Getting to Sintra by Sintra Atlantico

Getting to Sintra is straightforward, but once you reach the outskirts, things can get chaotic. Traffic jams are a daily occurrence, largely due to the town’s immense popularity with tourists.

A far more enjoyable way to reach Sintra is by taking the Sintra Atlântico tram, which runs between Praia de Maçãs and Sintra. It’s scenic, relaxed, and saves you from the gridlock that often surrounds the town.

The historic tram line first opened in 1904, but the trams running today date from the 1930s. Step inside and you’re greeted by all the original features—wooden benches, brass dials, and that unmistakable vintage charm.

Riding the tram is simply fun. It’s slow, it’s bumpy, it’s noisy, but that’s exactly what makes it special.
As it climbs gently from the coast toward Sintra, the 13‑kilometre journey takes around 40 minutes, winding through the rural landscapes of Colares. This region is a delight for wine lovers. Colares is famous for its sandy, phylloxera‑free soils and ungrafted vines, producing remarkable, tannic red wines from the local Ramisco grape. It’s a unique terroir—and the tram gives you a front‑row seat to it.
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We took the tram at Christmas and were lucky enough to have it entirely to ourselves—apart from the two drivers expertly juggling sticks and pedals to bring the vintage carriage safely to a halt near the MUSA museum. It’s such a hassle‑free way to reach Sintra, sparing you the stress of navigating traffic or hunting for a parking spot in this incredibly popular town.

For more information, visit the following website:  https://sintratlantico-casadoelectrico.weebly.com/