Travel Guide of Monsanto in Portugal by Influencers and Travelers
Monsanto is a village and a former civil parish in the municipality of Idanha-a-Nova, Portugal. In 2013, the parish merged into the new parish Monsanto e Idanha-a-Velha. It covered an area of 131.76 km² and had 828 inhabitants.
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The Best Things to Do and Visit in Monsanto
TRAVELERS TOP 10 :
1 - Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital and the largest city of Portugal, with an estimated population of 505,526 within its administrative limits in an area of 100.05 km².
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2 - Vasco da Gama Bridge
10 km away
The Vasco da Gama Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge flanked by viaducts that spans the Tagus River in Parque das Nações in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.
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3 - Tours & Sightseeing | Sintra Day trips from Lisbon
18 km away
Tour some of Portugal's most magical cultural heritage, and enjoy the lush gardens, lakes, grottoes and enigmatic constructions of Quinta da Regaleira. Visit the famous Initiation Well, and other places that hide mysterious meanings evoked by orders such as Freemasonry and the Knights Templar! Stop for a lunch break in old Sintra, and enjoy some free time to explore the historical charm of old Sintra, and the opportunity to taste the traditional pastry from Sintra, Travesseiro! Feel like royalty as you enter the romantic Pena Palace and Park, a unique expression of the architectural Romanticism. Like something out of a fairy tale, it's breathtaking architecture blends many styles together: Gothic, neo-Manuelin, neo-Islamic and neo-Renaissance. With an astonishing variety of plants and trees, amazing views of the Moorish castle, and the Atlantic Ocean, it's a perfect way to end the day before returning to Lisbon.
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4 - Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Lisboa
The University of Coimbra is a Portuguese public university in Coimbra, Portugal. First established in Lisbon in 1290, it went through a number of relocations until moving permanently to Coimbra in 1537.
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5 - Reboleira
Estádio José Gomes, informally known as Estádio da Reboleira, after its location, is the stadium of the Portuguese football team C.F. Estrela da Amadora and it has a capacity of 9,288.
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6 - Surfing in Lisbon
16 km away
Learn how to surf, or improve your skills at Sao Pedro beach near Lisbon, and rest assure that you will get easily on the board and start riding the waves. The essential part when learning how to surf, is to have a good instructor... and the instruct...
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7 - Parque das Nações
10 km away
The Parque das Nações, colloquially known as Expo, is a freguesia and district of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Located in eastern Lisbon, Parque das Nações is to the east of Olivais, north of Marvila, and directly south of Lisbon's border with Loures.
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8 - Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa
Lisbon Zoo is a zoological garden in Lisbon, Portugal. It was founded in 1884. It was the product of the efforts of Dr. Van Der Laan, owner of the largest aviary in Portugal, with the support of Bento de Sousa, Sousa Martins, and May Figueira.
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9 - Sightseeing | Barreiro
13 km away
Beach horseback riding in group 20 min from Lisbon Tour recommended for people with no experience
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10 - Carmo Convent
The Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a former Catholic convent located in the civil parish of Santa Maria Maior, municipality of Lisbon, Portugal.
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11 - Lisbon Cathedral
6 km away
The Lisbon Cathedral, often called simply the Sé, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Lisbon, Portugal. The oldest church in the city is the seat of the Patriarchate of Lisbon.
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12 - Paragliding in Lisbon
14 km away
Paragliding over the skies of Portugal, having a fantastic view of Lisbon and their unique landscape is an experience you will never forget. Come and enjoy! Not so long ago flying was just a dream for the "crazy" people. Nowadays there is a...
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13 - Rossio
The Rossio is the popular name of the King Pedro IV Square in the city of Lisbon, in Portugal. It is located in the Pombaline Downtown of Lisbon and has been one of its main squares since the Middle Ages.
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14 - 25 de Abril Bridge
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15 - Morning | Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is a National Monument and was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Step onto these significant grounds for a snoop around inside, where you can explore the whole place and ponder its homage to Portuguese identity and culture. Don't forget to look up at the frescoed vaulted ceilings! Take a seat in the 16th-century cloister and peer inside the former monks’ refectory. Not only is this a thrilling trip through Lisbon's history, the views over the Tagus River from the grounds are exceptional.
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16 - Costa da Caparica
11 km away
Costa de Caparica is a Portuguese civil parish, located in the municipality of Almada along the western coast of the district of Setúbal. The population in 2011 was 13,418, in an area of 10.18 km². Since 9 December 2004, the Costa de Caparica has been designated as city within the urban hierarchy of Portugal.
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17 - Carcavelos beach
14 km away
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18 - Boca de Inferno
22 km away
Boca do Inferno is a chasm located in the seaside cliffs close to the Portuguese city of Cascais, in the District of Lisbon. The seawater has access to the deep bottom of the chasm and vigorously strikes its rocky walls, making it a popular tourist attraction.
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19 - Sintra
22 km away
Sintra is a town and municipality in the Greater Lisbon region of Portugal, located on the Portuguese Riviera. The population of the municipality in 2011 was 377,835, in an area of 319.23 square kilometres.
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20 - Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
22 km away
The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a park on the Portuguese Riviera, one of the 13 Natural Parks of Portugal. While only established in 1994 as a Natural Park by the Portuguese Government, it has been protected since 1981.
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21 - Praia do Guincho
25 km away
Praia do Guincho is a popular Atlantic beach located on Portugal's Estoril coast, 5 km from the town of Cascais, and is located in the municipality of Cascais, more precisely in the parishes of Cascais and Alcabideche, in the District of Lisbon.
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22 - Azenhas do Mar
26 km away
Azenhas do Mar is a seaside town in the municipality of Sintra, Portugal. It is part of Colares civil parish. It is located just 30 km away from Lisboa, near Cabo da Roca, Palácio da Pena, and other attractions.
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23 - Mafra National Palace
26 km away
The Palace of Mafra, also known as the Palace-Convent of Mafra and the Royal Building of Mafra, is a monumental Baroque and Neoclassical palace-monastery located in Mafra, Portugal, some 28 kilometres from Lisbon.
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24 - Colares
27 km away
Colares is a civil parish along the coast of the municipality of Sintra. The population in 2011 was 7,628, in an area of 33.37 square kilometres.
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25 - Cabo da Roca
27 km away
Cabo da Roca or Cape Roca is a cape which forms the westernmost point of the Sintra Mountain Range, of mainland Portugal, of continental Europe, and of the Eurasian land mass.
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Pictures and Stories of Monsanto from Influencers
3 pictures of Monsanto from Pedro Santos, Eslam Tolba, and other travelers
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Why should you visit Monsanto ?
Travel to Monsanto if you like:
🗼 Landmark 🏘️ Town 🏖️ Ocean ⛰️ Cliff 🏖️ Beach 🌉 Suspension bridgeHow to visit Monsanto ?
Why traveling there?
Monsanto, Portugal, is a unique and enchanting village nestled amongst massive granite boulders. This small medieval town is known as "the most Portuguese village in Portugal" and has maintained its authenticity and charm over the centuries. Visiting Monsanto is like taking a step back in time, as you'll wander through narrow cobblestone streets, explore ancient ruins, and marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and architecture. It's the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat, rich history, and stunning scenery.
How to get there?
Monsanto is not directly accessible by train or bus, so renting a car is the most convenient option. The village is approximately a 3-hour drive from Lisbon and a 2-hour drive from Porto. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train to the nearest town, Idanha-a-Nova, and then either hire a taxi or rent a car for the remaining 25km to Monsanto.
What to book in advance?
Monsanto is a small village with limited accommodation options, so it's recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Additionally, if you're planning to visit any nearby attractions or join a guided tour, it's a good idea to make reservations ahead of time.
What are the costs?
Monsanto is an affordable destination, with accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Expect to spend around €30-€80 per night for lodging. Dining in Monsanto is also reasonably priced, with meals at local restaurants costing approximately €10-€20 per person. Car rentals, fuel, and entrance fees to nearby attractions will add to your overall costs, but overall, Monsanto is a budget-friendly destination.
What are the best things to do?
1. Explore the historic village – Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the traditional granite houses, and visit the ruins of the medieval castle.
2. Visit the Capela de São Miguel – This ancient chapel, located on a hill overlooking Monsanto, offers stunning panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscape.
3. Hike the PR1 trail – This circular route takes you through the beautiful countryside, passing by ancient ruins, caves, and breathtaking viewpoints.
4. Discover the nearby Idanha-a-Nova and Penha Garcia – These picturesque towns offer additional historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and a glimpse into traditional Portuguese life.
Where to eat?
1. Taverna Lusitana – A cozy restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine, with a charming atmosphere and beautiful views of the village.
2. Petiscos e Granitos – This small eatery offers delicious, home-cooked meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
3. O Fornvm – A local favorite, this restaurant serves a variety of tasty Portuguese dishes in a rustic setting.
Where to stay?
1. Casa de David – A charming guesthouse offering cozy rooms, a lovely courtyard, and warm hospitality.
2. Casa Pires Mateus – A beautiful bed and breakfast featuring comfortable accommodations, a picturesque garden, and delicious breakfast.
3. Hotel Fonte Santa – For those seeking a more luxurious stay, this nearby hotel offers upscale rooms, a restaurant, and a spa.
Off the beaten path
For an unusual travel experience in Monsanto, consider visiting the Cavernas do Penedo de Monsanto. These hidden caves were once used as shelter by locals during times of war and conflict. Today, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's history and a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the granite landscape. To find the caves, follow the hiking trails through the boulders and keep an eye out for the discreet signs indicating their location.
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Where to Stay in Monsanto
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