Sines was once a fishing town and is now a tourist destination that everyone will enjoy. Get to know this seaside haven better.
It merges with the sea, relying on it for survival. Sines has a deep connection with the Atlantic Ocean, evident in both its gastronomy and the economic activities that sustain the city. Today, Sines is an important industrial oil port, playing a vital role in the country’s economy.
Sines is located on the southwest coast of Portugal, in the district of Setúbal, at the tip of Cabo de Sines. Its position divides the Alentejo coast into two parts: to the north, there are vast beaches of fine sand stretching to Troia; to the south, you’ll find cove beaches, part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park.
The region is also famous for being the birthplace of the navigator Vasco da Gama, a knight of the Order of Christ who made history by discovering the sea route to India in the late 15th century. This voyage profoundly connected Europe with the East, fostering collaboration and trade. It was so significant that King Manuel I named Vasco da Gama Admiral of the Seas of India.
In addition to this rich history, which brought Sines global recognition, there are countless nooks and crannies to explore. You’ll appreciate all that the city offers its visitors.
Must-see places in Sines
If you enjoy walking, we recommend wandering the streets of the city at a leisurely pace, without haste or expectations. This is the best way to feel like a true “Siniense,” a true resident of Sines.
However, be sure to include some of the most intriguing spots on your route.
Sines Castle
This is no ordinary castle. Built in 1480 to protect the area, it remains the best viewpoint over the bay, hundreds of years later.
Here, you can also find a connection to Vasco da Gama, as the most famous mayor of Sines was Estêvão da Gama, father of the navigator. It is believed that Vasco da Gama was born within these very walls, a figure whose legacy shaped the history of Portugal and the world.
Fort of Revelim
As threats to Portuguese territory increased, coastal fortifications were built, including the Fort of Revelim, or Fort of Nossa Senhora das Salas, dating back to the 17th century. Its purpose was to protect the shoreline from privateers and pirates.
Beaches
Sines is renowned for its many breathtaking beaches, where you’ll feel like you’re in paradise. Fine sands, calm and crystalline waters invite you to swim and relax in peace. Some of the most well-known beaches in the region, and indeed in the country, are Praia Vasco da Gama, Praia de S. Torpes, and the secluded beaches of Porto Covo.
Historic Centre of Sines
The historic centre of Sines stretches along the cliff that connects the castle to the Fort of Revelim, offering superb views of the Atlantic. Walking this path allows you to discover the shopping streets around the old medieval thoroughfares, such as Cândido dos Reis and Teófilo Braga streets, as well as Largo dos Penedos, where fishermen would assess the sea conditions. You can also visit Vasco da Gama Street, where the house in which the navigator lived is located, although it is not open to visitors.
Since 2005, the Sines Arts Centre has been located in the historic centre, bridging the city’s historical past with its modern-day identity. This remarkable contemporary Portuguese architectural building has won several international awards and is now the main cultural hub for arts and education in Sines.
Sea Experiences
Of course, the city’s close relationship with the sea brings many leisure activities. In addition to its economic importance, the sea offers numerous opportunities for surfing, windsurfing, bodyboarding, fishing, diving, boating, and kayaking, to name a few.
São Torpes is a true paradise for surfers, providing excellent conditions for the sport. Surf schools operate there year-round. Recreational fishing is also popular in Sines, and divers, whether amateur or experienced, have a variety of locations to explore.
Gastronomy
Among the many reasons to visit Sines, the quality of its food stands out. The city is full of excellent restaurants, many with prime locations overlooking the ocean.
The cuisine in Sines is mainly based on fish and seafood, reflecting the region’s fishing heritage. You can sample dishes such as seafood “açorda,” shellfish “feijoada,” “migas” with fried fish, seafood rice, cuttlefish, whelk or roe salads.
For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the “Vasquinhos,” small regional almond-based cakes named after Vasco da Gama, or the “Areias de Sines,” simple but exquisite dry biscuits.
Some Notes
Halal Food: Sines is a coastal town known for its seafood, which can be a great option for Muslim visitors, as seafood is generally considered halal. However, if you’re looking for halal-certified restaurants or meat, these may not be as readily available in smaller towns like Sines. It would be useful to research or contact restaurants in advance to inquire about their menu. Alternatively, you could consider self-catering,
Prayer Facilities: There are no major mosques in Sines itself, but nearby cities like Setúbal or Lisbon have mosques and Islamic centres. If you’re planning a longer stay, you might need to make personal arrangements for prayer. Portable prayer mats and a Qibla app on your phone could be helpful.
Modest Beaches: While Sines has beautiful beaches, Portuguese beach culture tends to be quite liberal. It might be worth visiting less crowded or more secluded beaches, like those around Porto Covo, to ensure privacy. Visiting outside of peak tourist season can also offer a more relaxed and private experience.
