21 BEST Day Trips From Lisbon & How To Get There
Want to know the BEST day trips to take from Lisbon? Keep reading to discover our 21 favourite places to visit!
Lisbon is one of our favourite cities in Europe and it’s clear to see why it’s amongst the top city breaks. With beautiful architecture, incredible food, a vibrant atmosphere, and a central location, it’s the perfect choice for a week away. Whilst there’s plenty to keep you busy in the city itself, taking one or two day trips from Lisbon allows you to explore more of Portugal and discover this amazing country.
Lisbon is located approximately halfway down the west coast of Portugal, making it an ideal place to base yourself for your trip to Portugal. The city has good transport links, making day trips very straightforward.
In a hurry and don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s the BEST day trip from Lisbon we would recommend to everyone!
Sintra – Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira – Explore Portugal’s fairytale castles on this full-day trip from Lisbon. With brightly coloured walls and incredible views, you’ll feel as though you’re in a Disney movie!
➡️ Book Your Trip HERE ⬅️
21 Best Day Trips From Lisbon
After spending a long period in Lisbon, and over a month exploring Portugal, we’ve narrowed down the 21 best day trips you can take from Lisbon with everything you need to know to make your day a special one.
Historical Sites Near Lisbon
1. Tomar
Tomar is a hidden gem in the heart of the Portuguese countryside, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and serene landscapes that are sure to capture your heart.
Tomar is home to the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as the headquarters of the Knights Templar. This monumental complex, with its ornate Manueline architecture, tells tales of knights, conquests, and the Age of Discoveries.
Stroll through the charming streets, lined with traditional Portuguese houses, and you’ll feel the vibrant spirit of the town. The serene Nabão River adds to the picturesque setting, offering peaceful spots to stop for a picnic.
How To Get To Tomar
On A Tour – A tour can be an amazing way of exploring Tomar. The journey is slightly shorter, around 1hr 30, meaning you can really make the most of your day. Having a guide can be invaluable in order to help you understand more about the area and the history of the castle. We’d highly recommend booking onto this tour.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – There are regular trains running from Lisbon Oriente train station to Carvalhos de Figueiredo. The journey takes around 2 hours and will set you back between £8-16 each way.
➡️ Book Your Train Ticket In Advance HERE ⬅️
2. Mafra
Nestled just north of Lisbon, Mafra lies within the rustic “Saloia” region traditionally known for supplying the capital with fresh garden produce. The town of Mafra is easily accessible from Lisbon, making it an amazing day trip. The town is celebrated for its monumental Palace-Convent that you HAVE to see.
This grand structure, the largest edifice in Portugal, was commissioned in the 18th century by King Dom João V. This architectural marvel, incorporates a basilica, a palace with 666 rooms, and a convent large enough for 300 friars. It really is an impressive place to see.
Adjacent to the Convent lies the Mafra Preserve. Originally a game reserve to complement the majestic complex, it is now open for you to visit. This beautiful forest reserve is absolutely worth visiting on your next trip to Lisbon.
How To Get To Mafra
On A Tour – Booking a tour to Mafra not only allows you time to explore the stunning palace, but you can also maximise your time and visit the nearby coastal town of Ericeira. This tour is a great option to learn more about the history of the place and get the most out of your day.. This option is super straightforward and we guarantee you’ll have an amazing day.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – A train from Lisbon to Mafra takes just 30-40 minutes, costing around £5 each way. This is a super budget-friendly way to explore the town.
➡️ Book Your Train Ticket In Advance HERE ⬅️
Private Transfer – If you’d like to explore Mafra by yourself without a guide, but just can’t face public transport, it’s possible to book a private transfer in a comfortable, air-conditioned car. This is a super convenient way to visit Mafra.
➡️ Book Your Transfer In Advance HERE ⬅️
3. Alcobaça Monastery
The Alcobaça Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a significant historical and architectural marvel in Portugal, dating back to the 12th century. This is one of the most beautiful places you can visit from Lisbon.
One of the most poignant features of the monastery is the tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro, whose tragic love story is a significant part of Portuguese history. Their tombs, facing each other, symbolize their eternal love and are a highlight for visitors.
The Alcobaça Monastery also offers insights into the monastic life through its various medieval buildings, including the Refectory, Dormitory, Chapter Hall, and the impressive Kitchen. These spaces provide a glimpse into the daily routines and practices of the monks who lived there.
How To Get To Alcobaça Monastery
On A Tour – The best way to visit Alcobaça Monastery on a day trip from Lisbon is by heading on a guided tour. This tour to Alcobaça will allow a comfortable transfer, stopping at two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites from this list too: Tomar and Batalha Monastery. This one sells out early, so be sure to book your tickets now!
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – There are no trains available from Lisbon to Alcobaça, though it is possible to catch a bus. Tickets cost around £13 each way for the 1hr 45min journey.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
4. Batalha Monastery
The Batalha Monastery is one of the best day trips from Lisbon, located on the Iberian Peninsula and known for its rich history and stunning architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site not only showcases the intricate beauty of medieval architecture but also offers a tranquil escape into a world where history meets artistry.
Batalha’s construction, spanning almost two centuries, has resulted in a stunning building that draws visitors from around the globe. With beautiful stained glass windows, and magestic architecture, this is a must-visit when you’re in Lisbon.
How To Get To Batalha Monastery
On A Tour – Batalha Monastery is best visited on a day tour from Lisbon. This is the most convenient option, and will combine your visit with three other amazing sites that are also on this list!
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – There are no direct trains to Batalha, though there is a bus that you can take. This will cost you £13 each way, and the journey takes 2 hours.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
Cute Towns & Villages To Visit From Lisbon
5. Évora
Évora is located in the beautiful Portuguese countryside, and is a fascinating city to explore. We spent several days in Évora, though if you’re short on time, a day trip from Lisbon is a great option. Évora Offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
The old town of Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with more than two millenia of history visible throughout the city. With a well-preserved Roman temple, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, and one of the most unique places in the whole of Portugal: The Chapel of Bones.
Yep, you read that right. Évora is home to a chapel where the walls are covered in human bones. Whilst it might seem a little gruesome, you have to visit. The history of how the skeletons ended up there is a little bit vague, however it’s suggested they were dug up by monks when the land they were buried in was needed for expansion of the city. The skeletons were put on display in order to remind people about the transience of material things. Regardless of the ‘why’, it’s well worth a visit.
How To Get To Évora
On A Tour – This day trip from Lisbon allows you plenty of time to explore Évora and everything the city has to offer with your very own guide showing you around.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE before it sells out! ⬅️
By Public Transport – The easiest way to reach Évora by public transport is by train. The trip costs £12 per person each way, and takes around 1hr30 to 2hrs.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
6. Coimbra
One of the most historical cities in Portugal, Coimbra makes a fantastic day trip from Lisbon. Home to Europe’s oldest university, Coimbra is the perfect blend of old and new, with the historical streets exuding youthful energy.
Like many places in Portugal, the town is built over a hill, with a river flowing through the centre, separating it into two halves. Make sure you explore both the stunning university, including the Joanine library, and the downtown area, filled with eclectic shops to buy the perfect souvenir.
The thing about Coimbra is it feels a lot like a mini-Lisbon without the crowds and with more of a local vibe. You won’t find too many tourists here, leaving you with a really authentic experience.
How To Get To Coimbra
On A Tour – Combine a trip to Coimbra with a visit to Aveiro on this amazing day trip from Lisbon. Your time is split evenly between the two cities, leaving you plenty of time to explore.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – The train from Lisbon to Coimbra takes between 1hr 30 and 2hrs, costing around £22 per person each way. This is a convenient way to spend a day in Coimbra.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
7. Óbidos
Óbidos is probably our favourite place in the whole of Portugal, and luckily it’s very easy to visit on a day trip from Lisbon! Located just an hour north of the city, this hidden gem in the Portuguese countryside is bound to charm you with its beauty. In fact, the entire town was gifted to the Portuguese Queen in the 13th Century, highlighting how beautiful this little town really is.
Óbidos is characterised by its iconic white buildings, with yellow and blue accents, in the centre of a medieval castle. With cobblestone streets winding their way through the town in a maze-like fashion, it’s easy to spend a few hours exploring.
We’d highly recommend walking the 1.5km castle walls around the perimeter of the town, though be aware the drop can be large and the path uneven in places! This is the best place to get incredible views of both the town and the surrounding countryside. The views are stunning.
How To Get To Óbidos
On A Tour –Visiting Óbidos on a tour from Lisbon is a great way to squeeze in a visit if you’re short on time. Most tours will combine visiting Óbidos with other towns in the region, including Fátima and Nazaré, leaving you around 30 minutes to an hour to explore the castle town. This is great if you want to fit in as much as possible!
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – If you’d rather spend the entire day in Óbidos, and experience it without the tour groups, then we’d definitely recommend public transport. Buses run from Lisbon to Óbidos frequently throughout the day, with the journey taking just over an hour and costing around £10.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
8. Monsaraz
Located relatively close to Évora, Monsaraz is one of the oldest towns in Portugal, with ancient castle walls and quaint cobblestone streets. Perched on top of a hill, with 360-degree views, Monsaraz is the perfect place to watch the sunrise or sunset.
Its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed houses, perfect for a leisurely stroll to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. As you wander, you’ll come across local artisans selling handmade goods, from pottery to woven baskets, perfect for taking a piece of Monsaraz home with you.
The castle, standing tall at the village’s highest point, is a must-visit. Climbing up the ancient walls, you’re treated to panoramic views that are simply unforgettable.
Despite its small size, Monsaraz is rich in history and culture, hosting events and fairs that bring its medieval past to life. It’s a place that feels removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life, offering a tranquil retreat where you can truly unwind and connect with Portugal’s natural beauty.
How To Get To Monsaraz
On A Tour – A tour can be an incredibly convenient way of seeing the stunning Alentejo region, stopping off at both Monsaraz and Évora within one day. This tour to Monsaraz will combine exploring the towns at a leisurely pace, with sipping on local wines and relaxing.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – You can reach Monsaraz by booking a train from Lisbon. The journey takes around 2hr 30 minutes and will set you back around £5 per person each way.
➡️ Book Your Train Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
Best Castles & Palaces To Visit From Lisbon
9. Sintra
The palaces of Sintra are absolutely one of the best day trips you can take from Lisbon. Located relatively close to the city centre, you can’t beat a trip to Sintra.
Visiting Sintra, Portugal, is like stepping into a fairytale where time stands still amidst ancient castles, lush forests, and mystic hills. Nestled within the Sintra Mountains, this picturesque town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its 19th-century Romantic architectural monuments and enchanting natural landscapes.
The crown jewel of Sintra is the Pena Palace, perched atop a hill, painted in vivid colors. With incredible views from the terrace and humongous gardens to explore you could easily spend your entire day trip from Lisbon at the Pena Palace.
Don’t Want To Waste Time Buying Transport And Entrance Tickets? Click HERE!
Purchase the Lisbon card in advance HERE and get discounted access to the Sintra palaces, free transport to get there, and numerous other incredible attractions in Lisbon. It’s well worth the money.
Equally worth visiting is Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical estate filled with hidden tunnels, enchanting grottoes, and an iconic initiation well. We’d highly recommend splitting your time between these two palaces, however there are so many others to explore too!
How To Get To Sintra
On A Tour – In order to maximise your time in Sintra, we’d highly recommend booking onto a tour. It would be so easy to spend all day getting lost in one fairytale castle, but if you want to see more than one, this is the best way to do it. This tour includes all your ticket fees and allows you plenty of time to explore Sintra, the Pena Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira, as well as stopping at the coast on the way back.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE before it sells out! ⬅️
By Public Transport – There are regular trains running from Lisbon’s Rossio train station to Sintra every day. Tickets cannot be pre-purchased, however there’s normally plenty of seats. If you pre-purchase a Lisbon card, the journey is free. The journey takes around 40 minutes and costs just over £2 per person each way. We’d highly recommend getting to the station early to buy your tickets, and getting to Sintra just before it opens to avoid lengthy queues.
The roads to Sintra are narrow and winding and were not made to withstand the large amount of tourist traffic they now receive. For this reason, we would not recommend driving to Sintra.
10. Queluz
Despite often being overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Sintra, Queluz makes a fantastic day trip from Lisbon. The magnificent Queluz Palace holds an enchanting allure that you just have to experience.
The palace is an absolute spectacle, with ornate facades, intricate details, and sprawling, beautifully manicured gardens. Inside, you can wander through lavishly decorated rooms. The Throne Room, the Music Room, and the Ambassadors’ Room are highlights, showcasing luxurious decor and detail.
Want To Skip The Queue? Purchase Your Ticket For Queluz HERE
Don’t waste your precious time queuing to get into Queluz palace, purchase your ticket and audio guide in advance through by clicking HERE!
Don’t miss out on exploring the peaceful gardens, with a symmetrical layout and relaxing water features that offer a serene backdrop to the palace.
Beyond the palace, Queluz’s streets are lined with small shops and quaint cafes. If you’re a lover of small towns and opulent architecture, Queluz is the perfect day trip for you.
How To Get To Queluz
On A Tour – If you want to combine a visit to Queluz with a trip to Mafra Palace-Convent, this day trip is perfect for you. With plenty of time to explore both places, this is a great option if you’re short on time and want the convenience of transfers and knowledgeable guides.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – The train ride from Lisbon to Queluz takes just 20 minutes, with a further 15-minute walk to Queluz Palace. Trains depart from Rossio station regularly on the same route as the Lisbon-Sintra train.
Best Coastal Towns Near Lisbon
11. Cascais
Cascais, a picturesque coastal town in Portugal, is located just outside of the capital, making it one of the best day trips from Lisbon. Nestled on the western edge of the scenic Lisbon coastline, this charming town offers a unique mix of sandy beaches, seafront villas, and a bustling marina.
The town’s historical centre is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with traditional Portuguese houses adorned with beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles). Winding alleys lead to quaint plazas and family-run restaurants offering local delicacies.
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Cascais is also an incredible spot for surfing, renowned for its amazing breaks year-round. If surfing isn’t for you, you can head to the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. It’s easy to see why Cascais is one of the best day trips from Lisbon.
How To Get To Cascais
On A Tour – The best way to explore Cascais is by heading on this tour, which will combine your visit with a stop at the magical palaces of Sintra and Cabo da Roca, whilst still leaving you plenty of time to explore the beaches and town of Cascais.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport – The train from Lisbon to Cascais takes just 40 minutes and is free with the Lisbon card. You cannot pre-purchase tickets or reserve seats, however, there are normally plenty of seats available.
12. Estoril
Estoril is one of the most expensive places to live in the whole of Portugal, with a unique blend of leisurely grace and historical significance. Renowned for its warm climate, stunning beaches, and the grandeur of its past, Estoril is one of the best day trips from Portugal for sun-seekers and beach lovers.
During World War II, Estoril served as a haven for exiled royalty and a hotbed for spies, giving it a mysterious allure that still resonates today.
At the heart of Estoril is its Casino, the largest in Europe, around which the town’s modern history has revolved. The Casino Estoril not only offers gaming facilities but has also been a cultural cornerstone, hosting a variety of shows and events attracting a worldwide audience. The lush gardens surrounding the casino are also beautiful.
The coastline of Estoril is a dramatic mix of rocky cliffs and sandy beaches, with Tamariz Beach being a must-visit. The beachfront is lined with a promenade that connects Estoril to Cascais, offering a beautiful walk with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
How To Get To Estoril
By Public Transport – As Estoril is so close to Lisbon, there aren’t really any tours that run here. We’d highly recommend purchasing the Lisbon card and hopping on a 35-minute train to enjoy your day in the sunshine.
➡️ Purchase The Lisbon Card HERE ⬅️
13. Ericeira
A beautiful fishing town, Ericeira lies just 50 kilometers north of Lisbon. One of the reasons why Ericeira makes a great day trip from Lisbon is due to its surfing culture. With a dramatic coastline combined with the powerful Atlantic Ocean, Ericeira is a great location to catch some huge waves.
If you don’t know how to surf there are plenty of surf schools where you can take classes. However, if surfing isn’t your thing then fear not, Ericeira still has a lot to offer. Walk along the Largos das Ribas where you will get to enjoy stunning cliff-top views overlooking the fishing harbour and pristine Praia dos Pescadores beach.
If you would rather relax while visiting, there are a wide range of cafes and restaurants to sit and enjoy a delicious meal and drink. Or you can head down to one of the beaches to catch a tan and watch the surfers riding the waves. We recommend visiting the beautiful Praia do Sul beach.
How To Get To Ericeira
On A Tour – If you want to remove the hassle of trying to arrange your own journey to Ericeira, then you might be interested in this day trip from Lisbon to Ericeira and Mafra. On this small-group tour, you will get to enjoy the highlights of both of these beautiful locations, as well as have a private tour of the National Palace and Monastery of Mafra.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport– There is a regular bus that connects Lisbon and Ericeira, that departs from Campo Grande bus station. A single ticket will cost €4.50 and the journey will take around 1 hour 20 minutes. You cannot purchase tickets in advance and you will need to bring cash.
14. Sesimbra
Sesimbra makes one of the best day trips for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Lisbon and replace it with a relaxing blend of pristine beaches and fascinating history. If you want to be a bit more adventurous, then Sesimbra is also a great base to get your adrenaline pumping with a variety of water activities.
Sesimbra offers a great mix of a charming fishing village, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural history. For those who want to delve into this beautiful city’s history then you won’t want to miss Fortaleza de Santiago, as well as the Castelo de Sesimbra, both of which not only offer a great insight into the area’s history, but also have incredible views.
As a seaside location, Sesimbra has an amazing selection of seafood restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of freshly caught fish and shellfish. And of course, no visit to Sesimbra would be complete without spending time relaxing on the beautiful Sesimbra Beach.
How To Get To Sesimbra
On A Tour – The only way a day trip from Lisbon to Sesimbra gets better is by combining it with also visiting Setúbal and Arrabida. Plus, does it get any better than incuding a delicious family-owned wine tasting? When you are in Sesimbra you will get to admire the colourful harbour, as well as explore the medieval fortress and fish market.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport– Bus travel is the only way to get to Sesimbra from Lisbon. There is a regular and direct bus that leaves from Sete Rios bus station, on route 3721. This journey will take around 1 hour 10 minutes to travel the 40-kilometer journey, and a single bus ticket costs €4.50. You cannot purchase tickets in advance and you will need to bring cash.
15. Nazaré
Nazaré is a coastal gem located around 1 hour 30 minutes north of Lisbon. This seaside town is famous for having the largest waves in Europe, and some of the biggest in the whole world, making it a surfer’s paradise. To catch the best waves, we would recommend visiting between November and March.
Nazaré is still home to some picturesque sandy beaches that are perfect to relax on whilst watching the waves crash on the shore.
Beyond its natural wonders, Nazaré boasts a fascinating history and vibrant cultural scene. Wander through the charming streets of the old town, where traditional fishermen’s cottages stand in colourful rows, and visit the Nazaré Museum to discover the town’s maritime history.
You can also spend the day walking along the stunning clifftops while stopping at multiple viewpoints along the way to admire the endless Atlantic Ocean.
There is also a beautiful lighthouse which you can pay €1 to enter. With such a variety of things to do and places to explore, Nazaré is definitely one of the top day trips from Lisbon.
How To Get To Nazaré
On A Tour – This day trip from Lisbon tour will not only take you to Nazaré, but you will also explore the beautiful nearby locations of Óbidos and Fátima, whilst being shown around by a highly knowledgeable tour guide.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- If you don’t have a car, the next easiest way to visit Nazaré on your own would be by Rede Expressos bus. This journey will take around 1 hour and 45 minutes, and cost between £9 and £11.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
16. Peniche
Peniche is a beautiful seaside fishing area, which makes for one of the best trips you can take from Lisbon. Peniche town is a charming town where you can spend the day exploring the stunning coastline, as well as trying some delicious freshly-caught seafood.
Peniche is definitely a lesser-known location, with most tourists quickly passing through to go on a boat ride to the beautiful Berlengas Islands. However, if you take the time to explore this picturesque fishing town you will not be disappointed.
One of the primary draws of Peniche is its breathtaking coastline, which boasts some of the country’s best surfing spots and pristine sandy beaches. Whether you’re an experienced surfer catching waves at Supertubos or seeking a peaceful seaside retreat at Baleal Beach, Peniche’s coastal charm never fails to impress.
Peniche also has great historical significance, with landmarks such as the 16th-century Fort of Peniche bearing witness to centuries of maritime heritage and strategic importance. Visitors can explore the fort’s fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
How To Get To Peniche
On A Tour – Most day trips from Lisbon to Peniche will also allow you to visit the beautiful Berlengas Islands. This tour will allow you to properly explore Peniche, allowing you to visit all the main sites such as Fortaleza de Peniche and Baleal Beach.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- Peniche is fairly easy to get to from Lisbon via public transport. There are multiple buses that run each day to this stunning seaside location. The journey should last around 90 minutes and cost £8 per person.
➡️ Book Your Bus Tickets In Advance HERE ⬅️
Escape To Nature From Lisbon
17. Arrábida Natural Park
Arrábida Natural Park is the best day trip from Lisbon for outdoor lovers, as this is a great place to relax on pristine beaches or hike along the rugged coastal paths. Situated between the beautiful locations of Setúbal and Sesimbra, Arrábida Natural Park is a stunning area that definitely needs to be explored.
Serra da Arrábida is one of the main attractions of the National Park, as it offers towering cliffs, up to 380m high, as well as amazing white sand beaches. Make sure to relax at Portinho da Arrábida and Praia Galapos, where you can also go snorkelling and scuba diving in crystal blue waters.
If relaxing on the beach isn’t for you, then you can also rent a kayak and explore the stunning coastline by sea. The sheer size of the cliffs will dwarf you as you paddle through the beautiful waters.
How To Get To Arrábida Natural Park
On A Tour – This day trip from Lisbon will allow you to explore the stunning natural beauty of Arrábida Natural Park, as well as the stunning nearby town of Sesimbra (another one of the best trips from Lisbon locations). On this tour, you will be able to have time to relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in the area or book a dolphin-watching cruise.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- There are no direct public transport links to Arrábida Natural Park. The best way to get there is to get a bus to the nearby town of Santana or Sesimbra, then get a taxi or walk from here, depending on where you want to visit.
18. Cabo da Roca
Visit the westernmost point of mainland Europe on this amazing day trip from Lisbon. The dramatic towering cliffs that rise over the Atlantic Ocean offer incredible views as far as the eye can see. With just a short 40-kilometer drive west of the capital, Cabo da Roca is definitely worth the journey.
Cabo da Roca has a rich history and culture. Once believed to be the edge of the world by ancient mariners, the cape is full of myths and legends. Visitors can explore the iconic lighthouse, whose beacon has illuminated these treacherous waters for centuries.
When visiting Cabo da Roca you can also enjoy a more relaxing experience by bringing a picnic and lying among wildflowers or embarking on a leisurely hike along coastal trails. Make sure to stay till the end of the day when you will be rewarded with one of the best sunsets in the whole of Europe.
How To Get To Cabo da Roca
On A Tour – This tour of Cabo da Roca is one of the most popular tours from Lisbon. On this tour, you will be able to explore some of the best day trip locations from Lisbon, including Sintra and Cascais. You will be free to admire this stunning landscape and take as many photos as you want.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- There is no direct public transport to Cabo da Roca from Lisbon, however, you can get a bus or train to either Sintra or Cascais. From here you can catch bus 403 to Cabo da Roca.
➡️ Book Your Transport In Advance HERE ⬅️
19. Berlengas Islands
The Berlengas Islands are a quick boat ride from the beautiful town of Peniche. This UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit day trip from Lisbon if you are after some incredible nature.
Its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life create a stunning backdrop for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to snorkel through vibrant coral reefs or hike along scenic trails, every corner of Berlengas has an unforgettable experience just waiting for you to discover.
The main island of Berlenga Grande is the only island that is publically accessible, however, you will be amazed how much you can do on this island. Make sure to visit the Fort of São João Baptista, as well as bring your swimming costume to explore the amazing beaches and swim spots.
Finally, if you are into bird watching you will be treated to a wide variety of sea birds, including puffins. So whether you want to immerse yourself in its beautiful nature, or enjoy a nice and relaxing swim, the Berlengas Islands are definitely one of the best places to visit from Lisbon.
How To Get To Berlengas Islands
On A Tour – This small group day trip from Lisbon is the perfect way to explore the Berlengas Islands. This tour will pick you up from Lisbon and take you to Peniche where you will board a boat to the islands. Once on the island, you can explore the beautiful Biosphere Reserve and admire the Fort of São João Baptista. You will also get to discover some of Berlenga Grande’s caves on a glass-bottom boat excursion!
➡️ Book Your Tour In Before It Sells Out HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- Take a bus from Lisbon (Sete Rios bus terminal) to Peniche, which should last around 1 hour 15 minutes and can cost as little as £7. From here you will want to take a boat to the islands, this can take between 20 and 45 minutes depending on the weather conditions and the type of boat. This journey will cost around £15-£25, we advise booking this in advance.
➡️ Book Your Boat In Advance HERE ⬅️
Best Wine & Gastronomy Locations Close To Lisbon
20. Azeitão
If you are after the best day trip from Lisbon to indulge in some exquisite wine and delicious cheese, then look no further than Azeitão. Just 30 kilometers south of Lisbon, this beautiful region is located in the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park.
Azeitão is home to some charming villages where you can explore and discover where some of the best cheese is made. The Azeitão cheese is a creamy sheep cheese that is a must-try for any food lover.
However, it is not just cheese that will attract you to this place, there is also a rich tradition for wine-making. There are a wide variety of vineyards where you can spend the day sampling a wide selection of wines.
How To Get To Azeitão
On A Tour – With not one, but three of the locations of the best day trips from Lisbon this tour encompasses all of the highlights of the Setúbal Peninsula. With a full-day exploring Arrábida, Setúbal and Azeitão you are bound to fall in love with this spectacular region. You will have your own private guide and be able to explore some of the most beautiful vineyards in the area while trying some delicious wine.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- The most direct way to get to Azeitão is via a bus from Sete Rios (route 4730), this journey will last just over 1 hour and cost just £3. You can also get a train to Setúbal, then take a bus from there.
➡️ Book Your Transport In Advance HERE ⬅️
21. Setúbal
Less than an hour south of Lisbon lies the picturesque coastal city of Setúbal. A perfect blend of historical charm and delicious food, Setúbal makes the perfect day trip from Lisbon.
Setúbal has so much to offer, including the magnificent Forte De São Filipe, which overlooks the whole city and is now a luxury hotel in which you can stay if you wish to extend your stay. Make sure to also visit the Igreja de Jesus, designed by Diogo de Boitaca, whose most famous work includes the Belém Tower.
Setúbal also makes a great starting point to enjoy the beautiful nature of Portugal. The Serra da Arrábida Natural Park is a short drive from Setúbal and is the perfect place to enjoy the remote sand bays with white sand and bright blue water.
If you are a food connoisseur then Setúbal is one of the best day trips for you. With a variety of delicious restaurants and cafés that line the harbour and city centre, you can sample some amazing Portuguese delicacies. You can also browse the vibrant fresh markets, as well as delve into the Portuguese wine industry with a private wine-tasting tour.
How To Get To Setúbal
On A Tour – Setúbal is one of the best day trips from Lisbon if you want to explore the beautiful Setúbal region while being driven around by your own private tour guide. Your guide will teach you about the fascinating history while letting you enjoy the freedom of not being restricted to a set itinerary and confined to a tour group.
➡️ Book Your Tour In Advance HERE ⬅️
By Public Transport- Setúbal is easily accessible by train or bus. With similar length journeys (less than 1 hour) and cost very similar too (£4), the choice is yours. You can depart Lisbon from Roma-Areeiro, Entrecampos, Sete Rios, or Campolide train station, and enjoy a scenic and direct train ride to Setúbal. Or you can catch a bus from either Sete-Rios bus station (route 4725) or Gare do Oriente (route 4720).
➡️ Book Your Transport In Advance HERE ⬅️
Map Of The Best Places To Visit From Lisbon
FAQs
Still got some questions about your next trip to Lisbon and all the incredible day trips you can do? We’ve rounded up some of our most frequently asked questions to help you on your trip!
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Lisbon?
Lisbon is an amazing destination all year round, with hot summers and mild winters. Our favourite time of year to visit is Spring, around April-June, when the Jacarandas are in full bloom. The city is stunning this time of year, there are fewer people there, and the weather couldn’t be more perfect.
Including A Day Trip, How Many Days Do I Need In Lisbon?
If you want to include a day trip in your Lisbon itinerary, we’d highly recommend allowing yourself 4-5 days. Lisbon is a relatively large city with so much to do, you could easily fill 4 days. We spent a long time in Lisbon and didn’t get bored once! However, if you’ve just got two days, we’d recommend one day in Lisbon itself, with one day for a day trip.
Do They Speak English In Lisbon?
Yes! Lisbon is a relatively touristy destination so most people you come across will speak English to some extent. We’d always recommend learning a few basic phrases in the local language, however, as the locals will really appreciate it.
Do I Need To Book Tickets For My Day Trip In Advance?
If there is a specific day trip you want to go on, we would recommend booking your tickets as far in advance as possible. The best day trips do fill up pretty quickly, especially in peak season, so it’s definitely best to book in advance.
Is Lisbon Expensive To Visit?
Lisbon is a relatively budget-friendly city to visit, with plenty of cheap accommodation options and places to eat. On the flip side, if you’re after luxury, Lisbon can cater to that as well!
Wrap Up: Best Day Trips From Lisbon
Lisbon is a beautiful city with so much to do, and it acts as the perfect base for exploring much of the rest of Portugal. Whether you’re a history lover, a beach bum, or just love to explore cute little towns, we guarantee there’s a day trip from Lisbon that you’ll love.
Still unsure where to visit? We’d highly recommend a day trip to the magical palaces of Sintra. They’re truly unique and make one of the best days out.
We hope you have the best time exploring Portugal!
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