Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Sintra

Protected Areas

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park safeguards unique landscapes. Stay on marked trails, avoid litter, and respect wildlife to preserve this area.

Waste & Water

Use designated recycling bins for plastic, paper, and glass. Conserve water during your stay, especially during dry periods.

Carbon Footprint

Favor public transportation over private cars. Consider carbon offset programs if flying to mitigate environmental impact.

Cultural Sensitivity & Ethics

Connect with local traditions with careful consideration.

Cultural Preservation

Support local artisans and businesses that maintain traditional crafts and arts. Your purchases contribute to cultural continuity.

Respectful Engagement

Respect rules about photography in religious or sensitive areas.
Learn basic Portuguese phrases to show consideration.
Request permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites.

Photography & Etiquette

Be mindful of residential areas and private property when taking photos. Avoid intrusive photography of locals without consent.

General Guidelines

People are not tourist attractions; treat them with dignity.
At popular sites, display patience and avoid obstructing others' views.
Maintain quiet and respectful demeanor inside religious sites.
Turn off mobile phones or set them to silent in sacred spaces.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Accommodation Options

Look for hotels that promote sustainable practices or have certifications like those found on Ecobnb.

Find Eco-Accommodation

Responsible Tour Operators

Choose tour operators that prioritize environmental respect and local culture, such as G Adventures.

Explore Ethical Tours

Conscious Decisions

Every decision you make, from where you stay to what you buy, carries an influence. Contribute positively to Sintra's preservation.

Economic Contributions

Your presence as a traveler can directly support the local economy.

Supporting Local Ventures

Opt for locally owned guesthouses and independent hotels. Participate in tours led by local guides who share their knowledge of their home.

Community Engagement

Choose local cafes, restaurants, and shops over international chains.
Purchase fresh produce and local specialties from markets.
Money spent locally contributes directly to the community.
This approach supports local families and businesses.

Ethical Shopping

Your souvenir and craft purchases hold a direct influence. Choose wisely to benefit local producers and sustain traditional crafts.

Conscious Consumerism

Buy directly from local artisans at markets or workshops.
Look for products with clear indications of local origin and fair labor practices.
Consider sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.
Package Free Shop offers reusable products for eco-conscious travelers.

Responsible Travel

Guard against scams and unsolicited services. Use reputable, licensed operators and services for your travel needs.

Vigilance & Integrity

Be cautious of offers that seem excessively advantageous.
Do not engage in activities that exploit animals or local communities.
Research thoroughly before participating in any animal-related tourism.
If donating, research reputable local charities or NGOs.

Environmental Offsets

Address your environmental impact with available tools. Consider choices that contribute to carbon neutrality.

Sustainable Solutions

Consider carbon offset providers such as Terrapass for flights.
Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to lessen waste.
Support conservation via organizations like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).
Prioritize public transportation to curtail your carbon footprint.

Ethical Choices

From where you stay to what you buy, your choices matter.

Support Local Guides

Engage local guides for authentic insights into the region's history and culture.

Buy Authentic Crafts

Choose locally produced souvenirs, ensuring your money directly benefits the community.

Respect Environment

Adhere to park rules and conservation initiatives to preserve Sintra's natural beauty.

Positive Footprint

Every choice a traveler makes directly influences the local economy and environment. Foster a positive footprint.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel