This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Sines.
Around eighteen thousand people live in Sines, Portugal, a coastal town in the district Setubal in the southwest of Portugal. It is internationally well known, thanks to its most famous citizen, Vasco da Gama. The Portuguese explorer was born in Sines in the fifteenth century and was the first European to get to India by sea. You can admire his statue right next to the local castle.
The local castle, in Portuguese Castelo de Sines, is located on a hill near the beach âPraia Vasco da Gama.â The complex was built in the fifteenth century, and the castle is rather compact and was obviously built to defend efficiently without boasting a very spectacular architecture. However, it is definitely worthwhile to visit. If you want to get to know more about the local history, check out the town's museum âMuseu de Sines.â The museum is not particularly large, but the items are worthwhile to see. Besides Vasco da Gama, archaeological artifacts from the eventful history are put on display. In addition to that, you can visit several temporary exhibitions.
Besides tourism, the energy and trading sectors are important for the local economy. Sines is more industrialized than you would expect. An oil refinery and a large deep sea port are important employers for the region. Although, it is less touristy than other coastal towns in Portugal, and that can be a huge advantage in the busy summer season. The port in Sines was already crucial even two thousand years ago; the Roman empire used the local port for fishing and trading.
The town offers all sorts of hotels -- you can find simple accommodations with one star as well as rather fancy places with four stars. In addition to that, you can choose from some bed-and-breakfasts. For backpackers with a limited budget, Sines, Portugal hostels might be an interesting option. You'll find a few Sines, Portugal hostels, including options located right in the centre of the town close to the beach, as well as options a bit south of the town. Your Sines, Portugal hostel focuses on surfing and offers a relaxed atmosphere.
Written by local enthusiast for Sines hostels
Flo