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Sintra to Cascais by Train & Bus in 2025: Full Guide to Schedules
- Pedro Ferreira
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Dreaming of a seamless journey from Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces to Cascais’ sun-kissed beaches in 2025? These two gems on Portugal’s Riviera, just 12 km apart, offer a perfect blend of history and coastal allure. While many hope for a direct train linking Sintra to Cascais, the reality requires a bit of planning—but don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds! This Sintra to Cascais by train guide for 2025 dives into the best travel options, projected train schedules via Lisbon, and the top senior-friendly stays near Cascais’ train station. Whether you’re a mature traveler seeking comfort or a wanderer craving scenic vibes, let’s map out your stress-free adventure along Portugal’s stunning coast!
Sintra to Cascais Travel Options: Why Not a Direct Train?
There are no direct train between Sintra and Cascais in 2025, as the rail network funnels through Lisbon. The shortest train route involves two legs: Sintra to Lisbon (Rossio or Oriente) and Lisbon (Cais do Sodré) to Cascais, taking about 1.5-2 hours total. Alternatively, the direct Carris Metropolitana bus (line 1623) is faster (31 minutes, €2-€4) and more scenic, especially line 1624 via Cabo da Roca. For seniors or those avoiding transfers, the bus is often the better bet, but we’ll cover both options below.
Table: Sintra to Cascais Travel Options
Mode | Duration | Cost (Senior) | Frequency | Accessibility Tip |
1.5-2 hrs | €2.35-€3.35 | Every 20-30 min | Ramps at stations | |
Bus 1623 (Direct) | 31 min | €2-€4 | Hourly | Flat boarding |
Bus 1624 (Scenic) | 1 hr | €2-€4 | Hourly | Flat, no toilets |
Table: Best Stays Near Cascais Station
Hotel | Price/Night | Distance to Station | Accessibility Features |
~€100 | 200 m (3 min) | Elevators, grab bars | |
~€150 | 500 m (7 min) | Ramps, ground-floor rooms | |
~€200 | 400 m (5 min) | Accessible suites, elevators |
Projected Train Schedule for Sintra to Cascais (and Vice Versa) in 2025
Exact 2025 schedules aren’t published yet, but based on 2024 patterns from cp.pt Comboios de Portugal (CP) runs reliable urban trains with minimal changes expected. Here’s a projected schedule, assuming weekday service in May 2025. Check here closer to your trip for real-time updates.
Sintra to Cascais via Lisbon
Step 1: Sintra to Lisbon (Rossio or Oriente)
Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes, 5:30 AM-1:00 AM.
Duration: 40 minutes (Rossio) or 35 minutes (Oriente).
Cost: €2.25 (adult, single, via Navegante card; €0.50 card fee).
Example Times: 7:00 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:00 AM… (arrive Rossio ~7:40 AM).
SEE HERE FOR TIMETABLES TYPE CASCAIS IN THE SEARCH BAR
Step 2: Lisbon (Cais do Sodré) to Cascais
Frequency: Every 20 minutes, 5:30 AM-1:30 AM.
Duration: 40 minutes.
Cost: €2.40 (adult, single, Navegante card).
Example Times: 8:00 AM, 8:20 AM, 8:40 AM… (arrive Cascais ~8:40 AM).
Total Time: ~1.5 hours with a 10-20 minute transfer at Lisbon (walk or metro from Rossio to Cais do Sodré, ~€1.50).
Total Cost: ~€5.15-€6.65 one-way.
Cascais to Sintra via Lisbon
Step 1: Cascais to Lisbon (Cais do Sodré)
Frequency: Every 20 minutes, 5:30 AM-1:30 AM.
Duration: 40 minutes.
Cost: €2.40 (adult, single, Navegante card).
Example Times: 7:00 AM, 7:20 AM, 7:40 AM… (arrive Cais do Sodré ~7:40 AM).
Step 2: Lisbon (Rossio or Oriente) to Sintra
Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes, 5:30 AM-1:00 AM.
Duration: 40 minutes (Rossio) or 35 minutes (Oriente).
Cost: €2.25 (adult, single, Navegante card).
Example Times: 8:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM… (arrive Sintra ~8:40 AM).
SEE HERE FOR TIMETABLES TYPE CASCAIS IN THE SEARCH BAR
Total Time: ~1.5 hours with a 10-20 minute transfer.
Total Cost: ~€5.15-€6.65 one-way.
Notes
Navegante Card: Required for fares, reusable, €0.50 initial cost. Buy at stations.
Senior Discounts: 50% off for 65+ (ID required, ~€2.35-€3.35 total).
Toilets: No onboard facilities, but stations have restrooms (Cais do Sodré’s are accessible).
Accessibility: Trains and major stations (Rossio, Cais do Sodré, Cascais) have ramps/elevators; Sintra’s station has flat access but fewer amenities.
Faster Alternative: Bus from Sintra to Cascais
Line 1623 (Direct): 31 minutes, €2-€4, hourly from Sintra station (Av Álvaro Vasconcelos) to Cascais Terminal.
Example Times (Projected): 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM… (check carrismetropolitana.pt).
Line 1624 (Scenic): 1 hour, €2-€4, stops at Cabo da Roca’s cliffs—great for views.
Senior Tip: Buses lack toilets but are flat-boarding; buy tickets onboard for ease.
SEE HERE FOR TIMETABLES TYPE CASCAIS IN THE SEARCH BAR
Best Stays Near Cascais Train Station for 2025
Cascais’ train station (GPS: 38.700, -9.418) sits in the town center, steps from beaches and dining. These senior-friendly hotels, all within 0.5 km, prioritize accessibility and comfort, drawn from Trip.com trends.
1. Hotel Baia (~€100/night)
Location: Av. Marginal 2754-509, 200 m from the station (3-minute walk).
Why Stay Here: A 3-star gem with seafront views, Baia blends affordability with proximity to Cascais’ marina and Boca do Inferno. Its central spot suits seniors avoiding long treks.
Amenities & Accessibility: Modern rooms offer Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and accessible bathrooms (grab bars, walk-in showers on request). Elevators serve all floors, and a rooftop grill serves fresh fish (~€15-€20 pp). Breakfast buffet (included) caters to dietary needs. Flat paths to the station and beachfront.
Senior Appeal: Ideal for those wanting a budget-friendly base near transport—rest after Sintra’s hills. Book early for May 2025 deals.
2. Vila Galé Cascais (~€150/night)
Location: R. Frei Nicolau de Oliveira 80, 500 m from the station (7-minute walk).
Why Stay Here: This 4-star hotel overlooks the marina, offering a touch of luxury near Cascais’ buzz. Its manicured gardens and pool provide a serene retreat after palace tours.
Amenities & Accessibility: Spacious rooms feature balconies, free Wi-Fi, and adapted bathrooms (request ground-floor units). Elevators and ramps ensure easy access. The Versátil restaurant (~€20-€30 pp) serves Portuguese classics, and a spa offers massages. Free parking for day-trippers.
Senior Appeal: Perfect for seniors craving comfort and sea views—flat routes to the station minimize effort. Reserve 2-3 months ahead.
3. Pestana Cidadela Cascais (~€200/night)
Location: Fortaleza da Cidadela, Av. Dom Carlos I, 400 m from the station (5-minute walk).
Why Stay Here: A 5-star boutique hotel in a historic fortress, blending art-filled elegance with Cascais’ coastal charm. Its proximity to the station and Praia da Ribeira suits relaxed explorers.
Amenities & Accessibility: Stylish rooms boast rainfall showers, Nespresso machines, and accessible layouts (request no-step entry). Elevators connect levels, and Taberna da Praça (~€25-€35 pp) offers gourmet dining. Indoor pool and concierge-arranged tours add flair.
Senior Appeal: A splurge for those seeking luxury near transport—ideal for special trips. Book early for spring discounts.
Insider Tips for Sintra to Cascais in 2025
Timing: Start early (8 AM) from Sintra to maximize Cascais’ beach time—May’s quieter vibe suits seniors.
Tickets: Buy Navegante cards at Sintra station to save time in Lisbon. Zapping option (~€2 fare) avoids queues at Cais do Sodré.
Comfort: Trains are modern but lack toilets—use station facilities. Buses are quicker but check schedules at carrismetropolitana.pt.
Seniors: Guided tours (~€50 pp, Viator) from Sintra include Cascais drop-off, skipping transfers.
Cascais Day Plan: Post-train, stroll Praia da Rainha, lunch at Mar do Inferno (~€15 pp), and visit Boca do Inferno’s cliffs (flat paths).
Conclusion
Sintra to Cascais in 2025 is a journey from hilltop palaces to coastal bliss, made simple with this guide. While trains via Lisbon offer scenic rides, buses cut time for seniors seeking ease. Stay steps from Cascais’ station at Hotel Baia or splurge at Pestana Cidadela, and let Portugal’s Riviera unfold. Book your tickets, pack comfy shoes, and dive into your 2025 adventure—Sintra’s magic and Cascais’ charm await!
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