Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, serves as a fantastic gateway to a multitude of enchanting destinations, each offering its unique charm and experiences. From fairytale palaces nestled in lush forests to picturesque coastal towns with stunning beaches, the region surrounding Lisbon is brimming with opportunities for exploration and adventure.
We curated 10 easy day trips from Lisbon that you should experience. Each destination offers a glimpse into Portugal's diverse culture and natural beauty, ensuring that your travels are both enriching and enjoyable. Get ready to discover the hidden gems just a short ride away from the bustling streets of Lisbon!
1. Sintra: Fairytale Palaces and Forests
Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a fantasy world. Nestled within the lush hills of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, this UNESCO World Heritage town is famed for whimsical palaces, vibrant mansions, and misty forests. A must-see is the colorful Pena Palace, perched high above the town, where you can stroll through gardens filled with exotic plants and admire sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Equally enchanting is the Moorish Castle, whose ancient walls offer panoramic vistas of the countryside.
Exploring Sintra’s winding, cobblestone streets reveal hidden treasures like the romantic Quinta da Regaleira, a palace surrounded by secret tunnels and mystical grottos. The cool, shaded trails of Sintra’s forest are perfect for an afternoon hike, offering a refreshing break from Lisbon’s sunny streets.
2. Cascais: Coastal Elegance
With its sophisticated charm and stunning Atlantic backdrop, Cascais offers the perfect escape from Lisbon. This former fishing village has transformed into a chic seaside destination, where you can unwind on picturesque beaches or marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Boca do Inferno. Along the lively marina, sailboats bob gently in the water, and you can find a mix of upscale restaurants and relaxed cafes that make it easy to soak up the vibrant, laid-back atmosphere. The nearby 16th-century Cascais Citadel adds a touch of history and grandeur to your coastal day trip.
Cascais’ historic center, with its narrow streets and colorful façades, invites exploration. Stroll past boutiques, restaurants, and lively squares, or visit the grand Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, housed in an ornate palace surrounded by lush gardens. Cascais offers an elegant escape from the city, just a short train ride away.
3. Óbidos: a Medieval Gem
Perched on a hilltop just an hour north of Lisbon, Óbidos invites you into a perfectly preserved medieval town that feels like a journey into the past. As you pass through the ornate Porta da Vila, adorned with traditional blue azulejos, wander along narrow cobblestone streets flanked by whitewashed houses and vibrant bougainvillea.
Explore centuries-old churches, and the majestic castle at the town’s heart, where you can climb the ancient walls for panoramic vistas that showcase the beautiful rustic landscapes beyond. Take time to visit artisan shops filled with handcrafted treasures, and be sure to sample the town's famous Ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur served in delightful edible chocolate cups.
4. Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage City
Nestled in the heart of the Alentejo region, just an hour and a half from Lisbon, Évora invites you to explore its rich history as a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you wander its cobblestone streets, encounter stunning architecture, including the iconic Roman Temple —a testament to the city’s ancient roman roots — and the majestic Sé Cathedral, where you can climb to the rooftop for breathtaking views. Do not miss the haunting Chapel of Bones, adorned with human skulls, and the elegant Aqueduto da Água de Prata, weaving through the town.
Savour the hearty Alentejo cuisine, featuring dishes like black pork and migas, which showcase the region's rich culinary heritage. Each bite offers a taste of the region’s soul!
5. Mafra: Baroque Grandeur
Just a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, Mafra invites you to experience the awe-inspiring Palácio Nacional de Mafra, one of Portugal’s greastest Baroque treasures. As you step inside this enormous palace, you are captivated by its scale and splendor, with over 1,200 rooms to explore. Don’t miss the breathtaking basilica with its towering twin bell towers, or the extraordinary royal library, which houses over 36,000 rare books.
After soaking in the grandeur of the palace, take time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Tapada Nacional de Mafra. This former royal hunting ground offers peaceful trails where you can hike, cycle, or even spot wildlife such as deer and wild boar. Additionally, consider a short trip to nearby Ericeira, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant surf culture.
6. Arrábida Natural Park: Rugged Beauty
As you embark on your adventure from Lisbon, make sure to visit Arrábida Natural Park, a stunning landscape of rugged cliffs. This stunning area boasts unspoiled beaches, making it a paradise for nature lovers. As you wander through the park, you find yourself immersed in a tranquil environment, where the sounds of the ocean blend with the rustling of the wind through the trees.
From various viewpoints, like the famous Cabo Espichel, you can marvel at the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly into the horizon. The steep cliffs here, plunging dramatically into the sea offer picture-perfect scenes for photographers.
7. Setúbal: Seafood and Scenery
Just a short drive away lies Setúbal, a charming coastal town that complements your nature-filled adventure. Renowned for its vibrant harbor and fresh seafood, explore the bustling Mercado do Livramento, where colorful stalls overflow with local specialties. Savor dishes like fried cuttlefish or the famous choco frito at seaside restaurants while enjoying serene harbor views.
After your meal, unwind on beautiful beaches like Praia da Figueirinha and Praia dos Galápos, where you can relax on golden sands or take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters.
8. Sesimbra: Relaxed Fishing Village Vibes
Sesimbra beckons with its charming fishing village atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery. As you stroll along the waterfront promenade, be captivated by colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor and the aroma of fresh seafood wafting from nearby restaurants. Be sure to stop by the local fish market, where you can witness the daily catch being brought in and perhaps indulge in freshly prepared dishes at one of the quaint seaside eateries.
Beyond its vibrant fishing culture, Sesimbra is also known for its beautiful beaches, where you can unwind under the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. After a day of exploration, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a beachside restaurant, sampling local specialties like grilled sardines or caldeirada (fish stew) as you watch the sunset over the Atlantic.
9. Tomar: The Knights Templar's Legacy
Nestled along the banks of the Nabão River, Tomar is a historic town that showcases the rich legacy of the Knights Templar in Portugal. Just over an hour’s drive from Lisbon, you’ll find the stunning Convento de Cristo, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the headquarters of the Templar Order in the 12th century. Be sure to explore the intricately decorated church, where the iconic round chapel, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, stands as a testament to the Templars’ influence.
Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Tomar, discover a delightful mix of history and charm. As you stroll, keep an eye out for beautifully preserved medieval buildings, including the impressive aqueduct that once supplied water to the convent. To complete your experience, indulge in regional cuisine and taste “fatias de tomar” or “tigeladas” from a local bakery.
10. Fátima: Spiritual Significance
For those drawn to spiritual history, a trip to Fátima is a transformative experience you won't want to miss. Just over an hour from Lisbon, Fátima stands as one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions of visitors seeking solace, reflection, and inspiration. At the heart of the town lies the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, where three shepherd children famously witnessed visions of the Virgin Mary in 1917.
Walking through the expansive complex, discover the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, adorned with intricate mosaics and sculptures that tell the story of the apparitions. Take a moment to light a candle in prayer or meditation, as many pilgrims do, and join the thousands who gather for daily masses and processions.
Day trips from Lisbon await you!
Portugal's diverse landscapes and rich history promise unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether you are wandering through the enchanting streets of Lisbon, exploring the medieval charm of Óbidos, relaxing in the historic city of Évora, or soaking in the natural beauty of Arrábida, there is always something new for you to discover. Let TourTailors guide you in crafting the perfect journey through this beautiful country, ensuring that each moment becomes a cherished memory. Join us and uncover the magic of Portugal!
