How to get to Sintra from Lisbon

Sintra train station is usually the first port of call for tourists coming from Lisbon.

Sintra is a picturesque town located in the hills of the Serra de Sintra, approximately 16 miles outside of Lisbon. Known for its colourful, protruding buildings and, now, its plentiful Instagram photo opportunities, this little gem definitely packs a punch.

Its distance from the city coupled with its offering means visiting Sintra is best done as a day trip. Keep reading to find out how to get from Lisbon to Sintra.

Train

On the train from Lisbon to Sintra.

Train is the method of choice for most travellers heading west to Sintra, and there are two services that can take you there. Rail connects Sintra with Rossio and Oriente Stations in the city centre. The Oriente service takes 47 mintues, while the Rossio train is slightly quicker at 40 minutes. Both routes cost the same amount of money, and at €4.50 for a return (charged as two singles) it is not bad value at all. Use this Lisbon train timetable to help you plan your journey.

Castelo dos Mouros (Castle of the Moors) is one of the highlights of Sintra.

Bus

While I don’t recommend taking the bus over the train as Sintra, as it takes longer and is quite a bit more expensive, there is also the option of the Sintra Express, which will not only take you from Lisbon to Sintra, but will drop you off right in the centre so you don’t have to make the one-kilometre walk there from the train station. For more information on the Sintra Express, click here.

Drive

If you’re driving to Sintra, head there early as parking spaces fill up fast.

Although you’ll get to drive through some of Portugal’s most breathtaking countryside, driving to Sintra is generally not recommended as the narrow roads that lead up the hillside are not built for heavy tourist traffic and car parking spaces are extremely limited. However, if you do decide to make the drive, there are various reputable car hire companies throughout Lisbon, many of which can also be found upon arrival at Lisbon Airport.

Taxi

If you want the ultimate in convenience, then take a taxi to Sintra instead. While this comes at a higher price point, if there are several of you in your travelling party, then it won’t work out much more expensive per head. You can ask your hotel or accommodation provider to sort you a taxi, or to make things even easier, grab an Uber – which works at both ends.

You can try your hand at broadcasting at the News Musuem in Sintra.

Travelling Tom tip: If you’re in Sintra, make sure to stop by the NewsMuseum. Although its location is fairly random, this comprehensive look at the media industry not just in Portugal, but around the world, gives fascinating insight into how it has evolved through time. There are lots of interactive exhibits and there’s even an opportunity to read your own news bulletin!

Got any travel tips for Sintra? Let me know in the comments section below! 👇