The magnificent Rossio Train Station (Estação do Rossio) from the late 19th century is the former Central Station of Lisbon.
Today, the architectural gem is not only a transportation hub with connections to Sintra, but also an impressive tourist attraction. With its fairytale façade in Neo-Manueline style, it is sure to enchant all its visitors.
On this page, read everything you need to know before your visit, including the history, schedule to Sintra and the most important questions.
Let’s start with the top things to do!
Things to do at Rossio Train Station
The monumental Rossio station, in the heart of Lisbon's popular Baixa neighborhood, looks more like an opera house than a public building from the outside.
Even if you are not planning a trip to the suburbs of Lisbon, a visit to this marvelous landmark is highly recommended.
Here are some of its highlights:
1. Marvel at the Architecture
With its grand façade on the northwest side of Rossio Square, the Rossio Train Station is arguably the most beautiful train station in Portugal, perhaps even the world.
Designed by Portuguese architect José Luís Monteiro, the Romantic exterior is one of the best examples of Neo-Manueline architecture, characteristic of the 16th century.
→ If you're interested in seeing other important landmarks of Manueline architecture download YourMobileGuide's audio guide Tour of Belém and visit the must-see attractions.
When you stand in front of this extraordinary building, take time to admire the rich sculptural decorations with nautical motifs, as well as the ornamental clock in the small turret. However, the most striking feature is the two intertwined horseshoe-arched gates that welcome visitors at the entrance. Between these gates once stood a 126-year-old statue of King Sebastian of Portugal, which unfortunately was destroyed in 2016 by a man who knocked it over while climbing up for a selfie.
2. Inside Rossio Train Station
After entering Rossio Train Station through the enormous horseshoe-shaped doorway, visitors are usually surprised by the modern interior.
The platforms inside are connected to the façade level by ramps and are covered by a cast-iron structure. Since the station is quite small, it makes it easy for passengers to navigate. There are ticket offices and ticket vending machines, which are usually heavily frequented by tourists between 10 am and 12 pm.
On the west wall of the train shed, you can see some tile paintings that combine modern views of the city of Lisbon with religious motifs.
There is also a souvenir shop, a Starbucks and the Lisbon Destination Hostel.
→ Are you interested in discovering more of Lisbon's best work's of art and religious artifacts? Check out the complete list to the top religious sites in Lisbon.
3. Take the Train to Sintra
With the Sintra Line (Linha de Sintra) connecting Lisbon with the town of Sintra, Rossio Train Station is the main station for the Lisboa-Sintra suburban railway. That’s why you can combine your visit to this masterpiece with a daytrip to the romantic village, famous for its fairy-tale palaces, its charming historic center and enchanting atmosphere.
Hop on the suburban train to Sintra that depart every 15 minutes on weekdays, and every 30 minutes on weekends. There are connections until late at night. The journey takes about 45 minutes, as there are 14 stops in-between. You can buy one-way tickets right at the station and pre-booking is not possible.
- Read more: A Guide to Sintra
- Train Metro Network Map: You can find the train metro network map with the Sintra Line here.
- Schedule: For up-to-date information on the schedule to Sintra and the ticket price, click here. Just enter Rossio and Sintra, and choose the date of your trip.
4. Other Connections
The Rossio Train Station also connects with the Green Line (Linha Verde) of the Lisbon Metro. You will have to exit the metro station and go across the Rossio Square to enter the station.
- You can find the network map of Metro Lisbon here.
5. Nearby Attractions
Be sure to spend some time at the lively Rossio Square next to Rossio Station.
You can browse the stores around the square, sit on one of the benches under a tree, or grab a bite to eat in one of the many cafés, bars and restaurants.
Also check out the two large Baroque-style fountains and the monument to King Pedro IV that grace the square. The square is especially atmospheric in the evening, with fountains illuminated and live music filling the air.
Other nearby attractions include the Restauradores Square, Lisbon’s main avenue Avenida de Liberade, and the must-see Elevador de Santa Justa.
→ One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with Rossio Station, the Baixa district and the top central sights is with an audio guide tour of Lisbon. Download and easily explore at your own pace for just a few euros!
Entrance, Tickets, and Tours to Rossio Train Station
- Entrance: The Rossio Train Station is open every day.
- Tickets: Entrance is free of charge.
- Guided tours: Currently there are no guided tours to Rossio Train Station but YourMobileGuide offers an audio guide tour of Lisbon's must-see destinations for an affordable price.
- Travelers' Tips: Travelers who want to get a deeper insight into historic Lisbon will treasure the self-guided audio tour Best of Lisbon: City Center. Listen to the audio guide from your own mobile phone and discover the must-see sights in the city center at your own pace.
How to Get to Rossio Train Station?
Rossio Train Station is located between Rossio Square and Restauradores Square in Lisbon’s city center, Baixa.
From Praça do Comércio: You can either walk 13 minutes or take the metro (Blue Line/ Linha Azul) from Terreiro do Paço. Go 2 stops to the Restauradores station. From there, Rossio Train Station is just a few steps away.
Alternatively, there are several bus lines that depart from Praça do Comércio and go near Rossio Train Station.
Check with our guide to Lisbon's public transportation to discover which method is best for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rossio Train Station
Rossio Train Station is conveniently located between Rossio Square and Restauradores Square in Lisbon’s city center, Baixa.
From Praça do Comércio: You can either walk 13 minutes or take the metro (Blue Line/ Linha Azul) from Terreiro do Paço. Go 2 stops to the Restauradores station. From there, Rossio Train Station is just a few steps away.
Alternatively, there are several bus lines that depart from Praça do Comércio and go near Rossio Train Station.
Yes, Rossio Train Station is the main rail gateway to the town of Sintra. The Sintra Line (Linha de Sintra) connects Lisbon with Sintra. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Trains depart every 15 minutes on weekdays, and every 30 minutes on weekends. There are connections until late at night. For detailed information, check out our complete Guide to Sintra.
Historical Facts & Info about Rossio Train Station
The Rossio Train Station was built between 1886 and 1890. It was commissioned by the Portuguese Royal Railway Company. The construction of the 2.9 km long tunnel, excavated under the city, is one of the most important engineering achievements in Portugal from that period.
In December 1918, the station was the scene of a terrible event in which the fourth president of Portugal, Sidónio Pais, was assassinated.
The Rossio Train Station served as the main terminus of Lisbon until 1957. In the following years, only a few long-distance trains terminated at the station (until 1990).
Due to a massive tunnel renewal work, Rossio Train Station was closed between 2004 and 2008. Today, the suburban railway trains of the state-owned Comboios de Portugal to Sintra serve the Rossio Train Station.
Contact & Map
- Address: Estação de Caminhos de Ferro do Rossio, R. 1º de Dezembro 125, 1249-970 Lisboa, Portugal
- Opening Hours: Every day, 24h
- Public Transport: Metro Blue Line, Restauradores or Rossio stop