Azenhas do Mar: Overrated or Worth the Trip? What You Need to Know

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Portugal is an incredible country, blessed with a rugged Atlantic coastline and some of the most picturesque coastal towns in Europe.

Many of these have either been famous for centuries or have recently become what I like to call “Insta-famous”—blown up by viral reels on Instagram and TikTok.

One such place that kept popping up on my feed was Azenhas do Mar, a striking little village about an hour from my new home in Lisbon.

The photos are undeniably dreamy—whitewashed houses cascading down a cliffside toward the Atlantic, waves crashing against the shore, and a natural swimming pool tucked into the rocks. Naturally, I had to see it for myself.

But is Azenhas do Mar worth visiting? Yes… But it’s complicated! If the weather is good and you have your own transportation, it’s absolutely worth the trip for the views alone. But if you’re relying on public transport or expecting a full day of exploring, you might be a bit disappointed. A full breakdown is below.

Where Is Azenhas do Mar Exactly?

Technically, Azenhas do Mar is part of Sintra. But don’t get confused—it’s nothing like the fairytale castles and lush forests Sintra is known for.

This is a coastal village, perched on cliffs with a dramatically different vibe. It’s roughly 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Lisbon, but getting there isn’t as simple as hopping on a train to Sintra’s main attractions.

Charming white houses with terracotta rooftops perched on cliffs, overlooking the tranquil ocean pool at Azenhas do Mar.

Picturesque view from the beach of Azenhas do Mar village perched on dramatic cliffs, waves gently breaking onto the sandy shore.

How Easy Is It to Get to Azenhas do Mar?

Without a car, getting to Azenhas do Mar is a bit of a hassle. There are no direct trains, and while buses do exist, they’re infrequent and will eat up a lot of your time.

My honest take? If you don’t have a rental car, Azenhas do Mar probably isn’t worth the effort, unless you’re planning to stay for a couple of nights.

A day trip via public transport is just too tedious to justify the journey.

Alternative Ways to Visit Azenhas do Mar

If you’re staying in the historic center of Sintra, you can take a bus to Azenhas do Mar in under an hour. This could be worth it if you’re itching for a beach day and want a change of scenery from the usual Sintra itinerary.

But my favorite way to visit Azenhas do Mar? On this organized tour that leaves from Cascais! Not only do you get to see Azenhas do Mar, but you also stop at an incredible restaurant for brunch, visit the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and finish the day at a charming little winery. Now that’s a way to make the trip worthwhile!

A scenic view of Cabo da Roca lighthouse, situated on a hill in the distance. In the foreground, there’s a wide expanse of green and reddish succulents, with a clear sky filled with soft clouds above.

Things to Do in Azenhas do Mar

Let’s be real—there’s not a whole lot to do in Azenhas do Mar. This isn’t a town packed with attractions and activities.

It’s the kind of place you go to admire the views, enjoy the beach (if the tide allows), and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.

That said, if you’re making the trip, here are the best things to do while you’re there:

Capture Sunset Photos

Sunsets here are next-level. Whether you’re at the cliffside viewpoint, the beach, or just strolling through town, don’t leave without snapping a few golden-hour shots.

Admire the Iconic Cliffside Viewpoint

The postcard-perfect view you’ve seen all over Instagram? That’s from the viewpoint overlooking the village’s charming whitewashed houses perched dramatically above the Atlantic.

Worth seeing, even if just for a quick photo, which you can see below. I got a lot.

Breathtaking aerial view of the natural ocean pool nestled beneath cliffs and white houses in the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar.

Stunning sunset view at Azenhas do Mar, with guests enjoying seaside dining, umbrellas silhouetted against the golden glow of the horizon.

Swim in the Natural Ocean Pool

If the tide is low, take a dip in the scenic tidal pool carved into the rocks. A natural infinity pool with Atlantic waves crashing nearby? Not a bad way to spend an afternoon.

It gets a bit slippery when you are getting in, so be careful! I wore my swim shoes to be safe.

Outdoor dining area at Azenhas do Mar restaurant overlooking the sparkling blue Atlantic Ocean, with umbrellas shading tables right by the water.

A woman peacefully relaxing in the serene ocean pool at Azenhas do Mar, facing the gentle waves of the Atlantic.

Dine at Restaurante Azenhas do Mar

This famous cliffside restaurant serves up fresh seafood with an unbeatable ocean view. Pricey? Kinda. Worth it? If you’re all about the setting, absolutely.

I highly recommend that you get a reservation, which you can do online! I was lucky enough to get one on the same day when I visited in October, but in peak summer, you might not be so lucky.

Dining table with seafood dishes and a glass of wine, set against the backdrop of a soft, ocean sunset seen through the windows.

Freshly caught fish arranged on ice inside the seafood counter at Azenhas do Mar restaurant, overlooking the ocean.

Relax at Praia das Azenhas do Mar

The village’s small but picturesque sandy beach is great for sunbathing or a quiet picnic. Just don’t expect a sprawling, tourist-packed beach—it’s more of a hidden cove.

You won’t find beach chairs to rent, but you can use the toilet from the restaurant below; I did, at least.

Walk the Coastal Trail

Stretch your legs on the scenic walking trails that connect Azenhas do Mar with nearby beaches like Praia das Maçãs and Praia Grande. It’s a great way to soak in the rugged beauty of this coastline.

The path does end at a certain point before picking back up, meaning that you will sometimes need to walk along the road. It takes around 40 minutes, but it’s definitely worth it!

Scenic walking trail lined with lush greenery and wildflowers, overlooking the expansive blue ocean near Azenhas do Mar.

Dramatic view of rocky cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters along the coastline near Azenhas do Mar village.

Explore Nearby Praia das Maçãs

Praia das Maçãs, aka Apple Beach, is a livelier beach spot just down the coast. I didn’t find any beach chairs here either, but there are more seaside restaurants, all very casual. Its a great place to try and learn surfing.

Take the Historic Sintra Tram

If you’re craving some old-world charm, hop aboard the vintage tram from Praia das Maçãs to Sintra. It’s a leisurely ride through the countryside, but that’s all part of the appeal. However, it’s not as simple as just showing up.

The tram runs on a very limited schedule (see below) and holds only 45 passengers, so you’ll need to line up early or risk being turned away. You’ll catch the tram at the MU.SA museum, less than a 10-minute walk from both Portela de Sintra station and Sintra’s main station.

Tickets cost €5 for adults, while children under 18 and seniors 65+ pay €2.50. You can buy tickets at Vila Alda on weekdays or directly from the driver on weekends.

FROM SINTRA (WEEKDAYS): 10:20am, 2pm, 4pm
FROM SINTRA (WEEKENDS): 10:20am, 12:10pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm
FROM PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS (WEEKDAYS): 11:15am, 3pm, 5pm
FROM PRAIA DAS MAÇÃS (WEEKENDS): 11:15am, 1:05pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm

If the tram is full, take the Scotturb bus 441 from Portela de Sintra Station instead.

Charming historic yellow tram traveling towards Praia das Maçãs alongside a vintage car, framed by lush green trees.

A picturesque moment with a vintage green car driving parallel to a classic yellow tram along a scenic road surrounded by trees.

Discover Colares Village & Wine Tasting at Adega Viúva Gomes

While you’re in the area, check out Colares and visit Viúva Gomes, known for its unique sandy-soil wines, local markets, and cozy cafés.

If you’re interested in tasting these special wines, you must make reservations ahead of time—you can easily book through their website, which I’ve linked for you.

Historic wine cellar lined with large wooden barrels and warmly lit by hanging lanterns, welcoming visitors for a tour.

Whitewashed historic building with green arched doors and windows, set against a clear blue sky.

What You Need to Know About Azenhas do Mar

Something crucial that no one tells you about Azenhas do Mar (or nearby Ericeira) is that it experiences a microclimate.

That means you could leave sunny, 80-degree Lisbon in a tank top and arrive in Azenhas do Mar to find it windy, cloudy, and 65 degrees.

If you’re picturing yourself basking in the sun on the cliffside beach, double-check the weather before you go. Even then, be prepared for surprises.

I’ve seen people show up expecting a beach day, only to turn around and head straight back to Lisbon because it was too chilly to enjoy.

Soft twilight colors gently illuminating the village of Azenhas do Mar, with the ocean in the distance.

Charming white-and-blue historic water mill building, known as 'Azenhas do Mar', featuring a rustic wooden water wheel.

Who Will Love Azenhas do Mar?

Couples looking for a quiet, romantic getaway – If you want a peaceful, picturesque town to unwind in, this is your spot. I also have the perfect hotel recommendation—Azenhas do Mar Valley House is reasonably priced, walkable to town, with an amazing breakfast, stunning rooms, and even a pool.
Beach lovers – While the main cliffside beach is small, it’s undeniably beautiful. Nearby, you’ll also find Praia da Aguda and Praia das Maçãs (Apple Beach), which are worth checking out.

Who Should Skip Azenhas do Mar?

Solo travelers without a car – Unless you have your own wheels, this isn’t a convenient or rewarding destination for a quick visit.
Visitors in the off-season – Many restaurants and cafes shut down when tourism slows, leaving very few options for food or entertainment. If it’s winter, don’t bother.

Final Verdict

Azenhas do Mar is undeniably beautiful, but you don’t need to visit it if you are short on time. If you go in with the right expectations, rent a car, and pick the right season, you’ll probably love it.

But if you’re expecting a bustling beach town or an easy day trip from Lisbon, you might end up disappointed.

Other destinations that are much easier to reach and more to explore would be Sintra and Cascais.

But with regards to Azenhas do Mar, go for the views, stay for the seafood, and don’t let Instagram fool you into thinking it’s something it’s not.

Azenhas do Mar: Overrated or Worth the Trip? What You Need to Know