERE TO EAT: Cantinho de S.Pedro Bar do Fundo Água e Sal Curral Dos Caprinos Sabores do Mercado Arola (Penha Longa Resort) Midori (Penha Longa Resort) Best Sunset: Azenhas Bar
What to do in Cascais
Cascais! THINGS TO DO: The coastline extending to the west of Lisbon leads to Cascais, an affluent seaside suburb. It’s known for its sandy beaches and a calm sea, although there are also waves for surfers. It’s the coastline chosen by most tourists for a day at the beach, as it has a regular train service linking it to central Lisbon. Discover the old town What was once once a sleeping fishing village along the Portuguese coast, quickly grew out to be a high-end destination along the Portuguese Riviera. Cascais Art & Museum district Within the walls of the Citadel of Cascais, the prolongation of the Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort fortification that used to defend the town from foreign invasions, you’ll find the elegant Cidadela Art District. Boca do Inferno Boca do Inferno or Hell’s Mouth. It’s a rock formation that was heavily eroded and where the waves come crashing in. WHERE TO EAT: Porto de Santa Maria Hífen Mar do Inferno Baia do Peixe Malacopa (tacos)
What to do in Lisbon!
Things to do: JERÓNIMOS MONASTERY Built in 1502, it’s now classified as a World Heritage Site, and is where you find the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Beautiful and quick museum! Make sure to walk around the streets for cute little shops as well. BELÉM TOWER Also a World Heritage monument, the Belém Tower was built in 1515 to protect the harbor. MAAT One of Lisbon's most iconic buildings is an exceptional example of contemporary architecture. ALFAMA AND GRAÇA It’s the city’s oldest neighborhood, found around the castle (Graça) and down the hill towards the river (Alfama). CHIADO The city’s most sophisticated neighborhood, known for shopping (now mostly international chains), cafés and theaters. BOTANICAL GARDEN An enchanted “forest” of plants brought from expeditions to Africa, Brazil and Asia in the 18th century. An attraction not to miss is the butterfly greenhouse, which is the only one in Europe that’s open to the public.
Where to Eat in Lisbon
MARKETS FOOD Mercearia Biológica, Comida Independente and LX Factory are great places to visit! WHERE TO EAT: Manteigaria for the best Pasteis de Nata Time Out Market Bistro 100 Maneiras Pateo - Bairro do Avillez Tapisco Lisboa Tapas n' Friends Chiado JNCquoi Eneko Lisboa Rocco Solar dos Presuntos
What to do in Nazaré
Home of the 100 ft wave! Nazare is home to the 100ft wave! (If you haven't watched that documentary you definitely should before coming) . Although these waves won't be ~pumping~ it is definitely worth a stop if you have a few extra days. What to do: - Visit the Lighthouse to get some amazing views - Take the cable car down to the town! This is the best way to get there. - Head down to Praça Sousa Oliveira and stop at any of the open air restaurants for a bite to eat!