We'll be staying in Lisbon in mid-October, and we're thinking of giving one day to Sintra and Cascais, then returning to Lisbon in the evening after dinner. First, is that reasonable? Second, if it is reasonable, what would be the ideal transportation logistics? Thanks in advance. (I'll save questions about sights and restaurants for a later question.)
Posted by
371 posts
It's possible, just depends how much time you want to spend at each location.
Sintra is usually a full day and that's not enough time to see it all.
You'll have to determine what are the priority sights for you in Sintra.
From Lisbon take the train at Rossio station to Sintra.
From Sintra take the bus to Cascais.
From Cascais take train to Lisbon Cais do Sodré station.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1824 posts
Is it physically possible - yes. Should to you try to do it - no.
Sintra could take at least a couple of days to see all the palaces.
Cascais can be seen in one day as there aren’t really blockbuster sites like Sintra.
Posted by
Chicago
3177 posts
When I was in Lisbon this past March, I took this tour, which combines Sintra and Cascais and also a stop at Cabo da Roca.
https://lisbonriders.com/group-tours/sintra-cascais/
I enjoyed the tour and was happy not to worry about the travel logistics for the day. Sure, it would be great to spend days at each location when traveling, but that’s not always possible. I have found that a short visit is better than no visit.
You might find my trip report helpful:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/solo-in-lisbon-portugal-my-trip-report
Posted by
USA
137 posts
Depending on how much you want to see.
There are many tours that do this circuit (like one mentioned above)
Would strongly recommend NOT taking train from Rossio and then bus to Pena (and then bus to Cabo and yet another bus to Cascais)
Most efficient way to do this circuit is to use Bolt
The first ride from hotel to Pena Park is the best use of your money to save time and energy
Your bolt driver from Sintra to Cascais might be happy to take you to Cabo and wait 20-30 minutes for you and then again at Boca. Bolt are surprisingly economical in Lisbon area
Also, hiring private+car driver is another option (we did not use this option but our friends did it and found it a very relaxed experience)
Posted by
4 posts
I read in the Rick Steves book that Inside Lisbon offers private day trips to Sintra + Casais that take 8 hours. I have not yet investigated it.
Posted by
247 posts
We used Lisbon Riders as well in June. Well worth the money- very organized and informative.