Hi Gang,
I love this site and all the great trip planning I have enjoyed thanks to all your insights. Everyone says don't drive into Lisbon....you don't need a car. Well we have a car and will be staying in Sintra. Would it still make sense to pay for the TRAIN into Lisbon or just drive, given that we're already paying for the rental car? Not sure why it sounds like it's a bear to drive in and around Lisbon. Thanks in advance for your feedback. Allison

I would take the train. Its only a few euros and it would likely cost more in terms of time to find parking and paying for parking then it would be worth. We were just in Lisbon over new years and wouldnt drive there just to use a rental car. Not worth the headache.

It's not worth driving in any large city. You don't know the streets and where will you park? It'll be very stressful. Trains, buses, and taxis are cheap in Lisbon. Leave the car in Sintra.

another option would be to drive the car to Lisbon airport, drop off at rental office and take taxi to Lisbon. That is what we are doing.

The train ride is very easy and relaxing. I suspect the driving wouldn't be. The train stops right in the heart of the downtown. The one drawback to the train is that it passes thru some pretty dismal '60's style tenements - not the best first impression of this wonderful city.

Another vote for train. Then no worries when having a glass of wine with lunch.

Thank you to everyone who responded...we're taking the train to Lisbon and drinking a glass of wine or two with lunch! I appreciate your insights! Have a good week.