Cycling day trip from Sintra to Lisbon

Set off from the fairy-tale town of Sintra, famous for its pastel-hued palaces and lush hills, on a cycling adventure to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital. This ride is about 43 km and takes you over rolling hills and through a mix of quiet roads and scenic cycleways—great for soaking in the views and escaping traffic. You’ll climb a bit early on (just over 600 meters of ascent), but plenty of downhill coasting will reward your efforts as you draw closer to the seaside.

Expect a good chunk of the route on paved surfaces, with lots of smooth asphalt, and only a few brief stretches on concrete or other surfaces. Along the way, you’ll glide past forests, small Portuguese villages, and eventually catch glimpses of the Tagus River as you approach Lisbon.

Wrap up your ride at the iconic capital, where you can celebrate with a pastel de nata in a local café or explore Lisbon’s lively neighborhoods. Perfect for a day trip that combines history, nature, and city culture!