- Recommended
Museu do Brinquedo
Museum in a former toy factory displaying Portuguese and international toys, dolls, and miniatures across generations in central Sintra.
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Lisbon to Sintra among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $17, and a bus costs an average of $22.
Distance: 14 miles (23 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price |
1h 17m Average total duration 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 0m Average total duration Fastest 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Lisbon to Sintra:
A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Lisbon to Sintra costing on average $22 (€18).
Other travel options to Sintra take longer:
Train takes on average 47m.
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
By Paulo Monteiro
If you’re spending a few days in Lisbon, a day trip to Sintra is simply a must. Known for its fairy-tale palaces, lush hills, and iconic pastries like travesseiros, it’s one of Portugal’s most beloved day-trip destinations. Getting there couldn’t be easier: you just hop on the commuter train from Lisbon to Sintra, and you’ll arrive in under 45 minutes. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the journey based on first-hand experience and share practical tips to make your Sintra escape smooth and enjoyable.
The Lisbon to Sintra train starts at the historic Rossio Station in central Lisbon and ends in the charming hillside town of Sintra. Operated by CP (Comboios de Portugal), this commuter train covers roughly 27 kilometers in about 40–45 minutes, depending on the time of day. With departures every 20 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes at peak hours, it’s an incredibly flexible option for day-trippers. It may not be the most scenic ride, passing mainly through Lisbon’s suburbs, but it's fast, reliable, and drops you right in the heart of Sintra.
Getting your Lisbon to Sintra train ticket couldn’t be simpler. You can buy tickets to Sintra on Omio. However, I bought mine right at the station from one of many ticket machines, though there’s also a staffed counter if you prefer. A single ticket costs just €2.45, or you can get a same-day return for double that. No need to book in advance—just show up and go! I arrived at Rossio Station with time to spare and took a moment to enjoy a drink at one of the terraces out back. It’s a relaxed start to the day and a great way to ease into your trip. These trains are part of Lisbon’s commuter network, so expect a simple setup with one class of service and a steady flow of local passengers.
Rossio Station sits in the heart of Lisbon’s city center, easily reached by metro, bus, or even on foot if you're staying nearby. It's a beautiful 19th-century building with a striking neo-Manueline façade, and behind it, you’ll find cafés and terraces perfect for a pre-trip pause.
Rossio Station sits in the heart of Lisbon’s city center, easily reached by metro, bus, or even on foot if you're staying nearby. It's a beautiful 19th-century building with a striking neo-Manueline façade, and behind it, you’ll find cafés and terraces perfect for a pre-trip pause. Ticket machines and counters are located on the upper level, just before the tracks, and signage makes navigating the station easy. Upon arrival, the train drops you at Sintra Station, a short walk from the town center. At the station, there are shuttle buses to landmarks like Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira. In Sintra, there are plenty of cafés, small shops, and tourist info nearby, making arrival smooth even for first-time visitors.
Trains from Rossio to Sintra run every 20 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes during rush hour. The journey takes about 40–45 minutes, and thanks to the high frequency, there's rarely a need to stress about catching a specific train. Just show up and go.
This is a straightforward commuter train with one class of service, designed more for practicality than luxury. The seats are simple but fine for the short journey, and there’s space for small bags only. Since it’s a local service, don’t expect amenities like Wi-Fi or catering on board, but for a ride under 45 minutes, that’s perfectly manageable. The train rolls steadily through Lisbon’s suburbs, so the views aren’t particularly memorable, but they give a sense of the everyday rhythm of life beyond the city. What truly matters is the destination. Sintra’s charm begins the moment you step off the train.

A view of the historic town of Sintra, with buildings climbing up a hillside.
Tickets for the Lisboa Rossio to Sintra train cost just €2.45, one way, making it one of the most affordable day trips from Lisbon. You can buy tickets at Rossio Station either from the machines or at the counter. If you’re planning a return the same day, just get a round-trip ticket. Here’s what I spent:
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €4.90 |
| Food & drinks | €2 |
| Travel to departure station | € |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 6.9 |
Whether it’s your first time in Lisbon or your tenth, taking the Lisboa Rossio to Sintra train is always worth it. It’s easy, affordable, and gets you straight to one of Portugal’s most magical towns. I’m glad I made the trip, and I’m sure you will be too. Sintra is the perfect reminder of how rewarding a simple train ride can be.
Trains from Lisbon to Sintra run on average 25 times per day, taking around 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 25 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:38. The fastest train covers the 14 miles (23 km) distance in 47m.
Distance 14 miles (23 km) |
Average train duration 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 25 |
Fastest train 47m |
First train 12:08 AM |
Last train 11:38 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of Sintra — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sintra trip today.
Museum in a former toy factory displaying Portuguese and international toys, dolls, and miniatures across generations in central Sintra.
Museum inside a former school building exploring local natural history, archaeology, and ethnography from Sintra and its surrounding landscapes.
Local art space hosting temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists, useful for visitors seeking current creative work beyond the classic monuments.
Sintra’s UNESCO-listed old town offers lanes, tiled facades, shops, and easy access to major monuments, making it the essential walking base.
Large Romantic park surrounding Pena Palace, filled with lakes, viewpoints, exotic trees, and winding paths through misty mountain scenery.
Forest park and reserve with walking trails, dramatic rock formations, and cooler mountain air, ideal for nature lovers near central Sintra.
Pillow-shaped pastry filled with almond cream and egg yolk. Sintra’s best-known sweet, traditionally bought warm from historic pastry shops.
Small cheesecake-like tart made with fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon. A classic Sintra convent sweet with medieval roots.
Traditional fresh cow’s milk cheese from nearby Colares. Mild and creamy, often eaten simply with bread or as part of a local starter.
Fine dining restaurant near Penha Longa with creative Portuguese cuisine, polished service, and a scenic upscale atmosphere.
Refined restaurant in the historic center known for polished Portuguese cooking, strong wine service, and a romantic dining room.
Historic pastry shop famed for travesseiros and queijadas. Elegant old-world setting and an essential stop for Sintra’s signature sweets.
Moderate for Portugal: Sintra tourist areas raise hotel and dining prices, but local cafes and transit remain fairly affordable versus major Western European destinations.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service; small change for cafes; taxi tips are optional, usually rounding up.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lisbon to Sintra by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Sintra, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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