7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Sintra

Sintra, is a haven for digital nomads who cherish the blend of fairy-tale architecture and lush landscapes. While the town itself offers plenty to explore, the surrounding regions are ripe with opportunities for weekend getaways. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's a perfect escape for every type of traveler. Here are seven destinations that promise to enrich your experience while living in this enchanting corner of Portugal.

Lisbon

As the vibrant capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a must-visit for anyone staying in Sintra. Just a short train ride away, Lisbon offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from the historic tram 28 to the nightlife of Bairro Alto. Explore the Time Out Market for a taste of the best local cuisine, or wander through the narrow streets of Alfama for a glimpse into the city's Moorish past.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach Lisbon from Sintra is by train, which takes about 40 minutes. Regular trains run from Sintra to Lisbon's Rossio Station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss a visit to the LX Factory, a trendy industrial complex turned into a creative hub with unique shops, restaurants, and regular cultural events.

Where to Stay: For a memorable stay, consider booking a room at the Memmo Alfama, which boasts a stunning rooftop terrace with a view of the Tagus River.

Where to Eat: Sea Me in Chiado is renowned for its fusion of traditional Portuguese seafood with Japanese cuisine, offering a contemporary twist on classic dishes.

Óbidos

The medieval town of Óbidos is encircled by an ancient wall and exudes charm with its cobbled streets and traditional white houses. Visitors can walk the ramparts for panoramic views, browse the local bookshops, or sample the famous cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, served in chocolate cups. Óbidos also hosts a range of festivals throughout the year, including a traditional Christmas market and a medieval fair.

How to Get There: Óbidos is best reached by car from Sintra, taking approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lisbon, which takes around an hour.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Óbidos Chocolate Festival if you have a sweet tooth – it's a delightful experience for chocolate lovers.

Where to Stay: The Pousada Castelo de Óbidos offers the unique opportunity to stay within the castle walls, providing a truly historic atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Petrarum Domus bar restaurante is a cozy spot known for its delicious regional cuisine and ambient setting within the town's old walls.

Ericeira

Ericeira, a picturesque fishing village turned surf mecca, is the perfect coastal retreat. With its world-class waves, it's recognized as a World Surfing Reserve. Non-surfers can enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore the quaint town center, or indulge in fresh seafood at the local restaurants. The laid-back vibe of Ericeira makes it an ideal spot for digital nomads looking to unwind and connect with nature.

How to Get There: The drive from Sintra to Ericeira takes about 40 minutes. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is recommended.

Travel Tip: Visit the local market on a Sunday morning to experience the town's vibrant community spirit and to purchase fresh, local produce.

Where to Stay: The Vila Galé Ericeira offers stunning sea views and is located right on the edge of the town, perfect for those looking to catch the early morning surf.

Where to Eat: Mar d'Areia is a favorite among locals for its fresh seafood dishes and traditional Portuguese cuisine, with a terrace overlooking the ocean.

Arrábida Natural Park

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Arrábida Natural Park is a hidden gem. This protected area boasts breathtaking landscapes, from serene beaches to rolling hills covered in lush greenery. Hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking are just a few of the activities that nature enthusiasts can enjoy. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for wildlife watching.

How to Get There: Arrábida Natural Park is best accessed by car from Sintra, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Convento da Arrábida, a historic monastery with stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Where to Stay: The Casa da Adôa in Portinho da Arrábida offers a tranquil retreat with easy access to the park's best hiking trails and beaches.

Where to Eat: The Portinho da Arrábida beach has several restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood with a view of the crystal-clear waters.

Tomar

Tomar is a lesser-known destination steeped in history, primarily known for the Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the stronghold of the Knights Templar. The town's historic center is charming, with a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline architecture. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful banks of the River Nabão or delve into the local arts and crafts at the weekly market.

How to Get There: The journey from Sintra to Tomar can take around 2 hours by car. Alternatively, you can take a train from Lisbon, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Festa dos Tabuleiros, a traditional festival held every four years, where the streets come alive with color, music, and parades.

Where to Stay: The Thomar Boutique Hotel offers a modern and comfortable stay in the heart of the historic town, with views of the castle.

Where to Eat: O Tabuleiro is renowned for its traditional Portuguese dishes and its namesake, the regional bread called 'tabuleiro'.

Alcobaça

Alcobaça is a tranquil town that's home to the impressive Alcobaça Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery is famous for the tombs of Pedro I of Portugal and his lover Inês de Castro. The town itself provides a peaceful escape with its quaint streets, local shops, and traditional restaurants. Alcobaça also serves as a gateway to the nearby natural beauty of the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park.

How to Get There: The drive from Sintra to Alcobaça takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Public transport options are limited, so a car rental is advisable.

Travel Tip: Explore the local farmers' market on Fridays to sample regional produce and mingle with the locals.

Where to Stay: The Challet Fonte Nova is an elegant guest house nestled close to the monastery, offering a luxurious stay with a touch of history.

Where to Eat: António Padeiro Restaurant is known for its regional specialties and the cozy atmosphere that reflects the town's charm.

Berlengas Archipelago

The Berlengas Archipelago, a group of small islands off the coast of Peniche, is a nature reserve known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Accessible by a short boat trip, the main island, Berlenga Grande, is a haven for birdwatchers, hikers, and those looking to escape the mainland's hustle and bustle. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering a glimpse into the vibrant marine life.

How to Get There: To reach the Berlengas Archipelago, take a car or bus to Peniche and then a boat from there. The boat trip takes about 45 minutes.

Travel Tip: Book your boat trip in advance, especially during the summer months, as the number of daily visitors to the islands is limited to protect the natural environment.

Where to Stay: While options are limited on the island, the Berlengas Hostel offers a unique stay with breathtaking views and a commitment to sustainability.

Where to Eat: The island's only restaurant, Mar e Sol, serves fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes with a view of the fortress and the Atlantic Ocean.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience for digital nomads living in Sintra, providing the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in history, connect with nature, or simply enjoy some downtime by the sea, these weekend getaways are sure to enhance your Portuguese adventure.