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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Sintra
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$126
Average price
$126
Fastest journey
8 h 54 m
Average duration
8 h 54 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
518 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Sintra is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Sintra will cost around $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $126.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Sintra without transferring at least 3 times.
8:51 AM8h54Madrid5:45 PMSintra$1261One-way3 transfers
- 8:51 AM8h54Madrid5:45 PMSintra$1261One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Sintra
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Sintra among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $126.
Distance: 321 miles (518 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$126 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $118 Average price | $128 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 40m Average total duration 8h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration 8h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Sintra is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Sintra:
A bus is $75 (€61) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Sintra costing on average $118 (€95).
A bus is $83 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Sintra costing on average $126 (€102).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Sintra is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 23m.
Other travel options to Sintra take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 10m.
Bus takes on average 8h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Sintra including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Sintra among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $126 (€102) compared to roughly $128 (€103) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $1 (€1). The journey takes 8h 10m versus 6h 20m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Madrid to Sintra train times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Sintra trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:51 AM Madrid | 8h54 | 5:45 PM Sintra | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Sintra by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Sintra
Spain
Portugal
Trains from Madrid to Sintra run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $126 (€102) but you can travel from only $17 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:51, the last at 16:38. The fastest train covers the 321 miles (518 km) distance in 8h 54m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $17 (€13)
Distance 321 miles (518 km) |
Average train duration 8h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $126 (€102) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 8h 54m |
First train 8:51 AM |
Last train 4:38 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $17 (€13)
Train companies: Renfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Sintra trainsRenfe INTERCITY, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Sintra from $17 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Renfe INTERCITY
About
Renfe Intercity is a high-speed train service operated by the Spanish national railway company, Renfe. It operates throughout Spain, connecting major cities and towns with frequent departures throughout the day. The Intercity service offers a variety of train types, including the Alvia and Talgo, all of which offer comfortable seating and modern amenities. Alvia and Talgo offer fast trains but not as fast the high-speed trains like AVE, offering more stops. Passengers can choose from a range of ticket types, including Economy, Business, and First Class. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Renfe Intercity include Madrid to Barcelona, Madrid to Seville, and Barcelona to Valencia.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of checked luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions and fare type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Renfe
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria car with drinks, snacks, and hot meals. At-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation with additional fee. Included in some premium tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled, require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 54m
Cheapest Price
$126 (€102)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Sintra
Things to do in Sintra
Discover the best of Sintra — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sintra trip today.
Sintra Myths and Legends Interactive Centre
Small multimedia museum in Sintra’s historic center presenting local legends, history, and cultural heritage through immersive displays.
MU.SA – Museu das Artes de Sintra
Municipal art museum with rotating contemporary and modern exhibitions, offering a quieter cultural stop beyond Sintra’s famous palaces.
- Must visit
Historic Center of Sintra
The atmospheric old town of narrow lanes, historic houses, and palace views; the essential base for walking and sightseeing.
- Must visit
Pena Park
Large landscaped park surrounding Pena Palace, filled with paths, lakes, exotic trees, and scenic viewpoints.
- Must visit
Initiation Well Area
The most photographed part of Quinta da Regaleira, famous for its spiral underground tower and mysterious atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
Travesseiro De Sintra
Sintra’s signature puff pastry filled with almond and egg-cream. It is the town’s most famous sweet and a classic souvenir pastry.
- Vegetarian
Queijada De Sintra
A traditional small tart made with fresh cheese, sugar, eggs and cinnamon. It is one of Sintra’s oldest and most emblematic pastries.
- Vegetarian
Nozes De Galamares
A regional sweet from nearby Galamares, shaped like walnuts and made with egg yolk and sugar. It is a lesser-known local convent-style confection.
Incomum By Luis Santos
Respected contemporary restaurant offering modern Portuguese cooking, careful presentation and a more upscale experience.
Romaria De Baco
Established wine bar and restaurant serving Portuguese small plates, regional wines and polished yet relaxed dining near the center.
Tascantiga
Popular casual spot in Sintra historic center known for Portuguese petiscos, local flavors and a lively, informal atmosphere.
Euro
Prices are moderate for Portugal. Sights can add up, but cafes and casual meals are fairly priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 1.50-3 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Small change is fine in cafes.
Carris Metropolitana
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.30
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Sintra Railway Station, Sintra -> Sintra Historic Center, Sintra
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Use a Navegante occasional card for bus travel; the card itself usually has a separate one-time cost.
- Card payment availability varies by operator and vehicle, so carry a bank card and some cash for backup.
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Sintra
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid 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.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Sintra can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $126 (€102), while the average price is around $126 (€102).
The train from Madrid to Sintra runs once a day and takes approximately 8h 54m.
The first train from Madrid to Sintra leaves at 8:51 AM.
The distance by train from Madrid to Sintra is 321 miles (518 km).
The last train from Madrid to Sintra leaves at 4:38 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Madrid to Sintra.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Sintra.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Sintra.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Sintra is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€13).
The train journey from Madrid to Sintra is not typically considered scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and industrial areas until reaching the more picturesque landscapes near Lisbon and Sintra.
A day trip from Madrid to Sintra is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 54m and covers 321 miles (518 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In Sintra, you can explore the charming streets of the historic center, visit the Sintra Museum of Modern Art, and take a scenic hike in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal at a local restaurant and experience a guided tour of the mysterious initiation wells at Quinta da Regaleira. Don't miss the best sights like the vibrant Pena Palace, the UNESCO-listed Quinta da Regaleira, the medieval Moorish Castle, the exotic Monserrate Palace, and the historic National Palace of Sintra.
Typically, spending two to three days in Sintra allows you to explore its main attractions, including the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle, while enjoying the town's stunning landscapes and charming atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Sintra.
Since both Madrid and Sintra are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Sintra include Obidos, Caldas da Rainha, Santarém, Bombarral, Évora.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Sintra among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Portugal uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, while carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Sintra, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially near popular sites like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. Unofficial taxi drivers may overcharge, so it's best to use authorized services or pre-book transportation. Be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods or overpriced souvenirs. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Sintra
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sintra and Madrid
Most popular train connections to Sintra
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