Looking for the best day trips from Lisbon? Experience top destinations in Portugal with my hand-picked list of the top 5 day trips from Lisbon guide.
While Lisbon is a city bursting with vibrant energy and culture, there’s so much more to discover just a short distance away. Beyond the city’s iconic landmarks, lies a treasure trove of fascinating and picturesque Portuguese destinations waiting to be explored.
From enchanting castles to stunning beaches, the captivating countryside to the pristine coastline, my curated list of excursions from Lisbon will take you on an unforgettable journey through Portugal’s most magical destinations.
Get ready to explore the whimsical charm of Sintra, bask in the breathtaking views at Cabo da Roca, and soak in the laid-back vibe of the seaside town of Cascais.
And the best part? You can easily base yourself in Lisbon city and venture out on guided day tours to these nearby destinations, all within 90 minutes of travel time.
Your Portuguese adventure awaits, so join us as we embark on an ultimate guide to day trips from Lisbon.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cascais | Escape to Ocean Paradise
Discover the allure of the captivating coastal town of Cascais, a mere 30 km from Lisbon. Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of its vibrant marina, sandy beaches, and historic old town.
Explore the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort, the former royal retreat Citadel Palace, and the winding streets lined with pastel-hued buildings, cafes, and hidden squares. Wander along the promenade for breathtaking ocean views and enjoy delicious seafood at the town’s delectable restaurants.
Take a refreshing dip at Praia da Duquesa, Praia da Rainha, or the Cresmina Dunes, then Don’t miss a trip to Cabo de Roca – the westernmost point in Europe – and visit the Boca do Inferno for a breathtaking view of the cliffs and natural archway formations.
Get a break from city life and take the train or drive to Cascais, where you can shop, relax, surf, or lounge at the beaches. Make your day trip to Cascais unforgettable!
Costa da Caparica | Soak up the Sun on the Scenic Sands
Escape the city life of Lisbon and head to the scenic shores of Costa da Caparica, a summer haven that’s just a short drive across the Ponte de Abril bridge on the Tagus River. The iconic Costa da Caparica beach, known for its wide sandy stretches, just a stone’s throw from Lisbon (20km).
While the town itself may not be a visual feast, the promenade, well-manicured beaches and plethora of restaurants and beach bars make it the perfect day trip destination.
This gem of a destination is located on the northern fringes of the Sétubal district, offering you the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun on some of the finest beaches close to the capital.
Whether you’re looking for a popular beach scene or a secluded sunbathing spot, Costa da Caparica has something for everyone.
The town’s more popular beaches are closest to the center, while a narrow-gauge railway will take you to the more secluded coves along the coast.
Here, you can bask in the glory of endless stretches of sandy dunes, as you soak up the sun and revel in the thrill of challenging surf.
For a more serene beach experience, take a short drive to Fonte da Telha, located just outside of Costa da Caparica. With its stunning scenery and fewer crowds, it’s a must-visit if you have a rental car at your disposal.
Tróia | Escape to the Tropical Paradise
Journey to Tróia and bask in the glory of its stunning natural beauty. With a leap over the Tagus River and a skip over the Sado River, you’ll be transported to some of the most pristine beaches in the Lower Alentejo.
The two-hour journey is a small price to pay for miles of golden sands and tranquil waters along the Atlantic Coast.
Gaze upon the stunning Parque Natural da Arrábida as you soak up the sun, and join a dolphin-watching tour to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Discover the blissful serenity of Tróia and make unforgettable memories.
Sintra | Be Enchanted by the Magic
A mere 40-minute train ride from Lisbon takes you to the enchanting town of Sintra, surrounded by the Serra de Sintra hills.
Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with stunning palaces, winding roads and charming streets. Step into a fairytale world in Sintra, once a favored destination of Portuguese royalty.
The town boasts a mix of Gothic, Moorish and Renaissance architecture, including the extravagant Palácio Nacional de Sintra, a former royal residence.
Explore the medieval Castle of the Moor and immerse yourself in the lush vegetation and dreamy lakes of the town’s many exotic gardens.
Take a stroll through Sintra’s hilltop town center, a labyrinth of pedestrian lanes lined with pastel-colored homes and charming cafes, and feel as though you’ve been transported into a storybook.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this real-life fantasy land.
Sintra is easily accessible by train from Rossio Station or by taking organized tours from Lisbon. Avoid weekends and aim to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Embark on a mystical adventure in Sintra, where mysterious forests and rolling hills lead to the Atlantic Ocean. Admire the vivid hues of palaces and villas in the UNESCO-listed town center and be captivated by their intricate architecture.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this real-life fantasy land. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Sintra.
Top 5 Must-See Sights in Sintra, Portugal
Quinta da Regaleira – Immerse yourself in luxury as you explore this estate’s hidden tunnels and grottoes.
Castelo dos Mouros – a historic medieval castle built by the Moors in the 8th century and restored in the 19th century. Surrounded by forest, it offers breathtaking views of the Sintra region.
Monserrate Palace – Admire the beauty of this tri-towered palace, a true architectural masterpiece.
Convent of the Capuchos – Take a step back in time as you stroll through this peaceful medieval convent, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
Palacio Nacional da Pena – located in the heart of the city, this royal palace boasts a rich history and is home to the UNESCO-listed Pena Palace, a whimsical castle with unique romantic charm.
Obidos | Immerse Yourself in the Quintessential Portuguese Village Life
Explore the charming, whitewashed town of Obidos for an unforgettable day trip from Lisbon. Admire the town’s unique 8th-century castle gates, a popular tourist attraction in Portugal, as you stroll down the narrow, cobblestone streets.
Indulge in traditional Portuguese handcraft items, ceramics, and the famous ginjinha liqueur while browsing the local shops.
Don’t miss the picturesque 12th-century Santa Maria Church and the Museum of Obidos, located on the main street (Rua Direita). The museum boasts a diverse history display and tranquil gardens, making it a must-visit for culture seekers.
As a UNESCO City of Literature, book lovers will be thrilled with the collection of over half a million books, in a town with a population of only 3,100 people.
For a hassle-free experience, consider taking a guided bus or minivan tour, with excellent public transport options also available.
Évora | Ancient Beauty
Évora combines history, culture, and beauty all in one destination. The perfect day trip from Lisbon, nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region.
Évora is a charming and ancient city that boasts a wealth of historical and architectural marvels. Just under an hour and a half drive from Lisbon, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to stunning landmarks and monuments, from medieval walls to the whitewashed old town streets.
The Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, is a must-see destination for someone who simply appreciates the beauty and grandeur of ancient architecture. This impressive temple is a testament to the city’s rich and storied past.
Believed to have been built in the 1st century AD, the Roman Temple of Évora has survived the test of time and stands today as a magnificent example of Roman engineering and design.
Then visit Praça do Giraldo in Évora, a historic and vibrant square that is the beating heart of the city. Just a short walk away is the Bone Chapel, an eerie and unique church that is entirely covered in human skulls and bones. It’s one of the most fascinating attractions in all of Portugal.
Then you won’t want to miss the Igreja de São Francisco church. With its stunning architecture and breathtaking rooftop views, the church is a sight to behold and a must-visit destination for any traveler to Évora.
From the top of the church, you can gaze out over the city’s tiled roofs and take in the panoramic vista that surrounds you.
And if you’re a wine lover, explore the many fantastic wineries that dot the area. Whether you’re looking to sample some of the region’s finest vintages or simply soak up the beauty of the surrounding countryside, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Évora is a city that truly has it all – from fascinating historical sites to stunning architecture and delicious food and wine. So why not join us on a journey to discover the many wonders of this picturesque city on our Évora day trip from Lisbon?
Conclusion
Portugal has a wealth of hidden gems just waiting to be explored beyond Lisbon’s city limits. By embarking a guided day trip from the city you’ll experience my favorite day trip destinations.
Portugal’s treasures are just a short distance away from Lisbon’s city center. Explore the country’s magical castles, breathtaking beaches, and charming towns.
I hope this detailed guide has given you some fantastic ideas for your next visit to Portugal. With some of the best places to visit, there’s something for every type of traveler to uncover.
Book one of the many top day trips from Lisbon today. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most captivating countries.
TRAVEL PRINTS
Want to remember the best places to visit in Portugal? Don’t forget to pin this article for later!
Pinning is the perfect way to make sure you have all the information you need to plan your dream trip to the best Portuguese destinations.
