Your driver will meet you at your address in Porto.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 3 hours.
Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly
Drop-off
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Sintra.
Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage
In total
332 km3 hours
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Porto to Sintra
Why is Sintra so famous?
Sintra became the world's first center for Romantic architecture in the 19th century. Whimsical buildings like the Pena Palace now make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases some of the world's finest Romanticist architecture.
Is there a direct train from Porto to Sintra?
No, there isn't a direct train from Porto to Sintra. You need to take a train from Porto to one of Lisbon's main stations such as Oriente, Santa Apolónia, or Entrecampos, and then transfer to a train going to Sintra. The changeover in Lisbon is straightforward, with frequent connections to Sintra.
How long does it take to get from Porto to Sintra?
The journey from Porto to Sintra takes approximately three and a half hours by car, depending on traffic, and about four to five hours if you go for public transport. When using public transport, the travel time includes transferring trains in Lisbon. The total duration can change based on connection times between trains in Lisbon and the chosen method of travel.
Is Sintra close to Porto or Lisbon?
Sintra is much closer to Lisbon than it is to Porto. It is located approximately 18 miles (30 km) to the west of Lisbon, and it's easily accessible by car, train, or bus, which makes it a popular day-trip destination. In contrast, Porto is about 206 miles (332 km) north of Sintra, making the journey significantly longer whether you’re traveling by car, train, or bus.
What is the best way to get from Porto to Sintra?
The best way to get from Porto to Sintra is with Daytrip's door-to-door private car service. This option saves you the most time and stress compared to driving or taking a bus, train, or plane. You can create a completely custom itinerary to explore Portugal on the way.
Can you just walk around Sintra?
Yes! Sintra is compact, so it's easily walkable (plus parking is limited)! Pena Palace is about a 45-minute hike from Sintra on the Villa Sassetti Trail, or you can take a taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
The west side of the Iberian peninsula can be discovered in many ways, but few of them are as rich as having a road trip from Porto to Sintra. What could be better than a comfortable and enriching ride to the smaller, calmer but equally charming (not to mention UNESCO-listed) town of Sintra after making the most of the lively Porto?
Your trip would begin with piercing through the city into the landscapes surrounding Porto and the Douro River. Carrying your port wine as a memento, you’ll be watching vineyards and agricultural fields from your window. The distance between Porto and Sintra is around 206 miles (332 km), and your journey will last only around three hours, if you don’t make stops you’ll take along the way. But why would you miss the opportunity to explore more of Portugal?
You can't just pass by Coimbra, the medieval capital of Portugal. The blend of the former Moorish medina, the Sé Velha, and the Convento de Santa Cruz is a must-see display of Coimbra’s history leading further back than the 8th century. Another great place to stretch your legs is Nazare, a fascinating fishing town set on a cliff with views right out of a fantasy book. Alongside its popular beach, the small town center, the lighthouse, and the high waves will linger in your mind long after your visit.
About Sintra
Once you travel from Porto to Sintra, you’ll quickly realize that this is a town worth staying, exploring, and enjoying for days. Its charm partly comes from being located within the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, which bless Sintra with a pleasant microclimate, enveloped by deep, which always offers a retreat from the summer heat.
Sintra's 19th-century Romantic architecture, opulent palaces, historic estates, and well-cared-for gardens have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. all of which are set against the dense woodlands and mountain peaks.
The microclimate of Sintra means that it can often be cooler and more misty than neighboring areas. It gives the town and its surrounding forests an ethereal, almost mystical quality. This climate has nurtured such a green landscape that, combined with the architectural wonders, creates a fairytale ambiance that is unique to Sintra.
Speaking of architectural wonders, the Pena Palace which stands atop a hill in the Sintra Mountains, is a masterpiece of Romanticism. You’ll see such bright colors that are not typical for palaces at all, perfectly combined with ornate stonework. Your coming up here will be rewarded with astonishing views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean.
Just exploring the town of Sintra will be a delight alone to explore. You’ll walk through cobblestone streets, traditional shops, and cafes serving Portuguese delicacies like travesseiros _and _queijadas. Visiting the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which encloses the town and houses the Pena Palace, means hiking trails, picnic spots, and a feast for the eyes.
From Porto to Sintra: travel tips
Traveling from Porto to Sintra can be as smooth, fun, and comfortable as possible if you take a look at some of our travel tips!
If you are driving…
Get a Via Verde device so you can drive through Portugal's toll roads without stopping, especially on the A1 motorway from Porto to Sintra. This not only saves time but also simplifies your trip. Be mindful of the speed limits and traffic laws in Portugal and plan your parking in Sintra before you set off.
Start your trip early
To make the most of your visit to Sintra, start your journey from Porto early in the morning. It’ll help you avoid the peak traffic around Lisbon and you’ll arrive in Sintra with enough time to explore before the afternoon crowds. An early start gives you a head start on both the road and the tourist influx.
Pack wisely
Portugal experiences more or less warm temperatures all year round. And especially if you are visiting during the hot summer months, pack enough water bottles with you. Have your preferred snacks ready to keep your energy level high. Dress in lightweight and airy clothes to be comfortable during the whole drive.
How to get from Porto to Sintra
There are several ways to travel from Porto to Sintra, including driving, taking a bus, train, flying, or having a door-to-door private car service like Daytrip at your service. Take a look at your options and pick the one that’s the most convenient for you.
Porto to Sintra by private car service
A private car transfer with Daytrip is by far the most convenient and comfortable option. You’ll avoid the stress of driving, finding parking, going through so many transfers, and carrying your luggage around. Instead, you can simply lean back and enjoy the route from Porto to Sintra.
Your English-speaking driver will pick you up, help you with your luggage, give you insightful tips about Portugal, wait for you while you explore the towns on the way, and leave you at your desired destination in Sintra.
Porto to Sintra by train
From Porto, take a train to Lisbon, namely Oriente, Santa Apolónia, or Entrecampos stations, and then switch to a Sintra-bound train. The train ride from Porto to Lisbon takes around 2.5-3 hours. From Lisbon to Sintra, it's about 40 minutes. The combined train ticket cost varies but expect to pay around €25 to €40 one-way per person. Keep in mind that although trains are frequent, switching trains in Lisbon can be complicated.
Porto to Sintra by bus
There are direct bus services from Porto to Sintra. Flixbus and Rede Expressos operate between Porto and Sintra around three or four times a day. The bus ride can take 3.5-4.5 hours. Remember that bus trips are less comfortable than trains and car rides for long distances, but it's a viable budget option.
Porto to Sintra by plane
You can take a 45-minute flight from Porto to Lisbon. From there, you can either take a taxi or car service to Sintra or take the 783 or 744 public buses to the Estação Entrecampos train station. From here, there are trains to Sintra departing every 20 minutes.
If that sounds complicated, it is. And it doesn't even save you any time since you need to get to the airport 2 hours before your flight, whatever time it takes to get off the plane and get your luggage. It's also more expensive than just taking a private car the whole way.
Porto to Sintra by car
Driving from Porto to Sintra is one of the more flexible options you have. You can go through the A1 motorway, transitioning to the A8, and then the IC19 towards Sintra, which would be the most direct route. The drive itself would take approximately three to three and a half hours, without possible traffic jams and stops along the way. There will be tolls on the A1 and A8 motorways, so having Via Verde installed would save you time.
Things to do when you get to Sintra
Once you finally arrive from Porto to Sintra and its many wonders, you’ll need several full days to make the most of this fairytale town. Making a to-do list always helps, so here are some of our top tips to inspire you!
Be blown away by Pena Palace
Pena Palace was originally a medieval monastery, but was ruined by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. In the 19th century, Ferdinand II purchased it and some of the surrounding estates, like the Moorish Castle, and transformed them into the things of wonder you see today. Pena Palace’s hodgepodge of architectural styles, vibrant facades, and opulent interiors make it one of the finest examples of Romanticist architecture in the world, not to mention the centerpiece of Sintra’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Get tickets in advance!
Explore the Moorish Castle
Step back into the 8th century as you walk through the ruins of the Castelo dos Mouros. One of Sintra's UNESCO-listed monuments, this historic fortress offers stupendous views that stretch from the green hills of Sintra to the Atlantic coast from its hilltop perch. Wander around its ancient ramparts and battlements, and immerse yourself in the rich Moorish history that shaped the region.
Don’t skip the Sintra National Palace
The heart of Portuguese history, and another piece of Sintra's UNESCO-listed landscape, lies at the Sintra National Palace, an architectural treasure distinguished by its iconic twin conical chimneys. It is nestled in the old town of Sintra and boasts an extensive collection of Moorish tiles and a rich history as a residence for Portuguese royalty. Explore its blend of Gothic, Manueline, Moorish, and Mudéjar styles, which reflect the diverse cultural influences that have swept through Sintra over the centuries.
Be mesmerized at Quinta da Regaleira
Just a short walk from Sintra’s historic center rests the Quinta da Regaleira, yet another of Sintra's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is an estate under a Gothic spell, nothing like anything you’ve seen before. It will captivate you with its Gothic façades, magical gardens, and mystical grottoes.
Venture into the Initiation Well, a symbol of rebirth, leading you through an underground labyrinth to come out transformed. The green gardens, hidden tunnels, and antique architecture make it a fascinating blend of history, mysticism, and nature.
When is the best time to visit Sintra
Sintra is beautiful and quite enchanting pretty much during every season. But spring is the best time to visit.
Plan your trip from Porto to Sintra during the spring months from March to May. The temperatures will be ideal for exploring Sintra, the gardens will be in bloom, and since you will be avoiding the peak travel times, you’ll have a more relaxed and laid-back experience with fewer crowds.
Alternatively, visit in the fall months from September to November for a similar experience, except the gardens and forests will be changing color rather than blooming!
Visit these sights on the way
Aveiro
Dubbed “the Venice of Portugal” because of its canals and gondola-like boats, visitors will find Aveiro has its own unique identity. The “Venice” of Portugal
Coimbra
Halfway between Lisbon and Porto, this varied and captivating city has a long history and vibrant atmosphere built around the country's oldest university. The Medieval Capital of Portugal
Obidos
Traditionally owned by the Queen of Portugal, every house in this hilltop town had to meet the royal aesthetic. The Town of Queens
Alcobaca
This medieval city is inextricably linked to its UNESCO-protected Monastery. Monk Made
Nazare
This historic fishing village attracts beach-goers, culture-lovers, and surfers, who come to ride its record-breaking waves. A Real Catch
Mafra National Palace
With a massive library, beautiful basilica, and luxurious apartments, it's easy to forget that this sumptuous Baroque complex was at its heart, a convent. The Promised Palace
“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”
“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”
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traveler Daydream20046758137
“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”
“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”
“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”
“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”
“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”
“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”
“Pedro was amazing. It was one of our most enjoyable days. He was knowledgeable, professional and very engaging. We were so impressed we asked if he could provide us transfer to the airport at the end of the trip. I will make sure to use him again should we find ourselves back in Portugal.”
“We got picked up from Sintra and taken to Porto, Portugal with Augusto. He couldn’t do more for us. We stopped in Nazaré and Coimbra along the way with Augusto giving us tips and directions on what to see. The door to door service was perfect considering we a group of two families.”
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traveler JanelleM631
Good to know
Children
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm
Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Payment methods
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.
Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.
For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.
Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!
Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.
Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.
