.png)
How to Get from Lisbon to Sintra by Train
In the following article we cover everything related to the train ride from Lisbon to Sintra. From Where to take the train to the different ticket price options that are available.
If you need quick help and want to receive the train departure times and a easy option to buy the tickets, subscribe to our Whatsapp Travel Guide to receive automatic updates on everything about your Sintra trip. Alternatively you can also watch our Youtube Videos about this topic
Rua 1º de Dezembro, 1249-970, Lisboa
Google Maps Location: Click here
Why take the train to Sintra? The Pros and Cons of a Train Ride
Taking the train to Sintra is by far the most convenient and cost-effective way to get there. The town is located about 25 kilometers west of Lisbon, and it takes about 40 minutes to get there by train. Most visitors prefer to take the train because of convenience. You hop on and don't have to worry about anything, especially about finding Parking spots in Sintra, which is a challenge during peak season in the summer months.
Another advantage of taking the train is that it's easy to navigate. The train stations in Lisbon are well-connected, and you can easily find your way to the Sintra line. The train stations in Sintra are also conveniently located near the town's top attractions, making it easy to get around once you arrive. You save costs and time! The downside to a train ride is that you are dependent on the train schedule. A car gives you obviously more flexibility, if you decide to stay out longer to have dinner at one of the formidable Restaurants or to explore the area from Sintra to the Coast. Another disadvantage is that the train get's very crowded during the summer months (June-September) and sometimes you have to stand almost during the complete ride! The train has air conditioning, but it can be limited if the train is too crowded.
Where to take the train in Lisbon? A Guide to the train stations
This will depend on where you are staying in Lisbon! The most frequently used departure, used by most tourists, is the Rossio train station. This is because it is smack middle in the city centre of Lisbon and easy to find. You just can't miss the beautiful building that was - by the way - also designed by the same architect that built Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra (which you will probably want to visit!)
Address and Location for Rossio Train Station in Lisbon:
If you are staying in the Northern part of the City or closer to the airport area (Oriente) and want to take a more direct route, then it is not worth coming all the way down to Rossio train station. You can get the train from Lisbon to Sintra at the following train stations as well: Sete Rios, Entrecampos, Roma- Areeiro or Oriente, which is right in front of the Vasco da Gama Shopping Mall.
There are 3 train lines that connect Lisbon to Sintra. They are coloured Blue, Yellow and Orange on all public maps from CP (the train company operating these routes)
When do the trains leave from Lisbon to Sintra?
Guide to the train schedules
You have trains departing from Rossio train station in Lisbon every 20 Minutes towards Sintra.
​
The schedule can change during winter time! The first train leaves Rossio train station at 5:41 AM and the last train from Lisbon to Sintra leaves at 1 AM.
The trains stop operating between 1 and 5 in the morning.
​
Here is the complete schedule as pdf to download:
Lisbon - Sintra Train Rides Schedule.pdf
If you don't want to consult the schedule, shot us a Whatsapp message and our friendly virtual Guide will answer with the time for the next train leaving station!
How much is the train ticket from Lisbon to Sintra?
Most of public transport in Portugal uses a rechargeable card that will cost you a one-time fee of 0,50 € per card. You can get this fee back, if you give the card back at a ticket booth. That is if the card is not too damaged!
The individual ticket price for one ride is 2,45 € per person. So a roundtrip will cost you 4,90 €. If you are staying for a longer period in Lisbon and want to visit other places in the city, use public transport like the Metro or train rides to Cascais, Estoril etc. then it is worth buying a Lisboa Card. This card is valid available for time periods of: 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours. During these time periods you can ride unlimited times in both directions of any public transport! This is well worth it, if you are in a group or plan to visit more places. You will definitely save money!
Watch our Video Guide about "How to buy the train ticket from Lisbon to Sintra" - Here
If you want to save the hassle and avoid standing at the ticket booth to buy your Lisboa card. Buy it here:
Frequently Asked Questions about the trip from Lisbon to Sintra by Train
When is the best time to take the train from Lisbon to Sintra?
The best time to take the train to Sintra is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In our experience - having worked as professional tour guides in Sintra - the trains that leave around 8 and before 9 are the best option. That is if you don't want to catch earlier trains, which are only quarter full (7ish). This way, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the town's top attractions without feeling rushed. If you plan to visit during peak season, it's also a good idea to book your train tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the train station. Buy train tickets in advance to save time and avoid standing in queue, risking to lose your train! Buy here
What other options are there to get from Lisbon to Sintra?
Check out our other guides that show you how to get from Lisbon to Sintra by Car, with a private driver or by Bolt, Uber, Taxi.
-
Take the train at Rossio train station in Lisbon
-
Purchase your train tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the train station.
-
Avoid traveling during peak hours, as trains can get crowded. Peak times are between 10 AM - 2 PM
-
Keep your train ticket with you throughout your journey, as you'll need it to exit the train station.
-
If you plan to make multiple trips, consider purchasing a Viva Viagem card to save money on train fare.
-
Be prepared for the weather. Sintra can be quite moody if you visit outside the summer months! So make sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella. A small jacket is also advisable, as the mountain can be foggy and windy in certain parts (especially if you visit from December to April)