Sintra is one of Portugal’s most iconic destinations. The area is known for its mysticism, its stories of witches, ghosts, and Masonic rituals, but also for its lush gardens and historical monuments.

However, such fame brings thousands of visitors to this place every day, and with so many crowds, it can be challenging to have a more peaceful experience.

If you’re looking for different places to visit in Sintra that are away from the hustle and bustle, read on because I’ll show you at least two (and an extra one if you have a sweet tooth).

Where to go in Sintra to get away from the crowds

1. Quinta da Ribafria

Quinta da Ribafria is a place I discovered recently and, because it’s further away from the town of Sintra and isn’t mentioned in many travel guides about Portugal, it’s not a tourist attraction. So, when I was there, it was relatively empty.

Quinta da Ribafria was built in 1541 and is a fantastic example of the Manueline civil architecture of the time, not to mention the Gothic and Renaissance details on the property, which give it a unique atmosphere.

This estate was abandoned for years, but since 2015, the municipality has refurbished it and opened it to the public, allowing visitors to lose themselves in its beautiful gardens, where you can find fountains, sculptures, and lovely walking routes.

One of the most notable features is the 17th-century tower, built by the owner to look out over his other properties in the region. But this property’s stories don’t stop there, and some people even associate it with… haunted tales. 

Ribafria also hosts cultural events throughout the year, ranging from exhibitions to open-air shows, making it a place of culture and leisure for many Sintrians, away from the tourist hustle and bustle.

2. Casa do Preto

Located on the road connecting Sintra to Lisbon, Casa do Preto is well known for its traditional queijadas, made with fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon. You can also try the famous travesseiros de Sintra, made from puff pastry, filled with egg and almond cream, and covered in sugar.

Although not completely unknown, the authentic taste of the queijadas and travesseiros makes this place a must for those looking to taste the local flavors without dealing with the commotion of the town of Sintra.

Casa do Preto has been around for generations and has maintained the original flavor of its sweets, which has led to a loyal clientele. The simplicity of the place, combined with the fresh bakery, makes for a fantastic experience if you can’t resist an excellent local sweet.

3. Blue Lagoon

If you’re looking for a natural spot to go for a walk and soak up all the beauty of the Sintra Natural Park, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) could be the solution. This lagoon is a natural oasis hidden away in the forests of Sintra, far from urban noise.

Located near Peninha, Lagoa Azul offers a calm spot surrounded by green countryside, where local families go for picnics and weekend walks.

With various hiking trails running through the forest, this is a popular destination for those who want to explore nature.

The pines and other trees surrounding the lagoon create a pleasant microclimate and refreshing shade if you plan to visit during the summer.

Want to take a look at these places? Watch the video!

Other places to visit out of the hustle and bustle

CONVENTO DOS CAPUCHOS: this former Franciscan convent, with its tiny cells and austere atmosphere, offers a unique and peaceful experience. This convent, hidden in the middle of the forest, is an example of the humble lifestyle of the monks, who lived in complete contact with nature.

SANTUÁRIO DA PENINHA: Located at the highest point of the Sintra mountain, this small sanctuary has one of the best views of the Lisbon and Cascais coastline. The place is shrouded in legends and mysteries and, despite being mentioned in many tourist guides, is less visited than other spots such as the Pena Palace or the Sintra Castle.

PRAIA DA ADRAGA: If you prefer a seaside escape, Praia da Adraga is an excellent option. Surrounded by cliffs and caves, it’s one of the wildest and quietest beaches in Sintra, ideal for relaxing strolls and moments of relaxation in contact with the Atlantic.

Tips for visiting Sintra without the crowds

• Plan your visits for the early morning or late afternoon: avoiding the central hours of the day can make a huge difference, especially at key tourist locations.
• Avoid July and August: these months are the busiest, but Sintra is just as charming in the fall and spring. Try to visit then, with fewer tourists and milder weather.
• Explore on foot or by bike: there are walking trails and bike routes that connect various points of interest outside the center of Sintra, providing a different experience. After all, you must also burn off all the calories from the famous Travesseiros.
• Take food and water: many places outside the center don’t have easy access to restaurants or cafés so a picnic can be a good idea.
• Consider taking a private guided tour: local guides specialized in Sintra can create personalized itineraries to less frequented sites, allowing you to explore Sintra exclusively.

Where can you stay in Sintra, away from the confusion?

Staying in Lisbon and going to Sintra by train from Rossio is an excellent option. However, to get the full Sintra experience, consider staying in an accommodation outside the capital and closer to the mountain.

QUINTA VERDE SINTRA: Located on the outskirts of Sintra, this quinta is a haven of peace, surrounded by nature, with comfortable rooms and easy access to attractions.

VILA BICUDA RESORT: A little further away, in Cascais, this resort is an excellent choice for those who want to relax away from Sintra’s center. It has luxury amenities and easy access to the hillside.

SINTRA SMALL HOSTEL: Ideal for solo travelers or couples looking for an intimate space, this affordable accommodation is in a less touristy location, with beautiful views over the countryside.

Sintra has much more to offer than the most touristy places. Quinta da Ribafria, Casa do Preto, and Lagoa Azul, among others, are just a few examples that reveal a quieter and more authentic side to this magical destination.

In addition to the monuments, ancestral farms, and nature trails, if you’re a surfer, you can also find an extra experience on the Sintra coast, bringing together the best of both worlds: culture and adventure.

By following these tips and exploring accommodation options away from the bustle, you can experience Sintra in an unforgettable way.