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What’s the best way to get from Lisbon to Sintra? Here’s the verdict

Where is Sintra located?

Sintra is about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of Lisbon, nestled in the Sintra Mountains and edging close to Portugal’s Atlantic coastline. It’s part of the Lisbon District and easily accessible by public transport or car. From the city buzz of Lisbon, it’s a quick escape into lush hills, romantic estates, and cooler mountain air.

How to get to Sintra from Lisbon?

Best for: Most travelers prefer this. It's fast, frequent, and affordable

  • Departure points:

    • Main departure is from Rossio Station (central Lisbon)
    • Also available from Oriente (near airport), Sete Rios, and Entrecampos

  • Duration:

    • ~35–40 minutes from Rossio
    • ~47 minutes from Oriente

  • Cost: €2–€4 per one-way ticket (cheaper if you use Viva Viagem card)

  • Arrival: Sintra Station, a 10-minute walk from the historic center

  • Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes, starting from ~5:40am to just past midnight

Read more about taking the train from Lisbon to Sintra.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers or those staying near Sete Rios

  • Departure point: Sete Rios Bus Terminal (take Metro to Jardim Zoológico station)
  • Operator: Scotturb runs bus line 417 to Sintra
  • Duration: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour (can be longer during rush hours)
  • Arrival: Sintra Bus Station

Read more about taking the bus from Lisbon to Sintra.

Best for: Groups, families, or travelers with luggage

  • Duration: around ~35 minutes depending on traffic and where you begin your journey from in Sintra
  • Cost:
    • €35–€45 by taxi
    • Uber/Bolt is usually slightly cheaper
  • Pros: Direct, door-to-door comfort with no transfers
  • Cons: Can get pricey, especially for solo travelers
  • Tips: Use during off-peak hours to avoid Sintra traffic jams

Best for: Travelers planning to explore nearby areas or stay overnight

  • Duration: About 24–30 minutes without traffic
  • Route: Take the A37 (IC19) highway from Lisbon, it’s the fastest and most direct route.
  • Cost: €5–€7 in fuel + parking fees (some steep)
  • Pros: Freedom to explore Cascais, Cabo da Roca, and beaches nearby
  • Cons: Parking in Sintra is scarce and expensive; narrow roads near historic sites
  • Tips: If you must drive, park at Parque de Estacionamento P1 or P2 near the Sintra train station. They’re among the few reliable spots, and from there, it’s a short walk or hop on the 434 tourist bus to reach the historic center.

What’s the best way to get to Sintra from Lisbon?

The quickest and most popular way to reach Sintra is by train from Rossio Station in central Lisbon. It’s affordable, frequent (every 15–20 minutes), and drops you close to the historic center. You don't have to deal with parking or traffic. But while the train gets you there, it doesn’t solve the logistics once you arrive. There are bus routes you need to choose, attraction queues, and navigating uphill walks.

Exactly why we recommend opting for a full-day guided tour. If you want to skip the planning, skip the lines, and make the most of your time, guided tours offer a curated, stress-free experience often with stops at Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and more.

Getting around Sintra: What to do once you arrive

Once you arrive in Sintra whether by train, bus, or tour, you'll need a plan for getting around its steep hills and spread-out sights. Here's how to navigate locally:

The historic center is walkable, and exploring on foot lets you soak in the atmosphere. But be warned: getting to places like the Moorish Castle or Pena Palace involves long uphill climbs.

These are your go-to tourist loops. Tickets to these can be bought on board or with a Viva Viagem card.

  • Bus 434 links the train station, historic center, Moorish Castle, and Pena Palace in a one-way circuit.
  • Bus 435 connects the town center to Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, and Seteais Palace.

Sintra’s vintage tram runs a scenic, seasonal route between the town and Praia das Maçãs. While not ideal for reaching main landmarks, it’s a charming ride if you’re heading to the coast.

Available near the station and center. Good for covering steep distances with flexibility, though prices vary.

Frequently asked questions about on getting to Sintra from Lisbon

How long is the train journey from Lisbon to Sintra?

The train from Rossio to Sintra takes about 40–45 minutes, and around 47 minutes from Oriente or Entrecampos.

How much does a train ticket cost?

A one-way fare costs €2.30, paid via a Viva Viagem or Navegante travel card (which costs €0.50 initially.

Are there buses to Sintra from Lisbon?

Yes, Scotturb operates bus 417 from Sete Rios and seasonal Vimeca/Carris lines, but these are less frequent and often slower than trains

Is driving to Sintra recommended?

Not really. Sintra has narrow, steep, and often restricted roads, plus very limited parking unless you arrive early or stay overnight

Can I take a taxi or Uber?

Yes. A ride takes roughly 24–35 minutes and costs around €35–€45, sometimes cheaper with ride-hailing apps.

Is it worth getting a Viva Viagem or Navegante card for a Lisbon–Sintra trip?

Definitely! This prepaid travel card is your all-access pass: Metro, trams, buses, suburban trains (including Lisbon–Sintra), ferries, and more. Just buy it once for €0.50 and reload as needed.

Can I use the same card in Sintra?

Yes, the Viva Viagem/Navegante card works on Lisbon's metro, buses, trams, and suburban trains to Sintra. Just remember that Sintra’s local tourist buses (434/435) require separate tickets.

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All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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