How to get to Sintra from Lisbon?

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

or with an organized tour.

What is Sintra, and where it is?

Sintra is a magnificent small town located at the bottom of the Sintra Mountains, just northwest of Lisbon, Portugal. It's known for its stunning natural scenery, historic architecture, and romantic atmosphere. Why is so famous and happily discovered by tourists? Here is why:

UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1995, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the old town itself, historic buildings, and the surrounding natural environment.

Palaces and Castles: Sintra is famous for its one-of-the-kind palaces and castles, which are set between exotic plants and trees from around the world picked by the Portuguese monarchy.

Is Sintra worth to visit?

Yes, Sintra is widely considered to be worth visiting for a variety of reasons,

here are only a few of them:

• Pena Palace: A colorful, romantic palace that stands on the top of a hill and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal.

• Moorish Castle: A historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

• Quinta da Regaleira: A mystic estate with breathtaking gardens, grottoes, and underground tunnels.

• Sintra National Palace: This is the oldest palace in Sintra and It served as a royal residence for centuries.

Natural Beauty: Sintra is set in a very green area with a microclimate that gives it a unique and often misty atmosphere. The natural scenery is a big part of what makes Sintra special.

Cultural Significance: Over the years, Sintra has inspired writers, poets, and artists, including Lord Byron, who famously described it as a "glorious Eden."

Tourism: Sintra is a major tourist destination and can get quite crowded, especially during peak seasons. Visitors are drawn to its beauty, history, and cultural significance.

Sintra Town Center: The town center of Sintra is filled with charming cobblestone streets, shops, and cafes. It's a lovely place to wander around and explore.

Access to the Coast: Sintra is relatively close to the Atlantic coast, so it's possible to combine a visit to the town with a trip to the nearby beaches.

Overall, Sintra is a place of great cultural and natural significance, offering a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty that captivates visitors from around the world.

By train from Lisbon:

From Lisbon's Baixa district, you can catch a train to Sintra via Rossio train station or Oriente (although the latter offers slightly longer journeys) Trains run about every 30 minutes, usually peaking during the week in the busy season. Travel time is only 40 minutes. Tickets from Lisbon to Sintra cost €3-4 for a one-way trip, and you can also choose a round-trip ticket. Tickets can be purchased conveniently at kiosks or automated machines at the station – no need to book tickets in advance.

How far is Lisbon from Lisbon?

Lisbon and Sintra are two cities in Portugal that are relatively close to each other. The distance between Lisbon and Sintra is approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) if you take the most direct route by road. The actual travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation you choose, but it generally takes around 30 to 45 minutes to drive between the two cities.

How to get from Lisbon to Sintra?

The most popular and convenient way to get from Sintra to Lisbon is by train. The train station in Sintra is located in the center of town. Trains depart frequently to Lisbon. Bear in mind that Sintra is not the only one destination point in this part of Lisbon Valley, there are also other places like Cabo da Roca, Guincho Beach, Cascais, Boca do Inferno, and amazing coast on the way back to Lisbon, that's why we will recommend using organized tour with professional guides - you can read here more about the details https://www.modern-tours.pt/pena

Do you need a ticket for Sintra, Pena Palace, and others?

Yes, you typically need tickets to visit Sintra, including its various attractions like Pena Palace and other historical sites. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Sintra Town: You don't need a ticket to enter the town of Sintra itself. You can freely explore the streets, shops, and restaurants. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions, you will need tickets for those.

2. Pena Palace: Pena Palace is one of the most popular attractions in Sintra. It requires an admission ticket to enter the palace grounds, including the interior of the palace itself. Bear in mind that Pena Palace is the most visited place in Portugal and often tickets are sold out, also they are sold for precise hour to enter the palace, if you don't want to stay in a long queue we will recommend going with an organized tour - Modern Tours

3. Moorish Castle: Like Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle requires an admission ticket for entry. This ticket allows you to explore the castle walls, towers, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

4. Quinta da Regaleira: This estate, known for its stunning gardens and underground tunnels, also requires an admission ticket.

5. Sintra National Palace: This historic palace in the town center has its own admission fee. It's the oldest palace in Sintra and is characterized by its distinctive twin chimneys.

6. Ticket Availability: During peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular sites like Pena Palace, to avoid long lines and potential sellouts.

7. Opening Hours: Each attraction in Sintra has its own opening and closing hours, so it's a good idea to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

Keep in mind that ticket prices can vary depending on factors like age (adults, children, seniors), nationality, and whether you're purchasing a standard ticket or a combined ticket for multiple sites.

Hope to see you soon in Sintra!