Traveling from Lisbon to Sintra by train is the easiest and most budget-friendly way to explore one of Portugal’s most enchanting day-trip destinations. The departures are frequent and you’ll get scenic views along with a direct route that takes under 45 minutes. Whether you're heading to Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, or simply wandering the old town, this rail journey is a hassle-free start to your Sintra adventure.
Trains run every 20 minutes from Lisbon’s Rossio Station, and the ride takes just 40 to 47 minutes. No need to book in advance—just show up and go.
Unlike driving, the train skips the congestion and strict road restrictions that affect cars near Sintra’s historic center and attractions like Pena Palace.
Sintra has limited parking, steep cobbled streets, and vehicle access rules that don’t apply to train travelers. With the train, you step off close to the old town and local bus lines.
A one-way adult ticket costs just a few euros, and combo passes are available for train and local buses, making this option easy on your wallet.
Sit back and enjoy the rolling views of Lisbon’s suburbs and the foothills of the Sintra mountains. It’s a peaceful, air-conditioned ride with frequent departures all day.
There are two direct train routes from Lisbon to Sintra. Both are fast, frequent, and affordable. Which one you choose depends on where you're starting from in Lisbon.
Once you arrive at Sintra train station, you’re already close to the historic town center which is just a 10-minute walk to the National Palace and old town lanes. From here, you have several ways to get around:
From Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Quinta de Regaleira Full-Day Trip
From Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace & Quinta da Regaleira Full-Day Trip
From Lisbon: Sintra, Belém, Pena Palace & Cascais Small Group Full-Day Trip
From Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca & Cascais Full-Day Trip
From Lisbon: Sintra, Nazaré, Fátima & Pena Park Full-Day Trip
The journey takes around 40 minutes from Rossio Station and about 47 minutes from Oriente Station, depending on the route and time of day.
Most tourists depart from Rossio Station, located in central Lisbon. If you’re staying near the airport or in eastern Lisbon, Oriente Station is more convenient.
Trains run every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the day, with slightly reduced frequency during late evenings and weekends.
A single ticket costs around €2.40 for adults and €1.20 for children or seniors. Round trips are simply double the one-way fare.
You can buy tickets at automated machines or staffed counters at the station. Payments can be made by card or cash, and tickets are loaded onto a reusable Viva Viagem or Navegante card.
No pre-booking is required. However, during peak tourist hours, especially at Rossio Station, it’s smart to arrive early to avoid long queues.
Yes. Viva Viagem and Navegante cards are accepted on both the Lisbon-Sintra trains and Sintra’s local buses (434/435), making travel seamless.