Top 5 Unforgettable Day Trips from Lisbon Portugal

mcoelho813
2 days ago
5 min read

Lisbon offers a rich blend of history, cuisine, culture, and energetic city life, but the surrounding region holds some of Portugal’s most memorable destinations. If you want to escape the city for a day, there are plenty of places to visit within the country’s diverse landscapes, charming towns, and historic sites. These day trips from Lisbon, Portugal, provide a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and discovery without the hassle of long travel times.

Eye-level view of the colorful Pena Palace perched on a hill in Sintra — Palácio da Pena em Sintra, vista da colina

Sintra – A Fairy Tale Town with Palaces and Gardens

Sintra is a must-visit destination just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its romantic 19th-century palaces, lush gardens, and mystical forests. The highlight is the Palácio da Pena, a vibrant palace that resembles a storybook setting with detailed tilework. You can also explore the Moorish Castle, which offers panoramic views of the region, and the Quinta da Regaleira, known for its mystifying gardens and underground tunnels. The town is a favorite among all visitors, but it can become busy during peak tourist seasons. Skip the interior of the Palace and walk the perimeter.

Tips for visiting Sintra:

Start early to avoid crowds, especially in summer.
Wear comfortable shoes; the town has many hills and cobblestone streets.
Try the local travesseiros, a puff pastry filled with almond cream.

Sintra’s mix of natural beauty and architectural wonders makes it an unforgettable day trip from Lisbon, Portugal. You can easily drive to Sintra. This area will give you your first glimpse at the mystery of the Knights of the Templars. Sintra is one of the wealthiest municipalities in Portugal, as well as the most urbanized and densely populated municipality in Portugal. This area is hectic with tourists, buses, and locals. Your pictures will be priceless/

Cascais – Coastal Charm and Relaxed Vibes

Approximately 30 KM outside of Lisbon, Cascais is a charming beach town perfect for a quiet day. Known for its soft beaches, active marina, and energetic downtown. Stroll along the Boca do Inferno cliffs, where waves crash sternly against the rocks, or visit the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães to see art and historical artifacts. Museums like the Paula Rego House of Stories, Cascais Cultural Center, and Boca do Inferno provide a mix of art, history, and natural wonders. Cascais is an important tourist area. The marina hosts major events such as the America's Cup. Why Cascais? Cascais has an average of 265 days without rain/per year, with mild temperatures. My favorite beach in Portugal is Cascais, especially during the summer.

What to do in Cascais:

Relax on Praia da Rainha or Praia do Tamariz.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic coastal paths.
Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Cascais combines natural beauty with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite day trip from Lisbon, Portugal. However long you stay is not long enough.

Óbidos – A Medieval Town Frozen in Time

Óbidos is a small fortified town about an hour north of Lisbon. It feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and ancient castle walls surrounded by white walls and cobblestone paths. The town is famous for its castle, which now operates as a charming pousada (historic hotel), and its lively festivals, including the annual medieval market and Chocolate Festival. Obidos is one of my favorite places in Portugal.

An interesting fact about Obidos- The Church of Santa Maria in Óbidos was the setting for the wedding of King Afonso V to his cousin, Princess Isabella of Coimbra, on 15 August 1441, when they were both still children aged 9 and 10, respectively. There are more unbelievable facts about this quaint town, such as it was gifted to Queen Urraca and has been informally considered 'The Village of Queens'. Regional Heritage: Óbidos is an important stop on "Templar heritage" tours, which focus on the region's Templar history, including Tomar, the Order's main base.

Highlights of Óbidos:

Walk along the castle walls for stunning views of the town and countryside.
Sample the local cherry liquor called Ginjinha served in an edible chocolate cup.
Explore artisan shops selling pottery, textiles, and handmade crafts. This is my favorite place to purchase gifts to bring home.

Óbidos offers a unique glimpse into Portugal’s past and is a worthwhile day trip from Lisbon, Portugal.

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Évora – History and Roman Ruins in the Alentejo

Évora, about 1.5 hours from Lisbon, is a city rich in history and culture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Roman temple, medieval cathedral, and the eerie Chapel of Bones, decorated with human skulls and bones. The city’s whitewashed streets and lively squares invite visitors to explore at a relaxed pace.

What to see in Évora:

The Roman Temple of Évora, also called the Temple of Diana.
The Gothic Évora Cathedral with its rooftop views.
The University of Évora is one of the oldest in Portugal.

Évora’s blend of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences makes it a fascinating day trip from Lisbon, Portugal.

Setúbal and Arrábida – Nature by the Sea

For those who love nature and fresh seafood, Setúbal and the nearby Arrábida Natural Park offer a perfect escape. Setúbal is a fishing town known for its lively fish market and excellent restaurants. Just outside town, the Arrábida hills rise steeply from the sea, with crystal-clear waters and hidden beaches. The cliffs are steep and dangerous.

The weather is warm from April until October. If you are looking for an authentic Portuguese city without the crowds of tourist hotspots like Sintra, Setúbal is a good choice. Setúbal is located at the mouth of the Sado River, where the river flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The Portuguese coast is designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices, reconciling the protection of natural heritage with the balanced development of the territory. Think Green. Think Nature. Think Pure.

Activities to enjoy:

Take a boat tour to see dolphins in the Sado Estuary.
Hike in Arrábida Natural Park with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Taste fresh grilled fish and shellfish at local restaurants.

This combination of natural beauty and culinary delights makes Setúbal and Arrábida a memorable day trip from Lisbon, Portugal.

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The casino gardens lead to the beach of Tamariz, one of the most popular spots on the Lisbon coast. Adjacent is the Palácio Estoril, which was where many of the spies and exiled monarchs stayed during WW11. It appeared in one of James Bond’s first films (“On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”) and served as a backdrop for the best-selling novel “A Small Death in Lisbon” by Robert Wilson. A strict dress code is enforced.