Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
With extra time, explore the rugged and picturesque westernmost tip of Portugal at
Cabo da Roca. You can also mix and mingle with the jet set (or at least press your nose
against their windows) at the resort towns of Cascais or Estoril (for information on how
to reach these destinations, see “Near Sintra,” at the end of the chapter).
Catch the
train
to Sintra from Lisbon's central Rossio Station (direct, 4/hour, 40 minutes).
Buy your ticket upstairs (at track level) from the ticket window or an automated machine
(select English, then “Buy Ticket + Card,” then “Titulos CP Lisboa/Bilhete Simple/In-
teiro,” select “Sintra” from the list of destinations, hit “+” for return ticket, then pop in
coins or small bills; €4.60 round-trip, includes €0.50 fee for reusable Viva Viagem card;
TV monitor lists departure times). Pass your card over the scanner at the turnstile to enter.
Your card will eventually be checked by someone on board, and you'll need to scan it
again when you leave the station in Sintra. During your ride, take in the views of the 18th-
century aqueduct (on the left) and the workaday Lisbon suburbs. Relax...Sintra is at the
end of the line.
Sintra is far easier by train than by
car
from Lisbon. Consider waiting until after you
visit Sintra to pick up your rental car. If you do drive to Sintra, see my “Route Tips for
