Lisbon, vibrant capital of Portugal, is not only a city full of life, culture, and history, but it also serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the rich surroundings of the country.
If you find yourself in Lisbon with some free time, taking a day trip to nearby towns and landscapes is a must. Just a short drive or train ride away, you can discover palaces, beaches, historic sites, and picturesque villages.
These excursions offer a chance to see more of Portugal diverse beauty and heritage. So, let’s dive into the best day trips you can take from Lisbon to truly make the most of your visit.
Sintra: Palaces and Forests
Just a half-hour train ride from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Here, majestic palaces and castles sit among lush forests. The star is Palácio da Pena, a colorful castle perched high on a hill, visible from miles around.
Nearby, the Castelo dos Mouros offers breathtaking views from its ancient walls. In the town below, the Palácio Nacional de Sintra and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its hidden tunnels and enchanting gardens are must-visits.
For convenience, consider taking a shuttle bus to the hilltop sites to save time and energy.
Cascais: Beaches and Charm
Cascais is a short train ride from Lisbon and offers a perfect mix of sandy beaches and charming town life. It’s a great spot for those looking to relax by the sea or try some surfing, especially at Guincho Beach, famous for its waves.
The town itself is picturesque, with a range of shops and eateries, and not to be missed are the historical sites like the Santa Marta Lighthouse and the Palácio da Cidadela, which add a touch of history to the beautiful coastal scenery.
Personal experience: Since we hadn’t rented a car and wanted to be comfortable with the timing and transportation, we chose to take an organized tour to Sintra. We booked our spots online and didn’t have to worry about anything else. We got into the van with our guide and set off. Our first stop was the Pena Palace and its gardens. Next, we visited Sintra and then went on a tour to Cabo da Roca. Our last stop was in Cascais where we had some free time to do as we pleased. The trip lasted about 9-10 hours in total. I highly recommend it. You can see more here!
Évora: A Journey Back in Time
A 90-minute drive from Lisbon, Évora is a city enclosed by ancient walls, filled with historic treasures. The most notable is the Roman Temple, one of the best-preserved Roman structures in Portugal.
Another intriguing site is the Chapel of Bones, a small room decorated with human bones, meant to make visitors reflect on life. The whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a blend of culture, history, and architecture that’s both fascinating and educational.
Fátima: A Sacred Visit
An hour north of Lisbon, Fátima is known for the Santuário de Fátima, a major pilgrimage site where apparitions of the Virgin Mary were reported in the early 20th century.
This tranquil place attracts visitors of all faiths who come to see its beautiful basilica and experience the peaceful atmosphere. Even if you’re not religious, the sense of peace and the architectural beauty are worth the visit.
Nazaré: Waves and Wonder
Further north, about an hour and a half from Lisbon, Nazaré is a traditional fishing village turned surfing hotspot. The town is famous for its giant waves at Praia do Norte, attracting surfers from around the world.
For a small fee, you can visit the surf museum in the local lighthouse, which explains why the waves here are so big. It’s a unique place that combines natural wonders with a rich cultural backdrop.
Alcobaça and Batalha: Monastic Heritage
Close to Nazaré, you can visit two stunning monasteries. Alcobaça monastery is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and the tragic love story of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro.
Just a short drive away, Batalha Monastery is a monument to the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota, a significant event in Portuguese history. Both offer a glimpse into Portugal’s rich monastic tradition and medieval history.
Óbidos: Step Into the Past
An hour’s drive from Lisbon, Óbidos is encircled by medieval walls. Walking through its gates, you’ll find cobbled streets lined with traditional houses and shops.
The town’s castle, now a hotel, dominates the skyline. Óbidos is small, but its charm and historical setting make it a wonderful place to wander and explore for a day.
👉 If you want to visit several areas outside of downtown Lisbon but don’t have much time, the solution is to take an organized day trip. There’s a day trip available that includes visits to Fátima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos with pickup from your hotel and a knowledgeable guide. In just one day, you’ll see four different areas without having to plan anything yourself. You can book your spot online.
Costa da Caparica: Sun and Surf
Just across the River Tagus from Lisbon, Costa da Caparica offers miles of beautiful beaches. It’s a favorite spot for locals during the summer, ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy a day of sunbathing or surfing.
The area is also known for its lively beach bars and restaurants, where you can sample fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean.
Porto: More Than Just a Day Trip
Porto is about three hours north of Lisbon by car, but it’s worth more than just a day trip. Known for its stately bridges, historic port wine cellars, and beautiful riverside district, Porto is a city that deserves a leisurely exploration.
You can visit landmarks like the Porto Cathedral and the Palácio de Bolsa, and enjoy some of the best food and wine Portugal has to offer.