12 Best Day Trips From Lisbon

On By Gabby BoucherIn Europe, portugal, Western & Central Europe

Check out these 12 amazing day trips from Lisbon, Portugal!

Portugal is one of my favorite countries in Europe. With golden beaches, colorful cities, historic castles, delicious food and wine, amazing people, and affordable prices, Portugal has everything you could ever want.

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, and one of the country’s most visited cities.

From the São Jorge Castle that dominates the Lisbon skyline, to the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is full of amazing landmarks and things to do.

Explore Lisbon’s maritime history at Jerónimos Monastery, or find Gothic architecture in the Alfama district. Walk along the waterfront, get lost in the scenic alleyways, and indulge in plenty of rich and flavorful Portuguese food.

One of the absolute best things to do in Lisbon is take a day trip! The city is incredible, but there is so much natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and local charm sitting just outside the area.

Here are some of my favorite day trips from Lisbon, from the enchanting town of Sintra to the glorious beaches of Southern Portugal.

moors castle in sintra overlooking the portugal countryside
Sintra is one of the best day trips from Lisbon.

How to get around on these day trips from Lisbon

When embarking on a day trip from Lisbon, you can either take public transport, book a tour, or rent a car.

☼ Public transport is the cheapest way to get around Portugal. Local trains and buses run frequently and they are super cheap. Check Rome2Rio or Bookaway to compare transport methods in Europe.

☼ Guided tours are the easiest way to go on day trips from Lisbon. They are a more expensive option, but you often get all transport including hotel pickup, lunch, and the added benefit of a local guide.

☼ Renting a car is perfect for those who want a bit of privacy, freedom, and flexibility. Car rental is also pricier than public transport, but you can explore Portugal on your own schedule and have the time of your life!

Check Bookaway for easy and cheap transport around Portugal!

12 Best Day Trips From Lisbon

1. Óbidos

Often called one of Portugal’s most picturesque and festive towns, Óbidos is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon.

Encircled by ancient walls, the medieval town has scenic cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses that make the perfect place for getting lost.

Óbidos is most known for its historic sights including the imposing Castle of Óbidos. It’s also know for its amazing festivals, such as the Chocolate Festival, Christmas Festival, and Medieval Festival.

2. Lagos

  • Travel time: 3 hours
  • Public transport: Flixbus from Oriente Station
  • Recommended tour: Only private tours available. You’d be better off taking the bus and booking boat tours once you arrive in Lagos.

Lagos is a bit far from Lisbon and is better suited to a weekend getaway, but it can be done as a day trip!

This absolute gem of the Algarve Coast in southern Portugal has golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

The town is lovely thanks to its well-preserved medieval walls and historic churches, but it’s the coastal views that make Lagos worth visiting. Lagos is surrounded by captivating caves, seaside cliffs, rugged rock formations and gorgeous beaches.

Read next: Travel Hacks For Europe: Packing And Planning Tips

3. Sintra

Sintra is one of the most magical places I have ever been! You can spend a few days in this charming town, but it’s also a popular day trip from Lisbon.

Immerse yourself in the mystery and architectural marvels of Quinta da Regaleira, known for its famous spiral stone staircase covered in moss.

Or hike up to the ancient stone Castelo dos Mouros, neighbored by the whimsical and colorful Pena Palace. All three of these landmarks are worth making a trip out to Sintra!

colorful architecture at pena palace sintra day trips from lisbon
Pena Palace is a feast for the eyes, and it’s a highlight of Sintra.

4. Cascais

The picturesque coastal town of Cascais is Known for its stunning beaches, charming historic center, and vibrant cultural scene.

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra Mountains, Cascais boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and rich heritage, with its cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, quaint cafes, and boutique shops.

Cascais also offers lots of outdoor activities such as surfing, sailing, and hiking. Praia da Rainha and Praia do Guincho are some of the best beaches and Boca do Inferno is an epic sea cave to check out.

5. Nazaré

Another one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon is Nazaré. This lovely fishing village on the coast of central Portugal is most well-known for its colossal waves that constantly make headlines.

Nazaré has gained international fame as one of the world’s best big-wave surfing destinations, attracting thrill-seekers and surf enthusiasts from across the globe.

Beyond its reputation as a surfing mecca, Nazaré enchants visitors with its charming old town, traditional fishing culture, and vibrant marketplaces offering fresh seafood and local handicrafts.

Read next: 20 Non Touristy Places In Europe

6. Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca is known for being the westernpoint point of mainland Europe. It’s a rocky outcrop perched atop towering cliffs that overlook the Atlantic Ocean.

There isn’t tons to do here besides admire the panoramic ocean views. But it’s a cool place to come for an evening by the seaside where you can have a picnic and hangout with friends.

It’s also conveniently close to Sintra and Cascais, so it’s often combined with these destinations into one epic day trip from Lisbon.

7. Évora

One of the best day trips from Lisbon for history lovers is Évora. Located in the Alentejo region of Portugal, the historic city is packed with Roman ruins, medieval streets, and Renaissance buildings.

The historic center of Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage site where every single street is photogenic.

Iconic landmarks such as the Roman Temple of Évora and the Cathedral of Évora are huge draws for history buffs. Plus, the vibrant street markets and authentic Alentejo cuisine and wines make it an amazing destination for food lovers as well.

8. Porto

Porto is an incredible, multifaceted city in the north of Portugal. I would definitely recommend spending a few days in Porto as opposed to one day. But if you only have time for a day trip, it’s still worth it!

Full of stunning architecture, delicious food and wine, a stunning music scene, unique attractions, and simply gorgeous scenery, there is so much to see and do in Porto!

I spent one month living here, and here are my favorite attractions:

  • Climbing Torre dos Clérigos for an epic view of the city
  • Seeing a traditional live Fado performance
  • Admiring the colorful buildings along the Ribeira
  • Touring Livraria Lello, known as the most beautiful library in the world
  • Doing a port wine tasting in the Duoro Valley
  • Admiring the azulejo tiles on Igreja do Carmo and Igreja Paroquial de Santo Ildefonso
  • Immersing yourself in greenery at Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

Read next: 10 Reasons To Visit Porto, Portugal

porto portugal boats and buildings by the ribeira
Porto is one of my favorite cities in Europe!

9. Ericeira

Anyone who loves surfing, fishing, and seaside views should visit Ericeira! Located just an hour from Lisbon, it’s a quick and easy day trip for those who want to trade the bustling city for a laid-back atmosphere.

Renowned for its world-class waves such as Ribeira d’Ilhas, Ericeira attracts surf enthusiasts from across the globe.

Beyond the surf culture, Ericeira has an authentic, small-town charm evident in its historic center, charming cafes, and lively fish market.

10. Peniche

  • Travel time: 1.5 hours
  • Public transport: Rede Expressos bus from Campo Grande Station
  • Recommended tour: No day tours from Lisbon, but surf lessons and Berlengas Island tours are popular in Peniche

Peniche is another one of the best day trips from Lisbon for surfers and ocean lovers.

Perched on a narrow peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, Peniche has a rich maritime history and dramatic coastline. The town’s historic center boasts scenic buildings adorned with colorful tiles and is a great place to wander around, eat fresh seafood, and connect with Portuguese culture.

Peniche is also home to some epic coastal mountain biking and hiking trails, and it’s in close proximity to the breathtaking Berlengas Island archipelago.

Don’t forget travel insurance for your trip to Portugal, especially if you’re going to be surfing and hiking! I always use Squaremouth Insurance to find the most affordable plans.

11. Aveiro

Aveiro, often called “The Venice of Portugal”, is a captivating seaside town known for its scenic canals and colourful moliciero boats. The moliceiros resemble the famous gondoldas of Venice, Italy, though Aveiro itself is very different from Venice!

Aveiro is quiet, calm, and relaxing. There are no swarms of tourists here, though there should be because it’s a beautiful place.

Spend a day strolling along the canals, admiring the grand architecture, finding street art, and visiting adorable little cafes.

Check out my full Budget Travel Guide to Aveiro, Portugal for more tips!

best day trips from porto portugal feature
Explore the scenic canals of Aveiro, Portugal

12. Setúbal

Situated along the scenic banks of the Sado River estuary in southwestern Portugal, Setúbal is known for its food, wine, and architecture.

The Setúbal Old Town and the local fishing port showcase the maritime history and fascinating architecture. These are the perfect places to try local delicacies such as the savory fried cuttlefish known as choco frito and the famous Moscatel de Setúbal wine.

Outdoor enthusiasts can venture to the nearby Arrábida Natural Park and explore its pristine beaches, secluded coves, and rugged cliffs.

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Thanks for reading my list of the best day trips from Lisbon!

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