Best Markets in Sintra

Welcome to Sintra, a picturesque town nestled in the foothills of Portugal's Sintra Mountains, steeped in history and surrounded by lush greenery. For expats and digital nomads who have made this enchanting town their temporary home, exploring local markets is a delightful way to immerse oneself in the local culture, cuisine, and artisanal crafts. Sintra offers a variety of markets ranging from traditional food markets to eclectic flea markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to unique souvenirs. Here are some of the best markets in Sintra that you should not miss.

Mercado da Estefania

Location: Rua Joao de Deus, Sintra
Type of Market: Local Food Market
Open: Daily, 7 am - 3 pm

The Mercado da Estefania is a bustling market where locals come to shop for their daily groceries. It's a great place to experience the local lifestyle and find a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish. The market also has a selection of flowers, regional cheeses, and baked goods.

We Recommend: Try the freshly baked "Travesseiros de Sintra," a local pastry filled with almond cream, which is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Feira de Sao Pedro

Location: Sao Pedro de Sintra
Type of Market: Flea Market
Open: 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month, 8 am - 6 pm

Feira de Sao Pedro is a traditional flea market where you can find a variety of items, from antiques and vintage clothing to handcrafted jewelry and home decor. It's a perfect spot for treasure hunters and those looking for unique finds.

We Recommend: Look out for traditional Portuguese tiles (azulejos) that can add a touch of local charm to your home decor.

Mercado Municipal de Sintra

Location: Volta Duche, Sintra
Type of Market: Indoor Market
Open: Daily, 7 am - 2 pm

The Mercado Municipal de Sintra is an indoor market housed in a charming building. Here, you can find a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and meat, as well as a selection of local cheeses, jams, and pastries.

We Recommend: Sample the "Queijadas de Sintra," a traditional Sintra cheese pastry that is simply irresistible.

Feira de Artesanato de Sintra

Location: Praca da Republica, Sintra
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Weekends, 10 am - 6 pm

Feira de Artesanato de Sintra is a weekend craft market located in the heart of Sintra. It's a great place to find handmade goods, including ceramics, leatherwork, and textiles. The market is also an excellent spot to pick up souvenirs and gifts.

We Recommend: Don't miss the hand-painted ceramics that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Mercado Saloio

Location: Estrada de Sao Romao, Sintra
Type of Market: Local Produce Market
Open: Saturdays, 8 am - 1 pm

Mercado Saloio is a local produce market where you can find a wide range of organic fruits and vegetables, directly from the local farmers. It's a great place to support the local economy and enjoy some of the freshest produce available.

We Recommend: Try the local honey, known for its quality and unique flavors derived from the diverse flora of the Sintra region.

Alfarrabista de Sintra

Location: Rua das Padarias, Sintra
Type of Market: Second-hand Book Market
Open: Weekdays, 10 am - 6 pm; Weekends, 10 am - 7 pm

Alfarrabista de Sintra is a charming second-hand book market where book lovers can spend hours browsing through a vast collection of used books, including rare editions and vintage finds. It's a cozy spot for those looking to add to their library or find a unique gift for a fellow bibliophile.

We Recommend: Keep an eye out for antique books that capture the history and culture of Portugal, making for a meaningful keepsake.

Mercado do Levante

Location: Avenida Heliodoro Salgado, Sintra
Type of Market: Weekly Market
Open: Wednesdays, 8 am - 2 pm

Mercado do Levante is a weekly market where you can find a bit of everything, from clothing and accessories to household items and fresh produce. It's a lively spot where you can mingle with locals and other expats while shopping for essentials or indulging in some retail therapy.

We Recommend: Look for the artisanal soaps and natural skincare products that are often made with local ingredients and offer a touch of luxury.

These markets in Sintra provide a wonderful opportunity for expats and digital nomads to connect with the local community, enjoy the vibrant culture, and find unique items that they won't find anywhere else. Happy exploring!