trip to sintra from lisbon

How to Take the Perfect Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip (+ Tips for Visiting!)

On our very first trip to Portugal, taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon–and specifically, seeing the colorful Pena Palace–was the highest priority on our bucket list.

Ever since, we’ve remembered the glistening view of Pena Palace from the Cruz Alta viewpoint, perched improbably on its hill in the distance (scroll up for a peak at that) as one of the most memorable viewpoints in Portugal–and at this point, after living in Lisbon for more than a year, we have seen a lot of Portugal!

Many, many Sintra day trips after that first one, it’s safe to say we’ve seen virtually all sides of the town that is the most popular day trip from Lisbon.

If you’re planning a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon but are a bit confused about the logistics, from whether to book a tour to exactly how many castles and palaces it’s realistic to see in one day (hint: probably fewer than you think), this Sintra day trip guide has you covered.

This is the Sintra travel guide we wish we would have had years ago on our own first day trip to Sintra, and our hope is that it helps your one day in Sintra become as memorable as our first trip was.

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a Sintra day trip from Lisbon!

Table of Contents

Do you need a tour to visit Sintra from Lisbon?

How to travel from lisbon to sintra (and back), the best things to do in sintra in one day, 3 example one day sintra itineraries, getting around during a day trip to sintra, should you spend more than one day in sintra, tips for taking a sintra day trip from lisbon, faq for visiting sintra from lisbon, read more about visiting lisbon + portugal.

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As you sketch out your Sintra day trip, you’re likely asking yourself a very common question: is it better to book an organized day trip like this (easily one of the most popular, if not the most popular, day trips in the country) or to travel independently?

And the answer is: it depends!

There are very good reasons to book a day trip to Sintra, and plenty of compelling reasons to go it alone as, well.

The pros of taking a tour are simple: as the palaces in Sintra are far enough apart that you can’t walk between most of them, parking is very tricky, and waiting in line for the bus is a hassle, it saves you time and allows you to see more.

It also allows you to visit spots that are a bit further out, like Cabo da Roca, in the most efficient way possible.

The cons are simple too: with so many stops to make, you won’t have much time to linger.

If you’d rather travel independently, you can absolutely do that as well, though we recommend nabbing your  tickets for Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira , at a minimum, in advance.

If you do choose to book a tour…

… keep in mind that different tours cater to different focuses on Sintra!

This popular day trip (reviewed over 6,000 times and counting), for example, only includes one palace (Pena Palace), but also includes visits to Sintra’s town center, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais .

Meanwhile, this tour visits both Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira but skips Cabo da Roca in order to build in enough time to visit both palaces.

As you’ll see throughout this guide, whether you book a tour or visit independently, designing a one day Sintra itinerary is all about making hard choices: it’s simply impossible to see it all!

Book your Sintra day trip today!

Prefer a private tour?

Want to enjoy the best of both worlds, combining complete control over your schedule with incredibly simple transportation?

If so, a private tour of Sintra like this may be right for you!

While a bit pricier than a group trip, note that most private Sintra day tours charge per group or 2 or 3, rather than per person, making the cost more similar than you might think at first glance.

A private tour also gives you the opportunity to change your schedule on the fly, meaning that you’ll spend far less time watching the clock than on a group tour or independent day trip.

Book your private day trip to Sintra today!

When traveling from Lisbon to Sintra independently, by far the easiest method is to take the train.

Trains depart every 40 minutes or so (more frequently during weekday rush hour) from Rossio Station, which is located in the heart of Lisbon’s tourism district–virtually around the corner from Rossio Square in Baixa.

It takes about 40 minutes to arrive in Sintra, and when you do, you’ll be within an easy walk of stops for both of Sintra’s main bus routes that head to the palaces (more on that in the “getting around Sintra” section later).

Train tickets are inexpensive and easy to purchase at the counter in the train station, but if you happen to have a Lisbon Card , it covers your train tickets (though it needs to be activated before it can be used!).

Note that the Lisbon Card no longer covers entrance to any of the palaces.

When traveling from Sintra to Lisbon, the train is just as consistent–however, it necessitates getting back to the Sintra train station at the end of your day trip, which will undoubtedly be a bit of a haul from your last sightseeing stop.

Alternatively, Uber operates within Sintra, and it’s easy to call for a ride back to Lisbon.

In theory, it takes about 30-40 minutes to drive from Sintra to central Lisbon, but with traffic, it realistically tends to take closer to 45-55 minutes or so.

The one method of transportation you should not entertain when visiting Sintra for the day?

Driving yourself!

Parking is extremely limited in Sintra (even more than a few years ago), and on top of that, driving around the palaces and town center is a congested experience.

While there are many wonderful things to do in Sintra, we’ve focused this section on the best Sintra attractions to visit on a day trip.

Unfortunately, the reality is that even this abridged list is made up of too many things to see in Sintra in one day–aiming to enjoy 2-3 of them makes for a full, but still realistic, day trip.

We’ll cover a few more things to do in Sintra (which includes some of our offbeat favorites!) in the “should you spend more than one day in Sintra” section later on.

For now, here are the best places to visit in Sintra in one day!

Marvel at the vibrant Pena Palace.

If there is a crown jewel of Sintra, it’s undoubtedly Pena Palace.

Seeing a photo of the vibrant and whimsical Pena Palace was one of my first glimpses of Portugal, and probably one of yours, too!

Restored by the royal family in the 19th century on the site of a former monastery, Pena Palace is known for its views (don’t miss the Cruz Alta viewpoint or the palaces’ terraces), its expansive grounds, and its beautiful interior.

Pena Palace is actually technically called the Pena Palace and Park, thanks to just how expansive the grounds are, and how much there is to see on them (including the Chalet and Garden of the Countess of Edla).

Note that while you can opt for a cheaper ticket to only access the park, rather than the park and palace, that cheaper ticket does not include the palace terraces (the ticket structure used to be different, so there is some confusion online).

If you want to have access to the terraces (and you do), opt for the full park and palace ticket –and be sure not to miss your timed entrance to view the interior, if you plan to step inside!

Book tickets to visit Pena Palace and Park today!

Patrol the walls of the Castle of the Moors.

Dating to the 8th century, the Castle of the Moors (also called the Moorish Castle) is the oldest of the castles of Sintra.

And, despite the fact that all of the city’s palaces are sometimes referred to as Sintra’s castles, the Castle of the Moors is the only one that served a traditional fortification purpose, acting as a defense system for the surrounding area during Portugal’s Islamic period.

Today, the Castle of the Moors is best known for its series of battlements that offer some of the absolute best views in Sintra–which makes perfect sense, when you remember that being able to see as far as possible was a major purpose of the construction!

The Moorish Castle also has the distinction of being a reasonable walk downhill from Pena Palace, making combining the two one of the easiest ways to structure a day trip to Sintra.

Book tickets to visit the Castle of the Moors today!

Enjoy the whimsical grounds of Quinta da Regaleira.

If you’ve seen one photo of Quinta da Regaleira , it’s probably of the famous Initiation Well (of which there are actually two!).

And, if you’ve seen that photo, you’re no doubt intrigued by the idea of seeing it!

Quinta da Regaleira is (in today’s form) the brainchild of the wealthy Carvalho Monteiro and Italian architect Luigi Manini, who was responsible for transforming the property into Monteiro’s whimsical vision in the early 20th century.

Visiting the grounds of Quinta da Regaleira is a bit like falling down the proverbial rabbit hole, so to speak.

There are tree-lined paths, caves, grottos, waterfalls, flowers, towers to climb, and wells to descend into.

Plus, of course, a palace to tour (though to be perfectly honest, the interior paled in comparison to the grounds for us).

Book tickets to visit Quinta da Regaleira today!

Admire the azulejos of the Sintra National Palace.

Restored and expanded continually for hundreds of years, the Sintra National Palace is one of the (slightly) lesser-known palaces of Sintra.

The home of the Portuguese royal family at various points, the Sintra National Palace lacks the extreme views offered at Pena Palace or the Castle of the Moors, and the whimsy of Quinta da Regaleira.

In exchange, though, it offers one of the best interiors of any palace in Sintra, as well as one of the longest histories.

It’s also known for its traditional azulejos , so iconic in Portuguese culture.

The Sintra National Palace is also the closest palace to Sintra’s town center, making it one of the easier destinations to add on when trying to optimize your Sintra itinerary.

Book tickets to visit the Sintra National Palace today!

Pay a visit to Sintra’s historic center and taste traditional pastries.

Not all day trips to Sintra will leave you enough time to meander through the town center–but if yours does, it’s worth a quick look!

The entire town of Sintra is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has all the markings of a resort-town-turned-tourist enclave: meandering streets, small shops selling Portuguese souvenirs , and many restaurants.

… Plus, this being Portugal, plenty of pastry shops!

Sintra, specifically, is known for two pastries: the travesseiro  and queijada de Sintra .

Like so many Portuguese desserts, including the iconic pastel de nata , egg yolks, sugar, and pastry dough feature prominently in a travesseiro , while the queijada de Sintra steps outside the box a bit and features sweet cheese.

To sample them from the most iconic bakeries, head to Casa Piriquita and Queijadas da Sapa (known for queijadas ).

Step off the beaten path at the Palace of Monserrate.

Built in the mid-19th century on the site of a former palace of the same name, Monserrate Palace is one of Sintra’s most off-the-beaten-path palaces… and one of my favorites.

Steeped in Romanticism from every angle, the architecture is unique, the interior worth a tour, and the grounds magnificent.

Don’t miss the Chapel Ruin when exploring the grounds!

Ethereal and otherworldly, it took me right back to visiting Angkor Wat halfway across the world and is one of my personal favorite spots in Sintra.

The upside of visiting Monserrate–other than its many charms–is that it tends to be much less crowded than the most popular palaces.

The downside is that there’s a reason for that: as the palace furthest away from Sintra’s town center of those covered in this section of our guide, it’s a bit more of a commitment to get to.

If you’d like to visit, it’s most easily paired with Quinta da Regaleira.

Book tickets to visit Monserrate Palace today!

Soak in stunning views at Cabo da Roca.

Long believed to be the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and now simply a stunning viewpoint, Cabo da Roca boasts some of the best views of the Portuguese coast that you can find close to Lisbon!

We love this viewpoint and have visited several times, but it’s located about 30 minutes by car from most of the palaces (on the western edge of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, as opposed to the eastern side where you’ll find Sintra’s town center).

For reasons of time, most travelers day-tripping to Sintra from Lisbon will only visit Cabo da Roca if they book a guided tour , though the bus system (Route 403) does technically head out there.

If your trip to Portugal doesn’t include time in the Algarve, we’d recommend placing Cabo da Roca a bit higher on your priority list than if, say, you’re headed to Lagos after Lisbon.

It doesn’t necessarily need to be from this spot, but admiring the sparkling sea from the perch of a cliff should definitely be on your Portugal bucket list!

There are two unavoidable realities when it comes to planning a one day Sintra itinerary: first, the bad news, which is you can’t see (even close to) everything.

But here’s the good news: each and every palace is unique and beautiful, and whichever you decide to visit–even if it’s only one of them–you’ll have a wonderful day and feel like you got a solid taste of what it’s like to visit Sintra.

That being said, here are a few recommended one day Sintra itineraries, structured based on organizing your day geographically.

Ultimately, any combination of 2 places to visit is reasonable, and for speedy sightseers who get an early start, 3 is doable.

When recommending an itinerary for one day in Sintra to friends and family, though, we would tend to suggest combining:

Pena Palace + Quinta da Regaleira + Cascais

One of the most classic Sintra itineraries, popular with guided tours like this who want to show travelers a little bit of everything.

Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira are the most popular palaces in Sintra, and they also simultaneously take the longest to see of the palaces and are situated more or less across town from each other.

For that reason, while you certainly can visit both in one day independently, an organized day trip is extremely helpful for managing your day with this itinerary ( especially if you’re visiting during high season when the buses get backed up).

Book your day trip to Sintra today!

Pena Palace + Castle of the Moors + Sintra Town Center

Perfect for travelers who want to soak up the views, Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors are conveniently located within walking distance of each other (cutting down on bus time and waiting time).

Note that Pena Palace is often more crowded in the mornings (since everyone rushes there), so you can try to balance the crowds by starting with the Castle of the Moors.

That being said, you’ll then be walking uphill to Pena Palace, rather than downhill–so there are definite pros and cons to each strategy!

If your goal is to see as many palaces as possible, you might be able to squeeze in the Sintra National Palace here–but if you do, I’d skip touring the inside of Pena Palace to save time.

Monserrate Palace + Quinta da Regaleira

More interested in whimsical gardens and getting a little breathing room from the crowds than seeing the iconic Pena Palace?

If so, skipping the crowded 434 bus entirely and opting to visit Monserrate Palace and Quinta da Regaleira might be right for you!

Start at Monserrate Palace, enjoying the relatively small and peaceful interior, and the expansive gardens, before heading to Quinta da Regaleira.

Keep in mind that while the two palaces look close on the map, they’re about a 45-minute walk along a narrow road from each other, so skip the walk and hop on the bus!

Once you arrive in Sintra and choose which palaces to visit, you’re not done deciding how to get around!

Sadly, you can’t walk everywhere in Sintra, due to the distance between the palaces (the steep hills, crowds, and traffic don’t make it any more appealing to try, either).

Driving is not a good option in Sintra, either: traffic is heavy and parking is extremely limited.

During the summer high season, the road leading to Pena Palace is even closed to car traffic entirely!

Instead, opt for one (or more) of these options to navigate during your Sintra day trip.

Sintra has a handful of bus routes that are targeted specifically at tourists visiting the palaces, and are therefore easy to find (they stop near the train station) and use.

For independent travelers, this is generally the most popular way to get around Sintra.

The most popular is Route 434, which travels to Pena Palace, the Castle of the Moors, and Sintra Vila (the historic center).

You also access the Sintra National Palace from this route.

A smaller bus operates on Route 435, which heads to Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace.

You can see a map of these routes here , and purchase hop-on/hop-off tickets either at the ticket office across from the train station or from the driver.

These buses can get very crowded, so be prepared for long lines, traffic delays, and standing-room-only levels of crowds.

If you plan to visit Cabo da Roca via public transportation, Route 403 is the bus to look for.

Don’t want to navigate via bus routes?

Grabbing a taxi or Uber is another useful option–with one caveat.

Due to traffic restrictions, and traffic in general, they may not be able to drop you as close to the palaces as you would prefer (especially the most popular ones, like Pena Palace).

In recent years, tuk-tuks have become very popular with visitors hoping to get around Sintra more efficiently than via car (thanks to their small size) and more comfortably than via bus.

However, tuk-tuks are also undoubtedly the most expensive option for getting around Sintra as well.

If you opt to use one, be sure to negotiate the price very clearly before hopping in!

Overwhelmed looking at just how many things to do in Sintra there are, and wondering if you should spend more than one day in town?

You’re not alone!

The easy answer to the question is yes, of course–spending 2-3 days in Sintra is ideal, and will allow you to sample all the best things to do in Sintra in a day, and get off the beaten path, as well.

Attractions like the Capuchin Convent, Praia da Ursa (arguably one of the most picturesque beaches in Portugal), Villa Sassetti, and the Queluz National Palace (one of my favorites around town, and we had it almost to ourselves when we visited), are absolutely worth your time.

Plus, the chance to spend time in the town center and enjoy the most popular palaces at your leisure instead of constantly checking the clock is tempting, too!

Of course, the reality is that most travelers have very limited time to work with on their trip, which is why our recommended 10 day Portugal itinerary only includes one day in Sintra.

If you have 2 weeks or more in the country and Sintra is toward the top of your bucket list, I’d absolutely consider adding another day.

If you aren’t sure it appeals to you as much as some of the other incredible places to visit near Lisbon (just a few of my favorites include Cascais , Evora , Obidos , and the UNESCO monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaca), it’s safe to say that you can see enough of Sintra in one day to opt to stick with a day trip, too.

Get an early start (or stay late).

Sintra is beautiful, but it’s also ridiculously popular… and ridiculously crowded.

During the summer especially, crowds can reach theme-park levels, with what feels like lineups around every corner.

The more you can opt to avoid peak times in the middle of the day, the more relaxed your day trip to Sintra will be!

Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

Tempting as it can be to squeeze in just one more palace, the more time you have at each, the better!

Personally, we never visit more than 2 palaces in one day, and don’t think there’s anything wrong with a Sintra day trip that only features one, as long as you pick the one you’re most excited about!

For speedy and ambitious travelers, 3 is doable in one day, though you won’t have much time to linger in any one spot.

Not having time to see it all is frustrating, but then again, so is having to cut each visit short and miss cool features of the properties!

Be picky about which palaces you step inside.

With only one day in Sintra, you’ll need to be very picky about which palaces you visit–including when to go inside!

Sintra’s most popular palaces, Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, are known for being interesting enough on the inside… but the exteriors are where they truly shine!

Despite paying for an entrance ticket (if you’re traveling independently) to one or both of these palaces, make it a separate decision whether or not to eat up precious time on your Sintra day trip going inside.

The answer is different for everyone, but having been inside both, I can confirm that as far as we’re concerned, the exteriors (and grounds) are the best parts.

For Pena Palace, note that you do need a combined Pena Palace and Park ticket to access the palaces’ terraces (which are incredible).

This is a new rule as of a couple of years ago (previously, a cheaper park-only ticket allowed you access to the terraces), so be sure to purchase the right one!

Wondering which of the Sintra palaces has the best interior?

Generally, the Sintra National Palace, with its many azulejos , is considered to hold the honor, and Pena Palace and Monserrate have their high points, too.

Be aware of the potential for motion sickness.

Sintra’s famous hills have a side effect: the roads are very windy, and thanks to the many trees (and stone walls) lining them, they don’t tend to have great sight lines, either.

Add in stop-and-go traffic, and, well… let’s just say the bus or car journey to the palaces isn’t the most fun part of the day.

If you have a tendency to get motion sick like I do, consider coming prepared with your usual remedies (I opt for Sea Bands , and non-drowsy Dramamine in a pinch).

Keep an eye on the bus schedule as you explore.

This goes for whether you’re keeping an eye out for your tour bus or for one of the public buses available to tourists in Sintra!

Whichever transportation option you choose, unless you’re on a private tour , a big part of taking a Sintra day trip is time management.

This is especially important because, given their expansive grounds, the drop-off points for various palaces and the places you’ll actually spend the bulk of your time are not necessarily right next door to each other.

As you walk into the grounds of a given palace, keep an eye on your watch to know how much time to allot on the walk back!

Be very careful when walking between palaces in Sintra!

While several of the Sintra palaces are technically within walking distance of each other, and you’ll probably want to walk between a couple of them, be sure to keep your eyes on the road!

The roads through Sintra have a tendency to be narrow, lined with stone walls, and to not leave a lot of room for pedestrians.

While people safely walk there every day, it’s not exactly a relaxing experience with tuk-tuks, buses, and cars going by, so be cautious!

Be prepared to be on your feet most of the day.

Between climbing hills and climbing staircases, you’ll get quite a workout on a standard day trip to Sintra!

This isn’t a time for casual sandals or anything with a heel: be sure to wear shoes you’re comfortable walking and standing in all day!

Sintra’s palaces are further apart than you think.

When you hear “small city in Portugal”, you’d be forgiven for assuming that many of its top attractions are within walking distance of each other–but in Sintra, that’s far from the case!

With a couple of exceptions, like walking downhill from Pena Palace to the Castle of the Moors, and walking from Quinta da Regaleira to Sintra National Palace, you’ll need to hop in a vehicle (bus, taxi, or tuk-tuk) between each palace.

The biggest limiting factor to this–other than the traffic–is that it eats into your limited time visiting Sintra.

Keep in mind that Sintra’s most famous attractions are newer than you might think.

It doesn’t make much of a difference in their whimsical nature or beauty, but it’s worth keeping in mind that several of Sintra’s most famous features are newer–and some are less royally connected–than you might think!

With the exception of the Castle of the Moors (built in the 8th and 9th centuries, indisputably the most historic of them all), none of Sintra’s castles are exactly, well, castles, either.

The bulk of the Sintra “castles” that we visit today are vacation homes of the wealthy built during the Romantic Era of the 1800s–which is, of course, exactly why they are so whimsical!

They did tend to be built on the grounds of older buildings (hence the Chapel Ruin, for example), but the iconic facades themselves aren’t particularly old.

Plan your Sintra day trip for a clear day if you can.

One of the best parts about visiting Sintra–particularly Pena Palace, Pena Park, and the Moorish Castle–is the views!

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the sea.

While spending one day in Sintra can be very rewarding on a cloudy day too (and the smaller crowds are a big perk!), it’s definitely worth prioritizing visiting on a day when the views are at their best.

Avoid weekends (and cruise ship days) when possible.

Whether we’re talking about international visitors on weekend getaways, locals, or travelers coming in on cruise ships, Sintra is a ridiculously popular place to visit.

While this is understandable, it does mean that it’s best to avoid weekend days if you can!

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday tend to be the least crowded days to visit Sintra (though don’t confuse this with being uncrowded , unless you choose to head out on a rainy day in February).

In addition to picking the day of the week, you may want to check your schedule against Lisbon’s cruise ship arrivals –if you can opt to visit on a day when fewer (or smaller) ships are in port, your day trip to Sintra will be easier for it.

How much time is enough for Sintra?

To have a chance to enjoy all of the cool things to do in Sintra, from touring the many palaces to enjoying the area’s natural beauty, a 2-3 day visit is ideal.

However, for most people planning a trip to Portugal, taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon is more realistic, and it’s definitely enough time to make visiting Sintra worth the (relatively short) journey from the capital!

How long does it take to travel to Sintra from Lisbon?

It takes about 40 minutes each way to travel between Sintra and Lisbon (Rossio Station) by train.

By car, the route is theoretically about the same or a little faster, but in reality, driving often takes longer due to traffic.

Can you do Sintra in half a day?

While you won’t see a ton in half a day–in fact, for an independent traveler, we’d recommend only visiting one palace on a half-day trip to Sintra–it can definitely be worth the effort!

Many organized day trips, including this popular one , don’t actually spend all day in Sintra, instead combining it with a visit to Cascais and/or Cabo da Roca (technically part of Sintra, but far from its center).

While more time is virtually always better when it comes to appreciating a travel destination, if you only have a half-day to visit Sintra and are dreaming of seeing it, you won’t regret making the effort to go.

What are the best places to visit in Sintra?

The two most popular palaces to visit in Sintra are Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, and they’re both worth your time.

For travelers seeking views, the Castle of the Moors is excellent.

For those wanting the best palace interior, head to the Sintra National Palace.

And to escape the crowds, Monserrate Palace or Queluz National Palace (far out of the way but very uncrowded) have a lot to offer.

What are the least crowded palaces in Sintra?

Of Sintra’s five most famous and centrally located palaces, the Sintra National Palace and Monserrate Palace tend to draw the smallest crowds.

Can you walk everywhere in Sintra?

No, you can’t realistically walk everywhere when visiting Sintra for a day.

Plan to use the bus, taxi/Uber, and/or tuk-tuk services in addition to walking.

Is Sintra worth visiting?

As one of the most famous and unique places to visit in Portugal, Sintra is worth visiting!

However, that does come with a caveat: Sintra’s popularity and proximity to Lisbon make it very crowded, and while it is a very worthwhile day trip from Lisbon, it’s not the only one.

If you have a low tolerance for crowds and little patience for lines/queues, you may prefer to peruse some of the other incredible day trips from Lisbon , which range from palaces with more elbow room to beach towns to ossuaries to monasteries and beyond!

In other words, a Sintra day trip from Lisbon is delightful, but if it’s not right for you, you certainly don’t have to visit Sintra in order to enjoy a very rewarding trip to Portugal.

Planning a trip to Portugal soon and want to keep reading?

You can browse our many Portugal blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• 21+ Hidden Gems in Lisbon: Secret Spots + Offbeat Treasures
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary
• The Perfect 10 Days in Portugal Itinerary (+ Travel Tips!)
• 15 Exciting Things to Do in Evora, Portugal (+ Nearby!)
• The Perfect One Day in Porto Itinerary (+ Tips!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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How to Plan a Perfect Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip

Sintra, once the preferred summer destination for royalty looking to escape the oppressive Lisbon heat, is a picturesque hilltop town just northwest of Lisbon.

In Sintra, you’ll find amazing views in all directions, some unique architectural styles that you aren’t likely to find anywhere else in Portugal, and expansive castles and palaces fit for royalty. Which makes sense given that’s who they were built for. 

At just 45 minutes away from Lisbon by train from Rossio Station in Baixa, a day trip to Sintra is a great option if you’re looking to add a trip out of the city to your Lisbon itinerary . 

But is it possible to squeeze the many delights of Sintra into just one day? We certainly think so. In fact, we did it for ourselves and had a fantastic time. Our number one tip is to get an early start – the crowds in Sintra build over the course of the day, and we found wandering the grounds of Pena Palace in solitude was much more preferable to wading through crowds in Sintra town later in the day. 

In this guide, we’ll take you through exactly how to plan a Lisbon to Sintra day trip on your own, from how to get there, how to structure your time, and exactly what we think you should do and see based on our own experience. 

You’ll start in Lisbon, hop on an early train, and make your way to the top of the hill to start with Pena Palace. From there, make your way downhill, stopping to admire the views from the site of an old hilltop castle, and indulging in Sintra’s famous pastries – the Travesseiro. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

A Brief and Incomplete History of Sintra

Sintra has been around throughout much of Portuguese history, from Paleolithic settlements to its Roman and Moorish occupations, right up until the Reconquista by Christian armies in the 9th century.

But the town had its real golden age during the 18th and 19th centuries when it became a popular vacation destination amongst Portuguese aristocracy and royalty, who chose the hilltop town of Sintra as a perfect getaway from the summer heat in the lowlands surrounding it. 

It was during this period that many of the palaces and villas were regenerated in the Romantic architectural style the town is famed for today.

The unique mix of beautiful architectural styles and the number of impressive historical landmarks in the region even earned Sintra UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The town is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal, with millions of tourists making the journey annually.

Is a Day Trip to Sintra Enough Time? 

We’d say yes and no. 

Yes, you’ll definitely be able to see the main highlights of Sintra in a day. In one – albeit very busy – day, it’s possible to check off three or even four of Sintra’s top attractions, depending on how much time you spend in each spot.

No, because you won’t be able to see all of the sights. With one day in Sintra, you’ll have to focus on the bigger attractions or pick and choose what you want to see and do.

Below, we’ve outlined the main sites in Sintra that you won’t want to miss, with some extra stops if you happen to have more than a day.

Getting from Lisbon to Sintra

Sintra is located around 30km northwest of Lisbon and sits within the stunning Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais. The town is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Lisbon, mostly thanks to how easy it is to get to from the Portuguese capital.

Since we’re covering the “getting there” piece before we get into the itinerary itself, it’s worth pausing here to talk about how you should structure your day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. 

In our opinion – and this is what we did – you should plan to start at Pena Palace at the crest of the hill above the town of Sintra, and work your way downhill from there . We walked down to the town from the Castelo do Mouros, and would definitely recommend it. There are, of course, other options for getting downhill, which we’ll cover below.

Doing it this way will allow you to tackle the most popular sight first, before the crowds descend on it later in the day, and it also means any walking you do will be downhill. 

After the walk down to town, break for lunch and pastries, and then tackle some of the sights in and around town before heading home. 

The implication here is that you’ll be making two journeys to get to your first stop of the day: the train from Lisbon to Sintra, and the leg from Sintra to Pena Palace at the top of the hill. We’ll cover them both in this section. 

Taking the Train From Lisbon to Sintra

The best way to get to Sintra from Lisbon is by train. 

You can catch the train to Sintra from Rossio Train Station (or Oriente, which is a slightly longer ride) in Baixa in the heart of Lisbon. Trains depart roughly every 30 minutes (more during weekday rush hours) and the journey takes just 40 minutes. 

Tickets between Lisbon and Sintra cost between €2-3 each way, and you can also grab a round trip ticket. You can easily purchase tickets at the kiosks or self-service machines at the station – there’s no need to book in advance .

Make sure you take the train to the end of the route – which is called “Sintra” – NOT “Portela de Sintra”, which is further away from all the sights.

When to Take the Train to Sintra?

We’d recommend getting on the first feasible train you can. For us, that was 8:11 am, but the schedule might vary slightly by year and season. 

Taking the train around 8:00 am is ideal for making the most of your day. You’ll arrive in Sintra just before 9:00 am, which is just in time for most of the attractions to open at 9:30 am. 

This gives you 30 minutes to get up the hill to Pena Palace to start your day and beat the rest of the visitors.

When to Take the Train Back from Sintra?

Return trains from Sintra to Lisbon also run roughly every thirty minutes throughout the day. 

The last train usually departs Sintra around midnight (it’s still best to check the exact train schedule for the day you’re visiting). You probably won’t need this long in Sintra – 13 hours is a long day trip! – but it’s always good to know that you won’t have to rush back to the station before you’re done.

Should You Drive to Sintra?

Yes, it is possible to drive TO Sintra, but you should not, under any circumstances, try to drive IN Sintra! Trust us on this one.

The drive from Lisbon to Sintra takes as little as 25-30 minutes along highway A37. The road into Sintra can get pretty congested during peak times, so try to arrive early to avoid heavy traffic.

BUT while you can arrive in Sintra by car, the historic town center itself was not designed with cars in mind. 

If you drive in Sintra, you’ll end up spending most of your day stuck in traffic, getting lost on tiny back roads, and hunting out limited parking. Trying to drive between the sights is much more hassle than it’s worth.  

If you are planning on taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon by car, we’d highly recommend parking it somewhere on the outskirts of town for the day, then walking or using public transport for the rest of the itinerary below.

If you are driving to Sintra, some of the top parking options are: 

• Sintra Parking : This central parking lot is completely free but fills up very early, especially on weekends and during the summer. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.
• Parque de Estacionamento Estação de Sintra : Conveniently located opposite the train station and on the 434 bus route, this parking lot has a maximum daily rate of €14.
• Parque Estacionamento P3 Portela Sintra : A little further away from the town center and main tourist sites, this parking lot can be found close to Portela de Sintra station. But at only €2 for the entire day, it’s one of the cheapest parking options in Sintra.

Getting Around Sintra

Sintra is located at the top of a gigantic hill. We’d recommend starting at the top – which means Pena Palace – and making your way downhill on foot. 

It’s certainly possible to walk around once you’re in Sintra itself. And if you follow the itinerary as outlined below, you’ll mostly be walking downhill.

If walking long distances isn’t an option for you, we’d suggest going to Pena Palace and the Castelo dos Mouros first, then catching a taxi, bus, or tuk-tuk from there to get back down into town. 

The 434 tourist bus runs on a loop around the main attractions and the town center and is the cheapest option for getting around Sintra. However, the buses can get extremely busy during peak times and you could end up waiting in line for up to an hour (peak times are around midday and early afternoon at Pena Palace). 

Taxis and tuk-tuks are available everywhere in Sintra. Just be sure to negotiate a good price BEFORE you ride, and don’t get ripped off by tourist scams.

Getting from Sintra Train Station to Pena Palace 

Like we covered above, your first stop is at the top of the hill looming over the town, so you’ll need to make your way there from the train station in town.

While it is possible to walk around the main sites and attractions in Sintra, walking from the train station to Pena Palace (the first stop on this itinerary) is a different story.

The walk from the train station to Pena Palace takes around 45 minutes and is a steep uphill climb the entire way. We’re all for walking, but even we didn’t feel like taking on this challenge first thing in the morning (we do, however, recommend walking down the hill back into town). 

Instead, to get to the top of the hill, you have a few different options.

• Bus: The 434 tourist bus runs roughly every 15 minutes between Sintra train station and Pena Palace. The buses aren’t too busy first thing in the morning, but you can expect long lines later in the day. A single ticket costs €3.90, while a hop-on-hop-off ticket is €6.90 for the day. Jumping on the bus is the cheapest option for a single person or even a couple. But if you have a bigger group, it’s more economical to grab a taxi or tuk-tuk instead. Here’s a guide to the 434 for more information.  
• Rideshare (Uber) : An affordable and convenient option if you’re a regular Uber user. The journey should cost around €7-10. However, cell service in Sintra can be spotty, which can make it a little hard to call a ride. There are also not that many drivers around later in the day, which means you may not be able to get one at all.
• Local Taxi : Local taxis are abundant in Sintra, especially around the main tourist attractions. Just be careful not to get ripped off by drivers overcharging naive tourists. You shouldn’t be paying more than €15-20 for the journey (MAX!), depending on the time of day and group size.
• Tuk-Tuks : We opted to take a tuk-tuk because we had a group of four and saw the long lines for the bus. The standard fare between the station to the entrance of Pena Palace is roughly €5 per person (we paid €20 for a group of four). 

Other Tips for Visiting Sintra

Here are some odds and ends to know before your trip. 

• Get there early! Trust us, it makes a difference. The crowds at 3:00 pm are infinitely less manageable than those at 9:00 am. We essentially had the grounds up at Pena Palace to ourselves when we arrived at 9:30 am. 
• Buy your tickets for attractions ahead of time . Book attraction tickets online in advance to save yourself time and hassle on the day. Lines for the ticket machines aren’t bad at 9:30 am, but later in the day they can be a nightmare. Buy tickets for Pena Palace here , Castelo dos Mouros here , and Quinta da Regaleira here .
• Be prepared for it to be foggy and cold at Pena Palace in the morning . Multiple locals in Lisbon and Sintra told us that this is a common occurrence, and it’ll burn off by 11:00 am or so. And that’s exactly what happened for us. Make sure to pack a jacket for the morning.
• Wear practical walking shoes . If you do plan on walking around Sintra, you’ll be walking a decent amount, so remember to wear good shoes. Even if it’s a hot day, you’ll definitely regret wearing flip-flops or uncomfortable sandals by the end of the day.
• Bring water and snacks . While there are a few pastry shops and restaurants in Sintra town center for lunch, there’s not much else to eat around the wider region or at the attractions. If you think you’ll need some extra sustenance throughout the day, make sure to pack a few snacks and drinks to take with you so you don’t get hangry.

A Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip: Exactly What to Do with One Day in Sintra

Before getting to the exact itinerary, let’s talk about organizing your time in Sintra. 

We’d recommend starting at the top of the hill and making your way back down, breaking for lunch in the town of Sintra itself. This is the most convenient and logical way to explore as much of the area as possible in a day.

Here’s a rough map of the morning , which will have you exploring Pena Palace and Castelo dos Mouros, before walking down into town. 

9:00 am: Arrive at Sintra Train Station 

Jump on the train from Libson nice and early so that you’ll arrive in Sintra around 9:00 am.

On arrival, head straight for Pena Palace. Either jump on the 434 bus or take an Uber, taxi, or Tuk-Tuk to the palace entrance.

9:30 am: Start Your Day at Pena Palace

The Palacio Nacional da Pena (Pena Palace) is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Sintra and the reason most visitors are so drawn to the area.

The brightly colored palace is one of the greatest examples of 19th century Romanticism, combining Moorish and Manueline architectural styles. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

There are two main ticket options for visiting Pena Palace: 

• The exterior and grounds: €7.50/€6.50 (adult/youth and senior)
• The exterior, grounds, and interior: €14/€12.50 (adult/youth and senior)

You can pre-book your tickets online in advance. Advanced tickets come with a scheduled time slot. Pena Palace is open daily from 09:30 am (grounds open at 09:00 am) to 6:30 pm (grounds shut at 7:00 pm) , with the last entry at 6:00 pm.

Should You Visit the Interior of Pena Palace? 

This depends on what you’re into.

We didn’t go inside – we’ve seen plenty of rich people’s palaces over the years, and generally find them underwhelming unless there’s something special or unique about them. We found that the exterior and gardens had plenty to keep us busy.

But, for what it’s worth, my older brother did go inside and really enjoyed it. 

What to Do at Pena Palace

In terms of visiting the Palace, you have three main options which we’d recommend tackling in the order listed below (if you choose to do the interior).

As we mentioned previously, it’s often foggy in Sintra first thing in the morning. So head inside first, then come back out to admire the famous exterior of the Palace when the fog starts to burn off.  

• The interior – Untouched since the last royals left in 1910, visiting the Palace’s interior will give you a glimpse into the life of its past royal residents. The Palace is filled with rich stucco decoration and beautiful art and furnishings.
• The grounds – Wander around the vast gardens and endless walking trails. It’ll likely be foggy when you get to Sintra, so spend the first bit of your time in the grounds waiting for it to clear up. Head up to Cruz Alta ( here on Google Maps) – the highest point in the grounds with a fantastic viewpoint – if you’re up for a bit of a walk (it was foggy when we were up there, unfortunately). 
• The exterior – Saving the best for last, the exterior of Pena Palace is really what most visitors come to see and photograph. The bright yellow and red castle exterior is truly a unique site to behold. There’s a nice path that takes you along the outside of the base of the palace, which has some pretty incredible views of the surrounding landscapes too. 

When you’re done, walk down towards the Vale dos Lagos e Pateira ( here on Google Maps) and exit from there.

There’s a path at the end of the parking lot across the street that will take you up to the Castelo dos Mouros (it starts here ).

12:00 pm: Castelo dos Mouros

A lot of people opt to skip this, and we think that’s a mistake. The reconstructed castle walls are really cool and the views out towards the ocean are spectacular.

We were hesitant about it at first. Alysha even said that my brother and I could go on, and she’d wait outside. But she ultimately decided to go for it. For what it’s worth, she was very, very glad she went!

Castelo dos Mouros sits close to Pena Palace on the hill’s summit. The historic castle was built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors (Muslims that occupied the Iberian Peninsula at the time). It was then restored by King Ferdinand in the 19th Century.

The castle blends beautifully with the surrounding forest and grounds in which it sits. The structure is home to a small exhibition about Moorish history and has numerous artifacts found during archaeological excavations of the area.  

The main draw of visiting has to be the fantastic viewpoints from the castle turrets over the surrounding region and out to the Atlantic coastline.

Tickets for the castle cost €8/€6.50 (adult/youth and senior). You’ll get a small discount by buying your tickets online in advance. The castle is open from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:30pm.

A visit to Castle dos Mouros only really takes an hour or so. It’s located just a short walk from Pena Palace at the hill’s summit, so makes for an easy addition to your day in Sintra. 

1:00 pm: Walk Down to Sintra for Lunch

At this point, you’re probably going to be pretty hungry from a busy morning walking around the huge palace and castle grounds. This means it’s time to head into Sintra itself to grab some lunch. 

Follow this walking route , which is downhill all the way. It should take you around 20–30 minutes to walk to the historic center.

If walking isn’t an option for you, you’ll either need to find a taxi or tuk-tuk, or take the 434 bus down into town. If you choose the latter, be prepared for long lines at this time of day. It’ll save you time and hassle to just grab one of the other forms of transportation instead – unless you’re traveling on a tight budget. 

Heads up: You’ll need to walk back out to the main road (Estrada de Pena) to catch the bus, a taxi, or a tuk-tuk.

1:30 pm: Lunch (and Pastries) in Sintra

There are several great places to grab lunch in Sintra town, depending on what type of food you want to eat. 

Here are some options. 

• Casa Piriquita – The most popular pastelarias (pastry shop) in Sintra, which makes the famous local Travesseiro pastry (a puff pastry filled with cream) that Alysha HAD to try… for science of course. The pastry shop dates back to 1862 and was a favorite of King Carlos I.
• Bacalhau na Vila – An authentic local restaurant where you can share tasty grilled cod and fish tapas dishes. There are gluten free options too.
• Tascantiga – A lovely casual spot serving delicious Portuguese tapas with a nice outdoor terrace! Also has a good kids’ menu for families.
• Alba Gelato – Serves some of the best ice cream in Sintra for those in need of a sugary pick-me-up on a hot day. The ice cream parlor is located near the train station, so it also makes for a great end-of-the-day treat before you head back to Lisbon.

3:00 pm: Quinta da Regaleira

After you’ve finished with lunch and have regained your energy, the next stop on this Sintra itinerary is Quinta da Regaleira.

To get to Quinta da Regaleira from the town center, you can either walk, get the 435 bus, or jump in a taxi or tuk-tuk. Walking is the easiest option – here’s the route . The walk takes 10-15 minutes.

Quinta da Regaleira is a large country estate in Sintra, made up of a grand villa, small chapel, and gardens. Dating back to the early 1900s, the villa was designed by Italian designer Luigi Manini, who was commissioned by an entrepreneur from Brazil who made his fortune in coffee, António Carvalho Monteiro (aka “Monteiro the Millionaire”).

The villa was built in a neo-Gothic/Romantic revivalist style and was heavily influenced by the mythological beliefs of its eccentric owner. Monteiro was fascinated by secretive religious orders such as the Knights Templar and Freemasons. 

All across the estate, you’ll find unusual symbols, hidden passageways, secret caves, and curious little nooks and crannies. The unique estate has a fairytale-esque air of mystery and intrigue to it. 

One of the highlights of the estate is The Initiation Well (“Poço Iniciático”), which features an imposing Gothic spiral staircase filled with mysterious symbolism. The staircase leads you down into an underground grotto that then takes you out to a hidden lake in the gardens.

Tickets to Quinta da Regaleira cost €10/€5 (adult/youth and senior). You can book online in advance to save time when you arrive. The estate is open daily for self-guided visits from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:30pm.

Guided tours of the estate are also available for €18/€9 (adult/youth and senior, including entry). Check the schedule for tour times as they vary each day.

Note : We didn’t actually end up visiting Quinta da Regaleira during our trip to Sintra. We headed back to Lisbon in the early afternoon to tackle a couple of things we wanted to do before we headed to Porto. But it was highly recommended by our tour guide for our walking tour in Lisbon ( We Hate Tourism Tours ). To be honest, we’re sad we missed it and have it on our list for our next trip to Portugal!

5:00 pm: Take the Train Back to Lisbon

Finally, finish your day trip to Sintra by heading back to the train station ( here ) and catching the train back to Libson. 

Return trains from Sintra to Lisbon’s Rossio station run roughly every thirty minutes up until midnight. The journey takes about 40 minutes to get back to Lisbon.

By leaving around 5:00 pm, you’ll have time to grab dinner and enjoy a relaxing evening back in Lisbon.

Planning a trip to Portugal?  

Here are our other Portugal travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

• 10 Days in Portugal: Planning the Perfect Portugal Itinerary
• 25 Incredible Things to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide
• 3 Days in Lisbon: Planning the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
• One Day in Lisbon: The Best of Lisbon in 24 Hours
• Where to Stay in Lisbon: Our Guide to 4 Amazing Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Lisbon’s Best Gluten Free Restaurants
• The Best Coffee in Lisbon: 9 Amazing Lisbon Coffee Shops to Add to Your List
• 3 Days in Porto: Planning the Perfect Porto Itinerary
• One Day in Porto: How to See the Best of Porto in a Day
• Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: The 3 Best Places to Stay

The Algarve:

• A Complete Guide to Planning an Algarve Road Trip (3-7 Days)
• Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Charming Towns to Use as a Home Base
• How to Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: Complete Trail Guide

What to Do with More Time in Sintra? 

To be honest, you’ve covered the main highlights in this one day in Sintra itinerary. But if you do have more time to play with, you could either spread the above sights out over a longer timeframe (which will be less exhausting) or add in these two additional spots.

Palácio Nacional de Sintra 

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra is another important palace located in the heart of Sintra’s historic town center. 

The location was once the site of a Moorish castle, similar to nearby Castelo dos Mouros. The original castle was destroyed and reconstructed by Christian Kings during the 15th and 16th centuries. Its current gothic exterior is most noticeable for the two large cone-shaped chimneys that extend from the palace’s kitchens.

Palácio Nacional de Sintra was a favorite with Portuguese nobility and was used continuously as a royal residence for almost 500 years. Today, it is the best preserved royal residence in all of Portugal. 

On a visit to the palace, you can explore its elegant and unique interior. Each room is designed in a different artistic style that’s representative of the King that lived there and is named accordingly. Some of the highlights include the Swan Room, the Coat of Arms Room, and the Magpie Room.

Inside the palace, you’ll also learn more about the history of Portugal and the development of the decorative azulejo tiles.

Tickets to Palácio Nacional de Sintra cost €10/€8.50 (adult/youth and senior). The palace is open daily from 9:30am to 6:30pm, with the last entry at 6:00pm. A visit will take around an hour.

The palace is located in the town’s historic center, just 10 minutes from the train station, so is easy to walk to. It’s best to visit after lunch or as the last stop on your Sintra day trip.

Palácio de Monserrate

Located a short distance from Sintra, deeper into the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, the Palácio de Monserrate is another amazing architectural wonder of Portugal. 

Built by an English merchant in 1790, the grand palace is one of the best examples of European eclecticism, with a mix of Indian, Moorish, and Gothic influences, topped with a dome inspired by the Duomo in Florence. 

The fairytale-esque villa is surrounded by one of the most extensive botanical gardens in Portugal, boasting beautiful exotic plants from all over the world. The entire estate has a magical atmosphere and is usually much quieter than most of Sintra’s other big attractions.

Tickets for Palácio de Monserrate cost €8/€6.50 (adult/youth and senior). The park is open daily from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 6:00 pm. A visit will take you around one to two hours.

The palace is not walkable from Sintra town center – unless you’re happy to walk over an hour down winding back roads. The best way to get there is to jump on the 435 bus or grab an uber or taxi. There is parking at the palace, but the one-way roads to get there from Sintra can be extremely confusing, so we wouldn’t recommend driving.

The Best Time to Visit Sintra

Sintra is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon all year round. Meaning that you’ll probably encounter crowds whenever you decide to go. But as with any popular tourist destination, some times are better to visit than others.

The peak summer months are the busiest time of year to visit Sintra. You can expect the town and attractions to be packed with other tourists and day-trippers. The ticket and bus lines will also be considerably longer. The weather can get particularly hot during these months too, making walking around the attractions all day a little uncomfortable.

The best time to visit Sintra is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During these periods, the crowds will be slightly smaller and you’ll get to experience the beautiful colors of Sintra’s amazing fauna blooming into life.

Winter in Sintra doesn’t get too unbearably cold. But it can certainly be overcast and rainy. If you’re visiting Sintra during the winter months, don’t forget to bring lots of layers and an umbrella.

If you can visit Sintra on a weekday rather than a weekend, you’ll also avoid some of the heavier crowds and lines.

Plan an Incredible European Adventure

Planning (or thinking about planning) a trip to Europe? We’ve got you covered! We’ve been to Europe many times, including a recent three month trip to Portugal , Paris , Italy , and Spain .

Here are our in-depth European travel guides to help you plan a trip full of learning, discovery, and unforgettable experiences.

LONDON : How to Plan your London Itinerary , Where to Stay in London , and the Best Coffee Shops in London

PARIS : A Perfect Paris Itinerary , Where to Stay in Paris , and the Best Coffee in Paris

ROME : A Complete Rome Itinerary , Where to Stay in Rome , and the Best Things to Do in Rome

AMSTERDAM : A Perfect 2 Day Amsterdam Itinerary and Exactly Where to Stay in Amsterdam

BARCELONA : A Complete Barcelona Itinerary and Where to Stay in Barcelona

MADRID : An Amazing 2 Day Madrid Itinerary and Where to Stay in Madrid

LISBON : A complete guide to 3 Days in Lisbon and Where to Stay in Lisbon

FLORENCE : The Best Things to Do in Florence , Where to Stay in Florence , and a Perfect 3 Day Florence Itinerary

SICILY : How to Plan an Amazing Sicily Road Trip and the Best Things to Do in Catania

SPAIN : A Complete 14 Day Spain Itinerary and a 2 Day Seville Itinerary

PORTUGAL : How to Plan an Amazing Portugal Itinerary and a guide to planning an Algarve Road Trip

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi Matt and Alysha, It sure is super detailed! Wow!Thank you so much for the work you put in towards detailing every aspects of the trip and thinking of every kind of traveller. Its amazing! I normally never comment but I just could not refrain from thanking you both for your time and thoughtfulness. This is so helpful. We are 4 adults in our late 50s planning a trip to Portugal this month. Would it be possible for you to recommend any skip the line tours or private tours to the different palaces in Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira? Thanks again!

Hey there! Thanks for the kind words. If you want a tour that covers everything in Sintra with pickup from Lisbon (and some bonuses), go with We Hate Tourism Tours ( https://www.wehatetourismtours.com ). We did a walking tour in Lisbon with them, and love their approach to responsible tourism. They have a day trip to Sintra and Cascais.

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19 Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon: Unlock the Secrets of Sintra

LOOKING FOR THE BEST SINTRA TOURS FROM LISBON?

Look no further because this guide will highlight the top 19 Sintra tours to experience this historic town. 

Sintra is a town like no other. With its stunning natural beauty and centuries-old architecture , it’s enough to make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale. 

From the majestic Pena Palace to the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira , it’s easy to see why this enchanting destination has long been revered as one of Portugal’s most beloved destinations.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Sintra tour from Lisbon is the Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Daytrip , with over 4,000 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviews 😳🤯

Experience all that Sintra offers with one of these 19 incredible tours. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or an independent adventure, there’s something for everyone here. 

From cultural sightseeing to nature trails , these amazing Sintra tours will show you all there is to love about this town outside Lisbon.

So pack your sense of wonder and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Top 3 Picks: Best Sintra Tours From Lisbon

Secrets of Sintra & Cascais

→ Ideal for first-timers short on time → Small group & personalized experience

Private tour with private Guide

→ Local guide + more intimate tour → Customizable tour

Tour Sintra Palaces via Tuk-Tuk

→ Private transport for just your group → Skip the long walk with a tuk-tuk

Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon

These Sintra excursions and tours will introduce you to the special magic of Sintra. Without further ado, let’s get to this list so you can discover what are soon to be your favorite Sintra day tours.

1. Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Day Trip

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 3.5 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Join TugaTrips on a full-day journey to discover the beauty and history of Sintra, its romantic Pena Palace, and the stunning coastlines of Cabo da Roca and Cascais. 

Start your day in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra , where you can take a guided tour of the colorful Pena Palace or have some free time to explore. 

Continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, to take in the impressive ocean views crashing against the high cliffs. 

 The tour was planned great with enough time to both enjoy the places and take pictures. Filipe was a wonderful guide. — GERRY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then visit the elegant seaside resort town of Cascais . You’ll stroll through the charming city center, check out the luxury marina , and explore the restored fort. 

Return to Lisbon in the afternoon with memories and photos to last a lifetime. 

This is one of the best Sintra day tours from Lisbon , as it gives you the choice between shared tour or private tour options.

2. Sintra Private Tour with Cellar Visit & Wine Tasting

⭐️Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover the beauty and history of Sintra on this tour that will take you to some of the most iconic and picturesque locations in the area

Your first stop is the Palace of Queluz , built in the 18th century as the official royal residence of King Pedro IV of Portugal.

From there, you’ll visit the historic town of Sintra and discover its picturesque streets, including Sintra National Palace, fountains, and shrines. 

 Wow what an incredible experience. From the beautiful views in Cascais, Colares with amazing food and unique wines to historical Sintra each was magical. — ANTONIA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Head up to the Moorish Castle for panoramic views of the region. Then, see the Pena Palace , a mix of architectural styles and a great example of 19th-century Romanticism. 

After a stop at the most westerly point in continental Europe , you’ll head to the Adega Regional de Colares wine cellars.

A popular wine producer in operation for two centuries, you’ll learn about the winery’s history, visit the cellar, and taste its unique wines.

This is one of the best tours of Sintra Portugal for people who want a more unique Sintra experience, which includes a winery visit. It is also a great option for anyone looking for Sintra private tours. 

3. Sintra Tour in talking-car with GPS Audio guide

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time : 3 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Experience Sintra on your own schedule with this self-guided Sintra tou r in a car equipped with a GPS and talking audio guide. 

Explore the stunning Palácio da Vila , the mystical Quinta da Regaleira , the grand Palácio de Seteais, the lush Parque and Monserrate Palac e, the historic Moorish Castle , the enchanting Gardens and Pena Palace , the secluded Convento dos Capucho s and Peninha , and more. 

 Enjoyed the travel info on the way to our chosen sites. We rented the full day. Easy to park anywhere. — CARLA(READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The audio guide is available in seven languages and provides fascinating stories and commentary that you won’t discover alone. 

With the freedom to travel at your own pace, this Sintra self-guided tour (half day Sintra tour) is perfect for those who want to experience Sintra’s highlights at their own leisure.

4. Private tour with private Guide: Palaces of Sintra & Gardens

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check r a tes and availability

Immerse yourself in the regal splendor of Sintra on this full-day private guided tour from Lisbon , where you’ll walk in the footsteps of royalty through palaces and lush gardens.

Straight out of GQ magazine, Miguel promptly arrived in a sleek black Mercedes van. Fluent English was only surpassed by his charm & perfect manners. — ANDREW   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Discover the opulence of 19th-century aristocracy as you explore the UNESCO-listed town of Sintra and its breathtaking surroundings.

This captivating journey takes you through Romanticist architecture and pristine gardens designed for Portuguese kings. Marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and grandeur as you wander through gardens, admire majestic castles, and visit charming handicraft shops.

With a private local guide, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience, making this tour perfect for couples or families seeking to delve into the enchanting world of Sintra’s royal past.

5. Tour Sintra Palaces via Tuk-Tuk

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Take in the breathtaking views of Sintra’s most famous attractions with this private tuk-tuk tour! 

Visit Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle , and take a break to explore independently . Along the way, you will be regaled with exciting stories and informative commentary about each of these stunning sites. 

 We will never forget this tour! The Tuk Tuk was a super unique and fun way to see all the sites of Sintra in a short period of time. — LUBA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Have a worry-free trip with private transport for your group and flexible timing that suits your schedule. Hear untold stories along this enchanting tour and have an unforgettable experience!

6. Secrets of Sintra/Cascais Natural Park – Fairytale Tour

Discover the beauty of Sintra’s UNESCO-listed landscape s on this personalized small-group tour. 

Explore the Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira estate , take in the views from Cabo da Roca , the westernmost point of continental Europe, and stop in the picturesque fishing village of Cascais for a short walk. 

 Alex is amazing! This was legit the highlight of our trip. I would do this experience every time I came to Lisbon because of how much fun I had. — HAMZA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your local guide will show you non-touristic viewpoints inside the natural park and allow you to decide which monument you wish to visit inside.

As a special treat, you will have a wine-related surprise before leaving Sintra. The perfect Sintra and Cascais tour. 

This is one of the best tours in Sintra for those who want a personalized experience exploring Sintra’s beautiful landscapes.

7. From Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, and Belem Full-Day Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover the magic of Sintra on this full-day Lisbon Sintra Portugal tour that includes stops in Cascais and the Lisbon neighborhood of Belem.  

Get ready to explore Sintra, a town filled with medieval streets, grand palaces, and charming chalets. Then take a trip to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.

 We had a great day with our guide Gonzalo. He made sure that we were always ahead of the big queues. — GREON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll then continue southward to Cascais and Estoril –known for their characteristic cosmopolitan atmosphere. 

Enjoy the gardens of the iconic Estoril Casino before hitting the stunning sandy beaches along Portugal’s coast as you return towards Lisbon. You’ll also make a stop in Belem to watch how ships used to sail centuries ago on voyages to discover new worlds. 

This is one the best tours of Sintra Portugal as it is the perfect way to discover the beauty and history of the region and the Portuguese coast. The perfect tour, includes Sintra Cascais  Estoril and parts of Belem. 

8. Sintra: Beaches and Colares Tasting Tour

Discover the hidden gems of Sintra on a private tour that takes you beyond the popular tourist spots.  With a friendly guide, you’ll explore this r egion’s beautiful countryside, traditional rural villages, and stunning beaches. 

Start by heading to Colares, a small village known for its wine-making traditions . Visit the oldest wine seller in the country and learn about Portugal’s wine culture. Next, visit Praia Grande and Praia Pequena , two of Sintra’s most beautiful beaches. 

Stop at Azenhas do Mar , a charming coastal town with a heavenly location, and Adraga Beach, a wild and scenic spot. Finally, head to Cabo da Roca , the westernmost point of Europe, for stunning ocean views. 

 We only had a few days in Lisbon, and we are so happy that we got away from the city crowds and did this tour! — LOUISE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Along the way, you’ll also sample a variety of Portuguese wines and enjoy a traditional “petiscos” (tapas) meal. This is the perfect Sintra wine tour for those looking to experience the less-visited, off-the-beaten-path gems of Sintra with a focus on wine and gastronomy.

9. Historical Jeep Tour Sintra

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 6 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Explore the historical sights of Sintra with ease on this small group tour by classic UMM Jeep . 

Climb aboard an open-top chauffeured 4WD and visit the magnificent Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle . Marvel at Quinta da Regaleira’s Initiation Well and soak in the breathtaking views from Cabo da Roca. 

 What a day we had. We didn’t know what to expect but it turned out to be the best day on our vacation to Portugal. — PALLE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Enjoy a wine-tasting sessio n followed by pastries from Sintra’s Old Town before checking out hidden gems around town—all explained in great detail thanks to your knowledgeable and friendly driver/guide. 

Entry tickets are included in the tour for select attractions, making this a unique Sintra Jeep tour perfect for any Jeep-lover.

10. Sintra Full-Day Private Tour – A Journey through Wonderland

⭐️Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8-10 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Embark on an unforgettable private day tour of Portugal’s most romantic corner , Sintra. Witness magical palaces and estates that seem to have come straight out of a fairytale and explore popular royal holiday destinations with your own personal guide. 

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites , Pena Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira, take a leisurely stroll around the historical town of Sintra, and enjoy the fresh sea air in Cascais. Get tips on the best local spots for lunch or pastries from your guide. 

Every place we visited we thought we had an “upper hand” on knowing what it was all about, because he definitely knew his stuff. — DIANA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With a driver and transport organized by your guide, you can tailor your journey to make the most out of every second in this hidden corner of paradise. 

A private Sintra full-day tour that is personalized. Is there anything better?

This Sintra Palaces tour is the best for those who want a private and personalized fairytale experience in Sintra. This is hands down the best private tour Sintra has to offer. 

11. Private Vintage Countryside Gastronomic Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4.5 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover the hidden gems of Sintra, Mafra, and Ericeira on this private tour with a local guide. Travel in style in a classic car, and explore the beautiful landscapes, including a secret waterfall, an inactive volcano, and the charming villages of Sintra and Mafra. 

 This tour is a MUST DO to get away from the heat and the crowds! The best part of the experience was Diogo and Rita, who were exceedingly kind hosts. — ANDY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Enjoy a gastronomic experience and picnic with local products in a rustic village . Visit the National Palace of Mafra and take a free walk in the world surf reserve of Ericeira, known for its Portuguese cobblestone streets and stunning Atlantic coast views. 

Experience the sounds of natur e, the smells of the countryside , and the unique local flavors while riding in a sustainable, classic car. Perfect for families and groups of up to 8, this tour is a unique and memorable way to explore the area.

12. Archaeological Sintra Tour in a Classical car

⭐️Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4.5 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Discover Sintra in its raw and authentic state with a local archaeologist and tour guide who has been involved in archaeological excavations in the area. 

Explore off-the-beaten-path places not typically visited by tourists and learn a unique perspective on the area’s past cultures and secrets. 

Being an actual local archaeologist he provides a wealth of knowledge and detail you can’t find elsewhere. — JAMIE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour guide expertise means you’ll be provided with a wealth of local advice , ensuring an incredibly authentic experienc e of Sintra. 

Experience Sintra away from the crowds and immerse yourself in the area’s rich history and culture on this epic Sintra tour from Lisbon. 

13. Wonders of Sintra & Coast Sintra Guided Tour

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 6 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Experience the beauty and history of Sintra and its surrounding areas on this tour led by a knowledgeable Sintra tour guide. 

With a small group, you’ll visit the charming village of Colares and take in the stunning scenery at Azenhas do Mar beach .

Visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and explore the c olorful Pena Palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra’s historic center. 

This is a wonderful trip to see Sintra. An excellent way to see the Castle if you don’t have the entire day. — CARMEN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With over five different stops , this Sintra tour Portugal offers a unique look at the region’s hidden gems.  

Take advantage of the opportunity to see Colares, Azenhas do Mar, Cabo da Roca, and Centre Historico de Sintra in this Sintra full-day tour.

14. Sunset Hike, Tapas & Wine at Secret Beach 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time : 4 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime on this Lisbon to Sintra tour that includes wine, tapas, and a visit to a gorgeous secret beach. 

Start off with a leisurely off-road trip along the beach shores before heading to the iconic Cabo da Roca cliff for an exhilarating hike down to the secret Ursa beach and back. 

 The jeep ride, hike to the beach and picnic were awesome!! We enjoyed tapas and wine on the beach! — JENNIFER   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As the sun sets over the Atlantic Coast, indulge in crisp glasses of wine and tapas while listening to soul-lifting music. 

End the day with a visit to the f amous fisherman village of Cascais , making this tour the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. 

For an incredible Sintra Cabo da Roca tour, that includes a visit to a secret beach, look no further than this inside Lisbon Sintra tour . 

15. Sintra Tour Tailor-Made (Personalized)

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4 hours |  🏰 Check r ates and availability

Experience the beauty and history of Sintra in a personalized way on this tailor-made Sintra tou r run by a local family-run business. 

Explore Sintra your way and at your own pace . From the grandeur of Pena Palace–one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal–to the extravagant neo-Manueline gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, whatever you choose, each stop on the tour will leave you in awe. 

 ❝ Francisco was kind, patient, and very knowledgeable about Sintra and the surrounding areas. — SHAMIR   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

If palaces aren’t your thing, then opt to enjoy the stunning views at Cabo da Roca or take a swim in the crystal clear waters of Praia das Azenhas do Mar.  

Whatever you choose, it can be done. This is one of the best Sintra day tours for anyone looking to create their own unique experience in Sintra. 

16. Sintra – Cascais: 6-Hour Electric Bike Tour from Lisbon 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 4 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Enjoy Sintra on the back of an electric bike , which comes in 4 different modes of assistance , making exploring the area easy and effortless. 

You’ll meet your guide at Rossio station and catch the train to Sintra, where you’ll have the option to visit the National Palace or spend most of the tour exploring the natural park of Sintra-Cascais. 

You’ll be visiting Quinta da Regaleira , known for its symbolism and mystery, and the 18th-century palace turned 5-star hotel, Seteais. 

From there, you’ll take in the stunning views of Monserrate Park and Palace and discover the charming village of Colares , known for its vineyards.

AMAZING tour!!! What a great experience riding electric bikes all the way to the highest point of Sintra (lovely views) and then crossing pretty towns. — CHARLIE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

For lunch, you’ll have a break at Azóia before continuing on to Peninha Sanctuary for panoramic views. 

End the tour with a final look at Pena Palace before returning to Lisbon through the beautiful town of Cascais. 

This Sintra bike tour is perfect for the adventurous soul regardless of activity level. 

17. From Lisbon: Sintra and Cascais Natural Park Private Tour

⭐️Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Check rates and availability

Take a journey to Sintra, the destination of choice for Portuguese royalty, and experience the unique atmosphere of its pristine Natural Park . 

As you ride from Lisbon to Sintra, marvel at Pena Palace, an architectural masterpiece in the European Romantic style . The next stop is Sintra Villa , before setting off to Roca Cape , the westernmost point in Europe. 

Our guide, Ligea was outstanding. Our guide tailored the tour to our interests. — MARK   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Then it’s time for a swim at beautiful Guincho Beach . You’ll end your day with a visit to Cascais–once a fishing village turned royal resort. Today is known as the Portuguese Riviera. 

This is an excellent Lisbon to Sintra day tour for those wishing to explore Portugal’s stunning historical and natural attractions. 

18. The Best of Sintra and Estoril Coast, Two Palaces and Pastry Tasting 

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰Tour time: 8 hours |  🏰 Ch eck rates and availability

Embark on a private full-day tour of Sintra and Cascais from Lisbon and explore two beautiful palaces while tasting delicious traditional pastries. 

Visit the picturesque Pena National Palace, stroll through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Sintra village and take in breathtaking ocean views at Cabo da Roca . 

Our trip was tailored to our needs, eliminating things we had done before, and incorporating things we hoped to do. — ELIZABETH   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

From there, you’ll head to Cascias. Here, you will have some free time to explore the charming coastal town before returning to Lisbon. 

Along this unique Sintra tour Lisbon, you will visit seven stops, including Casino Estoril, Centro Historico de Cascais, Boca do Inferno, Cabo da Roca, Sintra National Palace, Centro Historico de Sintra and Park and National Palace of Pena. 

Step into Portuguese tradition and culture with this unforgettable Lisbon and Sintra tour . 

19. Sintra Free Walking Tours | Free Tours Sintra

If you want to see the best of Sintra in half a day, this Sintra Free Tour is definitely the right choice.

This free walking tour Sintra is a great introduction to the region. You’ll learn more about the birth of Sintra, and its XIX-century romantic expansion and visit many of the major Sintra attractions . This Free tour Sintra also offers tour-goers dozens of local tips and plenty of things to do in Sintra once the tour is over. 

Remember that even though the Sintra walking tour may be free , entrance to many of the palaces is not. If you plan to visit any of the Sintra palaces, make sure to book tickets in advance, especially if you are coming during high season, as queues can be incredibly long.

Sintra Tours from Lisbon FAQ

Where is Sintra?

Sintra is located in the western part of Portugal, in the Greater Lisbon region.

What are some of the top attractions in Sintra?

Some of the top attractions in Sintra include the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Tapada Nacional de Mafra, and Castelo dos Mouros.

Is Sintra Portugal worth visiting?

Sintra is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque landscapes, historic palaces and castles, and charming villages. It is worth visiting for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and delicious local cuisine.

Note: We also have a Sintra Day Guide. Want to learn more? 👉 A Sintra Day Trip: Your Complete Guide .

Why is Sintra famous?

Sintra is famous for its beautiful palaces and castles, including the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is also known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, making it a popular tourist destination.

Which is better, Sintra or Cascais?

Sintra and Cascais are popular tourist destinations in Portugal but offer different experiences. Sintra is known for its historic palaces and castles, while Cascais is known for its beaches and coastal towns. It depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. However, there is also the option of taking a Cascais Sintra tour, which includes a stop in both locations. 

Is Sintra cooler than Lisbon?

Sintra offers a cooler climate than Lisbon due to its higher elevation and coastal proximity. The misty hillsides of Sintra make its weather much more changeable and unpredictable, with large fluctuations in temperature throughout the year. Expect sudden rain showers as well as sunshine. 

What should I wear in Sintra?

Sintra has a Mediterranean climate, so it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that can be layered. The temperature in Sintra can change in a minute. Be prepared for hot and cold temperatures and a lot of walking. Bring extra layers in your backpack or day bag.

What is the best way to explore Sintra?

The best way to explore Sintra is to take one of the many guided tours available. With knowledgeable local guides, you can learn about the history and culture of this remarkable destination while visiting its most impressive sites.

Is Sintra a day trip from Lisbon? 

Sintra is a popular day trip destination from Lisbon, as it is only a 30-40 minute train ride from the city center.

Is a day trip to Sintra worth it?

A day trip to Sintra is worth it. With its UNESCO-listed landscapes, historical palaces, estates, and natural park, it offers a unique and magical experience. However, there are many things to see in Sintra, so you won’t be able to see everything in just one day. It’s important to decide beforehand what you want to see, as you will only be able to enter one of the palaces. Make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly and prioritize the sights that interest you the most. This will help you make the most of your time in Sintra.

Can you do Sintra in half a day?

Can I do a Sintra half day tour? While it is possible to see some of the main sights in Sintra in half a day, it is recommended to spend a full day to fully appreciate the town and its surroundings fully.

Can you see Sintra without a tour?

Yes, you can explore Sintra on your own. Take a stroll through its cobbled streets and admire the beautiful architecture; visit some delightful gardens, such as Tapada Nacional de Mafra or Quinta da Regaleira; or hike up to Castelo dos Mouros for stunning views from above. However, if you are limited on time, it is recommended to do one of the many day tours to Sintra from Lisbon available. 

What do I need to know before going to Sintra?

Before visiting Sintra, it’s essential to be aware that the town is located on a hill, and many of the main palaces and sights are scattered around the hillside, making it difficult to explore on foot. It’s recommended to take a tour, a Sintra bus tour, or a tuk-tuk to get around. Additionally, it’s a good idea to research the different palaces and attractions beforehand to plan your visit and purchase tickets, as some places can get crowded.

What is the best day to go to Sintra?

The perfect days to visit Sintra are midweek, such as Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, to avoid the crowds of tourists from Lisbon cruise ships and locals on long weekends.

Is it easy to get to Sintra from Lisbon?

Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by train or bus. The train ride takes around 30 minutes, while the bus takes around 45 minutes. However, it may be a little tricker to see all palaces as they are located on a hill outside the main part of town. That is why Sintra tours from Lisbon are recommended. 

Can you get around Sintra without a car?

Yes, it is possible to get around Sintra without a car, but it can be a bit more challenging. The town of Sintra is relatively small and walkable, but the main palaces and attractions are located outside and scattered around a hill. While it is easy to get to Sintra by train from Lisbon, getting to the main palaces by foot can be difficult. The best option is to take a Sintra day trip tour, bus, or tuk-tuk to see the main sites. However, this will depend on your physical condition and the distance you are willing to walk.

Is Sintra a walkable city? 

Sintra is a small town, and most of the main sights can be reached by foot. However, some palaces and castles are on hills and may require a bit of uphill (strenuous) walking—nevertheless, Bus 434 runs from the castle to Sintra train station. You can buy a single ticket from the driver for 4 euros.

Should you buy Sintra tickets in advance?

It is recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for the more popular palaces such as Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, as they can get very crowded and it’s possible to wait in long lines. This way you can avoid waiting in long lines. 

How much is a taxi from Lisbon to Sintra?

The taxi cost from Lisbon to Sintra can vary, but it is generally around 30-40 euros.

Are there Buses in Sintra?

Many hop-on-hop-off bus tours include the Sintra Cascais Tour. The companies include Carristour Sintra tour (Carristur Sintra tour), Yellow bus Sintra tour, and Cityrama Gray Line Portugal .

Are there tuk tuks in Sintra Portugal?

Yes, there are tuk-tuks available in Sintra, Portugal. They can be a convenient way to get around the town and visit palaces and monuments, especially if you prefer not to walk or avoid crowds. Tuk-tuks are typically operated by private companies and can be booked in advance or on demand. Prices will vary depending on the company and distance traveled. There are also some Sintra tuk tuk tours available. 

How do I get from Sintra station to Pena?

To get from Sintra train station to Pena Palace, take the CP – Sintra line to reach the station. Once there, board bus number 434 or 516, which will take 25-30 minutes to reach the palace. This is the best way to get to the palace from the station. Another recommendation is to take a Sintra Pena Palace tour. 

Are there any activities for kids in Sintra?

Yes! Kids will love exploring Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais with its fun trails, playgrounds, and breathtaking landscapes. Or take them on a fantastic adventure at Moors Castle for an exciting day out.

Final Thoughts Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon

From the lush greenery of its natural parks to the stunning palaces and estates, Sintra is genuinely a magical corner of Portugal. Whether you visit on a private or small-group tour Sintra Portugal, by car, or on foot, you’ll be treated to a personalized and enriching experience. So which one of the Sintra tours from Lisbon did you like?

With so much to see and do in Sintra, it’s worth planning and deciding which sights and landmarks you want to prioritize. And remember to savor the local flavors, from wine tastings to traditional pastries, as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whether interested in history and culture or just taking in the breathtaking views, a day trip to Sintra is worth it. 

So pack your camera and get ready to discover why this corner of Portugal has captured the hearts of visitors for centuries.

Ready to go on a Sintra from Lisbon tour? Now you are all set with our Best Sintra Tours from Lisbon.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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Sintra Day Trip From Lisbon: The Best Sintra Tours, 1-Day Itinerary & Essential Tips!

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

Need help planning a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon? You’ve come to the right place!

Sintra is considered a must on any Portugal itinerary, and it’s easy to see why. It’s the home to many gorgeous and unique castles, which make it one of the most interesting places to visit in Portugal.

Being only a 45-minute journey away from Lisbon, most travellers visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon.

Whilst a day trip might not be enough time to see everything Sintra has to offer, it will be enough to see the highlights and get a taste for this incredible Portuguese city.

If you’re planning a Lisbon to Sintra day trip, this is the guide for you! In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about doing a day trip to Sintra.

After my own personal experience day tripping to Sintra, I have included information on the best ways to get there, the most important sights you must see, where to stay and some local insider tips.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover everything you need to know to plan your own Sintra itinerary and day trip.

• 1 About Sintra & its castles
• 2.2 By public transport
• 2.3 With a Lisbon to Sintra tour
• 3 One thing you MUST do before your Sintra day trip
• 4.1 Palacio Nacional da Pena
• 4.2 Castle of the Moors
• 4.3 Sintra Old Town
• 4.4 Quinta da Regaleira
• 4.5 Sintra National Palace
• 5 Estimated cost for a Lisbon to Sintra day trip
• 6 Is doing a day trip to Sintra worth it?
• 7 Where to stay for a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon
• 8 What to pack for one day in Sintra

Exploring Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

About Sintra & its castles

Sintra is both a town and municipality in the Greater Lisbon region of Portugal. The town of Sintra is located close to the Sintra Mountains, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal.

With its Romanticist architecture, royal palaces, historic villas and castles, it’s easy to see why. The whole town is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which only makes it even more popular.

Sintra has lived through a long and tortuous history, which to this day is reflected in the castles and streets of the town.

From the Moorish Castle, which dates back to the 9 th – 6 th centuries BC, to Pena National Palace being the seat of Portuguese monarchy, there is a rich history in Sintra, just waiting to be discovered.

The castle walls of Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal

How to get from Lisbon to Sintra

There are multiple ways to get to Sintra from Lisbon , each with its own pros and cons.  

Especially if you’re doing a longer Portugal road trip , you might be tempted to simply drive to Sintra. Having done this myself, it’s actually the option I recommend the least.

You won’t be able to drive to the actual castles, as traffic in the area is limited to local residents, plus even if you were able to there is very limited parking, which makes it very hard to accommodate for the huge numbers of tourists that visit Sintra every day.

Exploring the Romantic palace of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal

It can be very hard also to find parking in Sintra city centre. Your best bet is to head for this huge parking area , where you can leave your car all day for free, although it won’t be monitored.

From there it’s a 5-10 minute walk to Sintra train station, where you can get the tourist bus number 434. It’s like a hop-on hop-off bus tour, where for 10 EUR per day you can get on and off as many buses you want.

The bus number 434 touches all the main stops like Pena National Palace, Castle of the Moors and Sintra Old Town. If you want to head to other parts of Sintra you can use the same ticket for the other tourist bus routes.

So even if you drive to Sintra and have your own car, you will still have to pay for the tourist bus to visit the castles.

The distinctive architecture and colours of Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

By public transport

Given that you will have to take the tourist bus anyway if you want to visit the castles independently, this is actually a great option.

There are trains more or less every 30 minutes from Lisbon, which take approximately 40 minutes to arrive in Sintra. Simply hop on a train to Sintra, and once there jump on bus number 434 to visit all that Sintra has to offer.

The tourist bus runs very regularly throughout the day (every 5-10 minutes) and only takes around 15 minutes to reach Pena National Palace from Sintra train station.

The view over Sintra and the countryside as seen from the Moorish Castle

With a Lisbon to Sintra tour

If you’ve read my blog before you know I’m not a huge fan of organised tours. I’m more of a “let’s get there and figure it out” sort of person.

Which is exactly what we did in Sintra, and although it was still a great day, it was a bit more stressful than it needed to be.

Sintra might be one of the few tourist destinations where doing an organised tour will save you time, effort and even money.

Guided tours from Lisbon will usually include pick-up and drop-off, eliminating the hassle of driving, finding parking, paying for parking or train travel.

They usually also include entrance to the castles, so you don’t have to pay for them separately.

Wandering around the cute streets of Sintra Old Town

Some tours even have skip-the-queue privileges, which will save you loads of time, especially in high season. Having seen how busy Sintra was in mid-August, I would recommend doing an organised Sintra day trip tour.

Here are some Sintra tours with excellent reviews:

From Lisbon: Sintra Highlights Full-Day Tour   – As the name suggests, this Lisbon to Sintra day trip covers all the main highlights; Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace, Sintra town, Pena Palace and the Sintra mountains!

Lisbon: Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Daytrip – This day trip doesn’t do as many stops in Sintra, but it will take you to explore Cabo da Roca and Cascais, two other beautiful destinations!

Sintra – Cascais: 6-Hour Electric Bike Tour from Lisbon – Discover all the highlights of Sintra and Cascais, while also getting in your vacation workout!

Check out prices & availability for your Sintra Highlights day trip below!

One thing you MUST do before your Sintra day trip

If you’re visiting Sintra independently you will have to purchase your own entrance tickets to the palaces. I 100% recommend buying them online beforehand.

You don’t necessarily have to buy them loads of time beforehand (although this might be preferable in high season). You can also buy them on the day like we did, just make sure to have them before reaching the castles you want to visit.

At the entrance of most castles you will find three queues; one for the ticket office, one for the automated ticket kiosks, and one for online ticket holders. Guess what those queues looked like?

Almost non-existent for online ticket holders, versus the absolutely gigantic queues for both the ticket kiosks and ticket office. I’m not kidding when I say some people spend 1+ hours queuing just to get tickets (and that’s for every castle)!

Enjoying the view over Sintra from the walls of the Moorish Castle

Especially if you’re visiting Sintra on a day trip , to me that seems like a silly way to spend your time. Plus, if you purchase tickets online you get 5% off! You save time and money, seems like a no brainer to me!

You can purchase Sintra tickets online here:

Pena Palace and Park Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entrance – Purchase it here!

Castle of the Moors Fast Track Ticket – Purchase it here!

National Palace of Sintra and Gardens Fast Track Ticket – Purchase it here!

Sintra National Palace and part of Sintra Old Town as seen from the Moorish Castle walls

Sintra 1-day itinerary – Best things to see

There are loads of castles in Sintra, and they are all simply gorgeous. However if you only have one day in Sintra, you have to be realistic about how much you can see.

Taking into account enough time to properly see each castle and travel time between places, you will probably have time to see three, maximum four castles.

I have listed below the most popular attractions in Sintra, which are also the ones we visited during our day trip and that I can recommend.

Click here to book your Sintra highlights day trip,  or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The view over the Portuguese countryside and sea from the Pena Palace walls

Palacio Nacional da Pena

With its bright yellow and red façade, Pena Palace is not only one of the most famous attractions in Sintra, but probably all of Portugal. It features on every Portugal bucket list, and it’s easy to see why.

Pena Palace is a Romanticist castle, which stands tall on top of a hill and above Sintra town.

It was one of the main residences of the Portuguese royal family during the 19 th century, and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.  

Purchase your Pena Palace skip-the-line ticket here!

Getting up close to the gorgeous architecture of Palacio Nacional da Pena in Sintra, Portugal

The epic views from Palacio Nacional da Pena in Sintra, Portugal

When you purchase the ticket online it will give you the option of purchasing entrance only or entrance with shuttle bus (for an extra 3 EUR).

This is a little bus that will take you from the Pena Park gates up to the actual castle doors.

The road isn’t long, but it’s very steep. If you have mobility issues you might want to consider taking the shuttle bus, which runs constantly throughout the day.

Another important thing to know is that once you enter the park gates, as you get closer to the actual Pena Palace, you will likely find a huge queue leading up to the castle.

Walking on the castle walls of Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

This is the queue to get inside the actual palace rooms, not just the palace! Given we had limited time we decided to skip the palace interior, and just explore the exterior instead.

Personally, I think it’s the more interesting part anyway. You can walk on the castle walls and through the courtyards, exploring the rooftops and battlements, taking in the gorgeous countryside views.

Getting up close to this unique and colourful architecture is what was special for me, and I’d rather do that than spend 1+ hour queuing to see palace rooms.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for a Sintra highlights day trip!

The distinctive architecture of Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

The distinctive architecture of Pena National Palace in Sintra

Castle of the Moors

Located 850 metres and a short 15-minute walk away from Pena Palace, you will find the Castle of the Moors. In my opinion, this castle doesn’t get anywhere near the credit that it deserves.

Built on top of a hill by the Moors in the 8 th and 9 th centuries, during the period of Muslim Iberia, and it was an important strategic point during medieval wars.

It was probably my favourite castle that we saw during our Sintra day trip. This because of the unique historical architecture, the gorgeous views, and the considerably smaller tourist crowds.

Purchase here your fast track entrance to Castle of the Moors!

Castle of the Moors as seen from Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Enjoying the views from the castle walls of Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal

You can walk on the castle walls, relax in the courtyard and explore the gardens.

From the castle walls you will be able to take in an epic 360° view over Sintra, Pena Palace and the surrounding countryside, all the way to the sea.

Many day trip visitors skip it, as it’s not amongst the most famous castles of Sintra, but in my opinion it’s a must-see.

Check out the best Lisbon to Sintra day trips here!

Exploring Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal

Sintra Old Town

After visiting these two castles we hopped back onto the tourist bus, and let it take us to Sintra Old Town. Having heard so much about the castles but so little of Sintra, I wasn’t expecting to find such a cute town centre.

The Old Town centre is fairly small, and you can easily explore it on foot. Get lost in the quaint streets of Sintra, taste a delicious pastel de nata and take a quick break from all the castles of Sintra!

Wandering the streets of Sintra Old Town in Portugal

Quinta da Regaleira

From Sintra Old Town it’s a short 15-minute walk to Quinta da Regaleira, or you can take one of the other hop-on hop-off bus routes.

While the name of Quinta da Regaleira might not ring any bells for you, I’m sure this picture of the Initiation Well does.

Quinta da Regaleira isn’t officially part of the Parques de Sintra, but it’s still classified as a World Heritage Site within the “Cultural Landscape of Sintra”.

It’s composed by a Romantic palace and chapel, as well as a luxurious park with grottos, lakes and fountains, all designed by the Italian architect Luigi Manini.

The palace of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra

Exploring the gardens of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal

I was surprised to discover how much Quinta da Regaleira had to offer. Like most people I had only seen photos of the Initiation Well online, and I had no idea there was such a beautiful park and other buildings connected to it.

We spent over an hour walking around the park, taking in the unique architecture, the peaceful gardens and famous sights. Be prepared to queue to enter the Initiation Well if you’re visiting in high season.

Overall Quinta da Regaleira surprised us, and it was amongst our favourite stops of our Sintra day trip.

The famous Initiation Well in Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra

Sintra National Palace

We didn’t personally visit Sintra National Palace as we were short on time and it didn’t massively interest us. However many travellers recommend it as one of the main Sintra highlights.

Since it’s located in the main square by Sintra Old Town, next to the bus stop that will take you back to the train station, you can decide whether to visit it depending on how you feel after the previous three castles.

Click here to book your Sintra day tour from Lisbon!

Estimated cost for a Lisbon to Sintra day trip

Most Sintra day tours are priced around 60 EUR. Here is a breakdown of what I paid for one day in Sintra by doing it independently.

Entrance to Park and National Palace of Pena: 13.30 EUR

Entrance to Moorish Castle: 7.60 EUR

Entrance to Quinta da Regaleira: 10 EUR

Ticket for the 434 hop-on hop-off bus: 10 EUR

Total: 40.90 EUR

Add to that petrol for driving there, all day parking if you’re unable to find free parking, or a Lisbon return train ticket if you’re not driving and you can see that the prices are fairly similar.

Plus if you do a Sintra tour from Lisbon you’ll have someone driving you around all day and telling you about the history of the places you’re seeing, without having to worry about organising or where to go next.

Don’t miss out, book your Sintra highlights tour here!

The Moorish Castle walls and Pena National Palace in the distance

Is doing a day trip to Sintra worth it?

Before visiting, I had heard mixed things about Sintra. It ranged from people saying it was the highlight of their Portugal itinerary to others saying it felt like a fake town built for tourists.

My thoughts on Sintra lie somewhere in between. While the castles of Sintra were undoubtedly very cool, and very different from anything else I’d ever seen, they did at times feel like purely tourist attractions.

This feeling was probably heightened by the fact I visited Portugal in peak high season, and Sintra was by far the busiest place we visited during our trip.

It’s by far the most popular day trip from Lisbon , with other famous destinations like Evora , Nazaré , Obidos and Ericeira receiving considerably less tourists (in our experience anyway).

Looking up from the bottom of the famous Initiation Well in Sintra, Portugal

Pena Palace was our least favourite stop. Despite its unique architecture and colours, it was just a little too crowded and it felt too much like something built purely to attract tourists.

Quinta da Regaleira was a pleasant surprise. We went to see the Initiation Well, and found a whole palace and park surrounding it.

We were also amazed by Castle of the Moors. It has more history than Pena Palace, and it offered awesome 360° views.

Overall I would still recommend visiting Sintra, just make sure to go beyond Pena Palace. While it might be touristy, it’s one of the most famous cities in Portugal, and there’s a reason for it.

The recognisable architecture of Pena National Palace in Sintra  

Where to stay for a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon

The best place to stay in Lisbon to visit Sintra will depend on whether you have to drive there or take a train. If you choose an organised tour it won’t matter, as they will usually pick you up at your hotel.

I have listed below some accommodation options in Lisbon for every budget.

Budget: Lisbon Destination Hostel – Located inside Rossio Train Station this hostel is perfect for those taking the train to Sintra. The hostel has a very cool interior common area, and offers both dorms and private rooms.

Click here to book your stay at Lisbon Destination Hostel!

Mid-range: This Is Lisbon Hostel – This hostel is a little more expensive, as it has a gorgeous rooftop where you can eat breakfast while taking in the views over Lisbon.

Click here to see prices and availability at This Is Lisbon!

Luxury: Lisboa Pessoa Hotel –  If you want to treat yourself, this is the perfect place to do so. With their spacious rooms and gorgeous rooftop terrace, it’s the perfect place to relax after a Sintra day tour.

Book your stay at Lisboa Pessoa Hotel here!

The view from the rooftop of This Is Lisbon hostel

What to pack for one day in Sintra

Being a city and a fairly popular tourist destination, there isn’t really much you need to bring to Sintra. If you forget anything, you’ll likely be able to buy it there.

That said, beyond the usual travel essentials here are some things I recommend you don’t forget.

Camera – Given how beautiful these castles are, you want to make sure you capture them in all their beauty!

Reusable water bottle – Especially if you end up walking from one castle to the next, bring a bottle you can refill and ensure you stay hydrated.

Walking shoes – During our day in Sintra we ended up walking 13.4km and 20,349 steps. Make sure you have comfortable shoes!

View over the Moorish Castle and the Sintran countryside

Final thoughts on the best Sintra day trips from Lisbon  

There you have it, the ultimate Sintra day trip guide! Have you been to Sintra before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

In this guide I tried to include everything you need to know about doing a Lisbon to Sintra day trip. From the logistics on how to get there and estimated prices to my personal thoughts on what is worth seeing.

With my Sintra 1-day itinerary I tried to outline what you can realistically expect to see during one day in Sintra. Overall, despite the huge crowds, I still think Sintra is worthy of a visit.

The castles are truly stunning, as well as incredibly different one from the other. By spending even just one day in Sintra you will see so many diverse types of architecture, landscapes and history.

For a smoother experience, you can also do an organised Lisbon to Sintra day tour .

Check out prices and availability for a Lisbon to Sintra day tour here!

The chapel and palace of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra

I hope you find my Sintra day trip guide useful in planning your day trip to Sintra! If you have any questions about visiting Sintra, just let me know in the comments below.

Looking for more Portugal travel guides? Check out my other articles here !

• How to spend 10 days in the Azores
• Everything you need to know about hiking in the Azores
• 10 best things to do in Sao Miguel, Azores
• Best things to do in Terceira Island, Azores
• The best whale watching tours in the Azores
• The best Algarve 5-day itinerary
• 13 beaches you must visit in the Algarve
• Benagil Sea Cave – Ultimate guide & honest review
• A perfect Porto 1-day itinerary

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From Lisbon to Sintra: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Paul Bernhardt Mar 8, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

An excursion to Sintra is a must-do day trip on any Lisbon travel itinerary .

Enjoying a stunning setting among the wooded ravines and rippling, granite-daubed mountains that rise north within sight of the Portuguese capital, Sintra casts a magical spell over everybody who ventures into this fairy-tale land.

The destination, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a veritable storybook of extravagant pastel-hued palaces, spooky Gothic mansions, and luxuriant landscaped parks and gardens.

Lending charm and character to Sintra's Old Town is a narrow maze of attractive 200-year-old townhouses, quaint cafés, some excellent restaurants, and an enticing collection of artisan stores and boutiques.

The historic center sits at the foothills of the verdant Serra de Sintra, a surreal landscape of moss-colored boulders scattered under a canopy of pine and eucalyptus. Here, birdsong is carried on the soft-scented Atlantic breezes that caress the region, a cool and refreshing microclimate that makes Sintra a perfect summertime excursion destination.

But this bewitching oasis has an evergreen allure and is worthy of exploration anytime of year.

So, what's the best way of reaching what the English 19 th -century romantic poet Lord Byron described as a "glorious Eden?" Well, depending on your budget, travel style, and timeframe, there is a transportation option to suit everybody.

On This Page:

• From Lisbon to Sintra by Train
• From Lisbon to Sintra by Tour
• From Lisbon to Sintra by Bus
• From Lisbon to Sintra by Car

1. From Lisbon to Sintra by Train

The most convenient and inexpensive way of reaching Sintra from Lisbon is by train out of the city's central Rossio railway station.

Located in Lisbon's historic center, Rossio railway station is easily recognized by its ornate late-19 th -century façade with two Moorish-style horseshoe arches.

The terminal stands opposite the neoclassical Teatro Nacional de Dona Maria II, and is close to the tourist districts of Baixa, Alfama, and Chiado.

Planning a journey by train from Rossio to Sintra is straightforward.

There are multiple daily departures roughly every half hour (hourly on Saturday and Sunday). Journey time is 40 minutes and while not terribly scenic - the route snakes through a rather drab suburban landscape - the trains are comfortable and efficient.

Tickets and seats cannot be pre-booked. Instead, you must purchase a ticket, a reusable smartcard called Viva Viagem , either from one of the counters in the departure hall, or by using an automated ticket-issuing machine, which features onscreen instructions in English, French, and Spanish. There are no reductions for a return ticket.

Passengers must validate their tickets by scanning them at the electronic boarding gate before proceeding onto the train. Failure to do so may result in a hefty fine.

Upon arrival, the walk from Sintra railway station to the historic neighborhood takes around 15 minutes and follows a road that affords picturesque views over the Palácio Nacional de Sintra and surrounding countryside.

Tourists can also reach Sintra by train from Estação do Oriente, a major railway station and public transport hub located at Parque das Nações, in the east of the city.

The station is especially useful for visitors traveling from the airport by metro: they can change at Oriente and take an onwards train to Sintra, a journey time of about 47 minutes.

The Oriente-Sintra service runs a similar number of departures as the Rossio-Sintra option, and ticket prices are the same.

A comprehensive timetable and detailed pricing policy covering both services is posted on the Comboios de Portugal (CP) website .

Note that the Lisbon-Sintra connection is a busy commuter service. Trains stop at several stations en route, and there's no reason to alight at any of them except for one: Queluz-Belas.

Queluz is the location of the impressive 18 th -century Palácio Nacional de Queluz, the palatial former home of Queen Maria I.

The gilded and mirrored staterooms and magnificent formal gardens make for rewarding exploration and are certainly worth breaking up the journey for. If you do so, bear in mind that you'll need to purchase another ticket to complete the trip to Sintra.

2. From Lisbon to Sintra by Tour

A pleasant and hassle-free alternative to using the train is to opt for a packaged tour to Sintra, especially if there are other things you may want to see along the way.

Joining a packaged tour takes all the effort out of reaching your destination.

With someone else responsible for designing the itinerary and planning the journey, tourists can relax and enjoy a more immersive travel experience.

Very often the cost of a tour includes convenient round-trip transportation to and from your hotel, the services of an expert guide, ticket entry to major sites, as well as lunch.

It's worth considering a tour that includes easy and efficient access to Palácio Nacional da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira, two of Sintra's top visitor attractions .

A small group tour from Lisbon does just that. Besides ticking off Sintra's UNESCO-listed highlights, travelers are free to explore the town's historic quarter, a cluster of predominantly 19 th -century properties set along terraced streets and winding alleys.

This full-day tour takes full advantage of Sintra's enviable location by also taking in one of the region's most impressive natural wonders, the nearby Cabo da Roca. Flanked by huge granite boulders and vertiginous windblown cliffs, this is mainland Europe's most westerly point. Portugal's revered poet, Luís de Camões, declared in his epic Os Lusíadas that this is where "land ends and sea begins."

This picturesque excursion continues by following the coast south towards the resort town of Cascais. Here, travelers can indulge in a spot of shopping or enjoy a sunny interlude on the beach before being driven back to Lisbon.

3. From Lisbon to Sintra by Bus

There are no direct bus services from central Lisbon to Sintra.

However, there is regular public transport between Sintra and Cascais on urban Scotturb buses approximately once per hour during the day. You'll find Cascais bus station located on Avenida Costa Pinto.

Routes serve residential areas, and journey times can take anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes.

If you're based in Lisbon and want to visit Cascais and afterwards Sintra, consider purchasing a one-day train and bus travel card. It's valid for unlimited journeys on the day of purchase and can be used on the Cascais and Sintra railway lines, and on all Scotturb buses. Passengers can hop on and hop off during any stage of their journey. More details are found on the CP website.

It's worth noting that the 434 Scotturb Sintra tourist bus connects the town railway station with the town center, Palácio Nacional de Pena, and the Moorish Castle.

Another bus, the 435, goes to the Regaleira and Monserrate palaces.

4. From Lisbon to Sintra by Car

The route from Lisbon to Sintra follows the IC19 highway and, later on, the A16 motorway, west out of the city. What is usually a 30-minute journey by car often takes longer during rush hours - both the IC19 and A16 are major commuter arteries in and out of the capital.

While hiring a car undoubtedly offers tourists more freedom and flexibility in planning their journey, driving to Sintra is not recommended unless absolutely necessary.

Sintra is busy at the best of times, but parking in the summer months is very limited. At weekends, it's virtually impossible. Roads into the historic center are mostly one-way and very narrow, and there are only two modest-sized car parks serving the area.

If you do drive, visit early during the week and look for a place to park in Sintra's modern town, about 1.5 kilometers to the east.

Lisbon has a plethora of car rental agencies, from the airport to locations throughout the city.

Hiring a car online with a pickup at the airport is the most convenient method of securing a vehicle. Remember also that most reception desks at upscale hotels have contacts with national and international car rental companies. Be sure to read the small print, double-check insurance details, and inquire about any extra fees and hidden costs.

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Sintra – Your Essential Guide to a Perfect Day Trip from Lisbon

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Sintra, a captivating town nestled in the hills northwest of Lisbon, is a magnet for visitors. This guide focuses on providing you with all the information you need to plan a hassle-free day trip from Lisbon to Sintra.

Why Sintra?

Sintra boasts a rich history as a royal retreat, which is evident in its stunning palaces, castles, and estates. Immerse yourself in the charm of:

• Breathtaking Views:  Sintra boasts stunning panoramic vistas from its hilltop location.
• Architectural Gems:  Explore the vibrant Romantic architecture of Pena National Palace or discover other architectural styles throughout the town.
• Royal History:  Immerse yourself in Portuguese history by visiting the palaces built as summer retreats for royalty.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article!

The top-rated day tour from Lisbon is the Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais Tour, which has a 4.9/5 rating.

Can You See It All in a Day?

Yes! Sintra is easily accessible from Lisbon by train, with a travel time of approximately 45 minutes. This guide provides tips for maximizing your day trip:

• Beat the Crowds:  Catch an early morning train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to enjoy a more peaceful exploration.
• Suggested Itinerary:  The guide outlines a user-tested itinerary, including must-see attractions like Pena National Palace and opportunities to indulge in Sintra’s famous Travesseiro pastries.
• Planning Resources:  Links to official websites for train schedules, attraction opening hours, and ticket prices will be included for further planning

Getting There: Easy Breezy

Reaching Sintra from Lisbon is a breeze! Here are your options:

• Train:  The most popular choice, with frequent departures from Lisbon’s Rossio Station and a travel time of around 45 minutes.
• Bus:  A budget-friendly option with connections from various points in Lisbon. Research journey times and schedules for the best fit.
• Car:  Offers flexibility for exploring beyond Sintra. Consider factors like parking availability and potential tolls before deciding.
• Private Transfer:  A convenient option for a personalized experience.

Planning Your Perfect Sintra Day Trip:

This guide will equip you with a user-tested itinerary suggestion, highlighting must-see attractions and including estimated travel times.

Additional Considerations:

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our private Sintra tour

Making the choice:, additional tips:, recommendation:, bus 434 (sintra):, where is sintra portugal.

Top Picks for an Enchanting Sintra Day Trip:

Sintra, a captivating town in the hills near Lisbon, boasts a wealth of historical and natural attractions. This guide highlights some must-see sights you can experience on a day trip, ensuring you maximize your Sintra adventure.

Pena National Palace:

Undoubtedly, Sintra’s crown jewel, Pena National Palace , is a vibrant example of Romantic architecture. Explore the extravagant palace perched atop a hill and wander the surrounding Pena Park, a 200-hectare expanse designed by King Ferdinand II. Cruz Alta , the park’s highest point, offers breathtaking panoramic views.

Quinta da Regaleira:

This enigmatic estate features a captivating mix of architectural styles and intricate gardens. Explore the five-story manor and delve into the mystical world of the gardens, where grottos, wells, and symbols linked to ancient secret societies like the Knights Templar create a sense of wonder.

Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros):

Step back at this 9th-century castle, initially built by the North African Moors. Though partially ruined due to earthquakes and neglect, the castle offers stunning views and a glimpse into Portugal’s past.

Sintra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra):

This well-preserved Sintra National Palace , dating back to the 14th century, is considered the finest example of medieval royal architecture in Portugal. Explore its intricate details and learn about its role as a former royal residence.

Sintra Old Town:

Charming and picturesque, Sintra’s old town is a delight to explore. Stroll along cobbled streets lined with traditional houses and shops, soak in the local atmosphere, and enjoy a delicious meal at a cozy cafe.

Planning Your Sintra Day Trip:

• Research and prioritize:  With limited time, decide which attractions are most interesting for you.
• Consider an itinerary:  While this guide provides suggestions, tailor your trip to fit your interests and pace.
• Check official websites:  Find up-to-date information on opening hours, ticket prices, and accessibility for each attraction.
• Tickets:   Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid wait times.
• Comfortable shoes:  Exploring Sintra often involves walking on uneven terrain and hills, hence the need for comfortable shoes .
• Weather:  Be prepared for changeable weather, especially during spring and fall.

Let’s find the best options on how to get to Sintra from Lisbon

There are so many options for getting to Sintra from Lisbon, and it will all depend on your confidence in travelling and the amount of time you have.

Exploring Sintra with Ease: The Benefits of Organized Tours

While navigating public transport or driving yourself are options, organized tours from Lisbon offer a convenient and hassle-free way to visit Sintra. Here’s why a tour might be the perfect choice for you:

Convenience:

• Skip the Commute:  No need to worry about navigating public transport or finding parking in Sintra. Tours typically include pick-up and drop-off at your Lisbon accommodation.
• Expert Guidance:  Benefit from a knowledgeable guide who can share historical insights and interesting facts throughout the journey.

Efficiency:

• Pre-Booked Tickets:  Avoid long queues by having entrance fees to key attractions like Pena National Palace already included in the tour price.
• Streamlined Experience:  Tours usually offer a well-organized itinerary, maximizing your time in Sintra and ensuring you see the must-see sights.

Variety and Customization:

• Tour Options:  Choose from half-day or full-day tours, some even with add-ons like visits to nearby towns or meals.
• Expertise Tailored to Your Interests:  Several tour companies offer Sintra tours, so you can find one that caters to your specific interests, whether history, architecture, or hidden gems.

Here, you will find some of the highest-rated day tours from Lisbon to Sintra.

Lisbon: Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Tour

Discover Sintra with a full-day guided tour departing from Lisbon. Explore the magic, see the colours, and learn the history of Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon with a guide. See the stunning Pena Palace and its gardens and enjoy views of Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and the coast.

The Tour Includes:

• Transportation by air-conditioned minivan
• Entry ticket to Pena Palace and gardens
• Souvenir photo gift
• Digital recommendation maps
• Spotify playlists
• First aid kit
• Rated 4.9/5, the top-rated Sintra tour .

Book this unforgettable Sintra tour today and experience it for yourself .

Escape Lisbon and go on a full-day, guided journey to some of Portugal’s most popular locations

8-Hour Sintra Tour

Discover one of the most special palaces in Europe, just near Lisbon. Visit the Pena Palace, explore the colourful streets of the Sintra, and pass the Estoril coast with its beautiful beaches.

• The day is an all-day event in Sintra lasting 8 hours.
• There is no need to worry about how to get to Sintra from Lisbon. There is a hotel pick-up.
• Guide in Spanish, English, Portuguese
• Explore Sintra with a driver/guide.
• Explore the National Palace of Queluz.
• Take a walk around the centre of Sintra
• Stop at the Quinta de Monserrate and Quinta da Regaleira
• Take in the picturesque village of Cascais
• Head Back to Lisbon via the Estoril coast
• Avoid the long queues at Sintra with a tour
• Overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on reviews

Book now for an exclusive journey through the enchanting sights of Pena Palace.

Pamper Yourself: Exploring Sintra with a Private Transfer

For a luxurious and stress-free day trip to Sintra, consider booking a private transfer from Lisbon. Here’s what this option offers:

Unmatched Comfort and Convenience:

• Direct Pickup:  Relax as your driver picks you up directly from your Lisbon hotel or designated location.
• Scenic Journey:  Enjoy the beautiful landscape on the way to Sintra and learn local insights from your driver.

Flexibility and Freedom:

• Roundtrip or One-Way:  Choose a roundtrip transfer with a pre-arranged pick-up time in Sintra, or opt for a one-way transfer if you plan to return to Lisbon by another method.
• Personalized Itinerary:  With a private driver at your disposal for the day (optional), you have the freedom to customize your Sintra exploration at your own pace.
• Roundtrip Convenience:  This option ensures a stress-free return to Lisbon after your Sintra adventure.
• Driver as Guide:  Upgrading to a driver who stays with you in Sintra offers additional insights and local knowledge throughout the day.

Lisbon to Sintra by Train: A Hassle-Free Journey

The train is a popular and convenient way to travel from Lisbon to Sintra for your day trip adventure. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

The Journey:

• Frequent Departures:  Trains depart from Lisbon’s Rossio Station roughly every 10-30 minutes, running from 6:00 am to 1:00 am daily.
• Travel Time:  The comfortable train ride takes approximately 40-44 minutes.
• Ticket Purchase:  Tickets can be conveniently purchased at ticket booths or self-service machines at Rossio Station.
• Cost-Effective:  A one-way ticket costs a budget-friendly €2.25.

Rossio Station:

• Historical Charm:  Enjoy the beauty of Rossio Station, a landmark building dating back to the 18th century.
• Convenient Location:  Situated just off Rossio Square, the station is easily accessible.

Sintra Train Station:

• End of the Line:  No need to worry about missing your stop, as Sintra is the last station on the route.
• Amenities:  The Sintra Train Station offers a small cafe for refreshments.
• Timetables:  Pick up a paper copy of the Lisbon to Sintra train timetable at Rossio Station for easy reference.
• Return Journey:  Timetables for returning to Lisbon are available at Sintra Train Station or on platforms.
• Sintra Green Card:  Consider purchasing a Sintra Green Card for a discounted package deal, including train travel, entrance fees to key attractions, and even bike rental options (although cycling might be challenging due to Sintra’s hilly terrain).

By following this guide, you can navigate your Lisbon to Sintra train journey with ease and enjoy a smooth start to your day trip adventure.

Should You Drive to Sintra? Exploring Alternative Options

While driving from Lisbon to Sintra appears straightforward on a map, many factors make it less than ideal for most visitors. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Travel Time:

• Google Maps Estimate:  While Google Maps might suggest a 30-minute drive, real-world conditions can significantly increase travel time.
• Realistic Expectations:  Traffic congestion can easily extend the journey to 45 minutes or even 2 hours, especially during peak season.

Challenges of Driving in Sintra:

• Narrow and Winding Roads:  Navigating Sintra’s narrow and winding roads can be stressful, especially for unfamiliar drivers.
• Limited Parking:  Finding parking near popular attractions can be a nightmare, with limited designated parking spaces and heavy competition for street parking.

Unless you’re a confident driver comfortable with narrow roads and limited parking, consider alternative transportation options like the train, a tour, or a private transfer. This will allow you to relax and focus on enjoying the beautiful scenery and historical sights of Sintra.

Freedom and Flexibility: Exploring Sintra with Taxis, Uber, and BlaBlaCar

While trains and organized tours offer a structured approach, taxis, Uber, and BlaBlaCar provide more flexibility for your Sintra day trip. Here’s a breakdown of each option:

• Convenience:  Taxis are readily available in Lisbon and offer a direct door-to-door service.
• Cost:  Expect to pay a premium, with fares exceeding €30 each way.
• Availability:  Similar to taxis, Uber offers a convenient on-demand option.
• Price Comparison:  Uber fares might be slightly lower than taxis, but surge pricing can occur during peak times.
• Cost-Effectiveness:  The most budget-friendly option, allowing you to carpool with other travelers.
• Limited Availability:  Rides might not always be available on your preferred schedule, and destinations can be less flexible.

If you are staying in Lisbon for a few days, we have a great article on 51 things to do with teenagers in Lisbon! >> Read it now .

Conquering Sintra’s Sights: Hassle-Free Transportation Option s

Exploring Sintra’s captivating attractions can be streamlined with the right transportation choices. Here are some convenient options to consider:

• Tourist Loop:  This convenient bus circles Sintra, stopping at all the major sights, making it ideal for day-trippers.

• Easy Connection:  Catch the bus right outside Sintra Train Station, perfect for those arriving by train.
• Key Attractions:  See the three main highlights in one day: Pena National Palace, the National Palace in the historic centre, and the Moorish Castle.
• Return to Lisbon:  The bus conveniently returns you to Sintra Train Station for your return journey.
• Frequency:  The bus runs approximately four times an hour, but be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season.
• Tip:  Line up right after exiting the train station. The bus stop is about 100 meters to the right.

Sintra: Weather Considerations for Your Day Trip

Here’s a consolidated response incorporating the weather information you provided:

Sintra’s Temperate Escape:

While Lisbon experiences hot summers, Sintra offers a welcome respite, often a few degrees cooler due to its inland location. This makes Sintra an ideal destination year-round, with pleasant weather for exploring its historical sites and natural beauty.

Seasonal Highlights:

• Pleasant Weather (May, June, September, October):  Enjoy warm to sunny days, perfect for outdoor exploration.
• Warmest Months (June, July, August):  Be prepared for potentially hot weather, especially if visiting Lisbon as well.
• Cooler Months (November to April):  Experience milder temperatures, ideal for sightseeing without the summer crowds.
• Rainiest Month (December):  If you dislike rain, consider planning your trip for another month.
• Driest Month (July):  Pack for warm weather and enjoy Sintra’s sunshine during this dry month.

Do you or your kids love adventure activities? Please read our latest article on 14 thrilling activities in Portugal

Distance and Location:

Sintra is conveniently located just 30 kilometres (approximately 19 miles) from Lisbon, making it a perfect day trip destination. Nestled between Lisbon and Cascais, Sintra offers a charming escape with its historical palaces, natural beauty, and cooler temperatures, especially during the hot summer.

• Check the latest weather forecast before your trip to pack accordingly.
• Bring layers if visiting during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) as temperatures vary.
• An umbrella or raincoat is always a good idea, especially in winter.

By considering these weather factors, you can confidently plan your Sintra day trip and ensure you’re packed for a comfortable and enjoyable exploration.

How far is Sintra from Lisbon?

Sintra is 30 kilometres away from Lisbon

Sintra lies slightly inland and sits between Lisbon and Cascais

Know Before You Go: Top Lisbon Travel Tips

Lisbon, a vibrant city steeped in history, is a popular European destination. Here are some essential tips to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip:

Finding Your Perfect Place to Stay:

• Variety of Options:  Lisbon offers many accommodation choices, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and family-friendly apartments.
• Consider Your Needs:  Traveling with Teen? An apartment might offer more flexibility. Solo traveller? A hostel could be a great way to meet other travellers.
• Research and Compare:  Use resources like Booking.com , TripAdvisor , and VRBO to compare prices and find a place that fits your budget and preferences.

Featured Accommodation Options:

• Luxury:   EPIC SANA : Upscale hotel with a rooftop infinity pool and modern amenities.
• Mid-Range:   HF Fenix Music : Themed hotel with a rooftop pool and soundproofed rooms.
• Budget:   Lisbon Destination Hostel: Social hostel with private rooms and common areas for relaxing and socializing.

Lisbon Apartments:

Luxury Seekers: Lisbon offers exceptional apartments through PLUM GUIDE , a platform known for stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. Perfect for discerning travellers or special occasions, these apartments create unforgettable stays.

• Home Away from Home:  Apartments offer a more spacious and independent living experience.
• Great for Families or Groups:  Perfect for groups or families who appreciate the extra space and flexibility.
• VRBO and Other Resources:   Search VRBO or similar platforms to find various apartment options in Lisbon.

• Planning is Key:  Start planning your trip well in advance, especially during peak season.
• Research Activities:  Lisbon offers a wealth of historical sites, museums, and cultural experiences. Research attractions that interest you and plan your itinerary.
• Consider a Lisboa Card :  This card offers free public transportation and discounts on attractions.

Getting to Lisbon: Your User-Friendly Guide

Lisbon is a vibrant European city with something to offer everyone. This guide focuses on helping you plan your trip to Lisbon by outlining the various ways to get there and navigate the city, considering different travel styles and needs.

How to Get There:

• Flying:  Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is a major hub with connections from all over the world. Airlines like TAP Portugal , EasyJet, Ryanair, and Vueling offer frequent flights.
• Bus:  For budget-conscious travelers, Flixbus offers affordable connections to Lisbon from many European cities.
• Train:  The main train stations, Rossio and Oriente, connect Lisbon to other Portuguese and European destinations. Omio is a great resource to find and book train tickets.
• Driving:  Lisbon is accessible by car. Rental car options are available at the airport and in the city. Consider factors like parking availability and potential tolls when deciding if this is the best option for you.

Tips for Different Travelers:

• Traveling with Teens:  Consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi hotspot to keep everyone connected. Renting a car might offer more flexibility if you plan on exploring outside the city.
• Traveling with Young Children:  Lisbon offers free public transportation for children under 5 when accompanied by an adult.

Getting Around Lisbon:

• Public Transportation:  Lisbon boasts a well-developed metro system , trams, and buses. You can purchase single tickets or a rechargeable metro card for extended stays.
• Lisboa Card:   This card offers free public transportation and discounts on attractions’ entrance fees.
• Currency:  The Euro is the official currency in Portugal. Consider using a travel card like Revolut for managing your money.
• Travel Insurance:  Medical emergencies can be expensive. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
• Staying Connected:  Pre-order a SIM card for your phone to avoid roaming charges and stay connected throughout your trip.

Remember: This guide is just a starting point. Research and customize your travel plans to fit your interests and budget.

We hope you can see that the options for getting to Sintra from Lisbon are not a big challenge. Anyone can accomplish it. Sintra Portugal is truly a magical place, and no trip to Lisbon and Portugal is complete without a visit to see the Sintra attractions.

We hope this article from Wyld Family Travel has inspired you to visit Portugal and Sintra. There are so many things to do in Sintra, and we are sure you will love them all. For more amazing ideas on where to holiday in Portugal, click through to our   Portugal Destination Guide page  for more brilliant inspiration.

More travel inspiration for your trip to Portugal

13 things to do in Lisbon with kids

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3 amazing day trips from Lisbon

21 thoughts on “Sintra – Your Essential Guide to a Perfect Day Trip from Lisbon”

Such a helpful post for anyone traveling in the region, and it made me want to head out to Sintra immediately. Beautiful photos too! 🙂

Sintra is well worth it if your in Lisbon

I have been seeing so many videos on youtube about Sintra, I so want to go. This is a very informative post. I would choose my own way as tours are too quick. I like to soak up the atmosphere.

I agree the train/bus combo would also be my pick. What an amazing yellow palace. Thanks for a comprehensive post on this.

If I’m traveling with my husband, I think we’d go with the car options. Although I do love train travel. Sintra looks like such a beautiful escape from Lisbon!

Thanks for the tips on the apartment accommodation. I’m always up for lodging in a great location. Sound like the card is the way to go as you get extra discounts. I haven’t been, but it is on my list!

May I know how to get tickets for bus 343?

Sintra might be the best day trip I ever had. Like a wonderland.

So much great info here, I’m hopefully heading to Lisbon next year for a wedding so will definitely consider a visit here! ?

Hi Katie. You are so lucky to be heading to Lisbon. It is one of my favourite places in the world and I hope we can make it back there too someday. I really hope you get out to Sintra on your trip and if you do go I’d love to hear if you used any of our tips while you were there. Thanks so much for leaving a comment and we hope you have a brilliant day…also pass on our best wishes to the happy couple!

So you offer a sinter tour from Lisbon cruise port?

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Great article, however you may want to change ‘Berlin’ a few times to ‘Lisbon’ ?

H Margo! I had no idea what you meant and had a look! Thanks so much for letting me know and I have fixed it up now. We appreciate your help. Bec and Family

Greetings! Quick question that’s completely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My website looks weird when viewing from my apple iphone. I’m trying to find a template or plugin that might be able to resolve this problem. If you have any recommendations, please share. Thank you!

Hi guys, Shoot Mark an email and he might be able to help you that way. Unfortunately, I am no good at that stuff. Bec

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Great article

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A Comparison of Sintra Tours from Lisbon

The beautiful and captivating town of Sintra in Portugal is the perfect day trip from the capital Lisbon. Here is a comparison of Sintra day tours from Lisbon. 

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

It may be mainland Europe’s westernmost capital city but Lisbon feels anything but poorly located. The Portugal capital has everything you could wish for at its doorstep, from beautiful beaches and resorts to mystic forests and hiking trails. There are also some incredible historic towns to visit on a day trip, arguably the most famous being Sintra. Found in the cooling hills of Serra de Sintra, this town and municipality is a one-time royal retreat and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with historic sites and impressive architecture, all surrounded by lush forests. Here is a comparison of Sintra day tours from Lisbon. 

From Lisbon: Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour

This is an action-packed full day tour, visiting Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point, and Cascais seaside town. At Sintra you will visit Pena Palace, a fine example of 19th-century Romanticism, and its opulent gardens, walk through the medieval streets and take in historic architecture. Then it’s off to Roca Cape before travelling along the Atlantic coast to Azenhas do Mar beach, with its natural rock pools. The last stop is in Cascais, a one-time holiday retreat for the royal family and the European aristocracy. This is a fantastic trip that combines the best man-made beauty of Portugal with the country’s most captivating natural wonders. From €56.95.

Book at Getyourguide.com

From Lisbon 3 Cities Fátima, Nazaré & Sintra Tour Full Day

This tour also fits a lot in to a full day. During nine hours you’ll get to see many different sides of Portugal, from the splendor of Sintra and its palace to the laid-back surfer culture of Nazaré. Also included with this trip is a stop at Fátima, home to a globally acclaimed Sanctuary and a revered pilgrimage site. The charming coastal village of Nazaré, where authentic traditions and surfers looking for the world’s biggest waves come together in harmony, is a great place to kick back. At Sintra there will be time to see the majestic palaces, lush gardens, and historic streets. Included in the tour is travel by minibus and ticket and guided tour of the exterior of the Palace of Pena and Park of Pena, plus a guided tour of Sítio da Nazaré. From €63.20.

Lisbon: Guided Day Tour of Sintra, Pena, Regaleira & Cascais

This full day tour aims to see as much as possible of Sintra, with visits to both the palace and the Quinta Da Regaleira. The latter is a 19th-century Gothic mansion located at the end of the historical centre of Sintra. The mansion combines Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish and Renaissance features and is filled with mysterious features inside and out. There are underground tunnels, intriguing fountains, and secret caves – this is certainly something not to miss. Included in the trip are the entry ticket to Pena Palace and gardens with guided tour; entry ticket to Quinta da Regaleira with guided tour (depending on the option chosen); Sintra walking tour; Cascais walking tour; and of course, a professional guide. From €79.

From Lisbon: Sintra and Cascais Private Tour

This is an eight-hour private day tour from Lisbon focusing on Sintra and stopping off at Cascais. While in Sintra you’ll see the town’s most iconic sights, including the Pena Palace and the fascinating Quinta da Regaleira. A nice local touch too – there is also time scheduled in to stop at a local cafe to sample some travesseiros de Sintra (traditional cake.) Then it’s on to Cascais and an opportunity to walk around this charming coastal resort. You’ll also get to see the view from Cabo da Roca, the western-most point in Europe, and have a stroll along Guincho Beach. Before returning to Lisbon there will be just enough time to witness the rocky formations of Boca do Inferno too. From €240 per group up to four. 

Lisbon: Tour to Sintra and Pena Palace

This is a good value half day tour that just visits Sintra – perfect if you are only in Lisbon for a short vacation. It’s a super small group, so feels a bit like a private tour, and you’ll get to tick off Sintra’s palaces and natural delights and be back to Lisbon in time for some afternoon shopping. Included is a stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off  too. It’s worth noting that admission to the palace at Sintra is not included so you’ll need to factor that in. From €49.00.

Book at Viator.com

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Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon: My Portuguese Fairy Tale Dream Come to Life

last Updated: March 2, 2024 Lisbon Portugal sintra

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Portugal and looking to take a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon? First of all – good choice! Secondly – I’m jealous (I wanna go back already!). Keep on reading for everything you need to know to plan the perfect Sintra day trip! Recommended Sintra itinerary included!

If you’re looking to explore royal palaces and stunning natural scenery (plus the cutest little medieval town), add a day trip to Sintra to your Portugal itinerary. It’s crazy popular for a reason! Not only is it majestic and ethereal, but easily one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. 

I fell head over heels for this magical fairy tale land, and I have a feeling you will too! Just imagine walking beneath the rainbow towers of Pena Palace , exploring the Gothic mansion of Quinta da Regaleira, and wandering all the lush gardens. Plus all the interesting architecture — I was in awe! Yes, you NEED to go! 

Sintra is where all my Portuguese fairy tale dreams came true – I spent the whole day amongst whimsical castles and extravagant villas, plus all those enchanting gardens! Expect dramatic cliffs, evergreen fairy tale forests, and a whole lotta uphill walking. From the moment I walked through the gardens of Peña, I was hooked!

You really need an entire day here, but with some advanced planning, your Sintra day trip will be absolutely amazing. One day will suffice, but understand you won’t be able to see and do everything in this charming little area. Read on for everything you need to know to plan the best one day Sintra itinerary!

Psst — it’s oh so easy; you can get straight from Lisbon to Sintra by train! But more on that later!

Planning a Day Trip to Sintra

What is Sintra?

First of all, what is Sintra exactly?! I know you probably heard of it when planning your Portugal itinerary (and if not, well, here ya go)! It’s gotta be one of the best day trips from Lisbon for a reason, right?!

Sintra is a municipality/area in Portugal, famous for its whimsical palaces (like the crazy-popular and colorful Pena Palace ), royal castles, 19th-century Romanticist architecture, historic estates and villas, and stunning natural scenery. There’s also ruins of a 10th century Moorish Castle! 

The sites are pretty spread out, so that’s why you really need an entire day. Especially if you wanna see the main highlights.

And it’s such a Portuguese gem! I highly recommend adding at least a day trip to Sintra to your much-longer Portugal itinerary – it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before!

Where is Sintra

Sintra is located high up in the mountains of Serra de Sintra — so yes, expect some stunning views! It’s super close to central Lisbon (Portugal’s capital city), only 15 miles or so northwest! So there’s really no reason not to go…

Because of its close proximity to Lisbon, most people day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. You can get there in a quick 35-40 minute drive from central Lisbon, but since parking is crazy challenging, taking the train or signing up for a guided day tour are the better options. Much more info below!

Note that the area is significantly further from other popular Portuguese towns and cities (a 3 hour drive from both Porto in northern Portugal and Lagos on the southern coast). 

Psst: Sintra actually encompasses a few parishes/towns – Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho, and São Pedro de Penaferrim. The palaces and castles are scattered throughout them. Everyone just calls this entire area Sintra!

How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon

While you can drive yourself to Sintra, most people opt for the train or go on a guided day tour. Both awesome options, but if you want the history behind all the glam, I found a guided tour to be super informative!

Psst – no matter what option you choose (train, tour, drive, Uber, etc), just know you’ll still need to get yourself to the castles themselves. More info on getting around Sintra below.

Option 1: Lisbon to Sintra by Train

Getting to Sintra via train is super easy, and super cheap! Trains leave from Rossio Station in Lisbon’s historic city center every 15-30 minutes or so (depending on time of year), and cost less than €5 round trip. It doesn’t get cheaper or more convenient than that! The trip from Lisbon to Sintra by train should take about 40 minutes or so.

• One-way train from Lisbon to Sintra: €2.25
• Roundtrip cost of train: €4.50 

You can also catch a train from Lisbon to Sintra via Lisbon’s Oriente Train Station. Note that Oriente Station is further from Lisbon’s city center and not as convenient if you’re staying in the main part of the city. 

Insider Tip: The ticket machines in Lisbon can get exceptionally busy at peak times, and you’ll most likely encounter a line. Bypass the long lines by getting a Via Viagen reloadable card ahead of time. You can simply tap and go (to validate your card) without even waiting on line to buy a ticket to Sintra!

These few minutes may mean accidentally missing the train (and getting to Sintra later than anticipated), so plan in advance especially if you’re visiting in the busy season!

On my way back to Lisbon from Sintra, the ticket machines were not working correctly. I could not buy a ticket without my Via Viagen card (which I stupidly left in my hotel room). Thankfully it all got sorted out, but if that happened in the morning on my way to Sintra, I would’ve wasted so much time.

IMPORTANT: Make sure you get off at the right stop – Sintra Station (Estação de Sintra)! Portela de Sintra (Estação Portela de Sintra) is immediately before this, and it’s easy to get confused! Just remember, the correct station for Sintra and all the palaces is Sintra Station (plus, it’s the last stop on the line so hard to miss).

Once you get to the train station in Sintra, you’ll be about a 15 minute walk to historical Sintra Town. However, I recommend you use the bus to go directly to your first palace of the day. Either Pena Palace , as it’s the most popular and therefore most crowded, or Quinta de Regaleira if you’re planning to visit Pena later on.

If you already bought your tickets to the castles and palaces, you’re ahead of the game (more info below). You’ll need to use the 434 and 435 buses to get to the castles themselves (Sintra is way bigger than you think).

Option 2: Sintra Day Trip Guided Tour

Does navigating the train and multiple buses sound super complicated or time-consuming? Would you rather have someone else (a Sintra expert!) drive you around (in AC!) while delving out interesting info about the palaces? Book yourself on a guided tour!

The first time I went to Sintra, I went myself via the train. I was with a bunch of friends and let’s just say we weren’t very time efficient. We saw one palace, and by the time we got to the second, we only had ½ hour until they were closing. Whoops! 

The second time I went, I chose a guided day tour and I saw SO much! We saw 4 palaces/castles (Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace and its exotic gardens, and Sintra National Palace), PLUS had some free time in Sintra Town for lunch. That’s practically unheard of! 

Here’s the EXACT tour I took . Know it was fast-paced and you won’t get to see each palace in detail, but it’s a great introduction to the area. The tour was such a good value (it was just $65; I’ve seen others going for around $90), and my guides were so helpful and knowledgeable! Highly recommend it! 

A disadvantage to any guided tour is that you’re on a strict timeline – you need to follow the group and can’t go off exploring every nook and cranny that looks interesting to you. But the guides know the best spots anyway! 

→ Book your Lisbon to Sintra Highlights Tour here ! We saw SO much!

If you’d rather combine a visit to Sintra with Cascais (such a cute beach town) and Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of Europe), there’s plenty of tours that do just that! I highly suggest at least a full ½ day exploring all the best things to do Cascais itself, but if you don’t have time in your Portugal itinerary for that, an add-on to Sintra is the next best thing!

Choose this tour to Sintra and Cascais if you wanna explore other areas of Portugal as well in one day. Just know you won’t have as much time to explore the palaces in Sintra themselves, but perfect if all you wanna see is Pena Palace!

Important : I should add that almost ALL day tours to Sintra do not include admission to the palaces/castles themselves. Our guides helped us book skip-the-line tickets to all palaces we were visiting, which was so helpful since we got to essentially cut the line!

You’ll need to pay for these separately (either paying for a ticket in advance – highly recommended, or by waiting in line at the individual palace ticket booths). Just something to keep in mind so you’re not surprised when your tour guide asks you to buy tickets and shell out more cash. 

Option 3: Drive from Lisbon to Sintra

Renting a car in Lisbon? You can drive to Sintra in 30 minutes or so, making it the fastest way to get there. BUT there are a bunch of negatives – which is why I honestly don’t recommend it. The roads are steep, windy, and narrow, parking can be crazy difficult (basically nonexistent), and the train is just too easy not to take. 

Plus, with all the guided day trip options, there’s really no reason to drive yourself. You don’t wanna waste half your day trying to find a parking spot (and ripping your hair out in the process). Guides know exactly where to park and some of the lots are actually only for tours. Do yourself a favor: take the train or book yourself on a guided day tour.

How to Get Around on Your Sintra Day Trip

Once you make your way to Sintra, you’ll instantly realize that everything is up in the hills. Thankfully there’s lots of options besides the obvious — walking. 

Walking in Sintra

Sintra is HUGE! So no matter what, you’ll be doing a ton of walking during your day trip to Sintra. There’s no way around it. But you can make your life easier by taking the bus, a tuk-tuk, uber/taxi, or on a guided day tour.

Technically, you can walk to all the castles and palaces in Sintra. But just remember – most of the palaces sit on top of giant hills. Looking at a map, Pena Palace and Sintra Station don’t seem to be terribly far (and they’re not). BUT you’ll need to walk up a STEEP 45-minute hill.

Don’t waste your precious time, especially since you’ve only got one day in Sintra! Use your time wisely – just take the bus.

There are a few instances where walking isn’t the most terrible idea:

• From Sintra Town to the National Palace of Sintra (about a 5 minute walk)
• From Sintra Train Station to Sintra Town (about a 10 minute walk)
• From Pena Palace to Castle of the Moors (about a 15 minute walk)
• From Sintra Town to Quinta da Regaleira (about a 15 minute walk)

Public Transport: 434 and 435 Sintra Tourist Buses  

With all the steep hills, I highly recommend using the 434 and 435 tourist buses. There’s no way you’d wanna walk from the train station/Sintra Town to Pena Palace, Castle of the Moors, or elsewhere! 

Especially on a hot day – that just sounds brutal and a great way to ruin your day trip to Sintra right from the start. Plus, you’ll most likely tire yourself out after the first palace and lose motivation to see others.

Important info about the tourist buses:

There are TWO buses with two different routes . You’ll eventually need to head back to Sintra Town/the train station to take the other. Take a photo of the routes ahead of time to get more familiar with this.

• 434 Bus Route Circuito da Pena (circular route): Sintra Train Station → Moorish Castle → Pena Palace → Sintra National Palace/Sintra Town → Natural History Museum → Sintra Train Station ( timetable here )
• 435 Bus Villa Express Route (one-direction): Sintra Train Station → Sintra National Palace/Sintra Town → Quinta da Regaleira → Seteais Palace → Monserrate Palace → Sintra Station ( timetable here )

The buses only run in one direction. This means you’ll wanna carefully plan out your day so you’re not wasting time making extra circuits if you don’t need to. For example, you cannot visit the Moorish Castle after Pena Palace without making the entire loop around.

Buses come a few times an hour, kinda depending on how busy it is. You may get lucky and have a bus waiting for you at the bus stop, or you may need to wait 15 minutes or so. Buses come more frequently during the peak summer months.

Have cash for the tourist buses. Bus rides were kinda expensive (€4 for a single bus ticket), which I was definitely not expecting. The bus tickets add up, so just keep this in mind when planning. I’d recommend purchasing the Hop-on Hop-off ticket for €6.90, as you’ll be able to ride the entire loop once. You can buy tickets directly from the bus driver.

You’ll still need to do a fair bit of walking. Even when taking the bus, prepare for some uphill walking. From the bus stop at Pena Palace, you still gotta climb 10-15 minutes up a fairly steep hill, or you can take a separate bus straight to the entrance for 3euro (after you present your entry ticket).

Note that these tourist buses act just like regular city buses (they’re not tours in any way, shape, or form). Don’t expect commentary or any info about the palaces/castles. Stops are typically not announced, so keep an eye out for where you are and take note of how many stops you need to stay on for. Remember — if you miss your stop you’ll need to make the whole loop again!

Tuk tuk  

Wandering around Sintra you’ll undoubtedly see a few tuk-tuks here and there. They typically hang out near the train station (at the bus stop), Sintra Town, and at the bottom of the hill to Pena Palace.

While they might seem like a great option (especially when the bus line is long), the tuk-tuk drivers will most definitely try to rip you off. A ride from Sintra Town to Pena Palace should be 5euro per person, but many don’t accept less than €10 a person. The bus is 4euro… so….yeah. Psst – just like the bus, you’ll still need to walk 10 minutes up a steep walking path to get to Pena Palace anyways.

Honestly, I’d avoid the tuk-tuks altogether unless you realllllly wanna ride one, haha. They are quite fun (we’ve ridden them in both Thailand and Colombia ), but save yourself some money if you’re not in a major rush or the bus is coming!

Ride Shares and Taxis

You probably don’t wanna rely on typical taxis to get yourself around Sintra. There aren’t tons of them just waiting around at the different palaces and castles, and you’ll waste precious time looking for one! 

Instead, call an Uber/Bolt/FreeNow!

Uber is now available in Sintra, along with Bolt and Free Now (other rideshare apps similar to Uber). And they’re pretty inexpensive in all of Portugal!  They typically have much better pricing than regular cabs, and there’ll be no language barrier to worry about (since you input your destination and pay directly in the app). 

Rideshares can take you from palace to palace, and split between a few people, will be less expensive than taking the bus. Just remember, depending on traffic, it may take a while for a car to arrive.

Guided tour

If you booked yourself on a guided tour, then your guides will be right alongside you, guiding the way! This is by far the easiest option if you don’t wanna mess with all the trains and buses and all that nonsense (buying transportation tickets, waiting for the bus, figuring out where to get off, etc).

Driving in Sintra

And well, if you decide to drive, you can get around that way! But remember – parking can be a nightmare, especially in busy season (June to September)! You may want to keep your car in one spot for the day and use the buses anyways, haha. Do yourself a favor and keep your car in Lisbon.

When to Visit Sintra

Time of Year: In general, summers in Sintra are warm, dry, and mostly clear. Winters are cold and wet, with at least some overcast/clouds. It’s pretty windy year round, but with the chilly temps in winter, it’ll feel pretty frigid! You’ll definitely need to take along your layers!

The weather is quite unpredictable from mid-autumn to early spring, so you never really know what you’re gonna get. But this means there’ll be less crowds…

Of course it’s way more crowded during the prime summer months, so if you’ve got max flexibility, I’d recommend visiting in either May or October.

For reference, I visited Sintra in early August – and it was cool and a bit misty in the morning, much warmer later in the day, and the crowds were outta control. 

Time of Day: There’s no need to get to Sintra super super early, since the palaces and castles don’t open up until around 9am. So nope, no sunrise missions here! I’d aim to get on an 8am train from Lisbon, arrive in Sintra around 8:45, and hop right on a bus to your first castle (either Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira).

Whatever you do, DO NOT VISIT PENA PALACE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY. It’s ridiculously jam packed and will drastically impact your experience in the worst way possible. Plan to either get to Pena Palace as soon as the gates open (at 9am) or even a bit before, or much later in the day, after 4pm.

For less(er) crowds, plan to visit Sintra on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Avoid weekends if you can!

Remember to time it right; the palaces and castles don’t stay open all night. They actually close quite early, even in summer when the sun doesn’t set until 9pm. The last entry for Pena Palace is around 5:45pm, so give yourself plenty of time to walk up that hill!

Weather in Sintra

Being high up in the mountains (and closer to the coast), Sintra’s climate is way cooler than that of Lisbons. Which feels super refreshing if you’re visiting Portugal in the dead of summer, when temps are known to reach upwards of 90F! 

Sintra has its own microclimate, meaning the weather can change pretty frequently. We got there in the morning to fog and cool temps, and it eventually burned off and got much warmer later in the day. On my first day trip to Sintra a few years back, it was gloriously sunny in the morning, and then all of a sudden it started pouring like crazy! Definitely bring some layers you can easily take on/off.

Kinda reminds me of the weather in San Francisco , haha. 

Rain and mist are more common in Sintra than nearby Lisbon (especially in the winter months), so come prepared! If the fog is super thick you unfortunately won’t be able to see much of the view, so just keep that in mind. Don’t get upset – it’s hard to plan around the weather if you’ve only got a few days or booked a guided tour.

Other Info For Your Sintra Day Trip

Is one day in sintra enough.

Yes, if you just wanna see the main highlights and don’t mind being rushed to do so.  

No, if you wanna explore the palaces and castles in depth. Whatever you do, buy your tickets to the palaces and castles in advance. You don’t wanna waste time waiting in line for a ticket. 

One day in Sintra is a great introduction to the area. In my opinion, there’s far too much to see in only a few hours though (I would’ve loved an extra day but I was on my way to the Algarve shortly after – highly recommended). 

While most people choose to simply take a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra, know that you can actually stay the night if you’d like more time to explore! Or, you can hop back on the train from Lisbon for a second day if you don’t feel like switching out accommodation too much – the train is under 5euro roundtrip and only takes 45 minutes or so.

Brief History of Sintra

Sintra has a long and fascinating history – it’s quite complex, so I’ll give you the tiniest gist. Just know that the palaces were all built by Portuguese royalty!

But before the elites and royalty came along, the Berbers (North African Moors) built up the town (and specifically the Moorish Castle to guard it). Once the Christian conquest of Portugal occured in 1147, the area deteriorated and was neglected for quite some time.

Then the Portuguese royals and elites discovered it! Since the area has a cooler climate than surrounding areas (and is oh so pretty with all the greenery), Sintra was the perfect place for them to build their palaces and summer residences. Talk about a mountain retreat! Pena Palace is now the fantasyland of the creative King Ferdinand II.

The whole area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and it surely deserves that title!

Other Important Sintra FAQS

• Is there a beach in Sintra? No beach in Sintra Town itself (or near the palaces), but there’s some popular beach towns on the Sintra coastline! Check out Praia Grande (with its massive oceanfront swimming pool), Praia das Maçãs, and Praia do Magoito.
• Can you walk from palace to palace? Technically yes, but you won’t wanna. The castles and palaces are built on hills, so you’ll be walking up and down all day. No thanks.
• Can I do Sintra if I only have ½ day? Of course, but you’ll only get to see one (max two) castles/palaces. I recommend checking out Pena Palace of course, and if you’ve got more time, Quinta da Regaleira is spectacular and oh so different.
• What should I bring to Sintra? You’ll wanna bring a decent amount of water and a light jacket/sweater, and wear super comfy shoes and layers. Plus sunscreen and a hat!
• Why does Sintra have so many palaces? The royalty and elite LOVED Sintra back in the day (for its beauty and cooler temps than Lisbon), and built their summer homes here! Just imagine waking up in Pena Palace! What a dream!

BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE

One way to really maximize your time in Sintra: buying your tickets to the castles ahead of time. Most people just buy them at the gate, meaning yes, you’ll bypass the long line for tickets! Buying online is super easy, just know you need to choose a designated time to enter Pena Palace. 

→ Buy your ticket to Pena Palace here (the most popular one with all the colors), and I guarantee you’ll save time! Most tour groups make sure you buy them in advance to keep the group from waiting anyways. 

Don’t expect to show up and get right in. There may be a line, and possibly a VERY long one. Give yourself extra waiting time if you’re not planning on buying a ticket in advance. But that’s just silly!

Palaces and Gardens to Visit on a Day Trip to Sintra

Remember – if you’re taking a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon, you won’t be able to see every single palace and garden in the area. You really gotta prioritize with only one day in Sintra. Don’t fret – most people only spend a day in Sintra on their much longer Portugal itinerary, and if you plan it right, you can see a whole lot!

Pena Palace (Palacio Nacional de Pena)

This is everyone’s favorite palace, and it’s easy to see why. Just look at all those bright colors – there’s blinding yellow walls, blue tiles, and a red painted exterior. And that stunning architecture against all the greenery – whoa! Pena Palace is truly wild (in the best way possible) — crazy exotic and tons of interesting architecture. Don’t miss out on this Romanticist castle standing on top of the hill, it’s truly a sight to be seen. 

DO NOT MISS PENA PALACE! I repeat, don’t miss Pena Palace!!! It’s probably the main reason you’re coming to Sintra in the first place! So yes, the hype around Pena Palace is real. And this means it’ll be crowded beyond belief (but that’s why you’re visiting either first thing in the morning or much later in the day once the guided day trips have left). Be smart and never visit Pena Palace in the middle of the day – as that’s when it’s the most crowded.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Pena Palace (plus lots of pretty pictures!)

Psst: Once you make it to the bus stop, you’ll need to then get to the palace itself. You can either walk up the hill (about 10-15 minutes) or take a 3euro bus ride to get to Pena Palace.

This is the palace you’ll 100% want to purchase tickets in advance for . There are two different official ticket types for Pena Palace:

• Palace and Park Ticket: The EVERYTHING ticket! You get entry into the palace itself, with all the lavish rooms and history. Plus all the grounds and gardens. (€14)
• Park Ticket: If you don’t think you’ll wanna go inside the palace and just wanna check out the exterior, save a few euros by grabbing a park ticket. You can thankfully still see the Arches Yard and do the Terrace Walk – the views are phenomenal! (€7.5)

At first I thought going inside would be a waste, but I actually enjoyed it way more than I initially thought I would. Every single room was oh so different than the last, and all so lavishly decorated! The cloisters were completely covered in azulejos! It just sucked that it was SO crowded, which made it difficult to truly enjoy. Another reason to get there ASAP in the morning and to buy skip-the-line-tickets ahead of time .

Make sure to walk around the castle walls, especially the Arches Yard and Terrace Walk– this was my favorite thing to do at Pena Palace. There were SO many beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and even the Moorish Castle (which I sadly missed out on visiting). I also wandered around the Palace Gardens a bit — you’ll never see everything (there’s oh so much), but I particularly liked the lily pad pond and forest trees.

I actually visited Pena Palace twice on my last trip – once in the morning on a guided tour, and then later on in the day once the sun finally came out. Yes, I opted to forgo my included ride back to Lisbon, but the palace was really calling my name. No regrets.

Quinta da Regaleira

Moody and mysterious, Quinta da Regaleira is such a vibe. Hidden tunnels, breathtaking gardens, princess-like towers, and even an initiation well in this neo-gothic mansion. Tons of mystery and magic over here, and completely different from Pena Palace. The grand house is five floors, surrounded by lush, green gardens. Don’t miss the secret passageway that takes you below a waterfall – one of my favorite parts of the estate!

Pro Tip: If you wanna see the mysterious initiation well, head there first, and then see the rest of the castle afterwards. It’s the most popular spot in Quinta da Regaleira, so it gets busy!

Monserrate Palace

Before heading off on my guided tour of Sintra , I didn’t give much thought to Monserrate Palace. What a mistake that was – it ended up being one of my favorites! Probably because it was hardly crowded and oh so peaceful (the exact opposite of Pena Palace). The building is striking (with tons of intricate latticework), and I loved all the Islamic/Arabian architectural influences and symmetry (helps so much with photography!).

Wanna escape the crowds of Sintra? Head here! And don’t miss out on the tranquil gardens – so charming and tranquil.

Castle of the Moors (Castelo dos Mouros)

Moorish Castle, Castle of the Moors, Castelo dos Mouros – yes, they’re all the same thing! Just slightly different names. I didn’t make it to The Castle of the Moors, but I’ve heard such good things about it. You can easily walk here from Pena Palace, and actually get an awesome view of the castle from the terraces over there!

For starters, it’s got some of the best views over Sintra (and being so high up, you know the views are good). It’s also the oldest monument in Sintra – yes, the castle is crumbling, but this makes it feel as authentic as ever! The Moorish Castle once guarded the entire region – kinda like the Great Wall of Portugal if you may, haha.

And plus, most guided tours don’t stop here, so it’ll be far less crowded than the others! 

Historic Center of Sintra (Sintra Town)

A visit to Sintra Town is a must on any Sintra day trip. You’ll probably need to head back to town anyway to switch buses at some point – making it the perfect excuse to explore for a bit!  

And the city center is full of charming little shops (with plenty of hand painted tiles), restaurants, and tasty little treats. I recommend spending a half hour or so wandering throughout the quaint streets and up and down the narrow staircases.

Hungry? This is a good place to stop. There’s plenty of sit-down restaurants serving traditional Portuguese dishes, with Incomum, Apeadeiro, and A Praca (vegetarian) being popular places. If there’s octopus on the menu, order it! I had some of the freshest and most delicious octopus of my life in Portugal, and while I didn’t have any in Sintra itself, I’m almost positive the quality is of the same standard.

Whatever you do, don’t miss out on some pillow-like pastries from Piriquita Bakery. This pastry shop is famous for a reason (and there’s always a line out the door). Instead of an actual lunch, I opted for two pastries – when in Sintra, right?! 

I tried a queijada (kinda like a tiny cinnamon cheesecake tart), and an almond travesseiro (a traditional puff pastry filled with almond cream and dusted with powdered sugar, very flaky and warm, mmm). I also grabbed a nutella travesseiro to snack on later in the day, haha. Travesseiros are synonymous to Sintra, kinda like pastel de natas are to Lisbon!

National Palace of Sintra (Palacio Nacional de Sintra)

The National Palace of Sintra is super close to Sintra Town, so if you’ve got time and wanna check that out, feel free before leaving town. With its two massive chimneys and white Gothic-style exterior, the National Palace is iconic to Sintra.

I personally chose to skip visiting the inside (as there were other attractions in Sintra I didn’t wanna miss!) and simply admired it from afar. 

A recommended Sintra day trip itinerary:

Decided to go on your own and head from Lisbon to Sintra by train? Here’s how I would plan out my day:

Take an early train from Lisbon (leaving around 8am) to arrive in Sintra around 8:45. 

• Stop 1 (9:30-11:30am): Quinta da Regaleira . Start your Sintra day trip by hopping right on Bus 435 from the train station, walk down the Initiation Well, and explore the gardens and main palace.
• Stop 2 (12-1pm): Montserrat Palace . Continue on the 435 bus from Quinta da Regaleira and explore the palace and lush gardens.
• Stop 3 (1:30-3): Sintra Town . Back on the 435 bus to Sintra Town for lunch, pastries, and a wander in town; this is where you’ll find the National Palace of Sintra too.
• Stop 4 (3:30-5:30pm): Pena Palace . Take the 434 to Pena Palace – most guided day trips to Sintra head to Pena Palace first thing in the morning, which means it’ll be jam-packed. If you’re traveling yourself from Lisbon to Sintra by train, you have the opportunity to visit later in the day, once the tours have cleared out (a bit).
• OPTIONAL Stop 5: Castle of the Moors . If you’ve spent less time at any of the above stops, walk over to Castle of the Moors from Pena Palace and explore. Remember, last entry to most palaces is 6pm, so plan your day trip to Sintra wisely!
• Dinner and sunset from Sintra Town. Stay and watch the sunset in Sintra — we found a random spot after dinner in Sintra and loved the colors!

Hope this helps you plan out your day trip to Sintra from Lisbon! Get ready to feel like a fairytale princess – all the castles and palaces and lush greenery await!

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April 1, 2023 at 11:06 pm

HI Jess, Thanks for a great day trip suggestion for Sintra. I am thinking if we catch the 8:11 train from Lisbon, we get to Sintra around 9-then catch the 434 straight to Pena palace. Should I buy the timed palace and park tickets for 10am or 10:30 (just want to leave a bit of a buffer in case we don’t get on the 9:15 bus up? Then I read that from the palace entry gate to the actual palace interior takes 30 minutes and the entry ticket is for the palace not park??? Hope that makes sense. Thanks Lynette

April 5, 2023 at 11:02 am

Hi Lynette,

I’d buy the 10:30am just to be on the safe side. You can always explore the exterior of the palace and gardens if you have extra time before the timed ticket starts for the interior of the palace. 🙂

April 8, 2023 at 9:10 pm

Thanks , Jess I will do that.

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How to Plan a Perfect Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip Itinerary 2024

Updated: January 15, 2024

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Want to spend a day exploring fairy-tale castles and royal palaces? Then it’s time to plan a day trip to Sintra, Portugal. Overflowing with historical monuments, enchanting gardens, and beautiful hiking trails, Sintra is an unmissable stop on any Portugal itinerary. And it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from Lisbon.

In the past year, I’ve done four fabulous excursions to Sintra and it’s one of my favorite places to show friends and family when they visit.

Here’s everything you need to plan a great Lisbon to Sintra day trip, including a few different one day Sintra itineraries you can follow once you arrive. 

Why plan a Lisbon to Sintra day trip?

The entire cultural region of Sintra, Portugal is considered a UNESCO world heritage site, and when you visit, it’s easy to understand why. With ornate monuments set against a beautiful forested backdrop, Sintra feels like stepping into the pages of a storybook. 

Because the attractions are pretty close together, you’ll be able to see a lot of sites in a short amount of time. It’s a dream destination for history buffs and anyone who wants to feel like a kid again for the afternoon, and it’s also one of the most photogenic areas of Portugal. Make sure to bring your camera!

What are the top things to see in Sintra?

The top things to see in Sintra are the Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, Quinta da Regaleira, National Palace of Sintra, Palace of Monserrate, Vila Sassetti, Convento dos Capuchos, and Cabo da Roca Lighthouse. There are also beautiful hiking trails, gardens, and parks to explore.

How long should I spend in Sintra?

You can see several highlights of Sintra in one day , but if you’re particularly interested in history, castles, or hiking, it’s worth spending two days.

When is the best time to visit Sintra?

The best time to visit Sintra is the shoulder season (fall and spring), and on weekdays when there are fewer visitors.  

How do I travel from Lisbon to Sintra for a day trip?

You can travel from Lisbon to Sintra by train, taxi, rideshare, or car. I recommend taking the train if you don’t want to deal with parking. You can also visit as part of a guided tour with transit included. 

Should I travel from Lisbon to Sintra on my own or with a tour group?

You have a few options for how to plan your Sintra day trip from Lisbon: 

• You can go by yourself and do self-guided experiences at each of the castles and palaces. This is what I’ve always done because I like to move at my own pace (i.e., stop for lots of snack breaks). 
• You can go as part of a guided Sintra tour excursion. This is a good option if you’re short on time and want to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide. Guided tours from Lisbon usually include transportation.

In this guide, we’ll focus on how to see Sintra on your own, but if you’re interested in going with a tour group, the following packages have great reviews on Get Your Guide.  

• Sintra Highlights Full Day Tour: On this Sintra day tour, you’ll travel from Lisbon to Sintra and see the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Palace of Monserrate. (Note that admission to the attractions isn’t included in the booking fee.)
• Pena Palace, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, & Cascais Day trip: This one day in Sintra itinerary will take you to the Pena Palace. You’ll spend free time in Sintra town, then head to Cabo da Roca, a lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Finally, you’ll continue onward to see the coastal town of Cascais.

Things to do in Sintra

As you plan your Sintra day trip itinerary, here’s a quick look at some of the popular sites and things to see. 

National Park and Palace of Pena (Palácio da Pena)

A rainbow-colored castle located high on the mountain with amazing views of the Sintra Nature Park. This palace was a summer residence for the royals and you can tour the elaborate living spaces and gardens. Learn more .

Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)

The Castle of the Moors is a rocky hilltop fortification that dates back to the 10th century. You can walk along the castle walls and see the remains of tombs, silos, and the medieval necropolis. Learn more .

National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional de Sintra)

This royal palace in the center of the Sintra historic district with two hallmark white chimneys. You can see how kings and queens lived across the centuries. Learn more .

Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is a whimsical property built in the early 1900s to celebrate art, science, and design. Tour the palace, explore the grounds, and walk down the spiral staircase of the mysterious initiation well. Learn more .

Palace of Monserrate (Palácio de Monserrate)

The Palace of Monserrate is one of my favorite attractions in Sintra because it’s so peaceful. The palace has architectural influences from around the world and it’s relaxing to spend the afternoon wandering through the gardens. Learn more .

Convento dos Capuchos

The Convento dos Capuchos is a historic convent tucked into the woods a short drive outside of the Sintra historic district. It’s a great place to explore and spend time in nature. Learn more .

Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca is a lighthouse perched on the western cliffs with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s about a half-hour drive from the Sintra town center and is usually a stop on guided Sintra and Cascais tours. Learn more .

How to get from Lisbon to Sintra

There are three main transportation options for your Lisbon to Sintra day trip, assuming you’re going on your own and not part of a tour. 

Taking the train from Lisbon to Sintra

The train is an easy and affordable way to travel from Lisbon to Sintra. There’s a direct train that runs a few times per hour from Rossio Station. 

Rossio train station is across the street from the Rossio metro stop and train tickets cost €2.30 each way. The journey takes about 40 minutes and the Sintra train station is conveniently located in the center of town. 

To check the train schedule, search for routes here with Lisboa-Rossio as the starting point and Sintra as the endpoint.

Taking an Uber, Bolt, or Taxi from Lisbon to Sintra 

It’s also possible to Uber, Bolt, or take a taxi from Lisbon to Sintra. The drive is quick and you can be dropped off right in the center of town for a quick start to your morning, but the price can vary dramatically based on the time of day and surges. 

I’ve seen quotes that range from €20 to €50 one way, but this might make sense if you’re traveling as a group and can split costs. Uber and Bolt are popular rideshare options in Portugal, and you can book taxis through a service called Radio Taxi .

Renting a car and self-driving 

If you rent a car and self-drive, you can come and go whenever you like. The drive from Lisbon to Sintra is straightforward, but you might face issues with parking in Sintra. 

When we drove our first time visiting Sintra, we ended up circling for nearly an hour looking for a place to park. There’s a lot of traffic and the streets are narrow, so your best bet is to go early (most monuments open at 9:30am) and save the location of a few parking lots in advance so you don’t have to wing it.

There are a few paid parking lots in the historic part of Sintra, including this one close to the Sintra Station and Museu Anjos Teixeira . There’s also a small free lot across from the Palace of Monserrate. 

Having done it both ways, I’d recommend hopping on the train or grabbing an Uber/Bolt for your Lisbon to Sintra day trip to avoid the parking headache.

Getting Around Sintra

Once you’re in the town of Sintra, you’ve got a few options for reaching each of the attractions. 

Walking or Hiking: You can walk to many of the attractions in Sintra but be prepared for a bit of a workout. The hills in Sintra are no joke, but thankfully the trails and pathways are beautifully maintained and clearly marked to get to the popular attractions. 

Bus: Two tourist bus routes cover the main attractions of Sintra, Scotturb bus 434 and 435. Last time I was there, I purchased a 24-hour unlimited ticket that lets you ride both buses as much as you want for €11.

• Bus 434 runs in a one-way loop from the Sintra train station. It stops in the historic city center before heading up the mountain to the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace. Then it comes back down the mountain to the train station.
• Bus 435 also picks up at the Sintra train station and stops at the National Palace of Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira, Seteais Palace, and the Palace of Monserrate.

Keep in mind that the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle are not accessible by private cars, so the best way to get there is to hike or take bus 434.

How to Spend One Day in Sintra: Itinerary Ideas

You’ve got a few options for what to do in Sintra for one day. Here are three fun-filled Sintra day trip itineraries. 

[Option 1]: Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira

Quick Look:

• Buy a hop-on-hop-off bus pass
• Ride the bus to Pena Park and Palace
• Walk down to the Moorish Castle
• Take the bus back to town
• Walk or take the bus to Quinta da Regaleira 
• Dinner at Raiz in historic Sintra

This one day Sintra itinerary covers three of the best places to see. Arrive in the morning and walk to the bus stop next to the train station. I got lost my first time trying to find this bus stop, so when you exit the train station take a hard right and walk on the sidewalk directly beside the train station. You’ll see the bus stop ahead.

Wait for bus 434 which will take you up to the mountain to the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle. It comes about every 15 minutes and you can buy an all-day hop-on-hop-off ticket that includes access to buses 435 and 434 for €11. 

The bus ride up the mountain takes around 20 minutes and it’s a wild one. I was honestly amazed that we were able to make it up the tiny, zigzagging roads on such a giant bus. If you get motion sick, don’t forget to pack your sea bands! 

You’ll stop at the Moorish Castle first then the Pena Palace a few moments later. They’re so close together you can walk between them, but I’d say go to Pena first since it gets more crowded as the day goes on. Plus, getting to the Moorish Castle after will be a downhill walk. 

Spend about two hours taking in the views, grounds, and gardens of Pena, the rainbow-colored summer palace. There’s even a cafe on one of the upper terraces where you can grab a coffee and imagine that you’re a royal enjoying an afternoon at your holiday home. The walk between the palace and the main entrance gates takes about 20-30 minutes, so this will be a longer stop on your Sintra day trip.

When you’ve wrapped up at Pena, head downhill to the Moorish Castle. Here, you can explore the old fortification walls and see the latest excavations that are revealing more about this ancient site. Once you’re all done, grab the bus back down the mountain to town. 

The bus only goes one way on a loop so it will drop you off back at the train station. From there, you can hop on bus 435 or take a leisurely 20-minute walk through town to Quinta da Regaleira. Along the way, stop to refuel at Café Saudade , a charming cafe with sandwiches, salads, toasts, and bakery items that you can smell from a mile away. 

Once you arrive at Quinta da Regaleira, give yourself about an hour and a half to two hours to tour the grounds, see the mysterious Initiation Well ( rumored to have ties to the Knights Templar ), and check out the inside of the palace. 

To top off your day of castles, walk back to downtown Sintra to grab a bite on the outdoor patio at Raiz . Reviews rave about the atmosphere, drinks, and live music. They’re open for lunch and dinner Thursday through Tuesday and are closed Wednesday. 

[Option 2] Palace of Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira, Palace of Monserrate 

Quick Look:  

• Explore Sintra town
• Visit Sintra National Palace
• Lunch at Tascantiga
• Walk to Quinta da Regaleira
• Bus, drive, or taxi to the Monserrate Palace

For this Sintra one day itinerary, you’ll start at Sintra train station and walk down R. João de Deus toward the roundabout with the Pelourinho de Sintra monument. At the roundabout, take the first left and walk down the street called Volta do Duche. 

This road will take you to the historic city center and along the way, you’ll pass the Parque da Liberdade, a free public garden, and Fonte Mourisca, a grand fountain that dates back to the 1920s. 

Continue walking down the road until you hit the Sintra National Palace. Spend about an hour exploring the lavish interior spaces and gardens. After, take some time to explore the tiny streets and shops in the old town.

For lunch, head to the popular Tascantiga restaurant. This traditional Portuguese tapas spot has excellent views of the village and countryside from the outdoor terrace. They’re open for lunch Monday through Saturday, dinner Friday and Saturday, and closed Sunday. 

After eating, walk through town to the Quinta da Regaleira. Budget for one and a half to two hours to see everything at Quinta da Regaleira, including the Initiation Well, towers, gardens, and palace. There’s also a cafe here where you can grab a coffee or snack and enjoy the views. 

Next, you’ll travel to Monserrate Palace. The best way to get there is by public transportation, rideshare, driving, or taxi. You can either wait for bus 434 at the Quinta da Regaleira bus stop or snag an Uber, which will take about 10 minutes and cost 3-5 euros. If you drive, there’s a small parking lot across from the palace entrance. 

Monserrate is the least crowded and most tranquil of the Sintra palaces. There are beautiful gardens and a large grassy lawn where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing. Inside the palace, make sure to go upstairs to the room where they show a documentary film about the history of the property. 

[Option 3] One Day Sintra Hiking Itinerary: National Palace of Sintra, Vila Sassetti, Pena Palace, Moorish Castle

Quick look:

• Lunch at Casa das Minas
• Hike to Vila Sassetti
• Hike to the Moorish Castle
• Walk to the Palácio Nacional da Pena
• Hike back down on the Santa Maria trail OR Seteais trail if you have more time

Sintra is a fantastic place to hike, so if you’re interested in spending more time in nature, this itinerary is for you! Start by exploring the town of Sintra and the Sintra National Palace. Visiting the Sintra National Palace and gardens takes about one hour. 

Next, walk across town to a cobbled road called Estrada da Pena which runs alongside the Parque das Merendas. If you need a pick-me-up or restroom break before hiking up to the Moorish castle and Pena palace, pop into Casa das Minas . This quirky, secluded cafe has great food, coffee, and an impressive view of the Sintra Palace. 

Continue walking along Estrada da Pena until you see a sign for Vila Sassetti, the Moorish Castle, and the Pena Palace. This sign marks the trailhead that will take you up the mountain . The trail is well maintained and there are viewpoints and gardens to enjoy as you walk. The full hike takes around 45-minutes to an hour. 

Once you reach the top of the mountain, the entrance gates to the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle are only a few hundred meters apart from each other. Spend a few hours checking out the Moorish Castle and Palace of Pena, including the huge network of gardens in Pena park. The Pena Palace also has a terrace and cafe where you can grab a bite before heading back down the mountain.

After finishing your castle tours, follow the Santa Maria trail behind the Moorish Castle for a different route down. This path takes about an hour and will let you out behind the Santa Maria church in town. 

Alternatively, if you have more time and are up for another attraction, you can take the Seteais trail down the mountain. This hike lasts about an hour and a half and ends just a short walk away from the Quinta da Regaleira. If you do this option, you may want to skip the Sintra National Palace at the beginning to save time.

How much time should I spend in Sintra?

Many travelers only have one day to visit Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon, and that’s great! One day in Sintra is better than none, and you’ll still be able to see some impressive highlights.

While the best of Sintra can be seen in a (full and busy, but fun) day, you might want to spend more time here if you’re particularly interested in history, hiking, or have extra room in your itinerary. 

Sintra is a popular day trip destination, but when you stay overnight, you’ll get to see a different side of the city without the crowds and tourists. You get to try more restaurants and you’ll have the monuments to yourself when they open first thing in the morning. 

If your Portugal itinerary allows it, two days would allow you to see nearly all the palaces and castles of Sintra without feeling like you ran a marathon. I usually max out at about two or three sites per day, so if you want plenty of time to see more attractions, it’s a good idea to book an overnight. 

These Sintra hotels have great reviews:

• Tivoli Palacio de Seteais: Spend the night in a real palace! This palace estate was built in the 1700s and now it’s used as a luxury hotel. 
• Sintra Boutique Hotel: This hotel is located in central Sintra and it has great reviews for the staff and location. 
• Casa Azul Hostel: Casa Azul Hostel is a budget-friendly option with dorms and private rooms located just a 15-minute walk from the town center. 

Fall and spring are the best times to visit Sintra for nice weather and minimal crowds. Sintra is the hottest and most crowded in peak season which spans the summer months of June, July, and August. Mornings are usually cooler and less crowded.

Because the weather in Sintra can differ from the surrounding areas, it’s a good idea to check the forecast before you go.

Tips for visiting Sintra in one day

Book tickets online in advance : If you do nothing else when visiting Sintra, do this: buy your tickets online in advance. Every time I’ve visited I’ve seen lines about ten miles long to buy tickets for each attraction, but you can skip the line and walk straight in like a celebrity VIP if you buy your tickets online. Sometimes the tickets are even a bit cheaper. 

For Pena Palace, you’ll need to book a specific day and time to use your ticket, but for every other destination, you can buy a ticket a few minutes before you arrive, save the barcode to your phone, and show it at the door. 

Wear shoes and clothes you can walk in: Even if you’re not taking one of the hiking routes, expect to walk a ton in Sintra. The attractions are large and most have huge gardens too, so good walking or hiking shoes are a must. 

The Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Vila Sassetti aren’t accessible by private car: You can reach the Pena Palace and Moorish castle by bus 435, tuk-tuk, or one of the walking trails and you can only reach Vila Sassetti via the Sassetti walking path through Parque das Merendas.

Don’t stretch yourself too thin : It can be tempting to squeeze five attractions into a single day, but each site has so much to offer you’ll miss a lot by doing this. You could realistically spend an entire day in the gardens of the Pena Palace alone, and the travel time between each attraction would also be exhausting. 

Instead, I recommend picking your top two must-see attractions and another spot you’d like to see if you have time. Grab tickets to your must-see spots the day before you go, and buy online tickets on the fly for everything else once you’ve got a better sense of how much time and energy you have. 

I hope you have an amazing time on your Sintra day trip from Lisbon! Sintra is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime destination, and no matter which itinerary you choose you’ll be in for a memorable time. 

Planning a trip to Portugal? These travel guides can help: 

• 2 Weeks in Portugal: Sintra, Lisbon, Ericeira, and Porto
• 10 Day Portugal Road Trip: Algarve, Lisbon, Sintra, and Ericeira
• Sao Miguel, Azores Travel Guide: Sights, restaurants, and accommodation
• Best Restaurants in Lisbon: Where to eat and foodie guide

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Lisbon to Sintra: A Great Day Trip by Train

BY JARED DILLINGHAM

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM LISBON TO SINTRA BY TRAIN

The most popular day trip for visitors to Portugal is from Lisbon to Sintra.  The historic palaces and castles in Sintra are conveniently close to Lisbon, and easily accessible by train or by tour guide.

You’ll encounter large crowds of other tourists in Sintra, so there are several things to keep in mind to enjoy your day trip, which will take you back in time!

Key Tips for a Day Trip From Lisbon to Sintra

A day trip from Lisbon to Sintra is pretty physically demanding, but it’s worth it!

It’ll be a LOT of walking, whether you take a tour or take the train from Lisbon to Sintra, so bring good shoes and follow these tips to avoid the huge crowds as best as possible.

Leave Early on Your Day Trip to Sintra

The trains run twice an hour from Lisbon to Sintra. By 8:30am you’ll find a long line at the ticket kiosks at Rossio Station in Lisbon. 

Go early to get your train tickets, and arrive in Sintra before the crowds!

Don’t Drive Yourself to Sintra

Parking is the big problem with driving from Lisbon to Sintra.

It’s only 20 miles in the car, and driving yourself brings flexibility … BUT… Sintra’s town center can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Finding parking in the town center can be challenging and frustrating.  I’d definitely avoid it!

Packing for a Day Trip to Sintra

Bring a backpack for your day trip to Sintra with a refillable water jug because you’ll be walking a lot.  It’s mild most of the year, and hot during the summer, so you’ll need plenty of fluids!

Plus, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes with you on this trip.

Buy Tickets Ahead of Your Day trip to Sintra

Especially during the spring and summer months, tickets for Pena Palace (which have a timed entry) will sell out.  Buy them before your trip!

Tours: Day Trips from Lisbon to Sintra

If you don’t like the crowds on public transportation, or don’t feel like figuring out how to use the train system, there are a number of great tour options for day trips from Lisbon to Sintra. 

Here are several group tours and private tours of Sintra from Lisbon.  Each has excellent reviews:

➡️ CLICK HERE: Lisbon to Sintra’s Palaces

• This is a small group tour (with a max of 8 people) to Sintra from Lisbon. The day trip will include time at Pena National Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.

➡️ CLICK HERE: “Skip the Line” at Pena Palace

• This is a 5-hour afternoon tour from Lisbon to Sintra, with a guide who has “skip the line” access to beautiful Pena Palace

➡️ CLICK HERE: Private Tour of Sintra

• A guide will pick you (and your group) up at your hotel in Lisbon. This is a great option because you can customize the destinations in Sintra you want to see.

➡️ CLICK HERE: Private Tour of Moorish Castle & Pena Palace

• A private guide will take you to the Moorish Castle in Sintra, along with Pena Palace.

Trains: Lisbon to Sintra

I cannot say enough about how efficient the train ride is from Lisbon to Sintra. It makes a day trip easy for any traveler to figure out!

Rossio Train Station in Lisbon

A day trip to Sintra begins at Lisbon’s Rossio Train Station. It’s a beautiful old station (with a Starbucks and a couple of other breakfast options to stop at) near the popular Rossio Square area of the city.

It’s not a huge train station, so the ticket area is easy to find. You’ll find a row of ticket kiosks, and depending on when you arrive, you’ll have to wait in a pretty lengthy line.

We missed the train we were trying to catch because the ticket line was so long! The trains run every half-hour (or so) so we just waited for the next one.

If the ticket area is really crowded, have one person in your group wait in line for the touch-screen kiosks, and another person wait in line to buy tickets from the staff behind the window.

The Cost of the Train from Lisbon to Sintra

The cost of the card plus train fare from Lisbon to Sintra is 2.30 Euros. It’s a pretty good deal!

Rossio Station only has five tracks, so it’s very easy to find the right train you’ll take to Sintra.

How Long Does it Take to Get from Lisbon to Sintra by Train?

The train ride to Sintra from Lisbon’s Rossio Station is 40 minutes.

The train will make 14 stops along the way, and drop you off at Sintra Station, right in the center of the historic town.

Arriving at Sintra Train Station

You’ll get off the train in Sintra, onto a busy open-air platform. It’ll seem confusing at first in the huge crowd of tourists, but you’ll have several options from here.

The 434 Bus in Sintra

There’s a tourist bus (several, actually) that runs a loop around Sintra’s main sites all day. You’ll see one or two of them parked at Sintra Station. It’ll be marked #434.

Bus 434 connects the train station to Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and the town center in Sintra.

The cost for a full day, and as many hop-on/hop-off rides as you want, is around 11.50 Euros. It’s a pretty good deal, but expect the bus to be crowded!

Ubers and taxis are other options at Sintra Station.

An Uber from Sintra Station to Pena Palace will cost around 7 Euros.

Many people choose to take open-air tuk-tuks for their rides up the hill.

Getting Around Sintra: A Day Trip Itinerary

I was surprised by just how many sites there are to see in Sintra!

Your itinerary will be largely dependent on your timed entry to Pena Palace, which is by far the most popular and most crowded attraction in Sintra.

When you buy your tickets (ahead of your day trip) I’d aim for the earliest possible entry in the morning. Sintra’s Pena Palace opens at 9:00am, and the last entry of the day is at 5:30pm.

This is the itinerary I’d follow for a day in Sintra, beginning with a 9:00am arrival:

• Uber from Sintra Station to Pena Palace (15-minute ride)
• Pena Park & Gardens
• Walk from Pena Park to the Moorish Castle (15-minute walk)
• Uber from the Moorish Castle to Quinta da Regaleira (10-minute ride)
• Walk from Quinta da Regaleira to City Center (10-minute walk)

Palaces & Castles of Sintra

Sintra is full of old palaces, castles, and estates, many of which are open to the public to explore.

1. Pena Palace (Palácio Nacional da Pena)

Pena Palace is the most iconic building in Sintra. Its colorful facade can be seen on the hilltop from miles around.

It’s 10 Euros to enter Pena Palace, and again, I can’t stress enough how important it is to buy your tickets ahead of your day trip from Lisbon.

It’s officially known as: Palácio Nacional da Pena. The palace was built on the ruins of an old monastery, commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Portugal. Sintra became a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family.

Construction of Pena Palace started in 1842. The vibrant colors of the palace, featuring shades of yellow, red, and blue, add to its distinctive, eclectic charm.

Inside the palace, visitors can explore various rooms and chambers that have been preserved and restored to their original splendor.

Pena Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Romantic architecture in Europe.

What to Expect at Pena Park

Outside, the palace is surrounded by extensive gardens, known as the Pena Park, which covers an area of over 200 hectares. The park is beautifully landscaped and features a diverse collection of exotic trees and plants from around the world. Visitors can explore the park’s winding paths, discover hidden gardens, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

2. The Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros)

The Moorish Castle is walkable from the gardens around Pena Palace.

A ticket to get into the castle is 8 Euros.

The Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros in Portuguese), is a medieval fortress located on a hilltop in Sintra. Its origins date back to the 8th century, when the Moors occupied the region. The original fortress, with its stone walls built for surveillance and defense.

Today, visitors can explore the entire castle, and walk along its fortified walls, which run 450 meters around the hilltop. You can see all of Sintra, the Pena Palace, and the ocean from the castle.

The grounds are full of fascinating bits of information and secrets, including an escape door, known as “the door of betrayal.” The gate, which doesn’t even go up to my hip, allowed discreet access to the outside, or an escape during an attack.

3. Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is an estate near the historic center of Sintra. It’s known for its elaborate architecture and expansive, lush gardens.

The cost of entry to Quinta da Regaleira is 11 Euros.

The estate was built in the early 20th century by a wealthy Brazilian businessman and an Italian architect.

The main mansion on the estate is known as Palácio da Regaleira. Its design incorporates a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

The best part of a visit to Quinta da Regaleira will be your walk through the gardens. Winding paths will lead you to grottoes, fountains, lakes, caves, and statues.

The most well-known feature of the gardens is the Initiation Well, also known as the “Inverted Tower.”

This unique structure consists of a spiral staircase that leads underground to a well. It was designed to symbolize a journey through the nine circles of Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven from Dante’s Divine Comedy.

You’re likely to have to wait in a long line to make the descent into the well. It was 30 minutes for us, but worth it!

After descending into the well, the path will take you behind waterfalls, and out through a cave!

Quinta da Regaleira was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995.

4. Sintra National Palace

The Sintra National Palace, also known as the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, is right in the town of Sintra.

It was originally built as a fortress in the 9th century, and became a royal palace for Portuguese kings and queens.

Boutique Hotels in Sintra, Portugal

There’s quite a bit to do in Sintra, so a day trip from Lisbon might not be enough time for your group. History lovers, especially, will need more than a day!

Sintra is home to several boutique hotels in the historic city center.

This interactive map can move around and show you the boutique hotels in Sintra, along with other rental options. Plug in your dates to get the rooms and rates available for your trip! 

Hiking Sintra

The Sintra region, beyond the town, is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, mountains, forests, and coastal areas. They offer various hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. 

I *would not* recommend hiking Sintra from the train station up to Pena Palace.  I love to hike, and initially it seemed like a great idea… but I’m relieved we skipped it!  It’s only about a three-kilometer walk, but it’s very steep and at times involves walking on the busy road.   Skip the hike up, and enjoy the trails around the palace instead!

Hiking Sintra: Pena Park Trails

There are several popular trails within Pena Park (or Pena Gardens), sounding Pena Palace. 

Here are a few hiking trails within Pena Park:

• Pena Park Circuit : This circular trail takes you around the park, providing an opportunity to discover its different sections, including the palace, gardens, and wooded areas. The trail offers picturesque views of the palace from various angles.
• Cruz Alta Trail : This trail leads to the highest point in the park, known as Cruz Alta. From this vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the palace, Sintra, and the distant coastline.
• Valley of the Lakes Trail : This trail explores the tranquil Valley of the Lakes, a scenic area within Pena Park. Along the way, you’ll pass by several small lakes and cascading waterfalls, creating a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. It’s almost entirely shaded, but steep in parts.
• Queen’s Fern Valley Trail : This trail meanders through a dense forest, offering a cool and shaded hike. As you walk along, you’ll encounter a variety of ferns and moss-covered rocks, adding to the park’s mystical ambiance.

Hiking Sintra’s Moorish Castle Trail

While there are no specific hiking trails within the Moorish Castle in Sintra, there is an uphill path that leads to the castle, providing a hiking-like experience. The Moorish Castle is perched on a hilltop, and to reach it, visitors can follow a path that winds up through the forested slopes of the hill.

Hiking Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

The coastline of Guincho, which is located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park in Portugal, offers spectacular scenery with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The typical starting point for a Guincho Coast hike is Guincho Beach, a popular destination known for its excellent surfing and windsurfing conditions. You can begin your hike from the beach or from one of the nearby parking areas.

The coastal path follows the cliffs along the shoreline, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. 

This link has more information on hiking Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Hiking Sintra’s Cabo da Roca

The coastline near Sintra offers opportunities for coastal hikes, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and discover hidden beaches and cliffs. The Cabo da Roca area, the westernmost point of continental Europe, is also worth exploring and offers hiking paths along the cliffs.

Beaches in Sintra

The Sintra region is home to several beautiful coastal spots to visit. Among them:

• Praia Grande : Located about 20 minutes away from Sintra by car.
• Praia das Maçãs : Located 20 minutes from Sintra, near the village of Colares.
• Adraga Beach : A 25-minute drive from Sintra, and considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.
• Guincho Beach : Located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Azenhas do Mar

Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque coastal village located in the municipality of Sintra. You can take an Uber from Sintra to the viewpoint on the cliffs overlooking this picturesque town.

The standout feature of Azenhas do Mar is its natural saltwater swimming pool, which is carved into the rocks and filled by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. This natural pool, combined with the backdrop of the village’s whitewashed houses and the deep blue sea, creates a stunning setting. It’s one of the most beautifully scenic spots in Portugal!

Beaches of Cascais

Cascais is a full day-trip in itself. It’s a large beach town near Lisbon, which is home to several beaches.

Praia da Ribeira, Praia da Rainha, and Praia da Conceição are some of the most popular beaches in Cascais.

The coastal promenade, known as the “Paredão,” stretches along the waterfront and provides a scenic path for walking or cycling.

Cascais is also famous for its vibrant town center, with its narrow cobblestone streets, filled with colorful buildings, charming shops, and a variety of restaurants and cafes.

History of Sintra, Portugal

Sintra’s history spans thousands of years. Here’s an incomplete, extremely brief overview of the last 2,000 years:

• Sintra was colonized by the Romans, likely in the 2nd Century BC. They recognized its strategic location along the coast and its fertile soil.

Moorish Rule:

• Sintra came under Moorish rule in the 8th century when the Moors invaded the Iberian Peninsula. They established a fortified settlement on the hill, where the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros) now stands.

Christian Reconquista and Portuguese Kingdom:

• In the 12th century, Christian forces led by King Afonso Henriques reconquered Sintra from the Moors during the Christian Reconquista, marking the integration of Sintra into the Kingdom of Portugal.
• Sintra became a favored destination for Portuguese royalty and nobility, who built castles, palaces, and extravagant estates in the area.

Royal Residences and Cultural Importance:

• During the medieval period, several significant structures were constructed in Sintra, including the National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional de Sintra).
• In the 19th century, Sintra experienced a revival in its cultural and artistic importance as the Romanticism movement gained popularity. Renowned poets and writers, such as Lord Byron and Hans Christian Andersen, visited and wrote about the region’s beauty.
• King Ferdinand II played a crucial role in the transformation of Sintra by commissioning the construction of the Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena).

UNESCO World Heritage Site:

• Sintra was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 due to its significant cultural landscape and historical importance. The inscription recognizes the exceptional blend of natural and man-made elements in the region.

Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip FAQs

Let’s tackle a few of the frequently asked questions people have about day trips to Sintra.  A few of these were answered above, but I’ll boil them down to simple answers below:

Is a Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon Enough Time?

If you’re looking to take a tour of some of the palaces and castles, a day trip to Sintra should be just fine. The earlier you start your visit from Lisbon to Sintra, the better!

If you’re looking to explore more of the hiking trails and beaches, you’ll need more than a day trip from Lisbon.

The Best Time to Take a Day Trip from Lisbon to Sintra

Shoulder season is the best season! The summertime crowds are just too big for my liking.

I’d say April, May, September, and October will offer the best weather and smaller crowds at the palaces and sites in Sintra.

How do you get from the Lisbon airport to Sintra?

You can take a taxi from the airport in Lisbon to Sintra.  They’re easy to find directly outside the terminal.  However, I found the fares to fluctuate wildly.   Uber is another option.  The ride from the Lisbon airport to Sintra should only cost around 25 Euros.   

Which Lisbon train station goes to Sintra?

Rossio Station in Lisbon is the station to go to for the train to Sintra.  On weekdays, the trains depart from Lisbon for Sintra twice an hour from Rossio.

How long does it take to get from Lisbon to Sintra?

The train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Sintra will take 40 minutes.  The train makes 14 stops along the way.

The drive from Lisbon to Sintra will take around 40 minutes as well, depending on traffic.  It’s about 35 kilometers.

Can you Uber from Lisbon to Sintra?

Yes!  Uber is a great option for your entire trip to Portugal, not just your day trip from Lisbon to Sintra.

Prices are quite low, compared to Uber prices in the USA.   It’s likely to be a 20-25 Euro ride from Lisbon to Sintra, or a 40 Euro ride in an XL vehicle if you have several people.

How do you get from Lisbon to Sintra by car?

I would avoid driving due to parking limitations once you get to Sintra. 

If you’re set on driving from Lisbon to Sintra, check the traffic on Google Maps and choose the most efficient route.

It’s likely to be the A37 highway (IC19) from Lisbon to the Sintra exit.

How far is it from Sintra to Porto?

By bus, it’s a four-hour ride from Sintra to Porto.   FlixBus runs the route, so check their website for the schedule.

By car, it’s a three-hour drive between Sintra and Porto.  It’s around 330 kilometers.

How do you get from Porto to Sintra by train for a day trip?

There’s no direct train between Porto and Sintra, so a day trip from Porto would be difficult.

By train, you’ll have to go from Porto down to Lisbon, and then from Lisbon over to Sintra.  It’s not complicated, just time-consuming.  If I was basing myself in Porto on a trip to Portugal, I’d stay overnight in Sintra.

Wrap: Is a Day Trip from Lisbon to Sintra Worth It?

My short answer is: Yes.

The history and beauty of Sintra’s mountains, gardens, palaces, and castles are definitely worth a day trip from Lisbon.

One of the major selling points is: it’s very close to Lisbon.  Another is: the train from Lisbon to Sintra is extremely efficient!

There are drawbacks of a day trip to Sintra, mainly the crowds you’ll encounter.  It’s crucial to get there early, and buy tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in lines at the train station and Pena Palace.  

While Pena Palace gets most of the attention, the surrounding gardens, the Moorish Castle, and the historic city center are definitely highlights of a day trip to Sintra, which shouldn’t be skipped!

Check out more of our posts from Portugal:

Lisbon to Obidos: Medieval Portugal

Portugal’s palaces, lisbon to nazare: day trip, azenhas do mar: coastal village, wc: lisbon’s coolest hotel.

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A day trip to Sintra; a suggested 1-day tour of Sintra in 2024

Sintra is a picturesque town that boasts extravagant palaces, ancient castles and stunning scenery.

Situated only 25km from Lisbon, Sintra is easily reached via a regular train service, making the town an ideal choice for a day trip.

The most popular day trip route takes in the Palácio da Pena, the Castelo dos Mouros (optional), the historic centre and the Quinta da Regaleira. All of these sights are connected by the 434 tourist bus route (€11.50), with highlights of the day being the Palácio da Pena and the mystical gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira.

This article details this highly recommended day trip to Sintra, helping you to get the most from your time here.

Warning: Sintra can get very crowded during the summer months, so it is advisable to start your day trip as early as possible. Related articles: Sights of Sintra – Lisbon day trips – How many days in Sintra?

Highlights for a day trip to Sintra

The Palácio da Pena – One of the world’s most stunning palace, with its elaborately decorated exterior, magnificent staterooms and forested gardens ( guide here ).

The Quinta da Regaleira – A 19th century neo-gothic mansion with fascinating gardens that conceals a cave system, hidden pathways and mystical symbolism ( guide here ).

Castelo dos Mouros – A Moorish castle that stands high above Sintra and offers wonderous views from its battlements ( guide here ).

An overview for a day trip to Sintra

Our suggested day trip to Sintra is: • Take the train from Lisbon to Sintra (50min) • Catch the 434 bus from the station up to the Palácio da Pena (20min) • Visit the Palácio da Pena's terraces (30min) and staterooms (40min) • Explore the Parque da Pena (optional, 1-2 hours) • Walk from Palácio da Pena to Castelo dos Mouros (400m) • Visit the Castelo dos Mouros (optional, 1 hour) • Ride the 434 bus to the historic centre of Sintra (15min) • Have lunch in the centre of Sintra • Explore the historic centre of Sintra (30min) • Visit the Quinta da Regaleira (85min) • Visit the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (optional, 45min) • Return train to Lisbon (50min)

Note: Entrance to the Palácio da Pena is via a time slot ticket, and it is advisable to purchase these before your day trip to secure the best time. These timed tickets can be purchased from GetYourGuide for €20 - link here .

The suggested itinerary above is a very long day, but it is definitely possible to visit the three main sights – the Palácio da Pena, Castelo dos Mouros and Quinta da Regaleira (or Palácio Nacional de Sintra) – in one day. If this seems too much, reduce the day trip to just two sights. The Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira are the recommended sights for a shorter-day trip.

The Palácio Nacional de Sintra is an enjoyable alternative to the Quinta da Regaleira if you are interested in Portuguese history

The Sintra day trip is suggested in this order as it follows the route of the 434 bus, which connects the train station to the top of the hill where the Palácio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros are situated. The bus only stops in the historic centre of Sintra after the Palácio da Pena.

As the Palácio da Pena will be the highlight of your day trip, as well as being the most famous sight, it makes sense to visit it earlier in the day. Getting to the palace early (before 10am) will also help you to avoid some of the major queues and give you a chance to buy a time slot ticket, if you haven't pre-purchased one.

It is always best to plan to have lunch in the historic centre of Sintra, as there are limited food options near the Palácio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros.

Alternatives for a day trip to Sintra are detailed later in this guide, which may be useful during the extremely busy peak season.

Below is an interactive map for the suggested day trip to Sintra. The yellow markers are the sights of the day trip, while the blue line and markers show the route of the 434 bus.

Sights of the day trip: 1) Palácio da Pena 2) Castelo dos Mouros 3) historic centre of Sintra 4) Quinta da Regaleira 5) Palácio Nacional de Sintra 6) train station The 434 bus route (blue): 7) Train station 8) Castelo dos Mouros bus stop 9) Palácio da Pena bus stop 10) Sintra Vila bus stop 7) Train station

Sintra has a pretty town centre

Costs of a day trip to Sintra

Sintra is a popular tourist destination and the elevated costs reflect this, so visiting everything can make for an expensive day out. The above day trip for one adult works out at about €74, based on current prices: • Return train fare €4.80 (2x€2.40) • 434 tourist bus €11.50 (unlimited use) • Palácio da Pena timed ticket €20 • Palácio da Pena grounds only €10 • Castelo dos Mouros €12 • Lunch in a restaurant €17- €25 • Quinta da Regaleira €12 • Palácio Nacional de Sintra €10 • Snacks, drinks and ice creams €5-€10 • Taxi from train station to Palácio da Pena €12

A day trip to Sintra can cost a lot less, especially if you're happy to walk and focus on exploring the historic centre, instead of the major sights. For a guide to the free sights of Sintra and a budget-friendly day trip please, read this guide .

The Castelo dos Mouros with its amazing views over the region

Should I join an organised tour?

Sintra is a destination where an organised tour can be useful. There are steep hills separating the main attractions and a large portion of the day can be wasted waiting for public transport.

Over the last six years, we have worked with GetYourGuide.com, and a selection of their best tours of Sintra includes: • Sintra Highlights Full-Day Tour (€65) • Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour from Lisbon (€63) • Pena Palace and Regaleira Guided Tour from Lisbon (€65) • Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca Coast Day Tour (€85)

Note: An organised tour is essential if you plan to visit both Sintra and Cascais in one day; this route by public transport leaves almost no time for sightseeing. Only consider combining Cascais and Sintra if you are really limited for time, as both towns deserve a day each.

The Câmara de Municipal Sintra (Sintra town hall)

An in-depth guide for your day trip to Sintra

The following section explains in-depth the 1-day tour of Sintra.

Lisbon to Sintra

The recommended means of travel to Sintra from Lisbon is by train, and there are two train services: • Rossio station (Lisbon) to Sintra • Oriente station (Lisbon) to Sintra

The majority of visitors to Sintra depart from Rossio station as it is close to the popular tourist areas of Baixa and Alfama. The Estação do Oriente station is better if you're travelling from the airport.

Both train routes have similar journey times (40min Rossio, 47min Oriente). A single fare costs €2.40/€1.20 (adult/child), and a return is twice the price at €4.80. There is a departure approximately every 20 minutes during daylight hours, with both services starting early in the day and continuing late into the night.

If you are visiting Sintra from Cascais or Estoril, the bus is the best way to travel. There are regular services from Cascais bus station and Estoril train station. Related articles: Lisbon to Sintra – Cascais to Sintra

The train to Sintra waiting in Rossio station

Sintra train station and the tourist confusion

Sintra train station is the final stop of the railway, but the historic centre is a further 1.5km to the west. When exiting the train station, it is advisable to know if you want to see the historic centre of Sintra first or want to head up the hill to visit the Palácio da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros.

If you want to take in the town centre first, it is best to walk from the train station. This is a scenic route that passes the decorative town hall - the Fonte Mourisca - and is lined with tourist stalls selling gifts.

If you'd prefer to see the Palácio da Pena earlier in the day (which is what we’d recommend), it is advisable to catch the 434-bus service from the train station. The Palácio da Pena cannot be realistically walked to from the train station, as it is a very demanding 50-minute uphill walk and would waste most of your day.

Insight: When exiting the station, it is not very obvious where to go for the town centre or the Palácio da Pena. Amid this confusion, tour guides will pounce in an attempt to convince visitors to join tuk-tuk tours, guided tours or other gimmicky tourist activities.

These tours are very expensive when compared to the 434-bus service. If you are considering a tour, it makes more sense to book a tour that picks you up from your accommodation instead of wasting time catching the train.

Sintra train station

The 434 bus

The 434 bus route connects Sintra train station to the Castelo dos Mouros and the Palácio da Pena, before returning to the train station via the historic centre of Sintra. This loop ticket is known as the ‘Pena Circuit Round Trip’ and costs €7.60.

The bus is expensive, but it is cheaper than a return taxi journey or tuk-tuk tour. Additionally, there can be very long waits for Uber/Bolts.

During the peak season there will be many departures per hour, but the sheer number of tourists mean the buses will be packed. The road up to the Palácio da Pena has many twists and turns, so it is always advisable to try and get a seat.

The route of the 434 bus means that to ride the bus from the town centre of Sintra up to the Palácio da Pena, you must go past (and stop) at the train station. It therefore makes sense to ride the bus from the train station to the Palácio da Pena at the start of the day. Related article: The 434 tourist bus

The 434 tourist bus waiting at Sintra train station

Palácio da Pena Sintra

The Palácio Nacional da Pena is regarded as one of the finest palaces in Europe and will be the highlight of your day trip to Sintra.

The colourful palace perches atop a craggy, rocky outcrop and was constructed around an abandoned monastery. The interior of the Palácio da Pena is equally fascinating, having been restored to how it appeared in 1910 when the monarchy was forced to flee Portugal due to revolution.

The colourful terraces of the Palácio da Pena

Due to its popularity, visits to the palace are via a timed ticket, which provides a 30-minute time window to enter the main building of the palace.

The most popular time slots will sell out during the peak season, so it is advisable to book tickets at least the day before. Tickets can be purchased from Getyourguide.com for €20 - click here .

There is a cheaper ticket (€10) that provides entrance to the gardens and forests that surround the Palácio da Pena, but not the actual palace. Surprisingly very little of the palace can be seen from the grounds, so the cheaper 'Park Only' ticket is not recommended if this is your first visit.

The entrance to the palace is guard by a statue of Triton

The kitchens of the Palácio da Pena

The Parque da Pena (Pena Park)

The Parque da Pena is the 200 hectares of forested parkland that surrounds the Palácio da Pena.

There is a surprisingly large amount to see within the Parque da Pena, and a half day could be easily spent exploring it.

On a hot summer's day, you can enjoy the cooling Feteira da Condessa fern gardens, Vale Dos Lagos (Valley of the Lakes) and the shaded forest footpaths of the Jardim Inglês.

The Parque da Pena also includes the highest point of the Serra da Sintra hills, the Cruz Alta (529m), which is a pleasant 20-minute walk from the palace. The best view of the Palácio da Pena is from the seldom-visited Alto do Cha viewpoint, and there is also the mock Alpine Chalet Da Condessa D'edla to visit. Related articles: The Parque da Pena

The Chalet da Condessa d'Edla

A 16th century cross marks the highest point of the Serra da Sintra

The Castelo dos Mouros

The Castelo dos Mouros is the optional sight for the day, and visiting it really depends on whether you want to include another 90 minutes of sightseeing before lunch.

The castle dates from the Moorish era of Portugal (8th to 11th century) and was constructed as both a stronghold and fortified viewpoint, with its impressive views northwards and over the Atlantic coastline. The castle was extensively reconstructed during the building of the Palácio da Pena to become the major feature of the Parque da Pena gardens.

The rebuilding embellished everything expected from a medieval castle, from the massive battlements traversing the boulder-strewn landscape to the ancient towers providing spectacular views. The Castelo dos Mouros is a magnificent castle, however it is the least impressive attraction of the day trip when compared to the other unique sights of Sintra. Related articles: Guide to the Castelo dos Mouros

Advice: The Castelo dos Mouros and the Palácio da Pena are only separated by a gentle 400m walk, so there is no need to catch the bus.

The impressive views from the battlements of the Castelo dos Mouros

The historic centre of Sintra

Once finished at the top of the Palácio da Pena hill, catch the 434 bus down to the historic centre of Sintra, which is served by the Sintra Vila bus stop. There is a scenic footpath, the Caminho de Santa Maria, which leads down from the Castelo dos Mouros to the town centre. However, for the day trip there is not normally enough time for this.

Sintra has a delightful centre, with its cobbled streets and traditionally painted buildings filled with family-run cafes and unique shops. Highlights of Sintra include the flamboyant town hall, the busy tourist shopping streets of Rua das Padarias and the pretty church of Igreja de Santa Maria. There is a wide selection of restaurants and cafes in the centre of Sintra, so this makes the ideal location for lunch.

While in one of Sintra's cafes, do try a Queijadas - the traditional sweet pastry of Sintra.

The Rua Padarias and the warren of cobbled streets at the heart of Sintra

For the later part of the day, you could either visit the Quinta da Regaleira or the Palácio Nacional de Sintra. The Quinta da Regaleira has fascinating gardens filled with caves and secret passages, while the gothic Palácio Nacional is rich in Portuguese history, being the most used royal palace in Portugal.

• Quinta da Regaleira

The Quinta da Regaleira is a 19th-century mansion that is famed for its mystical gardens. The gardens feature hidden cave passages, ornamental fortifications and the Poço Iniciático. This well, which is better described as an inverted tower, may have been used for initiation rituals (possibly by Freemasons) and was inspired by the Knights Templar.

The gardens are one of the finest attractions of Sintra, but it is best to visit early or late in the day to avoid the peak hour crowds. Related articles: The Quinta da Regaleira

The hidden cave network below the gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra (Palácio da Vila)

The gothic exterior of the Palacio Nacional de Sintra is distinctive due to the two coned chimneys that extend from the palace's kitchens.

This medieval palace was a favourite with the Portuguese nobility, being in continuous use from the 15th century through to the 19th century, making it the most used royal residence of Portugal.

The extensive history is reflected in its varied interior, but many of the rooms follow a simplistic styling of cooling floor tiles, high vaults and beautifully painted ceilings. Highlights include the Magpie Room, the decorative Throne Room and the Swan Room. Useful links: National Palace tickets .

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra

The Sala dos Brasoes (Coat of Arms Room) in the Palacio Nacional

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A complete list of all of our Sintra and Lisbon guides

Sintra guides

• Sintra Introduction

Sights of Sintra

• How many days in Sintra?
• A day trip to Sintra
• The hidden gems of Sintra
• Free and inexpensive Sintra
• Walk up to the castle
• Sintra in 2 days
• Airport to Sintra
• The 434 tourist bus
• When to Visit Sintra
• Sintra to Cascais
• Sintra or Cascais?
• Evora or Sintra?
• Palácio da Pena
• Palácio Nacional de Sintra
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Palácio de Queluz
• Convento dos Capuchos
• Parque da Pena
• Sintra Town Hall
• Sintra Tram
• Santuário da Peninha
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
• Evora sights
• Evora day trip
• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
• Sesimbra sightseeing
• Sesimbra beaches
• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
• Obidos day trip
• Ericeira introduction
• Lisbon to Ericeira
• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
• Peninsula de Troia

Central Portugal

• Berlengas Islands

Lisbon Guides

• Lisbon introduction
• Lisbon top 10
• Secret Lisbon
• Lisbon beach guide
• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• 3 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 5 Days
• 1 Week Lisbon
• Where to stay?
• Lisbon shopping
• Lisbon Parks
• Lisbon on a wet day
• Museums and galleries
• Alfama District
• Baixa District
• Belem District
• Parque Nações
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• Graça District
• Cais do Sodre
• Lisbon airport
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• Castelo de São Jorge
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• Lisbon Viewpoints
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• Is Lisbon Walkable
• Lisbon Budget
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• From the airport
• To Cristo Rei
• Lisbon to Porto
• Lisbon tram guide
• Lisbon Ferrys

Portugal Guides

• Where to go in Portugal?
• 1 week in Portugal
• Portugal airports
• Portugal weather
• Best beaches
• Top 10 Algarve
• Portugal in June
• Portugal in September
• Portugal in November
• Where to Live in Portugal

North Portugal

• Douro Valley
• Serra da Estrela
• Viana do Castelo
• Porto where to stay
• How Long in Porto
• Porto sightseeing
• Porto beaches
• Porto in 1 Day
• Porto in 3 Days
• Porto 1 Week
• Foz do Douro
• Linha do Douro
• Port Cellars
• Airport to City
• Porto Trams

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
• Albufeira activities
• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
• Albufeira boat trips
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Percurso dos Sete Vales hike
• Sights and activities
• Faro beaches
• Funchal introduction
• Lagos guide
• Lagos beaches
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
• Tavira guide
• Tavira sights
• Tavira Beaches
• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

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Home > Transportation > Train from Lisbon to Sintra

Sintra Train from Lisbon

Lisbon-sintra transportation guide with train timetable and ticket information.

Inside a CP (Comboios de Portugal) train to Sintra

S intra is around 40 minutes by train from the center of Lisbon. It’s the final stop of two train services in the capital -- one departing from Rossio Station downtown, and another from Oriente Station in the Parque das Nações district to the east, close to the airport.

Sintra Train Lines

Rossio-Sintra Line - It's more convenient for those staying in the city center. Rossio Station is within walking distance of just about anywhere in Baixa , Chiado , Alfama , and Avenida da Liberdade , but can also be reached by metro (green line).

Oriente-Sintra Line - It stops at other stations in Lisbon connected to the metro network. They are Roma-Areeiro (on the green line), Entrecampos (on the yellow line), and Sete Rios (named “Jardim Zoológico” on the blue line). This service is more convenient if you’re staying in the upper districts of the city, close to these stations.

Access to the platforms in Rossio Station, for the train to Sintra.

Weekday Sintra Train Schedule

Train from Lisbon Rossio Station to Sintra 5:41am 6:11 6:41 7:11 7:41 8:11 8:41 9:11 9:41 10:01 10:41 11:01 11:41 12:01pm 12:41 1:01 1:41 1:01 1:41 2:01 2:41 3:01 3:41 4:01 4:41 5:11 5:41 6:11 6:41 7:11 7:41 8:11 8:41 9:01 9:31 10:01 10:31 11:01 11:31 12:01am 12:31 1:01

Train from Sintra to Lisbon Rossio Station 5:20am 5:50 6:20 6:40 7:10 7:40 8:10 8:40 9:10 9:40 10:00 10:40 11:00 11:40 12:00pm 12:40 1:00 1:40 2:00 2:40 3:00 3:40 4:00 4:40 5:10 5:40 6:10 6:40 7:10 7:40 8:10 8:50 9:20 9:50 10:20 10:50 11:20 11:50 12:20am

Train from Lisbon Entrecampos Station to Sintra 6:07am 6:27 6:47 6:57 7:07 7:17 7:27 7:37 7:47 7:57 8:07 8:17 8:27 8:37 8:47 8:57 9:07 9:17 9:27 9:37 9:47 10:07 10:27 10:47 11:07 11:27 11:47 12:07pm 12:27 12:47 1:07 1:27 1:47 2:07 2:27 2:47 3:07 3:27 3:47 4:07 4:27 4:47 4:57 5:07 5:17 5:27 5:37 5:47 5:57 6:07 6:17 6:27 6:37 6:47 6:57 7:07 7:17 7:27 7:37 7:47 7:57 8:07 8:27 8:47 9:17 9:47 10:17 10:47 11:17 11:47 12:17am 12:47 1:17

Train from Sintra to Lisbon Entrecampos and Oriente Station 5:06am 5:36 6:06 6:16 6:26 6:36 6:46 6:56 7:06 7:16 7:26 7:36 7:46 7:56 8:06 8:16 8:26 8:36 8:46 8:56 9:06 9:16 9:26 9:36 9:56 10:16 10:36 10:56 11:16 11:36 11:56 12:16pm 12:36 12:56 1:16 1:36 1:56 2:16 2:36 2:56 3:16 3:36 3:56 4:16 4:26 4:36 4:46 4:56 5:06 5:16 5:26 5:36 5:46 5:56 6:06 6:16 6:26 6:36 6:46 6:56 7:06 7:16 7:26 7:36 7:56 8:16 8:36 9:06 9:36 10:06 10:36 11:06 11:36 12:06am

Train from Lisbon Oriente Station to Sintra 5:58am 6:18 6:38 6:48 6:58 7:08 7:18 7:28 7:38 7:48 7:58 8:08 8:18 8:28 8:38 8:48 8:58 9:08 9:18 9:28 9:38 9:58 10:18 10:38 10:58 11:18 11:38 11:58 12:18pm 12:38 12:58 1:18 1:38 1:58 2:18 2:38 2:58 3:18 3:38 3:58 4:18 4:38 4:48 4:58 5:08 5:18 5:28 5:38 5:48 5:58 6:08 6:18 6:28 6:38 6:48 6:58 7:08 7:18 7:28 7:38 7:48 7:58 8:18 8:38 9:08 9:38 10:08 10:38 11:08 11:38 12:08am 12:38 1:08

Weekend and Public Holidays Sintra Train Schedule

Train from Lisbon Rossio Station to Sintra 6:01am 7:01 8:01 9:01 10:01 11:01 12:01pm 1:01 2:01 3:01 4:01 5:01 6:01 7:01 8:01 9:01 9:31 10:01 10:31 11:01 11:31 12:01am 12:31 1:01

Train from Sintra to Lisbon Rossio Station 5:20am 5:50 6:20 6:50 7:50 8:50 9:50 10:50 11:50 12:50pm 1:50 2:50 3:50 4:50 5:50 6:50 7:50 8:50 9:20 9:50 10:20 10:50 11:20 11:50 12:20am

Train from Lisbon Entrecampos Station to Sintra 6:17am 6:47 7:17 7:47 8:17 8:47 9:17 9:47 10:17 10:47 11:17 11:47 12:17pm 12:47 1:17 1:47 2:17 2:47 3:17 3:47 4:17 4:47 5:17 5:47 6:17 6:47 7:17 7:47 8:17 8:47 9:17 9:47 10:17 10:47 11:17 11:47 12:17am 12:47 1:17

Train from Sintra to Lisbon Entrecampos and Oriente Station 5:06am 5:36 6:06 6:36 7:06 7:36 8:06 8:36 9:06 9:36 10:06 10:36 11:06 11:36 12:06pm 12:36 1:06 1:36 2:06 2:36 3:06 3:36 4:06 4:36 5:06 5:36 6:06 6:36 7:06 7:36 8:06 8:36 9:06 9:36 10:06 10:36 11:06 11:36 12:06am

Train from Lisbon Oriente Station to Sintra 6:08am 6:38 7:08 7:38 8:08 8:38 9:08 9:38 10:08 10:38 11:08 11:38 12:08pm 12:38 1:08 1:38 2:08 2:38 3:08 3:38 4:08 4:38 5:08 5:38 6:08 6:38 7:08 7:38 8:08 8:38 9:08 9:38 10:08 10:38 11:08 11:38 12:08am 12:38 1:08

Sintra Train Tickets

Single tickets for both Rossio-Sintra and Oriente-Sintra cost €2.30 , and can be bought at the ticket counters or machines. The tickets are magnetic cards called “Viva Viagem,” which you need to purchase the first time you take the train in Lisbon. In future journeys you just have to recharge it. It costs €0.50, so if your trip to Sintra is the first time you’re taking the train in Lisbon, the total cost will be €2.80, and for your return to Lisbon you just need to add a single trip ticket to the card (for €2.30). There are no return tickets, so to go and return you’ll have to buy two single tickets. It’s important to note that if you previously acquired a “Viva Viagem” card to use on the metro or trams, it can only be used for the train if it has no fares left. Your balance has to be zero, otherwise you must buy a new card for the train. The card is valid for just one person, meaning everyone in your group will need their own.

Those with the Lisboa Card (the tourist pass) can ride the Lisbon-Sintra trains for free, as many times as they need, for as long as the card is valid (it’s available for 24h, 48h and 78h periods). There’s also a 24-hour train ticket that provides unlimited travel for €6.00, but you’re better off investing in the Lisboa Card instead, as it also offers free or reduced admission to most attractions in Lisbon and a few in Sintra. This 24-hour ticket would also be worth getting only if you were taking three or more trips, which tourists rarely do, unless they’re stopping in Queluz for its palace between Sintra and Lisbon.

Before you step on the train, you must validate your ticket by scanning the card on the scanners by the platforms or ticket machines. Make sure you keep it handy throughout your journey for an eventual inspection and because you’ll need it to exit the station at your destination.

Entrecampos station, which is a stop on the Oriente-Sintra line.

The Sintra Train Service

The train service to Sintra is operated by CP (“Comboios de Portugal”), which is the national train company. It’s a busy commuter line, so seats can’t be pre-booked and there are trains every 20 minutes , and more frequently at rush hours. The Rossio-Sintra journey takes 40 minutes, and the Oriente-Sintra train takes 47 minutes. Since most tourists depart from Rossio Station, expect long lines and waiting times at the counters and machines. The only way to avoid them is to get the Lisboa Card.

It’s generally safe to take the train in Lisbon, but as this is a busy line with lots of tourists, beware of pickpockets as you would anywhere else. To avoid petty crime if you’re traveling alone or late at night, sit in the most crowded carriage, away from any dodgy-looking passengers.

There are commuter buses to Sintra from Lisbon, but they take much longer than the train, and the terminals are not conveniently located for tourists. Driving to Sintra is also not recommended, as there is very limited parking and the narrow hilly roads are constantly jammed (and they’re often nerve-wracking experience for those not familiar with the place).

Sintra Station

Once you arrive at the Sintra train station , it’s a fast and easy walk (about 10 minutes) to the center, where you see the National Palace . However, it’s recommended that as you exit, you turn to the front of the station (the side parallel to the train tracks), for the buses to the palaces, especially if you want to visit Pena Palace . For complete details, see the 434 bus guide .

Take a look at the links below for more Sintra transportation guides.

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Sintra National Palace

Quinta da Regaleira

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Bus 435 to Monserrate Palace

Bus 1624 to Cabo da Roca and Cascais

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Lisbon to sintra by train: step-by-step guide.

Sintra is an absolute must-do when it comes to day trips from Lisbon in my opinion.

Even if you only have a few days in this capital, I highly recommend heading out of the city to enjoy the cute town and amazing castles of Sintra.

Looking like something out of a Disney movie, with its brightly coloured towers and epic views, many people head to Sintra as part of an organised tour, which you certainly can do.

But for those who like their travel a little more on the independent side (and a little more on the budget side as well!), then it pays to know you can also get to Sintra independently too.

In fact, it’s both easy and affordable to travel from Lisbon to Sintra by train and here I talk you through the exact steps to enjoying this DIY day trip yourself…

Related Posts

• Best 21 Things to Do in Lisbon
• How to Travel from Lisbon to Porto
• Complete Portugal Packing List

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Where to Catch the Train to Sintra?

The great news is that there are frequent direct trains to Sintra from Lisbon using the city’s commuter rail service.

The journey takes only 40 minutes and the best station to pick the line up from is Rossio .

Rossio is a central station in Lisbon, situated near the Dom Pedro IV Square and, if you’re staying in Barrio Alto or Baxia, is likely to be under a 15 minute walk from your accommodation.

To get the best from your day in Sintra, I recommend getting to the station early if you can, so that you can maximise the time you have for your day trip.

I picked up the 8:41am train which got me to Sintra at 9:21am, but you can check all the train times to pick the best one by checking the official railway timetable in English here .

Just ensure you allow time to walk to the station (or catch an Uber) and then buy your ticket and get on the train.

Buying Your Lisbon – Sintra Train Ticket

Tickets for the train to Sintra from Lisbon can be bought at the station.

You can easily use the automated ticket machines (which have handy instructions in English) or head to one of the manned counters to buy your ticket there.

I recommend buying a return ticket to Sintra because it’s likely you’ll want to come back to Lisbon and it’s easier to just get your tickets sorted all at once.

A return train ticket from Rossio to Sintra costs around 5€ and you can pay using contactless or cash.

Your ticket will be loaded onto a plastic card, which you then simply tap at the barrier to get onto the platform of your departing Sintra train.

Simply check the boards for the platform information, ask a train station attendant or follow the tourist crowds.

Because yes, an FYI, you’re unlikely to be the only tourist making this journey!

Sintra is a very popular day trip from Lisbon and there will be lots of other tourists making the same journey – especially during the summer months or at weekends.

The Train Journey

The trains from Lisbon to Sintra are commuter trains (as I explained) and are modern, clean and comfortable.

Usually red in colour, you can normally sit anywhere on the train – except for first class – as there’s little to no reserved seating.

The journey takes around 40 minutes and you’ll want to get off at the Sintra station.

Again, follow the crowds!

Arriving at Sintra

Sintra station is centrally located in the lovely town of Sintra itself – which is well worth exploring for a couple of hours (perhaps for a bite to eat, to grab a drink or to buy some souvenirs) at the end of your day trip.

And that’s because you’ll probably want to start your time by visiting the castles Sintra is most famous for.

The castles (yes there’s more than one) are located up on a hill above the town within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and there’s 2 ways to reach them

Firstly, it pays to know that you can walk up the hill from the train station to reach the castles, but that this is a long and steep hill that will probably take you the best part of an hour and a half to scale.

If it’s hot weather and you’re lugging some gear with you – water, snacks, camera etc – then I’d highly recommend catching the convenient bus that will shuttle you up the hill to the castles in around 30 minutes.

The number bus you need to catch here is #434.

The bus leaves from right outside the train station, making it easy and convenient to find.

Tickets can be bought on the bus – from the driver when boarding – and cost 3.50€ one way. They are payable in cash or by card.

The bus ride is bumpy and windy, so if you suffer from motion sickness, you have been warned!

Personally, I’d recommend just getting a one-way bus ticket at this point, as you can enjoy a lovely walk down the hill (much easier than going up!) at the end of your castle sightseeing.

Otherwise, there are also taxi drivers who can take you up in a private vehicle to the castle. This usually costs around 5€ per person.

Visiting the National Palace of Pena

Whether it’s a taxi or bus or walking method you opt for, you’ll want to go right to the top of the hill where you’ll find the entrance for the Park and National Palace of Pena.

This is the flagship Sintra Castle (as I’ve explained there’s more than one of them) and the brightly coloured-Disney-like structures of this gem are the ones you’ve probably seen in photos of Sintra when researching your trip.

Entrance tickets can be bought at the door using the automated ticket machines and cost 14€ for 1 adult.

There’s a toilet and a café at the entrance you can make use of as well.

Then, it’s time to walk up into the palaces and enjoy your sightseeing and snapping.

I won’t go into further details here, because I’ve included info about this palace and the best bits to explore there in this article , but for now, I’ll just mention that you should climb right to the top for the amazing views over the national park that extend all the way to the coast.

Allow at least a couple of hours to explore the whole site.

Visiting the Castelo dos Mouros

After the Park and National Palace of Pena, I then suggest you head to the Castelo dos Mouros.

This is the second-best castle to visit in Sintra in my opinion and is located down the hill from the Pena Palace.

You can easily walk down the Moorish Castle (as it is known in English) through the lovely hillside trails and then buy your entrance for this second castle at the entrance again using the automated ticket machines.

Scale these old walks and again enjoy the views – this place feels more historic and is in a more dilapidated state, but that does make it more atmospheric in my opinion and you can get some epic photos here.

After an hour or 2 at the Castelo dos Mouros, you can then continue your walk down the hill back to Sintra – this is a lovely walk, again down well-paved trails and is the main reason I only suggest buying a one-way ticket for the bus.

Back in Sintra Town

After all that sightseeing, it’s likely you’ll be ready for some food and a drink and as you reach Sintra town you’ll come across the lovely Villa 6 – a great place to stop for lunch.

Back in the town of Sintra itself, the Villa Craft Beer & Bread is a great place to try some excellent Sintra-brewed beers and is located near the Sintra National Palace if you want to check this out too.

After enjoying all that the town of Sintra has to offer, it’s time to simply jump on the train home – easy as they run roughly every 30 minutes and you already have your return tickets.

Taking a Tour to Sintra

So that’s my full lowdown on how to travel from Lisbon to Sintra by train.

I hope I’ve convinced you it’s both easy and affordable.

If you’d still rather take an organised tour however, so that you don’t have to deal with organising any part of this great day trip, then check out my top picks:

• From Lisbon: Sintra and Cascais Full-Day Tour
• From Lisbon: Sintra, Regaleira and Pena Palace Guided Tour
• From Lisbon: Sintra Highlights Full-Day Tour
• From Lisbon: Sintra and Quinta da Regaleira 5-Hour Tour

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When to Visit Sintra?

No question in my mind that the best time to visit Sintra and Lisbon is during the months of April through June, plus September and October.

This is when the warm weather will allow you to take full advantage of these destinations’ charm, but you won’t have you wilting in the summer heat.

5 Packing Essentials for Sintra

• Decent Day Pack
• Supportive walking shoes
• Natural SPF sunscreen
• Good insect repellent
• Sony A6000 camera

Travel Insurance for Portugal

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

How Best to Pay for Things in Portugal?

When it comes to paying for things in Portugal, you want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates when using your card abroad, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay – sold! Grab yours here .

Where to Travel After Lisbon?

If you still have time for more travelling after Lisbon (and lucky you if so!) then you may want to head to other parts of Portugal.

Check out these articles for some inspiration…

• Ultimate 2 Day Porto Itinerary
• How to Travel from Porto to Douro Valley
• 8 Best Porto Day Trips

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Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

2 thoughts on “ Lisbon to Sintra by Train: Step-by-Step Guide ”

Hey, great article. Would you recommend weekday or weekend for Sintra visit?

I’d opt for a weekday Edita, in the hope the crowds might be a bit thinner! Enjoy, Steph 🙂

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Best Day Trips From Lisbon

TomasSereda / Getty Images

Lisbon is well situated roughly in the middle of the Portuguese coast and, with good train and bus connections, is a good place to base yourself for exploring central Portugal.

Let's take a look at some of the most popular day trips from Lisbon.

The Best Excursions From the Portuguese Capital

Can you go to porto as a day trip from lisbon.

The place everyone most wants to visit from Lisbon is perhaps the most awkward, due to the two-and-a-half-hour train ride, but connections to Porto are easy so it is quite doable.

The Golden Triangle of Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca

A more realistic day trip (or trips) is the sights to the west of Lisbon, especially Sintra. Transport connections are good between all of these sights, so you can easily combine two or even three in a day.

Evora and Other Wine Regions in Portugal

Evora is a world heritage site, with Roman ruins and a chilling bone chapel (Capela dos Ossos). And, as it is situated in the Alentejo wine region , there are also some great wineries to visit too. 

Both train and bus take around 90 minutes to get to Evora from Lisbon.

North From Lisbon: Fatima, Obidos, Nazare, Batalha, and Coimbra

Fatima is an important Catholic pilgrimage site due to reports of the apparition of the Virgin Mary back in 1917. The main attraction is the Sanctuary of Fatima, which commemorates the reported event.

Fatima is often combined with a tour of some other religious sights in the area.

The university town of Coimbra has a wonderfully idiosyncratic student tradition (take a walking tour to learn about it). It takes just an hour and a half to get to Coimbra by train from Lisbon.

Join the Dots

Fatima and Coimbra are in the same direction, but as there is no train station , you'd need to travel by bus to include Fatima

You'd be ill-advised to visit both Fatima and Coimbra in a day. but if you are traveling light, Fatima could be a convenient stepping stone to Coimbra, with the logical next step being onward to Porto. Suddenly, there's an itinerary emerging!

How to Get From Lisbon to Sintra, Cascais, Estoril, and Cabo da Roca

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

Some of the best sights outside Lisbon are so close to the capital and to each other that they can be visited all in a single day.

What to See and Do in Each

• Sintra  The three palaces of Sintra and the area's natural parks are the Lisbon region's biggest attractions.  
• Cascais  A lively beach town, famous for its high-society shenanigans during the early 20th century.
• Estoril  A slightly quieter beach town with a picturesque castle.
• Cabo da Roca  The most westerly point in Portugal, Europe, and Eurasia.

How to Get from Lisbon to...

• Sintra The train from Lisbon to Sintra takes about 40 minutes from the Rossio Station and costs about 5€ for a round trip. 
• Cascais and Estoril Take the scenic train line from the Cais do Sodre Station to both destinations. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs under 2.50€.
• Cabo da Roca Take the 403 bus from either Cascais or Sintra. Buses run every hour.

All buses are operated by  Scotturb ,  while train info is available at   Cp.pt . ​

How Many Could You (and Should You) Visit in One Day?

Sintra is, for a many, a day trip in itself. But if you tend to tire easily and would prefer to combine your trip with a few hours at the beach, you can easily combine it with some time in Cascais or Estoril. Alternatively, an excursion to Cabo da Roca is a good way to break up your day.

If you're on a beach vacation, you'll probably choose Estoril or Cascais as your base and perhaps head over to the other for a change of scene (or to check out Cascais' more extensive nightlife), which is easy by bus, taxi or (during daylight hours) walking.

But three or four in a day? There is little point in packing two beach towns into such a long day, so drop Estoril. But even then, you'll be hard-pressed to make such a trip by yourself. 

How to Travel Between Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca

The 403 bus here is your friend. It departs hourly, going from Sintra to Cascais via Cabo da Roca and takes around an hour. If you're in a hurry, the 417 bus misses out the cape but gets you between Sintra and Cascais in half the time.

Estoril to Cascais and Sintra 

Estoril and Cascais are just five minutes apart by train (you can even walk). To get from Estoril to Sintra, take the 418 bus.

Fatima, Obidos, Nazare, Batalha

On this page, you'll find transport information for getting from Lisbon to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare by guided tour, bus, train, and car.

Lisbon to Obidos

The bus takes one hour from Lisboa-Campo Grande. Check schedules at Rodotejo . 

Lisbon to Fatima

The bus from Lisbon to Fatima takes 1h30 and costs about 10€ each way. Book from Rede Expressos . 

The closest train station is 10 km outside the town and requires a bus transfer.

Visiting Nazare

There are regular buses by Rede Expressos  to Nazare from Lisbon, taking around two hours.

Connecting up These Sights 

Bus connections are poor or impossible between these sights, so your only option is a guided tour or driving.

Guided Tour : There are many guided tours from Lisbon to Fatima. Some take you directly to Fatima or you can combine other sites with Fatima.

By Car : It takes around an hour to get from Lisbon to Obidos. The onward trip to Fatima - via Nazare - takes a little over an hour. The return journey to Lisbon then takes around an hour and a half. Better still, finish your day in Coimbra, a 50-minute drive from Fatima.

Visiting Evora From Lisbon

Looking to visit Portugal's Alentejo wine region? Then you'll most likely want to head to Evora, the capital. 

Though Evora is a little further from Lisbon than most Day Trips from the Portuguese capital, it is still well connected by both bus and train, making it a popular destination for sampling Portugal's under-appreciated wines.

Evora en Route From Spain to Lisbon

If you are coming into Portugal from Spain, you may prefer to stop in Evora before making your way to  Lisbon . It takes just over an hour from Badajoz or two hours from Merida . Note that Portugal is in a different time zone to Spain, which may mess with some booking websites' travel time estimates.

Best Way to Travel Between Lisbon and Evora

The bus and train take a similar amount of time and cost about the same. The train will be more comfortable, but if you are staying close to the bus station, it may be more convenient to just take the bus. 

Bear in mind that if you want to visit a winery, it will be much easier to go by guided tour.

Lisbon to Evora by Guided Tour

There are guided tours from Lisbon to Evora. The tour should include a visit to the chilling Chapel of Bones in the St. Francis Church, as well as sights such as the Cathedral of Évora, the Roman Temple, and the Almendres Cromlech.. 

If you are staying in Evora for a few days, you may prefer to do a tour that begins in the city.

Lisbon to Evora by Train and Bus

The train ride from Lisbon to Evora takes 1h30 and costs about 15€ one way.

The bus from Lisbon to Evora takes a bit over 1h30 and costs about 20€ round trip (or around 10€ one way). Book from  Rede Expressos .

Lisbon to Evora by Car

The 130 km drive from Lisbon to Evora takes about one-and-a-half hours.

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Lisbon Sintra by train Travel Guide + 8 top sights to visit

Are you planning to travel from Lisbon to Sintra by train? Look no further. With this guide, written by a local, you´ll travel like a local before you know it! It only takes 40 minutes from Portugal’s capital to the historic town of Sintra. It’s not for its stunning palaces, castles, villas, and much more: it’s an absolute must-see destination from Lisbon! Let’s get straight to the essentials so you can easily travel the Lisbon Sintra by train!

Thanks for sharing!

An Overview Lisbon Sintra by train

• What to see?  Sintra is a popular day trip from Lisbon, and the two have a train connection. Here, you will learn more about Lisbon Sintra by train. I will also provide some tips on how to get to Sintra with other means. Plus, advise on which attractions need pre-booked tickets!
• Costs?  From €2,40 for a one-way ticket. You can purchase these at the ticket machines at Lisbon’s Rossio Station or Oriente Train Station.
• Where?  In Sintra, Portugal, a town near Lisbon.
• Worth it?  To be honest… it’s a must! Some palaces can be busy, but there are some hidden gems as well (explained below). If you have time, even stay a night!

Discover Portugal is fully reader-supported. For that reason, this article contains some affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you purchase through links on this page at no additional cost to you. All revenue is used to keep this website free and updated. I only recommend products or services that I would use myself. You’ll be able to read the full disclaimer  here . Thanks for your support!

Planning your Sintra train day trip from Lisbon

Do you want to see the highlights in Sintra? That’s an excellent decision! Part of the fun is in reaching your destination, and the Sintra Train services are pretty straightforward . Taking the time beforehand to plan your train journey from Lisbon can help you be better prepared on the day of travelling. A day trip to Sintra is worth it, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

The first step in preparing for this adventure includes selecting the right train station within Lisbon that will take you directly towards Sintra . Next up would be getting tickets at their designated location and knowing how much they cost per person. To complete the planning process, choosing what best suits you (and your travel companions) could also add value and a better travel experience. Let’s dive into these details a little further.

Choosing the right train station in Lisbon

Two main train stations in Lisbon serve Sintra: Rossio Station and Oriente Station . The best station depends on your starting point, but both have benefits. Lisbon Rossio Station is a popular choice due to its central location as it is close to downtown Lisbon. Also, the building in the Portuguese Manueline style is a REAL eyecather!

If you’re closer to the airport or Parque das Nações district, Oriente Station would be more convenient for Lisbon Sintra by train. You can easily reach this modern train station by taking the red Lisbon metro line. Whether you choose Rossio Train Station or Oriente Station, you can easily enjoy day trips to Sintra by travelling on a direct train from either of these stations .

Train tickets and prices

After selecting your desired station in the city center, the next step is purchasing train tickets. These can be bought at Rossio Station and Oriente Station or through CP’s website ( Comboios de Portugal , the national train company). A single ticket costs €2.40 , making it an affordable journey. All stations have ticket counters and ticket machines. You can buy your return tickets at Sintra Station.

If you plan to use Lisbon’s public transport system more often, buying the magnetic cards called Viva Viagem Card will help you save money . This rechargeable card costs only €0,50 and provides easy access to trains, buses, and the metro in the Portuguese capital.

The Viva Viagem ticket is valid for just one person . If you travel with more people, everyone must purchase a Viva Viagem ticket. If you’d like to know more about public transport in Lisbon , click  here . Comboios de Portugal is the train service for the Sintra train from Lisbon.

Best time and days to travel to Sintra

Portugal gets busy in summer, which applies especially to your day excursion to Sintra. While the city is stunning year-round, the best months for visiting Sintra are from October to May . The weather is still lovely, but there are a lot fewer people around! That means fewer queues at the most famous attractions and less busy trains.

When you are travelling to Sintra Train Station in the height of summer, try avoiding the weekend , which might help you avoid big crowds. If you’re in Sintra in the winter, there will be no crowds, and these tips don’t apply. The Lisbon Sintra train schedule is the same in all seasons.

If you travel in the high season, I suggest taking the direct train from Lisbon to Sintra Train Station at 8 AM sharp to arrive before 9. By coming just before other visitors pour in, you’ll get a head start on exploring everything in Sintra!

Always bring a jumper or jacket to Sintra ! Even in summer, it can be colder in the mountains. A breeze of fresh air will be nice during the summer heat, but bringing something just in case you get cold will be comfortable!

Lisbon Sintra by train: the journey

When you have your tickets, it’s time for the journey itself. Travelling from Lisbon to Sintra by train is easy, and the service is usually efficient. The average travel time is 40 minutes , and when starting at Rossio Station or Oriente Station, there is no need to switch trains .

The train will stop at locations such as Benfica, Queluz, Amadora, and Portela de Sintra. No toilets or food and drink services are on board the Lisbon to Sintra trains. In less than an hour, you’ll arrive at the charming town of Sintra!

The train services between Lisbon and Sintra Station run often and usually depart every 20 minutes . When you travel in the evenings or at the weekend, it’s best to  check the timetable  for the next train. There are trains back to Lisbon until around midnight, so you can also enjoy a nice dinner in the historic centre.

Travelling from the station to Sintra sights

When you arrive at Sintra Train Station, you might wonder how to continue your journey. The historical town and some palaces are within walking distance from the station, making them easy to reach. Others are easier to reach by bus, taxi or tuk-tuk . I’ve created an overview to help you get to the most famous sights:

The Moorish Castle (taxi, tuk-tuk, or Scotturb bus)

Pena Palace (taxi, tuk-tuk, or Scotturb bus)

Sintra town center (walking distance)

Quinta da Regaleira (walking distance)

Biester Palace (walking distance)

Sintra National Palace (walking distance)

Park and Palace of Monserrate (taxi, tuk-tuk, rental car or Scotturb bus)

Convent of the Capuchos (taxi, tuk-tuk, or rental car)

When arriving at Sintra station, you’ll see tuk-tuks and buses waiting . The bus station is conveniently located just outside the station, and this is where the Sintra bus departs. The bus station is straightforward to find. The bus is run by a company named   Scotturb . It’s the cheapest way to explore places like Pena Palace (located on a steep hill, line 434) and Monserrate Palace (further out of town and bus line 435). The hop-on hop-off tourist bus ticket is valid for 24 hours and costs € 13,50. Single tickets cost € 4,55 ; return tickets cost € 8,40 (2024 prices). 

You can also take a taxi or tuk-tuk to places further away in the Sintra Mountains. You’ll know the price upfront when you grab an Uber or Bolt taxi. A tuk-tuk is most likely the most expensive option , but you can combine it with a guided tour! The historic centre is easily reached by foot and is relatively flat.

Other means to get to Sintra

You can travel from Lisbon to Sintra by bus, but it is not straightforward and advisable as the train is so easy and affordable! Private options such as taxis, Bolt or Uber are also available from Lisbon. Renting a car is another option but is NOT advised when visiting places like Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio da Pena. No car parking spaces exist, and vehicles are not allowed in the area.

You could rent a car if you plan to visit the Convent of the Capuchos and Monseratte Palace. There is limited parking at both sights, but there is often space. You can also book an organised tour to avoid public transport and train times. Private tours are also readily available. As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy a day trip to Sintra!

Must-visit attractions in Sintra

On your day trip to Sintra, there are many fantastic palaces, gardens and castles to discover. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Pena Palace should be on your wish list if this is your first visit. Pena National Palace has a royal history, and Pena Park is just as beautiful! Many people visit the palace only, walk around the courtyard and leave. But the park is impressive , so don’t skip it! There are fabulous viewpoints and a pond! Pena Palace is also known as one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders . Expect long lines as this is the most visited palace of all!

Also, the line for the famous well at Quinta da Regaleira can be extended. If unlucky, you may wait 1,5 hours or more to see it! Sintra Palace (Palácio Nacional de Sintra) can also get busy as it is so easy to reach for everyone. For all main attractions, arrive early or later in the day!

Castelo dos Mouros gives a glimpse into Portugal’s Moorish heritage and offers breathtaking views. While other tourists visit famous sights, you could discover hidden gems instead . Biester Palace , Monserrate Palace and the Convent of the Capuchos are great for avoiding the crowds ! A day trip from Lisbon to Sintra can include a few highlights. It’s advisable to visit two or a maximum of three sight s in one day.

Which Sintra attractions need pre-booked tickets

Most palaces and sights don’t require an online reservation in winter , but it’s still advisable . Places like Pena Palace work with timeslots , and you don’t want to arrive with no available tickets at the door. This list will provide some more insights.

The Moorish Castle (popular, online booking advised)

Pena Palace (THE most popular; online booking is a must)

Quinta da Regaleira (very popular; online booking is strongly recommended)

Biester Palace (never too busy, but you can buy cheaper tickets online )

Palácio Nacional de Sintra (popular; online booking advised)

Park and Palace of Monserrate (never too busy, but you can purchase tickets online )

Convent of the Capuchos (the least visited, but you can get online tickets )

There are also some combination tickets to save you money:

Additional activities and nearby destinations

If you have time during your Portugal vacation, many other activities and nearby destinations are worth exploring. Consider taking a day trip to Cascais, a lovely coastal town near Sintra. Or go to Azenhas do Mar , where you have breathtaking sea and village views . Do you like hiking? Then remember the natural beauty of Sintra Cascais Natural Park ! You can discover stunning coastal hikes around Cabo da Roca and Praia sa Ursa .

Where to eat in Sintra

A trip to Sintra is only complete with enjoying some local treats. There are some typical dishes in Sintra, such as the Travesseiros and Queijadas . If you have a sweet tooth, take advantage of these. Casa Piriquita is a lovely pastry shop where you can have a coffee with something sweet. For lunch and dinner, there are also plenty of options. Some personal favourites are Villa Craft Beer & Bread, Café Saudade and Bacalhau na Vila .

Hotels in Sintra

As you can see, there is much to do and see in Sintra! If time allows, staying one or more nights is a great opportunity . This way, you can visit Sintra not only on a day trip but also get to experience the stunning nature around you. Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais and Pestana Sintra Golf Resort & Spa Hotel are excellent choices if you would like a luxury stay . Budget-friendly options are MouraLua (also close to Portela de Sintra train station) and Casa do Albuquerque. Check the map below for current availability and prices .

For a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon, depart from either Lisbon Rossio Station or Lisbon Oriente Station. Trains leave approximately every 20 minutes (with less frequent services during weekends, early morning, and late evening), and the trip takes just 40 minutes.

You can catch the train to Sintra from Rossio Train Station, located in central Lisbon, or Oriente, closer to Lisbon airport. Trains depart roughly every 20 to 30 minutes, taking just 40 minutes.

The train fare from Lisbon to Sintra is € 2,40 for a single trip ticket and € 4,80 for a return journey (2024 prices).

The frequency of trains from Lisbon to Sintra varies depending on the time of day, with intervals ranging from 20 to 30 minutes.

Pena Palace, including Pena Park, the Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira, are some of the most popular sights. If you are travelling to Sintra for the first time, be sure to add these to your itinerary!

Conclusion about Lisbon Sintra by train

A day excursion from Lisbon to  Sintra is simply a must , and thankfully, the Sintra train service is an easy way to reach the enchanted town. By planning your trip to Sintra, you can  save money and ensure you have all the tickets for the palaces  and sights beforehand. You can depart in Lisbon from Rossio Station or Oriente, and both trains directly connect with Sintra Station. So grab your bags, catch a Lisbon to Sintra train ride and  prepare to be captivated by the magic  of this town!

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Hi! I'm the founder and writer behind Discover Portugal. After travelling the world for over 25 years, I settled in Portugal in 2021. I work as a professional photographer and writer with over 10 years of experience. I write local guides about Lisbon (where I'm based) and the rest of Portugal to inspire you for your Portugal vacation.

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14 comments.

Taking a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra by train sounds and looks so perfect! Great guide with practical tips and what to expect. Especially appreciate transportation recommendations once you arrive.

Thank you so much! It’s a well-travel road, but many visitors wonder how the journey works. I’m happy to hear you find it helpful!

I really enjoyed the palaces of Sintra and agree with you that this is a must-see in Portugal. With your guide and tips, a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra by train looks simple and even comfortable! Thanks for sharing!

You’re very welcome! And happy you hear you enjoyed your day in Sintra!

We stayed close to Sintra when we visited. But we’re happy to find the train back to Lisbon when we left. Good tip about avoiding the weekend for visits. And great to include some guidance on how to get to some of the sights in Sintra when you get off the train. A good option for us for a return visit.

Many people look a bit bedazzled when arriving in Sintra, as it can be very overwhelming at the train station. Good to here the tips are useful!

I couldn’t have found your post at a better time! I am planning an anniversary trip with my husband and we were looking into Portugal. I wanted to take a trip to Sintra while we stay in Lisbon. Your post had a lot of great information to help me plan!

That’s great to hear Maddie! Have a lovely time in Portugal. I’m sure you’re going to love it!

It’s great that it’s so easy to take a train from Lisbon to Sintra for a day trip. Sintra looks so beautiful with its palace and other beautiful buildings. I think I would need more than one day in Sintra to admire it all.

I’m lucky as it’s not far from Lisbon and I have been many times by now. One day is never really enough! But I also understand travellers might have limited time in Portugal. For a first visit, two days is ideal to see the highlights!

I’m going to Lisbon in May and am planning to take a day trip to Sintra. I’m so excited; it’s such a beautiful town!

Ooooh and May is a stunning month! Enjoy Hannah!

It’s an informative article for first-time visitors to Sintra. I have been to Sintra twice and I think I have to revisit at least a dozen times more.

You´ll know the way soon! Third time lucky? 😉

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The Perfect Day Trip from Lisbon: Visiting Sintra and Cascais

While there are plenty of things to see, do and eat in the pretty Portuguese capital of Lisbon, there are also some beautiful sites nearby that are worth making a day trip out of. If you can tear yourself away from the pastéis del nata and the colourful tiles, then be sure to visit mountainous Sintra Portugal and seaside Cascais. Both Sintra and Cascais can be reached by day trip from Lisbon and are essential to the perfect Portugal itinerary.

The perfect day trip from Lisbon

Sintra portugal.

Located less than an hour from Lisbon, the stunning UNESCO World-Heritage Site of Sintra is like the setting of a real life fairytale. Nestled high up in the lush, green mountains, Sintra is known most famously for its magnificent palaces, pastel-hued residences, quaint shops and beautiful gardens. The mystical and romantic allure of Sintra has even led it to be described as the ‘Disneyland for grown-ups’ — who can really resist that description! The cooler, mountainous climate has attracted the Portuguese nobility and royalty over the centuries, who constructed some of the most exquisite manors and palaces in all of the country.

What to do in Sintra

Palacio Nacional de Sintra: The sprawling national palace, located in the heart of the old town, is distinguished by its unusual, conical chimneys that have become the emblem of the town. It was built as a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family who resided there from the early 15th century and was in continuous use up until the late 19th century. The white-washed exterior and gothic architecture make for impressive photos.

Castelo dos Mouros: This ruinous castle is the oldest structure in the city. Originally dating back to the 9th century, the North African Moors originally constructed this castle to guard the town of Sintra, although it fell into disrepair after the Christian conquest of Portugal. The crumbling ruins offer panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Palacio da Pena: Sintra’s most spectacular and famous site is the colourful, ornate and grand Palacio da Pena, which is constructed on one of the highest peaks. This vibrantly painted summer palace stands out like a beacon and is in stark contrast to the lush green of the surrounding mountains. Its architectural style is one of the most impressive and unusual in the entire country. If the weather permits, the views afforded from the palace over the entire region are some of the best in all of Portugal. Unfortunately, on our visit, the Palacio da Pena was completely enshrouded in dense cloud, which meant that sadly we missed out!

Historic town centre:  Sintra’s charming historic town centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and every visitor should spend some time exploring the maze of cobblestoned lanes lined with quaint shops and cafes that snake their way up the hill. Don’t leave without trying the famous Sintra pastries here: the ‘queijadas’ (cheese pastries) and the ‘travesseiros’ (egg and almond pastries)!

What to do in Cascais, Portugal

Instead of returning directly to Lisbon from Sintra, follow the scenic road along the rugged, golden coast and the most westerly point of mainland Europe to stop in at the charming seaside town of Cascais. Once a sleepy fishing village, Cascais has transformed into a favourite holiday destination for many Portuguese and other Europeans with many people now considering it to be one of Lisbon’s most sophisticated destinations.

What to do in Cascais

Cascais beaches:  The main attraction of Cascais is its range of golden beaches, which are wonderfully varied and offer something for everyone.

Cidadela de Cascais:  The Cidadela de Cascais is an imposing fortress that stands overlooking the marina and harbour. It’s an impressive landmark of the town and has now been transformed into an exclusive hotel and cultural centre.

Largo Luís de Camões: This is the historic centre of Cascais and has an energetic vibe due to the many cafés, restaurants and fashionable bars that line the square.

Marina:  There is room for over 650 boats to be moored at the Cascais marina. Take a stroll along the quays to admire the expensive yachts.

Free museums:  One of the great features of Cascais is that all the museums and buildings of interest are free to enter. There are lots of interesting exhibitions hidden throughout town so be nosy, wander in and explore!

Eat fresh seafood:  Cascais restaurants serve some of the freshest fish in the region, since it comes directly from fishermen’s boats in the town’s small harbour. There are plenty of outstanding seafood restaurants dotted all over the town.

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Morning everyone. A last minute decision to visit Sintra today. What’s the best site to book tickets just for the Pena Palace gardens? I think I can also just buy a bus ticket to take us to the Palace and then walk down? Many thanks in advance.

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11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon with Teenagers

T he Portuguese capital of Lisbon is a fabulous city for all ages. It is one of the safest cities worldwide, so it’s a great option for a family trip. Lisbon is culturally rich with many historic sites and museums. It might sound boring to teenagers, but some are really cool! There is always something going on in this lively and vibrant city. Be sure to check out any special events, festivals, or music performances that are scheduled during your visit. If you’re traveling to Lisbon with teenagers, there are plenty of places to explore! Check out some of our favorites.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Best Places to Visit in Lisbon with Teenagers

​ The best way to explore Lisbon is by foot. However, there are plenty of steep hills throughout the city, so it might take longer to walk from one place to the next.

We had good luck using Uber if we needed it, but there are also plenty of taxis and tuk tuk drivers to take you to your destination. We also used the  hop-on hop-off bus tour  for transportation one day because it has several routes through the city and saved our tired feet. No matter how you choose to explore Lisbon, we are sure the whole family will enjoy Portugal’s capital city.

1. The Oceanarium

The  Oceanarium  is one of the most visited places in Lisbon amongst families. It’s one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, and it’s located in Parque das Nações. The aquarium features a central tank that holds an incredible 5 million liters of saltwater! 

The aquarium is designed to represent the open ocean, and you can discover many unique species of marine life in the water. Keep an eye out for rays, sunfish, sharks, and fish from around the world. There are dedicated spots where otters and penguins play and do their shenanigans. 

If there are younger children in your family there are plenty of educational opportunities, and the Oceanário de Lisboa is a highlight for many visitors. 

2. Go surfing

If you or your kids prefer to be in the ocean, why not try surfing lessons? Lisbon is very close to The Atlantic Ocean, and you can find several surf schools along the coast. Do you know how to surf? You can also rent your gear here. 

Ericeira is a famous surf town, but Praia do Guincho is closer to Lisbon. Other popular surf spots are Praia da Adraga and Costa da Caparica. 

Lisbon’s surf season runs from September to May, but that means the waves are also higher. The surf in Lisbon can be challenging during this time, so it’s best for intermediate to advanced surfers. 

Did you know some of the highest waves surfed are in Nazaré Portugal? Between October and March, you can expect ginormous waves here, and it is a must-see if you like surfing.

In summer, the waves are smaller and perfect for learning how to surf. The ocean will also be slightly warmer!

The surf camps offer lessons and coaching for all levels of surfers. They also usually provide all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits and boards, and can arrange transportation to the best surf spots.

3. Take a day trip to Sintra

Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon, and you can easily reach it in 40 minutes by car. You can also use public transportation to reach Sintra from Lisbon by taking the metro from Rossio Train Station to Sintra at the end of the route. If you want someone else to do all of the transportation, consider  booking a local guide  to take you to Sintra.

Sintra was a popular destination for Portuguese royalty and aristocracy, and the place is famous for its many palaces and mansions. There are many historic landmarks, including the Moorish Castle, the Pena Palace, and the Quinta da Regaleira. In addition to the stunning architecture, there are fabulous gardens that you can visit. 

Sintra is located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which is also an excellent place for hiking. Along the coast of Sintra, you’ll discover some of the best beaches close to Lisbon. 

If you’re up for a coastal hike, Praia da Ursa is one of the area’s most beautiful beaches! However, Praia da Adraga and Praia Grande are a lot easier to reach.

4. Visit the LX Factory

In the Alcântara neighborhood of Lisbon, you can visit the LX Factory . This complex was once a textile manufacturing factory but has become a cultural and creative hub. It’s a popular spot for all ages due to the many restaurants, shops, street art, and design studios. 

Check out the sculpture Bumblebee by Bordalo II, visit the coolest bookstore  Ler Devagar  or discover the fabulous shops. There are often events such as concerts, DJ nights, and cultural festivals. So from early morning until night, there is always something to do here!

5. Check out the street art

Speaking of street art, Lisbon has plenty of it! It’s scattered throughout the city, and a  guided tour   will ensure you’ll get to see the most important displays. 

Bordalo II is one of Lisbon’s favorite artists, and he creates sculptures and murals from waste. Discover the artworks of Raposa, Big Raccoon, Monkey, Pelicans, and Iberian Lynx in the city. Vhills is another prominent artist with works all over Lisbon. Brazilian artists Os Gemeos, Italy’s BLU, and Spain’s SAM3 all left a mark on the city! 

Other well-known works are from Pichiavo at Rua de Santa Apolonia, the revolutionary mural by Shepard Fairey on Rua Natalia Correia, and chief Raoni Metuktire by Eduardo Kobra on Rua Alberto José Pessoa.

6. Take a ride on Tram 28

Tram 28 is an icon in Lisbon, and a ride on the historic cable car is a favorite of many! The tram has been in operation since 1914 and is one of the last remaining traditional streetcar routes in Lisbon. It was originally used to transport goods and people, but today it is a popular tourist attraction. 

Unfortunately, the queue can be long, but there is also an option to take an old historical tram tour instead. The tram ride goes through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Lisbon! If you have a public transport card, you pay a little less, but it’s public transport, so you pay per ride. There are, however, many interesting points where you can disembark. 

Examples are Miradouro da Graça, Sé Cathedral , Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, which are all located in the Alfama district. 

The endpoint of the train is on the other side of town, close to Jardim da Estrela. While Tram 28 is a classic Lisbon experience, it’s not the only way to see the city’s historic neighborhoods. Walking tours, bike rentals, and other forms of transportation are also available, offering a more personalized and flexible way to explore the city’s many sights and sounds.

7. Discover Alfama

Alfama  is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. It’s also a charming place with many narrow streets and tourist highlights. On top of the hill, you can visit Castelo de São Jorge (St. George’s Castle). You can walk along the castle walls to enjoy some of the best views over Lisbon! The surrounding park is full of peacocks, and around the castle are many beautiful streets. 

Besides the castle, there are many other viewing platforms throughout the city. From Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, you enjoy a stunning view over Alfama and the river Tagus. 

Discover the small streets full of azulejo tiles and enjoy a night of Fado. Alfama is the birthplace of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music style that is often described as melancholic and soulful. There are many Fado bars and restaurants where you can experience this unique cultural tradition. 

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, it’s fun to visit the flea markets at Feira da Ladra. And if you’re in Lisbon in June, Alfama is THE place to be. The Santo António is celebrated throughout Lisbon, but most celebrations are in this neighborhood. There are parades, street parties, and a lot of sardines!

8. Fun museums to visit in Lisbon with teenagers

Although it doesn’t rain often, having a backup plan for your family vacation is always a good idea. Lisbon has a lot of museums, especially in the Belém neighborhood! Some of the museums that teens might like in this area include –

• Berardo Collection Museum (modern art)
• The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT)
• The National Coach Museum (a collection of horse-drawn carriages)
• The Maritime Museum
• Calouste Gulbenkian Planetarium
• National Archaeological Museum.

A relatively new museum in Belém is  Quake – The Lisbon Earthquake Experience . This one is a bit more serious, in the sense that it’s about the destroying 1755 earthquake that hit Lisbon and many other places in Portugal.

You travel back in time to relive Lisbon’s most dramatic and transformative event and learn more about the history and science of earthquakes. It’s an immersive experience with simulators, video mapping, and interactive 4D technology. This is sure to be a favorite for teens!

Belém is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jerónimos Monastery which dates to the 16th century, and Belem Tower (Torre de Belem) which was a departure point for many of Portugal’s famous early explorers, including Magellan and Vasco da Gama. While you’re exploring the area, be sure to stop at Pasteis de Belem, which has been baking the famous pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) since 1837.

If you need another place to explore on a rainy day in Lisbon, check out the  3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa . As the name implies, everything here is in 3D, which is great for pictures! You can take pictures upside down and in distorted rooms with illusions. Your imagination can roam freely here! It’s a fun activity for all families! 

9. Ride the Santa Justa Lift to the Bairro Alto

​ The Santa Justa Lift, an iconic elevator towering over the city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of central Lisbon and beyond. This is the easiest way to get between the Baixa district and the Bairro Alto. A ride is included in a 24-hour Lisbon transportation ticket.

Once you’ve arrived at the top, walk to the Carmo Convent and the convent ruins. This building was mostly destroyed in 1755 by the deadliest earthquake in Lisbon’s history. Teens will be fascinated by the remains of this building with its gigantic arches and columns. There’s also a small archaeology museum on-site that’s included in the ticket price.

10. Outdoor Activities on the Water

If your teens want more than surfing, you can visit Lisbon beaches such as Praia de Carcavelos, Praia do Tamariz, and Praia das Avencas. 

Cascais is also a lovely beach town to visit, and from Lisbon, you can travel here easily by train. You can also take the ferry across the Tagus River and see the Christ statue in Almada. There is a fabulous view over Lisbon and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge from this point. 

From here, you can easily reach Costa da Caparica, with many more beaches. Along these coastal towns are opportunities to try kayaking, kitesurfing, and canoeing. You can even  book a sailing tour  on the Tagus to enjoy a relaxing view from the water. Most ships depart from Belém, and a  sunset tour  is especially magical.

11. Try all the food!

​ Portuguese cuisine does not disappoint and teens will love a  Lisbon food tour  that allows them to try bite-size dishes of local favorites. If you don’t have time for a tour, be sure to make a stop at Time Out Market in the Mercado da Ribeira. This food hall showcases some of the best chefs in the city, and teens will love the variety of dishes. Our teens loved it so much, we ate there for dinner two out of three nights!

Lisbon is the perfect spot for a vacation with teens. With beaches, a rich history, unique museums, and delicious food, it’s sure to be a trip they will never forget!

About the author : Meet Marga, a travel writer, and photographer who used to be a flight attendant and traveled extensively for many years. After settling in Portugal, she started the Discover Portugal blog with insightful and engaging travel stories.

The post 11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon with Teenagers appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .