- Recommended
Air Museum
The Portuguese aviation museum at Granja do Marquês, in the Sintra municipality, with aircraft collections and military aviation history. It is a worthwhile detour for transport and history fans.
Cheapest price
$17
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
47 m
Average duration
47 m
Trains per day
13
Distance
23 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lisbon to Sintra is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lisbon to Sintra will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Of the 13 trains that leave Lisbon for Sintra on Sun, May 31, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 23 km distance in an average of 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 47 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 47 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.










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.
The Portuguese aviation museum at Granja do Marquês, in the Sintra municipality, with aircraft collections and military aviation history. It is a worthwhile detour for transport and history fans.
A multimedia museum in the historic center that presents Sintra's legends, history, and cultural identity through immersive exhibits. A good introduction before visiting the palaces.
A modern media museum in central Sintra focused on journalism, communication, and major world events. It is one of the town's more unusual indoor cultural stops.
The atmospheric old town is filled with narrow lanes, tiled facades, small shops, and views toward the surrounding hills. It is the essential base area for exploring Sintra on foot.
The large wooded park surrounding Pena Palace offers lakes, viewpoints, garden paths, and a more tranquil side of the monument. It is ideal for visitors who enjoy long scenic walks.
A lush landscaped park with exotic botanical collections, winding paths, and romantic garden design. It is one of Sintra's finest green spaces and often praised by garden enthusiasts.
Sintra’s signature puff pastry filled with almond and egg cream, created by local pastry shops and strongly associated with the town.
Small sweet tart made with fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon; one of the most traditional pastries in Sintra.
Traditional walnut-shaped sweets from nearby Galamares, typically made with egg yolk and sugar, tied to Sintra’s confectionery heritage.
Small, well-regarded Sintra restaurant serving traditional Portuguese dishes with attentive service and a cozy setting.
Established contemporary restaurant near Sintra station, appreciated for refined Portuguese cooking and a polished but relaxed atmosphere.
Popular casual spot in Sintra historic center known for Portuguese petiscos, local flavors, and a lively small-plates atmosphere.
Moderate overall. Coffee and casual meals are reasonable, but palace-area dining and hotels cost more.
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Small tips for taxis are optional.
Official public transport app
Sintra Railway Station, Sintra -> Centro Historico de Sintra, Sintra
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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