Looking to visit both Porto and Sintra on your Portugal trip? Taking the train makes for easy, comfortable and affordable transportation between these two destinations.
This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about taking the train from Porto to Sintra, including step-by-step directions, ticket booking tips, train classes, schedules, prices and more. Read on to learn why riding the rails is one of the best ways to travel between Porto and Sintra!
How to Take the Train From Porto to Sintra
To travel by train between Porto and Sintra, you’ll ride with Comboios de Portugal (CP), Portugal’s national railway operator. The journey involves:
- A direct CP train from Porto Campanhã to Lisbon Oriente
- Transferring to an urban CP train from Lisbon Oriente to Sintra
Below are more details on each leg of the journey:
From Porto Campanhã to Lisbon Oriente
Your journey begins at Porto Campanhã station, located just outside Porto’s city center. To reach Campanhã station:
- Take the metro from central Porto or São Bento station (10 mins)
- Or grab a taxi/Uber from downtown Porto (10 mins)
At Campanhã station, board a direct, long-distance CP train to Lisbon Oriente station. These trains depart several times daily, taking approximately 2.5 hours.
Sit back and admire beautiful countryside views from your window seat on this portion!
From Lisbon Oriente to Sintra
When you arrive at Lisbon Oriente, it’s an easy transfer to the urban CP trains that go to Sintra.
Simply head upstairs to the mezzanine level to purchase your onward ticket from the CP machines. Then proceed to the correct platform to await the next train.
The trip from Oriente station to Sintra station takes 35-40 minutes. Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
Once in Sintra, you can walk or grab a taxi/Uber for onwards transportation.
Tips for Booking Tickets for the Porto to Sintra Train
Below are some key tips for booking your train tickets from Porto to Sintra:
- Book direct trains – Be sure to only book direct routes rather than ones with changes
- Reserve in advance online – CP tickets can sell out, especially on weekends
- Have ticket on your phone – Download tickets to your phone for easy boarding
- Validate urban tickets – Don’t forget to validate your Lisbon-Sintra ticket!
Booking online at the CP website in advance is highly recommended. You can also purchase tickets at any CP train station.
Expect to pay €25-€45 for a one-way ticket, depending on class, date and advance purchase.
Porto to Sintra Train: Comfort vs. Tourist Class
CP trains offer two classes of service:
Comfort Class
Comfort class is CP’s first class option. Perks include:
- More spacious seating (3 per row vs 4)
- Complimentary snacks and drinks
- Access to the Comfort Lounge in Porto Campanhã
- Pets allowed onboard
Tourist Class
Tourist class is CP’s standard second class. The affordable option still provides:
- Comfortable 4-seat row layout
- Catering cart with snacks and drinks for purchase
- Free WiFi and power outlets
- Clean bathrooms
For the 4 hour Porto to Sintra journey, second class is very comfortable. But Comfort Class is worth it if you want extra amenities and room.
What to Expect on the Train From Porto to Sintra
CP trains offer a smooth, relaxing ride between Porto and Sintra. Here are some highlights of what to expect:
- Helpful attendants to assist with boarding, luggage, and questions
- Spacious seating with ample legroom and wide windows
- Bistro cars and cart service for refreshments
- Free WiFi and power outlets at every seat
- Bathrooms, including some accessible toilets
- Luggage racks for storing your bags conveniently
- Safety features like door sensors and emergency brakes
With CP you can sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful Portuguese countryside!
Frequently Asked Questions About Porto to Sintra Trains
Here are answers to some common questions about journeying between Porto and Sintra by rail:
Is there a direct train from Porto to Sintra?
No, there is no direct train. You must change in Lisbon. But the connection at Oriente station is simple.
How long is the train ride from Porto to Sintra?
Total journey time is approximately 4 hours including the short connection in Lisbon.
When should I book Porto to Sintra train tickets?
Advance booking online is highly recommended. Tickets can sell out, especially on weekends.
Can I take the train from Porto to Sintra with my dog?
Yes, small pets are allowed onboard in Comfort Class only. Be sure to inform CP when booking.
Is the train in Portugal clean and comfortable?
Yes, CP trains are modern, well-maintained, comfortable and very clean throughout.
Why Take the Train From Porto to Sintra
Here are the top advantages of traveling by rail between these two destinations:
- Convenience – Direct connections with easy transfer in Lisbon
- Speed – Total journey of ~4 hours door-to-door
- Scenery – Relaxing rides with beautiful window views
- Cost – Very affordable, prices starting around €25
- Comfort – Smooth, enjoyable journeys with creature comforts
- Sustainability – Environmentally responsible transport option
Experience a taste of authentic Portugal by riding the rails between Porto and Sintra!
Enjoy Your Portugal Train Adventure
We hope this guide provides everything you need to plan your journey from Porto to Sintra by CP train. Traveling by rail allows you to sit back, relax and watch the Portuguese countryside glide past your window.
Will you be visiting both Porto and Sintra on your next trip to Portugal? Let us know if you have any other train travel questions! Have an amazing time in Portugal.
