How to Get to the Convento dos Capuchos from Lisbon and Sintra
Train from Lisbon, bus 1253 or taxi from Sintra, or by car via the EN 247-3 — and how to plan the all-important return from Sintra's most remote monument.
The Convento dos Capuchos is the most remote of Sintra's monuments, tucked into the western Serra well away from the town centre. From Lisbon, the simplest start is the train from Rossio (or Oriente / Entrecampos) to Sintra, a journey of around 40 minutes. Sintra's station is the hub for everything that follows.
From Sintra station: bus 1253 or taxi
From Sintra station, bus 1253 (Carris Metropolitana) heads out toward the Capuchos; allow roughly 40 minutes in total, including the final woodland walk to the gate. A taxi or rideshare from Sintra is quicker and well worth it if you're short on time or in a group — and it solves the trickiest part of any Capuchos visit, the return journey, since buses to this corner of the Serra are infrequent.
Driving and the return journey
If you're driving, follow signs from Lisbon, Cascais or Mafra via Colares and the EN 247-3; there is parking near the convent, though the approach roads are narrow and winding. Whichever way you arrive, fix your return plan before you set off: this is not a place to be stranded after the last bus. Pairing the Capuchos with nearby Monserrate by car or taxi makes the trip into the western Serra well worth the effort.
Frequently asked
How do I get to the Convento dos Capuchos by public transport?
Take the train from Lisbon (Rossio) to Sintra, about 40 minutes, then bus 1253 from Sintra station toward the Capuchos — roughly 40 minutes including the final walk. A taxi from Sintra is quicker and makes the return much easier.
Can you drive to the Convento dos Capuchos?
Yes. Follow signs from Lisbon, Cascais or Mafra via Colares and the EN 247-3. There is parking near the convent, but the approach roads are narrow and winding. Plan your return transport before you set off, as buses to this corner of the Serra are infrequent.