Nova Sintra 3-Day Itinerary

A day-by-day plan for Nova Sintra: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.

Day 1

Arrive & Explore the Highlights

Morning
Mercado Municipal de Nova Sintra

The main market in the town square, open daily for fresh produce, dried fish, and handmade crafts. It’s compact and lively, especially in the morning when farmers arrive from the hills.

🕐 Mon-Sat 7am-1pm; Sun 8am-12pm

Free entry

💡 Buy a bag of grogue (local sugarcane spirit) or a small pot of honey for under €2; both make good gifts.

Hotels near Mercado Municipal de Nova Sintra →
Afternoon
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte

A 19th-century church with a simple white facade and blue trim, set on a quiet square. Inside, wooden pews and a small altar reflect the island’s Catholic heritage.

🕐 Mon-Sat 8am-12pm, 2pm-5pm; Sun 7am-12pm

Free entry

💡 Sunday mass at 10am includes local hymns; visitors are welcome to sit quietly at the back.

Hotels near Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte →
Evening
Where to eat

Esplanada Sodadi · ££

Bar dy nos · ££

Day 2

Deeper Into Nova Sintra

Morning
Miradouro de Nova Sintra

A central viewpoint offering sweeping views across the island of Brava, the Monte Fontainhas peak, and the Atlantic. Benches and a small garden make it a good spot to rest.

🕐 Always open

💡 Go late afternoon when the light softens the landscape and fishing boats return to the port below.

Midday
Museu de Nova Sintra

A small cultural museum housed in a restored colonial building. Exhibits include traditional Brava embroidery, old photographs of the island, and a room dedicated to local music.

🕐 Tue-Sat 9am-1pm, 3pm-5pm; closed Sun-Mon

💡 Ask the attendant to play the morna recordings from the 1950s – they’re not on display but can be requested.

Evening
Dining tonight

Restaurante Luanda

Restaurante Cruz Grande

Day 3

Final Favourites & Departure

Morning
Parque Natural do Monte Fontainhas

A protected area of volcanic craters and endemic vegetation, with marked trails leading to the highest point on Brava. The hike takes about 45 minutes each way

💡 Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; the trail is rocky and exposed. Start before 10am to avoid midday heat.

Final meal

O Poeta

Bar Zinha

Getting Around Nova Sintra

Local Taxi (shared) From 100 CVE 5 min

Yellow taxis with a white stripe are local. You'll likely share with others, so don't expect a private ride. Flag one on Rua 5 de Julho.

Intercity Hiace (minibus) From 300 CVE 120 min

These white Hiaces cram in passengers. Leave early to avoid the midday heat. The ride is bumpy but cheaper than a taxi.

Airport Taxi from Praia From 3500 CVE 90 min

Fix the price before getting in. Most drivers expect 3000–4000 CVE. Ask your hotel to book a trusted driver for a smoother ride.

Local bus (city circuit) From 50 CVE 10 min

Hop on the minibus marked 'Centro–Bairro'. It loops around, so tell the driver your hotel name. Pay cash only, exact change helps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 days enough for Nova Sintra?

Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Mercado Municipal de Nova Sintra and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.

What is the best time to visit Nova Sintra?

See our full best time to visit Nova Sintra guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.

Where should I stay for this itinerary?

A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Vivi´s Place, Paulo, Casa di Júlia. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.