Agualva-Cacém train station platform with tracks and overhead wires in Lisbon

Massamá Barcarena Train Station

Massamá-Barcarena Train Station Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide to Sintra Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Massamá-Barcarena Train Station, located on the bustling Sintra Line in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, is a vital transportation hub seamlessly connecting the parishes of Massamá and Barcarena to Lisbon and Sintra. With roots dating back to the late 19th century, the station not only facilitates daily commutes but also stands as a testament to Portuguese railway heritage, offering direct access to Sintra’s UNESCO-listed historical treasures. This detailed guide covers everything visitors need to know—from historical context and architectural features to practical travel tips, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions.

For train schedules and up-to-date service information, consult the official Comboios de Portugal (CP) website or explore recommendations from the Sintra Tourism Board.

Public announcement for Barcarena Halt construction bids by Portuguese Royal Railways in 1894 newspaper

Historical Development
Visiting Information
Architectural Features & Station Layout
Nearby Attractions
FAQs
Exploring Sintra Historical Sites
Summary and Recommendations
Useful Links
Call to Action

Historical Development

Origins and Early Importance

Massamá-Barcarena Train Station, originally known as Apeadeiro de Barcarena (later Tercena-Barcarena), opened on April 2, 1887, as part of the Sintra Line extension. Built by the Companhia Real dos Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses with funding from the Ministry of War, the station was strategically important due to its proximity to the Barcarena Gunpowder Factory—a key military-industrial site of the era. By 1895, the railway segment was doubled to meet increasing transport needs, cementing the station’s role in regional development.

20th Century Evolution

Throughout the 1900s, Massamá-Barcarena remained a significant node on the Sintra Line. In the 1930s, its meticulously maintained gardens reflected a period when railway stations were symbols of local pride and civic identity.

Modernization and Expansion

Quadruplication and New Station (2007–2013)

Responding to growing commuter demand, the Sintra Line underwent a major transformation in the early 21st century. Between 2008 and 2013, the Massamá-Barcarena segment was expanded from two to four tracks. This modernization included a new pedestrian overpass, two-level underground parking, a public transport interface, and a children’s playground. Accessibility was greatly improved with elevators, ramps, tactile paving, and security enhancements. The new station was officially inaugurated on May 6, 2013, with European Union support.

Parking and Accessibility Improvements

Initially designed for 585 cars and 50 motorcycles, the underground parking facility opened to the public in April 2017 after administrative adjustments. Today, it offers 552 car spaces, 38 motorcycle spaces, and 36 bicycle spots—supporting park-and-ride commuters. Security was further upgraded in 2019 with surveillance cameras.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Station Hours: 5:00 AM – midnight, daily.
Ticket Office: Typically open from early morning to late evening; hours may vary on weekends and holidays.
For the latest updates, check the CP Massamá-Barcarena page.

Ticket Information

Purchase Options: Staffed ticket office, multilingual ticket machines (cash/cards), and CP mobile app.
Fares: Single journeys to Lisbon or Sintra usually range from €1.50–€3.50; monthly/return tickets are available.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance via the app to avoid lines during peak hours.

Travel Tips

Peak Times: 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM (weekdays) are busiest.
Intermodal Connections: Local buses stop at the station, offering links to Barcarena, Queluz, and Amadora.
Cyclists: Secure bicycle parking is available.
Luggage: No dedicated storage; pack light for convenience.

Accessibility

Facilities: Step-free access, elevators, ramps, tactile paving for visually impaired travelers, and clear bilingual signage.
Assistance: Available on request; contact CP in advance if required.

Architectural Features & Station Layout

Location: On the border between Oeiras (Tercena) and Sintra (Massamá), with entrances via Avenida da República, Rua Comendador Álvaro Vilela, and Avenida 25 de Abril.
Platform Layout: Four tracks, multiple covered platforms, modern passenger information systems.
Pedestrian Overpass: Ensures safe access between platforms and connects directly to bus stops.
Parking: Underground garage for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.
Landscaping: Landscaped gardens continue the station’s tradition of urban integration and civic pride.

Nearby Attractions

Fábrica da Pólvora de Barcarena: A historic gunpowder factory turned cultural complex with museums, gardens, and event spaces. (Mapcarta)
Igreja de São Bento: A local parish church reflecting the area’s community heritage.
Chafariz de Massamá: A traditional fountain emblematic of the region.
Sintra Historical Sites: Direct rail to Sintra allows easy exploration of iconic attractions like Palácio Nacional da Pena, Castelo dos Mouros, and Quinta da Regaleira.

FAQs

Q: What are the Massamá-Barcarena Train Station’s operating hours?
A: Typically 5:00 AM–midnight. For updates, check the CP website.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: At ticket machines, the staffed office, or via the CP app.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, an underground garage accommodates cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes; step-free access, elevators, and tactile paving are provided.

Q: Are there guided tours or events at the station?
A: The station does not offer tours, but nearby cultural sites such as Fábrica da Pólvora may host events.

Exploring Sintra Historical Sites

From Massamá-Barcarena, trains to Sintra run every 15–30 minutes. Upon arrival at Sintra’s main station, visitors can access:

Palácio Nacional da Pena: A Romantic-era palace with eclectic architecture and lush gardens.
Castelo dos Mouros: Ancient hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
Quinta da Regaleira: Mystical estate with gardens and iconic initiation well.

Local buses (such as Scotturb 434) and taxis provide onward connections (Sintra-Portugal.com; Tourist Places Guide).

Pena Palace: Essential Visiting Information

Hours: April–September: 9:30 AM–8:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM); October–March: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM).
Tickets: Palace & Park combo: €14 (adults), €12 (seniors/students), free for children under 6.
Getting There: Scotturb bus 434 from Sintra station; parking is limited.
Accessibility: Ramps and elevators available; some areas have steep paths.
Official Website: Pena Palace.

Summary and Recommendations

Massamá-Barcarena Train Station exemplifies the successful integration of historical legacy and modern convenience within Lisbon’s transport network. Its strategic position on the Sintra Line offers frequent, direct connections to both Lisbon and Sintra, making it an ideal starting point for exploring world-renowned attractions. Visitors benefit from comprehensive amenities—accessible platforms, electronic ticketing, multilingual support, and robust parking—while nearby cultural landmarks enrich the journey.

For optimal planning, refer to official sources like Infraestruturas de Portugal and CP, and consider using travel apps for real-time updates. Massamá-Barcarena remains indispensable for commuters and tourists alike, linking daily life with the extraordinary heritage of Sintra.

Useful Links

Call to Action

Plan your journey via Massamá-Barcarena Train Station and unlock the wonders of Sintra and Lisbon. Download the official CP app for real-time schedules and ticket purchases, and browse our related guides to make the most of your cultural adventure. Follow our social channels for travel updates and insider tips!

Sources

Massamá-Barcarena Train Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance, 2025, Infraestruturas de Portugal and Comboios de Portugal (https://www.infraestruturasdeportugal.pt/), (https://www.cp.pt/)
Massamá-Barcarena Train Station: Your Complete Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Sintra Historical Sites, 2025, Sintra Tourism Board (https://www.visit.sintra.pt/), (https://www.sintra-portugal.com/index.html)
Practical Visitor Information for Pena Palace, Sintra, 2025, Parques de Sintra (https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/en/parks-monuments/pena-palace/)
Tourist Places Guide to Sintra, 2025, Tourist Places Guide (https://touristplaces.guide/top-tourist-attraction-and-places-map-of-sintra-portugal/)