Transportation to Sintra
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Thanks to its magnificent palaces, castles, and spectacular scenery, Sintra is one of Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations. Here are 5 critical points on the best way to get to Sintra in 2024:
- The train is a convenient, inexpensive, and frequent option for a one-day tour.
- Bus routes from Cascais, Lisbon, and other nearby cities.
- Rent a car — for independent travel and itinerary flexibility.
- Bus tour with sightseeing tours of Sintra.
- Transfers and cabs — a quick but expensive option.
Sintra offers many transportation options, allowing tourists to enjoy its picturesque scenery and historical sites according to their preferences and budget.
How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon
The most convenient and economical way to get to Sintra from Lisbon is by train. They depart every 20-30 minutes from Rossio and Oriente stations in the very center of the capital. Travel takes about 40 minutes, and a one-way ticket costs about 2-3 euros.
The train is ideal for day trips to Sintra from Lisbon due to frequent flights and fast travel time. Tourists can comfortably enjoy the magnificent palaces and parks of Sintra without worrying about long journeys.
How to Get to Sintra from Cascais
The best way to travel from Cascais to Sintra is by bus. Buses #403 and 417 run between these cities, stopping at Cape Roca every 30-60 minutes. The trip takes about 30-40 minutes, and the ticket costs 4-5 euros.
Sintra by Car
Lisbon to Sintra drive allows you to move freely and plan your route flexibly. The highway takes only 30 minutes to get from Lisbon to Sintra. However, parking spaces are limited in the historic center, so it is recommended to book parking in advance or leave your car in the large parking lot near the Sinta town station.
Sintra by Bus
To travel between attractions in Sintra itself, it is better to use unique bus routes:
- #434 — Route Pena stops at the Palace of Pena and the Castle of the Moors.
- # 435 — Route 4 Palaces covers Regaleira, Setelhas, Monserrat, and the National Palace.
- #403 — Route to Cape Roca with a stop at the famous cape.
- #417 — Direct route from Cascais to Sintra.
Bus tickets can be purchased from the driver, and all-day passes are available to save money. Also available are special bus tours, thanks to which tourists will be able to see all the most famous sights
Sintra by Train
The train remains the most popular option for visiting Sintra from Lisbon. Sintra trains from Portuguese rail company CP depart from two stations in the capital:
- Rossio — the central station; schedule: from 6 am to 2 am every 20-30 minutes.
- Oriente — located on the blue metro line, conveniently accessible from the eastern districts.
A one-way ticket fare is 2.25 euros. You can buy a Lisboa Card or Train and Bus passes for 15 euros for unlimited travel. There are ticket vending machines, ticket offices, and terminals at train stations.
FAQ
How often do trains and buses run between Lisbon and Sintra?
From Lisbon, trains depart every 20-30 minutes from 6 am to 2 am. Buses from Lisbon to Sintra run once an hour.
Can I use my Lisbon public transportation card to travel to Sintra?
Yes, the Lisboa Card and Train and Bus cards allow free travel on trains and buses between Lisbon and Sintra.
How long does it take to travel from Lisbon to Sintra?
It takes about 40 minutes by train and 30-40 minutes by bus, depending on traffic jams. By car, this distance can be covered in about 30 minutes.
Are there any particular features of visiting Sintra attractions by transportation?
It is most convenient to take bus #434 to visit the Palacio de Pena, while the palaces in the center of Sintra are covered by route #435. There are also buses to Cape Roca and the beaches.
