Lisbon is an excellent base for exploring some of the most beautiful destinations in Portugal. From the charming town of Sintra to the coastal beauty of Cascais, there are many amazing day trips from Lisbon that offer a perfect escape from the city. Whether planning a full-day tour from Lisbon or a quick trip to a nearby village, there’s no shortage of great day trip options.
🏠 Where to Stay in Lisbon
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Torel Palace
- ✨ 5-Star: Wine & Books Lisboa
- 🏨 4-Star: Jupiter Lisboa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: AS Lisboa
- 💸 Cheap: Lisbon São Bento
- 🏢 Apartment: 137 LuxResidence
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Pestana Lisboa Vintage City Center Suites
- 🏩 For Couples: Meliá Lisboa Oriente
For those looking to venture further, a day trip to Porto or a visit to Fátima from Lisbon are unforgettable experiences. Spend a day exploring the medieval streets of Óbidos or take the train west of Lisbon for a relaxing day in Setúbal. With so many options just an hour from Lisbon, it’s easy to see why this city is a favorite starting point for travelers.
💁 Best Guided Tours from Lisbon
- Sintra and Cascais Small Group Day Trip from Lisbon from € 100 (⭐4.8/5)
- Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos Small Group Day Trip from Lisbon from € 90 (⭐4.7/5)
- Three Cities in One Day: Porto, Nazaré, and Coimbra from Lisbon from € 100 (⭐4.7/5)
- Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril Tour from € 100 (⭐4.9/5)
- Small Group Tour: Knights Templar Historical Tour from Lisbon from € 90 (⭐4.8/5)
Best Day Trips from Lisbon, Portugal
1. 🏰 Sintra
Visit duration: 6-8 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (28 km from Lisbon Rossio Station)
Historical Significance. Sintra’s UNESCO World Heritage status reflects its extraordinary blend of Moorish and European architectural styles, with the colorful Pena Palace crowning the misty Sintra Mountains. The town served as the summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, leaving behind a legacy of extravagant palaces and mysterious gardens.
Cultural Experience. The historic center buzzes with traditional Portuguese pastry shops, local craft stores, and centuries-old mansions turned museums. Quinta da Regaleira’s underground tunnels and initiation wells reveal the town’s connection to mysticism and masonic traditions.
Time Saver: Purchase your Palace tickets online and arrive at Pena Palace when it opens at 9:00 AM to avoid the midday crowds that flood in from Lisbon’s tour buses.
⭐ Best Activities
Sintra Private Tour: A Dreamlike Experience: This Sintra Private Tour offers a magical journey through one of Portugal’s most enchanting destinations. Explore the stunning Pena Palace and other iconic landmarks. Perfect for those looking for a memorable day trip from Lisbon, this private tour ensures a personalized experience with expert guidance.
⭐ Park and Pena Palace in Sintra – Check availability of tickets
2. 🌊 Cascais
Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 30 minutes (30 km from Lisbon Cais do Sodré)
Seaside Charm. This former fishing village transformed into a sophisticated beach resort offers a perfect blend of historical architecture and coastal beauty. The town center features elegant 19th-century architecture, while the marina showcases modern luxury.
Beach Life. The coastline presents a string of golden sand beaches, from the central Praia da Ribeira to the wild surf spots of Guincho. The historic Santa Marta Lighthouse and Boca do Inferno sea arch provide perfect sunset viewing spots.
Money Saver: Take the scenic coastal train from Lisbon (€2.25 one-way) instead of expensive guided tours, and rent a bike from the free BiCas service to explore the coastline.
⭐ Best Activities
Bestseller Private Tour Sintra-Cascais with Hotel pick up: This exclusive private tour offers a personalized journey through the enchanting regions of Sintra and Cascais, with convenient hotel pickup service included. The tour provides a customizable experience where you’ll travel with your own dedicated guide, allowing you to explore these stunning Portuguese destinations at your own pace and according to your specific interests.
3. ⛪ Óbidos
Visit duration: 4 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (84 km from Lisbon)
Medieval Heritage. Walking through Óbidos’ main gate feels like stepping back in time, with its perfectly preserved medieval walls enclosing a maze of whitewashed houses and flowering bougainvillea. The castle, now a luxury pousada, stands as a testament to Portuguese medieval architecture.
Cultural Traditions. Famous for its traditional ginjinha (cherry liqueur) served in chocolate cups, Óbidos maintains its artistic heritage through numerous bookshops housed in historic buildings and year-round cultural festivals.
Insider Tip: Visit during weekdays and arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups; don’t miss the hidden pathway along the medieval walls for the best town views.
⭐ Best Activities
Fátima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos Small-Group Tour from Lisbon: Embark on an unforgettable small-group tour from Lisbon, visiting four of Portugal’s most iconic sites: Fátima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos. This full-day tour combines rich history, religious significance, and coastal beauty, making it one of the best Lisbon day trips for those looking to explore beyond the city.
4. 🙏 Fátima
Visit duration: 5 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours (127 km from Lisbon)
Religious Significance. One of Catholicism’s most important pilgrimage sites, Fátima’s Sanctuary attracts millions of visitors annually. The vast square leading to the basilica can hold a million people during major religious celebration
Modern Marvel. The contemporary Basilica of the Holy Trinity, completed in 2007, showcases modern religious architecture and art, creating an interesting contrast with the traditional Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
Top Tip: Plan your visit around the 13th of any month to witness the moving candlelight processions, but book accommodation well in advance during these dates.
⭐ Best Activities
Fátima Full-Day Private Tour: Experience a full-day private tour to Fátima, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. This personalized tour allows you to explore the Sanctuary of Fátima at your own pace, with insightful guidance on the religious and historical significance of this sacred site.
5. 🏛️ Évora
Visit duration: 6 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours (134 km from Lisbon)
Ancient History. This UNESCO-listed city showcases over 2000 years of history, from the Roman Temple to the Gothic Cathedral and the unique Chapel of Bones. The well-preserved medieval walls enclose a maze of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses.
Gastronomic Heritage. Évora serves as the capital of the Alentejo region, famous for its robust red wines, black pork, and traditional sweets made by local convents’ secret recipes.
Local Secret: Start your visit at the Giraldo Square early morning, when local farmers sell fresh produce, and explore the lesser-known São Francisco Church before the crowds arrive at the more famous Chapel of Bones.
⭐ Best Activities
Private Tour: Évora from Lisbon: Embark on a Private Tour to Évora from Lisbon and explore this UNESCO World Heritage city known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the famous Chapel of Bones, the majestic Évora Cathedral, and the ancient Roman Temple. This full-day tour offers an insightful journey into Portugal’s past, perfect for those looking to delve deeper into the country’s cultural heritage.
6. 🏰 Batalha
Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours by bus from Lisbon
Discover the Monastery: Batalha is home to the Mosteiro da Batalha, one of the most significant Gothic monuments in Portugal. Built to commemorate the Portuguese victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of Manueline architecture. The Capelas Imperfeitas (Unfinished Chapels) are particularly striking with their intricate carvings and open-to-the-sky design.
Step into History: This quiet town offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich history. The Batalha de Aljubarrota Museum, located just outside the town, provides a fascinating look into the battle that secured Portugal’s independence from Castile.
Insider Tip: If you don’t have or don’t want to rent a car, take the bus from Lisbon’s Campo Grande Station for an easy and affordable journey to Batalha.
⭐ Best Activities
Fátima, Batalha, Nazaré, and Óbidos Group Tour: Join a group tour from Lisbon to explore four of Portugal’s most iconic destinations: Fátima, a world-renowned pilgrimage site; Batalha, home to a stunning Gothic monastery; the coastal town of Nazaré, famous for its giant waves; and the charming medieval village of Óbidos.
⭐ Batalha Monastery – Check availability of tickets
7. 🌊 Nazaré
Visit duration: 4-6 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours by bus from Lisbon
Feel the Power of the Waves: Nazaré is world-renowned for its gigantic waves, attracting surfers from all over the globe. Visit the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, perched on a cliff above Praia do Norte, where you can witness some of the biggest waves ever surfed. The nearby Sítio district, located high above Nazaré, offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and is home to the Nossa Senhora da Nazaré Church, a historic pilgrimage site.
Coastal Charm: Beyond surfing, Nazaré is a charming fishing village with narrow streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many seaside restaurants or take a stroll along the beach promenade.
Top Tip: For an unforgettable day trip from Lisbon, take an early bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios Station to Nazaré and explore both the beach and Sítio headland in one day.
⭐ Best Activities
Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos Small-Group Tour: Explore Portugal’s rich history and culture on this small-group tour from Lisbon, visiting the sacred Sanctuary of Fátima, the coastal beauty of Nazaré, and the medieval charm of Óbidos.
8. 🌿 Quinta da Regaleira
Visit duration: 3-4 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes by train from Lisbon
Enchanted Gardens: Located in Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira is a magical estate filled with hidden tunnels, grottos, and symbolic structures like the famous Initiation Well, which spirals deep into the earth. The palace itself showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture that adds to its mystical atmosphere.
A Journey Through Symbolism: As part of your Sintra day trip, Quinta da Regaleira offers an immersive experience into esoteric symbols and secret societies. Wander through its lush gardens and discover hidden corners that make this estate one of Sintra’s most fascinating attractions.
Time Saver: Take an early train from Rossio Station in Lisbon to avoid crowds at Quinta da Regaleira. You can also combine it with other Sintra attractions like Pena Palace for a full day of exploration.
⭐ Best Activities
Sintra Small-Group Tour from Lisbon with Cabo da Roca and Cascais: Discover the beauty of Sintra on this small-group tour that includes visits to the stunning Pena Palace, the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, and the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe.
9. 🦀 Setúbal
Visit duration: 6-7 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour by train or bus from Lisbon
Savor Fresh Seafood. Setúbal is famous for its vibrant fish market, Mercado do Livramento, considered one of Europe’s best markets for fresh seafood. After exploring the market, head up to Fortaleza de São Filipe, a 16th-century fortress offering breathtaking views over Setúbal and the Sado Estuary.
Relax by the Sea. Setúbal’s nearby beaches like Praia da Figueirinha are perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. Whether you’re sunbathing or swimming in crystal-clear waters, Setúbal’s coastline offers an idyllic escape just south of Lisbon.
Money Saver: Take a train or bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios Station directly to Setúbal for an affordable and scenic journey.
10. 🏰 Castelo dos Mouros
Visit duration: 2-3 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes by train or car from Lisbon
Medieval History. Perched high in the Sintra Mountains, Castelo dos Mouros (Castle of the Moors) offers incredible views over Sintra and beyond. Originally built in the 8th century by the Moors, this fortress played a key role in defending the region during medieval times. Today, visitors can walk along its ancient walls and explore its towers.
Iconic Landmark: As part of Sintra’s UNESCO-listed cultural landscape, Castelo dos Mouros is surrounded by lush forests and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling town below. It’s located near other famous attractions like Pena Palace, making it easy to combine both sites into one memorable day trip.
Time Saver: If you’re visiting Sintra without a car, take bus 434 from Sintra’s train station to reach Castelo dos Mouros quickly and conveniently.
⭐ Castle of the Moors – Check availability of tickets
Hidden Gems Beyond the Popular Routes
1. 🏊♂️ Berlengas Islands
Visit duration: 8 hours / Travel duration: 2 hours to Peniche + 45-minute boat ride
Natural Wonder. The Berlengas archipelago stands as Portugal’s most pristine marine ecosystem, where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers a unique escape from mainland crowds, with opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and bird watching.
Historical Significance. The 17th-century São João Baptista Fort, connected to the main island by a picturesque footbridge, provides a fascinating glimpse into Portugal’s maritime history. The still-operational lighthouse adds to the island’s mystical charm.
Time Saver: Book your boat trip at least one day in advance and choose the earliest departure (usually 10 AM) to maximize your island time and avoid afternoon winds that can make the return journey choppy.
⭐ Best Activities
Berlengas Catamaran Tour with Underwater Vision: Embark on a unique Berlengas Catamaran Tour from Lisbon, featuring underwater vision for an unforgettable view of marine life. Explore the stunning Berlengas Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its crystal-clear waters and fascinating wildlife.
2. 🌿 Arrábida Natural Park
Visit duration: 6 hours / Travel duration: 45 minutes (40 km from Lisbon)
Natural Beauty. The Serra da Arrábida mountains plunge dramatically into turquoise waters, creating some of Portugal’s most pristine beaches. The Mediterranean-like vegetation hosts rare species and offers excellent hiking opportunities.
Hidden Beaches. Portinho da Arrábida and Praia dos Galapinhos consistently rank among Europe’s best beaches, with their white sand and crystal-clear waters rivaling any Mediterranean coastline.
Local Secret: Visit during weekdays in shoulder season (May-June or September-October) for the perfect combination of warm weather and minimal crowds.
⭐ Best Activities
Arrábida Wine Tour: Discover the stunning Arrábida region on this private wine tour from Lisbon. You’ll visit local wineries, sample some of the finest Portuguese wines, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Arrábida Natural Park.
3. 🏄♀️ Ericeira
Visit duration: 5 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (35 km from Lisbon)
Surf Culture. As Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve, Ericeira offers world-class waves for all skill levels. The traditional fishing village atmosphere remains intact despite its international surf reputation.
Coastal Gastronomy. The town’s seafood restaurants serve the freshest catch, with local specialties like sea urchins and barnacles that you won’t find in typical tourist menus.
Money Saver: Rent surf equipment in the afternoon when prices drop, and consider taking a surf lesson during weekdays for better rates.
4. 🍷 Setúbal & Azeitão
Visit duration: 7 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (50 km from Lisbon)
Wine Heritage. The region’s famous Moscatel wineries offer tours and tastings in centuries-old cellars. The traditional production methods remain unchanged, creating unique sweet wines that perfectly complement local cheese.
Dolphin Watching. The Sado Estuary hosts a resident dolphin population, offering one of Europe’s most reliable wild dolphin watching experiences.
Time Saver: Book a combined wine tasting and dolphin watching tour to maximize your day; morning dolphin watching typically has calmer waters and better sighting chances.
⭐ Best Activities
Private Setúbal Region Wine Tasting Tour: Full Day from Lisbon: Discover the rich flavors of the Setúbal wine region on this private full-day wine tasting tour from Lisbon. Visit renowned local wineries, sample some of Portugal’s finest wines, including the famous Moscatel de Setúbal, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the region.
5. 🏺 Caldas da Rainha
Visit duration: 4 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (90 km from Lisbon)
Ceramic Tradition. Famous for its distinctive pottery and ceramic art, the city’s Art Nouveau architecture and daily fruit market provide a genuine glimpse into Portuguese life away from tourist crowds.
Cultural Heritage. The José Malhoa Museum houses important works of Portuguese Naturalism, while the city’s thermal springs recall its royal spa town history.
Top Tip: Visit the fruit market in the morning for the best atmosphere and stop by the ceramic factories in the afternoon when they often sell slightly imperfect pieces at significant discounts.
6. 🏖️ Sesimbra
Visit duration: 6 hours / Travel duration: 45 minutes by car or bus from Lisbon
Unwind on Beautiful Beaches: Nestled between mountains and sea, Sesimbra boasts some of Portugal’s finest beaches such as Praia do Ouro and Praia da Califórnia, ideal for sunbathing or swimming in calm waters. For those seeking adventure, Sesimbra also offers excellent scuba diving spots along its rocky coastline.
Step Back in Time: Perched high above the town is Castelo de Sesimbra, a Moorish castle offering stunning views over Sesimbra and its coastline. It’s one of my favorite spots for soaking in both history and natural beauty.
Top Tip: If you’re planning your trip to Portugal during summer months, arrive early as Sesimbra gets busy with locals heading south of Lisbon for beach escapes.
⭐ Best Activities
Arrábida and Sesimbra Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon with Wine Tasting: Explore the stunning Arrábida Natural Park and the charming coastal town of Sesimbra on this small-group day trip from Lisbon. Enjoy breathtaking views, visit local wineries for a delightful wine tasting experience, and discover the rich history of the region.
7. 🛡️ Tomar
Visit duration: 5-6 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour by train from Lisbon
Templar Legacy. Tomar is home to one of Portugal’s most important historical sites—the Convento de Cristo, founded by the Knights Templar in 1162. The complex includes several architectural styles ranging from Gothic to Renaissance, with highlights like the stunningly ornate Charola Chapel, inspired by Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre.
A Medieval Town: Beyond its Templar history, Tomar is a picturesque town with charming streets that wind along the Nabão River. Take time to explore its traditional squares and riverside walks before visiting other key sites like the Aqueduct of Pegões, which supplied water to the Convent centuries ago.
Time Saver: Take an early train from Lisbon’s Oriente Station directly to Tomar for a hassle-free journey. You can easily spend half your day exploring Tomar before taking the train back in time for dinner in Lisbon.
⭐ Best Activities
Small-Group Knights Templar Historical Tour from Lisbon: Step back in time with this Small-Group Knights Templar Historical Tour from Lisbon. Explore the fascinating history of the Knights Templar as you visit key sites, including the Convent of Christ in Tomar, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
⭐ Convent of Christ – Check availability of tickets
8. 🏝️ Cabo da Roca
Visit duration: 2-3 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes by car or bus from Lisbon
Westernmost Point: Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean from 140-meter-high cliffs. The iconic lighthouse dating back to 1772 adds to the charm of this windswept location. The rugged beauty of the cliffs and the crashing waves make it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Power of Nature: Located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Cabo da Roca is perfect for those who enjoy hiking or simply want to take in the breathtaking landscape. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the cliffs.
Insider Tip: Bring a wind jacket regardless of the season, as it can get quite windy. Take bus 1253 from Sintra or Cascais to reach Cabo da Roca.
⭐ Best Activities
Sintra and Cabo da Roca Tour: Discover the beauty of Sintra and the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca on this guided tour. Explore the enchanting palaces and gardens of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
9. 🌅 Peniche
Visit duration: Full day / Travel duration: 1.5 hours by car or bus from Lisbon
Peniche’s Beaches and Fortress: Peniche is a coastal paradise known for its long sandy beaches like Praia do Baleal and Praia da Consolação, which are popular with surfers. The town itself is steeped in history, with highlights like the Peniche Fortress, which once served as a political prison during Portugal’s dictatorship era.
Berlengas Islands: A boat trip to the Berlengas Islands, a protected nature reserve just off the coast, is one of the best day trips from Peniche. The islands offer hiking trails, crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, and stunning rock formations.
Top Tip: If you’re into surfing or want to learn, Peniche is one of Portugal’s top surfing destinations. You can rent equipment or take lessons at one of the many surf schools along the beach.
10. 🏄♂️ Costa da Caparica
Visit duration: Half day / Travel duration: 30 minutes by car or bus from Lisbon
Golden Sands: Costa da Caparica boasts a 26-kilometer stretch of sandy beaches, making it one of the best beach destinations south of Lisbon. Popular beaches like Praia de São João and Praia do Rei are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The area also has several surf schools where you can rent equipment or take lessons.
Traditional Fishing Villages: Further down the coast lies Fonte da Telha, a charming fishing village with a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling town of Costa da Caparica. It’s an ideal spot for kite surfing or simply enjoying fresh seafood by the sea.
Money Saver: Buses run frequently from Lisbon’s Campo Grande Station to Costa da Caparica, making it an easy and affordable day trip option.
Seasonal Highlights and Special Events
🎭 Festival Calendar: When to Visit What
Visit duration: Varies by event / Best planning: 2-3 months in advance
Spring Celebrations. The Medieval Market in Óbidos (March/April) transforms the town into a living history book, while Sintra’s Gardens Festival (May) showcases the region’s most beautiful palace gardens in full bloom.
Summer Festivities. The Cascais International Sailing Week (July) fills the coastline with colorful sails, while Évora’s Classical Music Festival (July/August) brings ancient courtyards to life with melodic concerts.
Insider Tip: Book accommodation months in advance for festival periods, or consider staying in Lisbon and taking early trains to beat the crowds.
🌞 Summer Beach Escapes
Best period: June to September / Peak season: July-August
Coastal Paradise. The string of beaches from Cascais to Guincho offers varying experiences, from family-friendly coves to world-class surfing spots. The lesser-known beaches of Arrábida Natural Park provide a more secluded alternative.
Water Activities. Summer months bring perfect conditions for kayaking along the Arrábida coast or snorkeling around the Berlengas Islands.
Local Secret: Visit beaches before 10 AM or after 4 PM to avoid peak sun hours and crowds; many locals follow this schedule.
🍂 Autumn Wine Routes
Best period: September to November
Harvest Season. The wine regions around Setúbal and Azeitão come alive during harvest time, offering unique opportunities to participate in grape picking and wine-making traditions.
Gastronomic Events. Many towns host food and wine festivals during this period, showcasing local products and traditional cooking methods.
Money Saver: Book harvest tours directly through wineries rather than through agencies, and look for combined tasting packages.
⛄ Winter Cultural Experience
Best period: December to February
Indoor Attractions. Winter is perfect for exploring Sintra’s palaces without crowds, visiting museums in Évora, or enjoying thermal spas in Caldas da Rainha.
Festive Season. Christmas markets in Óbidos and New Year celebrations in Cascais offer unique winter experiences with fewer tourists.
Top Tip: Many attractions offer significant winter discounts and shorter queues; take advantage of off-season rates for guided tours.
Practical Planning Tips
🚂 Transportation Guide
Public Transport Options. Trains and buses connect most day trip destinations, with services running from early morning until late evening.
Comparative Table:
| Destination | Best Transport | Duration | First/Last Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sintra | Train | 40 min | 6:30/23:30 |
| Cascais | Train | 30 min | 6:00/1:00 |
| Óbidos | Bus | 1 hour | 7:00/20:00 |
| Évora | Train | 1.5 hours | 7:30/21:30 |
Time Saver: Purchase return tickets in the morning to avoid queues later, and download the CP (train) and Rede Expressos (bus) apps for real-time schedules.
💳 Budget Planning
Cost Optimization. Many destinations offer combined tickets for multiple attractions. The Lisboa Card covers transport and entry to many attractions in Sintra and Cascais.
Sample Daily Budget:
- Transport: €5-15
- Attractions: €15-30
- Food: €15-25
- Optional Activities: €20-50
Money Saver: Book tickets online in advance for better rates and to skip queues.
❓ FAQ
What are the best day trips from Lisbon?
Sintra is one of the best day trips from Lisbon, offering stunning palaces like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, just a 40-minute train ride away. Cascais, a coastal town with beautiful beaches, is another favorite day trip, only a 30-minute train ride from Lisbon. For history lovers, Óbidos is a charming medieval town that can be reached in about an hour drive from Lisbon. Other popular options include Fátima for religious sites and Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
How can I get to Sintra from Lisbon?
You can take a train from Lisbon to Sintra from Rossio Station, which takes about 40 minutes. Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon due to its fairy-tale palaces and lush gardens. If you prefer driving, it’s about an hour drive from Lisbon by car. Sintra day trips are perfect for exploring multiple palaces in one day.
What are some relaxing day trips south of Lisbon?
For a relaxing day trip south of Lisbon, head to Setúbal, known for its fresh seafood and dolphin-watching tours. You can also visit Comporta, a chic beach destination that’s about an hour and a half drive from Lisbon. These destinations offer a peaceful escape away from Lisbon’s busy streets.
Is it possible to take a trip to Porto from Lisbon in one day?
While Porto is a bit far for a typical day trip (about 2.5-3 hours by train), it’s still possible if you’re up for an early start. A trip to Porto from Lisbon allows you to explore Portugal’s second-largest city, famous for its riverside views, port wine cellars, and historic architecture.
What are some fun day trips if I don’t have a car?
If you don’t have a car, there are plenty of fun day trips accessible by public transport. Take the train from Lisbon to Cascais for beach vibes or head north by bus from Lisbon to Óbidos for medieval charm. Tomar, known for its Templar history, is another great option accessible by train.
What’s the best way to combine multiple destinations in one day tour?
You can easily combine Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca into one perfect day trip from Lisbon. Start with Sintra’s palaces in the morning, head to Cascais for lunch by the beach, then finish with sunset views at Cabo da Roca—the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
