I love to explore the picturesque corners of Portugal, I’ve always found that the best travel experiences lie not just in the bustling cities but in the quieter, lesser-known towns that dot the coastline and countryside. Sines, a serene coastal town known for its historical significance and beautiful beaches, is perfectly situated for exploring the surrounding area. On my recent trip to Sines, I had the chance to take a leisurely one-day journey through some of the most charming nearby towns. These places, rich in history, natural beauty, and authentic Portuguese culture, are perfect for anyone looking to escape the tourist crowds and experience something more intimate.
In this article, I’ll take you through my one-day itinerary, showcasing three beautiful towns near Sines that are perfect for a relaxing yet enriching day trip. From quaint villages with cobblestone streets to coastal gems with stunning views, these towns will captivate you with their unique charm. I’ll also share some practical tips, including how to get there, things to do, must-see sights, and where to enjoy delicious Portuguese food. Let’s dive into the journey!
1. Porto Covo: A Picturesque Seaside Escape
Distance from Sines: 15 minutes by car
Must-See Sights: Praia do Buizinhos, Covo Island, Porto Covo Lighthouse
Estimated Budget: €15 – €30 per person
Overview:
My day trip began with a short drive to Porto Covo, a stunning seaside village located just 15 minutes away from Sines. As I approached Porto Covo, I was immediately struck by the beauty of the coastline—rugged cliffs meeting the vast blue sea, with hidden coves and pristine beaches waiting to be discovered. Porto Covo is often considered one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets, and it’s easy to see why. Its whitewashed buildings with blue shutters, cobblestone streets, and friendly atmosphere create an irresistible charm that makes it feel like stepping back in time.
The village itself is small, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll through its narrow streets. One of the most delightful sights in Porto Covo is its famous lighthouse, which sits high on the cliffs, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. After exploring the village, I headed to Praia do Buizinhos, a small, secluded beach that I found to be perfect for a swim or simply lounging in the sun. Its tranquility and natural beauty made it an idyllic spot to relax for a while. I also enjoyed a walk out to Covo Island, which is accessible by a scenic trail along the cliffs.
Activities & Must-See Highlights:
- Visit the Porto Covo Lighthouse: Perched above the village, the lighthouse provides panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast sea. It’s a great spot for photos.
- Stroll Through the Town: Porto Covo’s cobbled streets and white buildings are a delight to wander through, with charming cafes and small shops offering local goods and art.
- Relax at Praia do Buizinhos: A quiet, less crowded beach that’s perfect for a peaceful swim or sunbathing. Its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting make it a must-see.
- Explore the Coastal Trail: The trail leading to Covo Island offers breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs, making it an unforgettable walk.
What to Buy:
Porto Covo is known for its local arts and crafts, especially ceramic items and handmade jewelry. I picked up a beautiful ceramic plate painted with traditional Portuguese patterns—a lovely memento from the village. You can also find locally made textiles such as scarves and tablecloths, perfect for taking a piece of Porto Covo home with you.
Booking Tip:
Porto Covo is easily accessible from Sines by car, and if you’re not driving, consider booking a day tour through platforms like GetYourGuide, which often offer guided tours to nearby coastal towns. You can also find great accommodations near Porto Covo on Booking.com for a peaceful retreat by the beach.
2. Vila Nova de Milfontes: The Heart of the Alentejo Coast
Distance from Porto Covo: 30 minutes by car
Must-See Sights: Praia das Furnas, São Clemente Church, Milfontes Castle
Estimated Budget: €20 – €40 per person
Overview:
From Porto Covo, I took a 30-minute drive to Vila Nova de Milfontes, a charming town situated at the mouth of the Mira River. As I entered Vila Nova de Milfontes, I could immediately feel a different vibe—this town blends the best of both worlds, with stunning beaches on one side and rich cultural heritage on the other. Its vibrant atmosphere, especially in the summer, is perfect for those who enjoy exploring a town with a lively local community and scenic beauty.
I started my day in Vila Nova de Milfontes by visiting the São Clemente Church, a beautiful 16th-century structure that stands as a testament to the town’s history. The church is an excellent example of traditional Portuguese architecture, with intricate tilework and a serene atmosphere inside. From there, I walked to the Milfontes Castle, which offers impressive views over the town and the Mira River. The castle dates back to the 16th century and was originally built to defend the coast from pirates. Although it’s not open to the public in its entirety, the surrounding area offers plenty of space to explore and enjoy the views.
Activities & Must-See Highlights:
- Explore Praia das Furnas: This beach, located just outside the town, is one of the best in the area. Surrounded by cliffs, it offers a sense of seclusion while still being easily accessible. It’s perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water.
- Visit São Clemente Church: The church is a beautiful example of traditional architecture, and its peaceful ambiance is a great way to spend a quiet moment.
- Wander Through the Town Center: The town has a delightful main square filled with cafes, local shops, and bakeries. Don’t miss a visit to one of the local pastry shops to try pastéis de nata, a delicious Portuguese custard tart.
- Cruise the Mira River: Vila Nova de Milfontes is known for its river cruises. I recommend taking a boat tour to see the surrounding natural beauty from the water.
What to Buy:
In Vila Nova de Milfontes, I found a few small artisanal shops selling handwoven baskets, wooden crafts, and pottery. I picked up a basket woven by local artisans, a perfect gift that reflects the craftsmanship of the Alentejo region.
Booking Tip:
Vila Nova de Milfontes is popular for its riverside accommodations and coastal escapes. You can easily book a charming guesthouse or riverside hotel through Airbnb or Expedia. If you’re interested in boat tours, Viator offers excellent river cruise packages.
3. Cercal do Alentejo: A Traditional Village Experience
Distance from Vila Nova de Milfontes: 20 minutes by car
Must-See Sights: Museu da Cortiça (Cork Museum), the village’s traditional market
Estimated Budget: €10 – €20 per person
Overview:
After enjoying the coastal beauty of the previous towns, I decided to visit Cercal do Alentejo, a small inland village known for its cork production and agricultural heritage. Located just 20 minutes from Vila Nova de Milfontes, Cercal is a perfect contrast to the seaside towns, offering a more rural and traditional experience.
Cercal is famous for its cork oak forests, and a visit to the Museu da Cortiça (Cork Museum) is a must. The museum provides fascinating insight into the history of cork production in the region, an industry that has shaped the local economy for centuries. After exploring the museum, I wandered through the village’s central market, where I found fresh produce, handmade goods, and local cheeses. The market had a rustic charm, and the friendly vendors made me feel like part of the community.
Activities & Must-See Highlights:
- Visit the Museu da Cortiça: Learn about the fascinating history of cork production and its importance to the region. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Explore the Village Market: The traditional market is a great place to pick up fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts. I loved the atmosphere here—it felt like a truly authentic Portuguese experience.
- Hike the Surrounding Countryside: The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for a short hike or a leisurely walk to take in the natural beauty.
What to Buy:
Cork products are a must-buy in Cercal. I purchased a lovely cork wallet, which was both stylish and sustainable. The town is known for high-quality cork goods, and you’ll find everything from bags to shoes, all locally made.
Booking Tip:
Cercal is a quiet village, so it’s not as tourist-centric as other towns, but it’s worth visiting for a day trip. To make the most of your time, it’s best to rent a car through platforms like Rentalcars.com for flexibility in exploring the rural areas.
A Perfect Day Trip from Sines
Exploring the charming towns surrounding Sines is one of the best ways to experience the authentic heart of Portugal. Whether you’re relaxing on a quiet beach in Porto Covo, exploring the cultural heritage of Vila Nova de Milfontes, or enjoying the rural charm of Cercal do Alentejo, each town offers its own unique atmosphere and beauty. By planning your itinerary carefully, you can easily visit all three in one day, creating unforgettable memories of Portugal’s coastal and countryside treasures.
For planning your trip, booking tours, accommodations, and even finding discounts, I recommend using platforms like Booking.com for lodging, TheFork for restaurant reservations, and GetYourGuide or Viator for tours and activities. These platforms make it easy to plan a seamless trip and find the best deals. Enjoy your journey through these enchanting Portuguese towns!
