Train service
Renfe
Renfe is Spain’s national railway operator, offering high-speed, long-distance, and regional train services with extensive domestic coverage.
Train tickets
Omio
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Trainline
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Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
The Interrail Global Pass and Interrail One Country Pass are not valid for travel from Lisbon to Sintra for residents of Portugal, as Interrail passes generally do not cover trips within the traveler’s own country of residence. The Eurail Pass is valid for non-EU residents and can be used for train travel within Portugal, including the route from Lisbon to Sintra.
Getting around
Sintra is well-served by various local transportation options, allowing visitors to easily explore its many attractions. Upon arriving by train at the Sintra train station, one efficient way to get around is by using the local buses operated by Scotturb. These buses run frequently and cover popular sites such as Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, and the Pena Palace. Specifically, bus routes 434 and 435 are popular among tourists due to the circular routes that connect key points of interest. Taxis are readily available in Sintra and can be found near the train station or hailed on the street. Alternatively, ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt operate in the area and provide a convenient way to reach destinations not typically served by public transport. For a unique experience, take the historic tram from Sintra to Praia das Maçãs; however, note that it operates on a limited schedule and is more of a leisurely ride than a practical mode of transport. Walking is also a viable option in the town's center, where many attractions are within a short distance from each other.
Onward connections
Sintra is a popular tourist destination in Portugal and can be easily reached by train from Lisbon, the capital. The most common rail connection starts at Sintra's railway station, where travelers can take a direct suburban train to Lisbon. This train connects to Lisbon's Rossio Station, and the journey typically takes around 40 minutes, making it convenient for those wanting to explore both Sintra and Lisbon in a day trip.
From Lisbon, travelers have access to an extensive rail network that connects to various domestic and international destinations. Domestically, popular rail connections from Lisbon include the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades services, which provide high-speed and comfortable travel to major cities like Porto, Coimbra, Faro, and Braga. The Alfa Pendular is the fastest train service in Portugal and connects Lisbon and Porto in approximately 2.5 hours.
Internationally, although there is no direct train service from Sintra, one can travel from Lisbon's Santa Apolónia or Oriente train stations to Spain. The international Sud Express connects Lisbon with Hendaye, France, via a night train with a change at the Spanish border, providing onward connections to various European rail networks. While direct routes from Sintra to other countries via train do not exist, using the train to Lisbon as a transit point allows travelers to connect to broader rail networks across Europe.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Sintra is typically during the late spring months of April to June and the early autumn months of September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and less rainfall, offering ideal conditions for exploring Sintra's lush landscapes and historic sites. These months also precede and succeed the peak tourist season, allowing for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds compared to the busier summer months of July and August. In terms of accommodation and travel expenses, prices are generally more reasonable during these shoulder seasons. While train travel into Sintra is convenient year-round, visiting during these periods can also mean more comfortable journeys due to fewer travelers on board. Additionally, early autumn coincides with several local festivals, enriching the cultural experience of your visit.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Lisbon to Sintra?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices from Lisbon to Sintra are dynamic. The type of train service chosen affects the price. Peak travel times lead to higher prices. Purchasing in advance may lower costs. The day of the week influences ticket pricing. Special events can cause price surges. Discounts for frequent travelers are also a factor.
What trains run from Lisbon to Sintra?
There are no train services operated by Renfe from Lisbon to Sintra. Flixbus operates buses but does not provide train services from Lisbon to Sintra.
How long does the train from Lisbon to Sintra take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Lisbon to Sintra takes between 0.5 to 1 hour.
When is the best time to travel from Lisbon to Sintra?
Avoid peak rush hours. Trains are less crowded mid-morning. Early afternoon is also less busy. Avoid weekends for fewer tourists. Weekdays typically have better availability. Prices remain consistent on this route. Demand is higher during tourist season. Check for local events and holidays. These can impact crowd levels.
What’s the best route or train to take from Lisbon to Sintra?
No direct train services operate on this route. Flixbus runs direct bus services from Lisbon to Sintra.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Lisbon to Sintra?
According to EveryRail, the One Country Pass is valid for travel from Lisbon to Sintra. This is because both locations are in Portugal. The Interrail or Eurail Pass applies depending on residency. Interrail is for EU residents, and Eurail is for non-EU residents.