How to Get from Lisbon to Sintra by Car

Embark on a captivating adventure from the vibrant city of Lisbon to the magical town of Sintra by car. This comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights, driving tips, and recommended routes, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of Portugal.

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Choosing the Right Route: When driving from Lisbon to Sintra, you have multiple route options to consider. The most popular and scenic route is via the A5 motorway (also known as IC19), which takes you directly from Lisbon to Sintra. This route offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, you can opt for the N9-1 route, which follows a more coastal path and allows you to soak in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean along the way. Whichever route you choose, be sure to check for any road closures or traffic updates before you set off.

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Tips for a Smooth Journey:

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1. Plan Ahead: Before you embark on your adventure, it's essential to plan your itinerary and allocate sufficient time for each stop along the way. Consider visiting attractions such as Quinta da Regaleira or the Moorish Castle during your trip.
    

2. Navigation Tools: Ensure you have reliable navigation tools such as GPS or smartphone apps to guide you accurately. These will help you navigate through unfamiliar roads and ensure a stress-free journey.
    

3. Parking: Once you reach Sintra, finding parking can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider arriving early to secure a parking spot near the main attractions. Alternatively, park in designated parking areas and utilize the local transportation options within Sintra.
   
   Read our Guide about How to find the best Parking Spots in Sintra - Here
    

4. Traffic Considerations: Keep in mind that popular tourist destinations like Sintra can experience heavy traffic, especially on weekends and holidays. Plan your departure accordingly, considering peak traffic times and avoiding rush hours.
    

5. Enjoy the Scenic Stops: Along the route, you'll encounter breath-taking viewpoints, charming villages, and idyllic landscapes. Take advantage of these opportunities to pause, appreciate the scenery, and capture memorable photos. This is only valid if you are taking the ocean side road trip from Estoril, Cascais, around Cabo da Roca and then heading towards Sintra from Colares. If you take the highway there will be no viewpoints or sightseeings points. 
    

Safety Precautions:
 

1. Follow Traffic Regulations: Ensure you adhere to all traffic laws, speed limits, and road signs. Familiarize yourself with local driving regulations before your journey.
    

2. Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings, particularly when driving through narrow streets or congested areas. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. We are mentioning this because the traffic in and around Sintra can be heavy at times and especially during the peak seasons. There are a lot of other driver's that don't know the area well and might be distracted. 
    

Conclusion

Driving from Lisbon to Sintra offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the breath taking landscapes, if you take the scenic route from Cascais, over Cabo da Roca. With careful planning, reliable navigation, and a sense of adventure, your journey from Lisbon to Sintra by car will be a memorable experience. Embrace the freedom of the open road, soak in the enchanting surroundings, and create cherished memories as you embark on this magical adventure.