Get ready to explore the most amazing day trips from Lisbon, the beautiful Portuguese capital. While the city itself has a lot to offer, like amazing restaurants in Lisbon with a view there are many beautiful places nearby that are worth visiting.

Learn about exciting day trip destinations like Sintra, Cascais, Coimbra, Setúbal, and my personal favorite the Obidos Portugal Castle. I’ll cover how to take day trips from Lisbon by public transport, what to see, guided tours, and where to eat. So, get ready for an adventure as we discover the best day trips from Lisbon!

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around Portugal. But, if that’s a little out of your budget, then the buses and trains are very affordable, and if not on strike, dependable!

Want more than just a day trip, here is a 7-day Lisbon to Porto itinerary!

Day Trips from Lisbon 

Pena Palace Or Sintra Castle from Lisbon day trips

Sintra day trip from Lisbon is where you will see a beautiful town with fairytale palaces and lush gardens, including Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle.

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon Day Trip 

• The best way to get to Sintra from Lisbon is by train. Trains depart regularly from Rossio Station (Lisbon) and take about 40 minutes to reach Sintra Station. The tickets are convenient and affordable. You can purchase at the station if you are feeling brave. Or via the CP – Comboios de Portugal app. Be sure to grab both ways for an easy trip to Sintra from Lisbon. 
  
• Another way to travel from Lisbon to Sintra is by driving. Sintra is only 30 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the IC19 highway. Keep in mind that parking in Sintra can be challenging due to limited spaces and narrow streets.

What to do on your visit to Sintra from Lisbon: 

1. Pena Palace: The beautiful, colorful, romantic palace perched atop a hill with stunning views and beautiful gardens. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. 
2. Quinta da Regaleira: An extravagant estate featuring unique architecture, mysterious tunnels, and lush gardens. You can buy tickets at the entrance or online.
3. Moorish Castle: A medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the Sintra region. Tickets are available online or at the entrance.
4. National Palace of Sintra: A historical palace located in the heart of Sintra, known for its distinctive twin chimneys. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site.

Best Sintra day tours from Lisbon: The easiest way to ensure you see everything is to take a Sintra tour from Lisbon.

• Lisbon tours range from group tours to private customized experiences. 
• Sintra day tour from Lisbon 
• Sintra tours from Lisbon half day

Where to eat: In Sintra, try Tascantiga Sintra. They have delicious food and an interactive menu where you tick off the dishes that you want – simple and effective.

Cascais – Beautiful Beach Town 

One of the best beach day trips from Lisbon is to Cascais. A charming coastal town that is famous for its sandy beaches, marina, and the Boca do Inferno sea cliff. 

Getting to Cascais:

• The most convenient and affordable way to reach Cascais from Lisbon is by train. Trains depart regularly from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon and take less than an hour to reach Cascais. Tickets can be purchased at the station or via the CP – Comboios de Portugal app.
  
• If you are driving, Cascais is about 30 km east of Lisbon and can be reached via the A5 highway or the scenic Marginal road along the Atlantic Ocean coast. The drive takes around 30-40 minutes. 

What to do on your day trip from Lisbon to Cascais:

1. Beaches: Enjoy the golden sand and clear waters at beaches such as Praia da Conceição, Praia do Tamariz, and Praia do Guincho.
2. Fishing Charter: All aboard for a fishing trip on the beautiful waters of Cascais with an expert fishing crew.
3. Boca do Inferno: A dramatic cliff formation where the waves crash into a natural arch, creating a spectacular sight.
4. Cascais Marina: Stroll around the marina, take a boat cruise, and enjoy a drink or meal at one of the waterfront cafes or restaurants.
5. Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães: A fascinating museum housed in a historic palace featuring a mix of art, furniture, and artifacts. Entrance tickets can be purchased on-site.
6. Parque Marechal Carmona: A lovely park with beautiful gardens, ponds, and a small aviary, perfect for relaxing or enjoying a picnic on your day trip from Lisbon. 

Day Trip Tours: Find all the best private tours to Cascais here!

Duration of stay: Give yourself a full day exploring Cascais and its nearby attractions. However, you can also choose to spend a half-day if you’re short on time or combine your visit with other nearby destinations like Sintra, Pena National Palace, or Estoril.

Where to eat: For a great dining experience in Cascais, try Restaurante Mar do Inferno. This popular seafood restaurant offers delicious, fresh dishes with stunning views overlooking Boca do Inferno.

FAQ About Day Trips From Lisbon

• Which area of Portugal is a popular day trip from Lisbon?
• What cities can I visit from Lisbon?
• Is Porto a good day trip from Lisbon?
• How many days is enough in Lisbon Portugal?

Évora – Unesco World Heritage Site Chapel of Bones 

A Lisbon to Evora day trip is an excellent way to discover this UNESCO World Heritage city, known for its local history, Roman ruins, medieval walls, the stunning Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), and the well-preserved architecture of the ancient city. Most people consider this to be one of the top train trips from Lisbon. 

Getting to Evora – 

• Trains: Évora is one of the best day trips from Lisbon by train. The trains depart from Lisbon’s Oriente or Entrecampos stations only a couple times a day. The trip takes 1.5 hours and tickets can be purchased at the station or through omio.com.
  
• Buses: Rede Expressos buses also operate between Lisbon’s Sete Rios station and Évora, with a similar journey time.
  
• Driving: Évora is about 130 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A6 highway and secondary roads. The drive takes around 1.5 hour west, making it the perfect day trip from Lisbon. 

What to do in Évora:

1. Roman Temple of Évora: Also known as the Temple of Diana, this well-preserved Roman temple dates back to the 1st century AD.
2. Sé Catedral de Évora: The Évora Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, with stunning views from the rooftop. Tickets can be purchased on-site.
3. Praça do Giraldo: The main square of Évora, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
4. Capela dos Ossos: A unique and somewhat eerie chapel decorated with human bones and skulls. Entrance tickets can be purchased at the Church of St. Francis.
5. Palácio dos Duques de Cadaval: An impressive palace and the adjacent Church of St. John the Evangelist, showcasing Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

Guided tour of Evora from Lisbon to book: Full-day tour of Evora & Megalights.

View all the tours of Evora: GetYourGuide.com

Where to eat: Taberna Típica Quarta-Feira is one of the best places to eat in Evora. This traditional Portuguese restaurant offers delicious regional dishes of seafood, desserts, & wine.

Óbidos – Medieval Castle Town 

A day trip from Lisbon to Óbidos is the best way to explore this small medieval town, known for its well-preserved architecture and picturesque cobbled streets. Read all about the beautiful Obidos Portugal Castle. It was one of my very favorite day trips from Lisbon that I took. 

Getting To Obidos from Lisbon:

• You can reach Óbidos from Lisbon by bus. The Rede Expressos and Rápido Verde buses operate between Lisbon’s Campo Grande station and Óbidos, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Prebook tickets to Obidos here!
  
• By Car: Óbidos is about 85 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A8 highway. The drive takes around 1 hour north. 

What to do in Obidos:

1. Castle of Óbidos: Explore the impressive medieval castle, which now houses a luxury hotel. The exterior walls and towers are accessible to the public.
2. Town walls: Walk along the well-preserved walls of Óbidos for stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.
3. Porta da Vila: Admire the beautiful entrance gate to the town, featuring a small chapel adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles (azulejos).
4. Igreja de Santa Maria: Visit this historic church, showcasing a mix of Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque architectural styles.
5. Rua Direita: Stroll down the main street of Óbidos, lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and cafes.

Guided tours: Walking tour of Obidos Streets

Day tours from Lisbon to Obidos:GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: Most travelers spend a half-day to a full day exploring the small town of Óbidos. But the real magic of this town is after all the Lisbon day trips leave and you have the whole town to yourself. Try booking a few days for one of the best weekend trips from Lisbon!

Where to eat in Óbidos: A Nova Casa de Ramiro. This charming restaurant has traditional dishes like bacalhau (codfish) and cozido à portuguesa (boiled meat and vegetables). 

Fátima – Pilgrimage Site 

A Fatima day trip from Lisbon is an excellent way to visit one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, known for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children. It is home to the Sanctuary of Fátima and the Chapel of the Apparitions.

Getting there to Fatima from Lisbon:

• Buses: You can reach Fátima from Lisbon by bus. The Rede Expressos buses operate between Lisbon’s Sete Rios station and Fátima, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
  
• Driving: If you prefer driving, Fátima is about 125 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A1 highway. It is about an hour north of Lisbon. 

What to do in Fatima:

1. Sanctuary of Fátima: Explore the vast complex, which includes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of the Apparitions, and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity.
2. Homes of the visionaries: Visit the homes of the three shepherd children – Francisco, Jacinta, and Lúcia – in the nearby town of Aljustrel.
3. Way of the Cross (Via Sacra): Walk along the path where the children saw the apparitions, marked by 14 Stations of the Cross and ending at the Calvary Chapel.
4. Valinhos Sanctuary: A site near the charming village of Aljustrel where the Virgin Mary appeared to the children after they had been briefly imprisoned.

Fatima Tours from Lisbon: Half-day tour of Fatima

Check out all tours of Fatima: GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: You could do Fatima in half a day. However, if you want to attend religious services, or participate in group prayers, you will have to spend a night in the area. Or opt for a night tour to see the amazing procession of candles, it’s really magical.

Where to eat in Fátima: O Convite, this restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere with traditional dishes like bacalhau (codfish) and polvo à lagareiro (grilled octopus). Yum!

Nazaré – 100 Foot World Record Big Waves 

A day trip from Lisbon to Nazaré is always a good idea. There are so many things to do in Nazare. It is best known for its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing big waves on the Atlantic coast. This sleepy beach town has quickly become one of the most popular places to visit in the entire country. Read more about how to take a day trip to Nazare here!

Getting to Nazare: Learn all the ways to get from Lisbon to Nazare.

Buses: You can reach Nazaré from Lisbon by bus. The Rede Expressos buses operate between Lisbon’s Sete Rios station and Nazaré, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Check out the tickets & prices here, they are very affordable!

Driving: If you prefer driving, Nazaré is about 125 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A8 highway and the IC9 road. The drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. There is plenty of parking in front of North Beach, and plenty of space for campers to for the night.

What to do in Nazare:

1. Praia da Nazaré: Relax on the golden sands of North Beach and enjoy the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This is also the best place to watch the big wave surfers. 
2. Sítio da Nazaré: Take the funicular or drive up to this clifftop neighborhood for stunning views over the town, the beach, and the ocean.
3. Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo: Visit this historic fort, which houses a lighthouse and a small museum dedicated to the history of big wave surfing.
4. Church of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré: Explore this beautiful church, adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles (azulejos) and housing the revered statue of Our Lady of Nazaré in the town center of Nazare. 
5. Mercado Municipal: Browse the local market for fresh produce, fish, and regional delicacies.

Guided tours from Lisbon to Nazare day trip: Tour of Nazare & nearby coastal towns.

All Nazare tours: GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: You can easily spend an entire day exploring Nazaré and its nearby attractions. However, you can also choose to spend a half-day if you’re short on time or combine your visit with other nearby destinations like Fátima or Óbidos. (This day trip from Lisbon tour is linked above)

Where to eat in Nazre: A Tasquinh – This popular seafood restaurant offers delicious, fresh dishes, including traditional Portuguese cuisine. It is right in the heart of Nazares city center.

Batalha – Monastery 

Visiting the tiny town of Balalha is one of the best day trips out of Lisbon. Visit the impressive Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique Gothic and Manueline architecture. 

Getting to Batalha:

• The best way to get to Batalha from Lisbon is by bus. The Rede Expressos buses operate between Lisbon’s Sete Rios train station and Batalha, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours.
  
• Driving: Batalha is about 120 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A1 highway and the IC9 road. The drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What to do in Batalha:

1. Batalha Monastery (Mosteiro da Batalha): Explore the magnificent monastery, which includes the Royal Cloister, Founder’s Chapel, Chapter House, and Unfinished Chapels. Purchase an entry ticket to the Batalha Monastery and skip the lines!

Guided tours: Most of the Batalha tours visit multiple destinations, such as Fátima, Alcobaça in central Lisbon, and Óbidos. 

Duration of stay: Plan to spend half a day exploring Batalha and its monastery. However, if you want to visit additional sites or combine your visit with other nearby destinations, consider spending a full day in the area.

Where to eat: For a wonderful meal in Batalha, try Restaurante Burro Velho. This popular restaurant offers delicious Portuguese cuisine, including traditional dishes like bacalhau (codfish) and Arroz de pato (duck rice). It is always filled with locals, so you know it’s good.

Tomar – Castle of Tomas 

One of the best day trips Lisbon is to Tomar. Explore this historic town, known for its impressive Unesco world heritage sites the Convent of Christ, and the Knights Templar Castle. 

Getting to Tomar:

• You can reach Tomar from Lisbon by train. Trains depart from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations and take around 2 hours to reach Tomar. Tickets can be purchased at the station or via the CP – Comboios de Portugal app.
• Driving: Tomar is about 140 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A1 highway and the IC3 road. The drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What to do in Tomar:

1. Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo): Explore the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the Knights Templar Castle, the Charola, and the Manueline Window are all just a short walk away. Entrance tickets can be purchased on-site.
2. Aqueduct of Pegões: Visit this 16th-century aqueduct, which once supplied water to the Convent of Christ.
3. Praça da República: Stroll through the main square, surrounded by historic buildings, and stop at a coffee shop.
4. Church of Saint John the Baptist (Igreja de São João Baptista): Admire this beautiful church, showcasing a mix of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural styles.
5. Synagogue of Tomar: Visit one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, now housing a small Jewish museum.

Guided tour: Knights Templar Day Tour from Lisbon

All tours of Tomar: GetYourGuide.com

Where to eat in Tomas: Stop by Chico Elias. This popular restaurant offers delicious Portuguese cuisine, including traditional dishes like bacalhau (codfish), cabrito (roast kid), and creme brulee.

Arrábida Natural Park -Protected Natural Park 

Head to Arrabida, it is one of the best Lisbon Portugal day trips. With stunning landscapes, golden sand beaches, and hiking trails this beautiful park has to offer. Another fun adventure around here to make a quick detour and try scuba diving in Sesimbra!

Getting to Arrabida from Lisbon:

• Public transportation to Arrábida Natural Park is limited. However, for a day trip, you can take a bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios station to Setúbal, then take a taxi or use a ridesharing service to reach the park. The journey time varies, but it usually takes a few hours. 
  
• By Car: Arrábida Natural Park is about 40 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A2 highway and the N379-1 road. The drive takes less than an hour, the perfect amount of day for a perfect day trip to get out of the busy city!

What to do in Arrabida National Park:

1. Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches, such as Praia dos Galapinhos, Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, and Praia da Figueirinha.
2. Hiking and nature walk: Explore the park’s trails and admire the stunning views of the coastline and surrounding hills.
3. Lapa de Santa Margarida: Visit this small chapel built into a cave along the coast.
4. Oceanário de Setúbal: Discover the marine life of the Sado Estuary at the Setúbal Aquarium, located near the park.
5. Wine tasting: Visit nearby wineries, such as Quinta da Bacalhôa or José Maria da Fonseca, to taste local wines or take a day tour.

Lisbon day tours to Arrabida National Park: Arrabida Natural Park & Cave Kayaking Tour

Take a look at all the Arrabida National Park Tours: GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: Spend a full day exploring Arrábida Natural Park hiking trails and beaches. If you’re short on time or combine your visit with other nearby destinations like Setúbal or Palmela.

Where to eat near Arradbia: Restaurante O Velho e o Mar is the best place to eat nearby. This popular seafood restaurant offers delicious, fresh dishes with stunning views of the ocean.

Berlengas Islands – Sao Josa Baptista 

On your Berlenga Island day trip from Lisbon explore the stunning archipelago, known for its crystal-clear waters, Fort of São João Baptista, and incredible beaches. 

Routes from Berlengas to Lisbon:

• The only way to get to Berlengas from Lisbon is by boat from the Peniche Port, where there are regular trips to Berlenga Island.
  
• Once you arrive at the port, the boat ride over only lasts about 20 minutes. You can book your ticket beforehand to ensure you get your spot at the right time!

What to do: in Berlengas:

1. Beaches and swimming: Relax on the small beaches, such as Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro, and enjoy the clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
2. Hiking and nature walks: Explore the island’s trails and admire the unique flora and fauna, as well as the stunning views of the coastline.
3. Fort of São João Baptista: Visit this 17th-century fort, which now operates as a guesthouse and has a small cafe.
4. Caves and boat tours: Discover the islands’ fascinating caves and grottoes by taking a guided boat tour around the archipelago.
5. Birdwatching: Berlengas Islands are home to various seabird species, making them an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Guided Lisbon day trip tours to Berlengas: Island tour with hiking & secret caves.

All tours of Berlengas:GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: You have to spend a whole day here. You will not regret it. Overnight stays are possible at the Fort of São João Baptista, but availability is limited.

Where to eat: Berlengas Islands have limited dining options. Bring your own food and drinks for a picnic. There is a small cafe at the Fort of São João Baptista where you can enjoy simple snacks and cold drinks.

Mafra – National Palace 

Mafra is one of the lesser-known day trips around Lisbon. Visit the magnificent Mafra National Palace, known for its unique Baroque architecture and a grand library. 

Getting to Mafra:

• Bus: You can reach Mafra from Lisbon by bus. The Mafrense buses operate between Lisbon’s Campo Grande station and Mafra, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the station or on the bus.
• Mafra is only 40 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A8 and A21 highways. The drive takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

What to do in Mafra:

1. Mafra National Palace (Palácio Nacional de Mafra): Explore the impressive palace, which includes the Basilica, the Royal Apartments, and the Library. Entrance tickets can be purchased on-site to see one of the top day trips from Lisbon. 
2. Tapada Nacional de Mafra: Visit this royal hunting park, now a nature reserve, where you can observe various wildlife species, like cute little deer, and enjoy hiking and cycling.

Guided Day tour of Marfa and nearby towns Ericeira & Queluz from Lisbon.

Where to eat in Mafra: For a great dining experience on your Lisbon day trip in Mafra, try Retiro do Rato. This popular restaurant offers delicious Portuguese cuisine, including traditional dishes like bacalhau (codfish) and grilled meats. 

Azeitão – Cheese & Wine Tour

The best day trip from Lisbon is to the lovely village of Azeitão. It is best known for local wine production, famous Azeitão cheese, traditional crafts, and beautiful landscapes.

Getting to Azeitao:

• Bus: You can reach Azeitão from Lisbon by bus. TST buses operate between Lisbon’s Praça de Espanha station and Azeitão, with a journey time of about an hour. Tickets can be purchased at the station or on the bus.
• Driving: Azeitão is about 32 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A2 highway and the N10 road. The drive takes around 30-45 minutes, an easy peasy day trip from Lisbon!

What to do in Azeitao:

1. Wine tasting and winery tours: Visit local wineries, such as José Maria da Fonseca or Bacalhôa Vinhos, for wine tastings and guided tours.
2. Azeitão Cheese (Queijo de Azeitão): Taste the region’s famous creamy sheep’s milk cheese and learn about its production process.
3. Tile making: Discover the art of traditional Portuguese tile making at the Azulejos de Azeitão workshop.
4. Snorkeling: Discover the crystal clear waters of Arrábida on this full-day trip from Lisbon. Snorkel in search of colorful marine life!

Guided tours: Check out all the Azeitao Tours from lisbon:GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: A half-day exploring Azeitão should be good.

Where to eat in Azeitao: O Cego. This popular pastry shop in Azeitao serves local Azeitão cheese, try the memes and tortas they are very delicious. They also serve snow cones and wine!

Visit Cabo da Roca – Beach Town 

A day trip from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca is an excellent way to explore the westernmost point of mainland Europe, known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning ocean views, and picturesque lighthouse.

Getting to Cabo da Roca from Lisbon:

• Reach Cabo da Roca from Lisbon by taking a train and then a bus. Take the train from Lisbon’s Rossio or Cais do Sodré station to Sintra or Cascais. From there, catch the Scotturb bus number 403, which will take you directly to Cabo da Roca. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
• Cabo da Roca is about 40 km(20 miles) from Lisbon and can be reached via the A5 highway and the N247 road. The drive takes around 50 minutes to 1 hour.

What to do in Cabo da Roca:

1. Take in the views: Admire the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged cliffs from various viewpoints.
2. Visit the lighthouse: Explore the grounds of the Cabo da Roca Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since the 18th century.
3. Hiking: Enjoy the surrounding natural beauty by hiking along the marked trails that lead to nearby beaches, such as Praia da Ursa and Praia da Adraga.

Guided tours: Most tours leave from Lisbon, and include multiple stops, if you wanted to spend more time you will want to drive yourself!

Where to eat: The best place to eat near Cabo da Roca, is Restaurante Nortada in Azoia. You will find it just a few minutes away from Cabo da Roca. Here they have amazing views and the freshest seafood. Save room for the chocolate mousse!

Setúbal – Port City Life 

Setubal is another popular Lisbon day trip and an excellent way to explore the coast of central Portugal. It is a bustling port city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, wine production, and delicious seafood. From here, you can also take a dolphin-watching tour in the Sado Estuary.

Getting to Setubal from Lisbon:

• Trains: You can reach Setúbal from Lisbon by train or bus. Trains depart from Lisbon’s Roma-Areeiro, Entrecampos, or Sete Rios stations and take around 50 minutes to reach Setúbal. Find tickets here.
• Buses: you can take a bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios or Gare do Oriente stations, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour. Tickets can be purchased online.
  
• Driving: Setúbal is about 50 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A2 highway and the N10 road. The drive from Lisbon to Setubal takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What to do: in Setubal

1. Beaches: Relax on the beautiful nearby beaches, such as Praia da Figueirinha, Praia de Galápos, and Praia de Albarquel.
2. Historic city center: Explore the city’s charming historic center, featuring attractions like the Cathedral of Santa Maria da Graça and the Church of São Julião.
3. Sado Estuary: Take a boat tour to observe the local marine life, including dolphins, in the Sado Estuary.
4. Arrábida Natural Park: Visit the nearby park for stunning landscapes, beaches, and hiking trails.
5. Museums: Discover Setúbal’s history and culture at the Municipal Museum and the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography.

Guided tour: Full-day tour of Setubal: GetYourGuide.com

Explore all the tours of Setubal, Portugal.

Duration of stay: Most visitors spend a full day exploring Setúbal and its attractions. 

Where to eat: You cannot go wrong at Restaurante Mar Azul 2. This popular seafood place offers delicious, fresh dishes with stunning views of the Setubal harbor. Try the fresh bread with olives, a pitcher of wine, a plate of the day, dessert, and coffee!

Ericeira – Fishing Village 

Ericeira is one of the top beach day trips from Lisbon. This is a charming fishing village turned surfing hotspot The seaside small town offers beautiful beaches, and great seafood, with a laid-back vibe. It’s also part of the World Surfing Reserve.

Getting to Ericeira from Lisbon:

• You can reach Ericeira from Lisbon by tourist bus. Mafrense buses operate between Lisbon’s Campo Grande station and Ericeira, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the station or on the bus.
• Ericeira is about 50 km (25 miles) from Lisbon and can be reached via the A8 and A21 highways. The drive takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.

What to do in Ericeira:

1. Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches, such as Praia dos Pescadores, Praia do Sul, and Ribeira d’Ilhas, which is also a renowned surf spot.
2. Historic center: Explore the town’s charming historic center, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and local shops.
3. Take a surf lesson: or rent a board to enjoy the waves at one of Ericeira’s many surf spots.
4. World Surfing Reserve: Visit this unique reserve, stretching along 8 km of coastline, to learn about the area’s surf culture and environmental conservation efforts.

Guided tours: One of the best day trips from Lisbon is to Ericeira, for this food walking tour alone!

Duration of stay: Most visitors spend a full day exploring Ericeira and its attractions. 

Where to eat: The most popular place to eat is at Esplanada Furnas. They are best known for seabass, fish soup, and tiger prawns(big shrimp).

Costa da Caparica

Take one of the best day trips from Lisbon to Costa da Caparica! This beachy town has a big surf scene and a beautiful shoreline. 

Getting to Costa da Caprica on a Lisbon day trip:

• You can reach Costa da Caparica from Lisbon by bus. The TST (Transportes Sul do Tejo) buses operate between Lisbon’s Praça de Espanha station and Costa da Caparica, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the station or on the bus.
• Costa da Caparica is about 15 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A2 highway and the N6-7 road. The drive is just quick 20 to 30 minutes making it one of the best day trips from Lisbon!

What to do in Costa da Caparica:

1. Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches stretching along the coastline. Check out Praia da Rainha, Praia do Castelo, and Praia da Morena. You can even have a picnic set up right on the beach!
2. Surfing: Take a surf lesson or rent a board to enjoy the waves at one of Costa da Caparica’s many surf spots.
3. Walking and cycling: Walking or cycling along the coastal paths to enjoy the stunning ocean views is the best way to explore nearby beaches.
4. Arriba Fóssil da Costa da Caparica: Visit this protected area to learn about the region’s geological history and admire the unique landscapes.

Tours in Costa da Caparica:GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: Most visitors spend a full day exploring Costa da Caparica and enjoying its beaches.

Where to eat in Costa da Caparica: A popular seafood restaurant is Restaurante O Barbas. Order delicious, fresh dishes while being just steps from the beach. The menu features traditional dishes like grilled fish, seafood rice, and açorda de marisco (seafood bread soup). 

Coimbra – Oldest Universty 

Although slightly over 3 hours away by car, a day trip from Lisbon to Coimbra is worth the extra time. This historic city is home to Portugal’s oldest university, the University of Coimbra, and features a beautiful hilltop old town, the stunning Old Cathedral, and the Monastery of Santa Cruz.

Getting to Coimbra:

• You can reach Coimbra from Lisbon by train. Trains depart from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations and take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of train (Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, or Regional). Tickets can be purchased at the station, or online before you arrive.
  
• Driving: Coimbra is about 200 km from Lisbon and can be reached via the A1 highway. The drive takes around 2 hours.

What to do in Coimbra:

1. University of Coimbra: Visit the historic university, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the stunning Joanina Library, the Royal Palace, and the University Tower. Entrance tickets can be purchased for a walking tour.
2. Old Cathedral (Sé Velha): Explore this 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, one of Portugal’s most important Romanesque buildings.
3. New Cathedral (Sé Nova): Discover the 16th-century New Cathedral, originally built as a Jesuit church.
4. Monastery of Santa Cruz: Visit this important monastery, featuring the tombs of the first two kings of Portugal, Afonso Henriques and Sancho I.
5. Machado de Castro National Museum: Learn about the city’s history and art at this museum, housed in the former Bishop’s Palace.
6. Portugal dos Pequenitos: Visit this miniature park, showcasing traditional Portuguese architecture and monuments on a smaller scale, perfect for Lisbon day trips for families with children.

Guided tours: There are a bunch of fun tours to book when visiting Coimbra, check them all out here: GetYourGuide.com

Duration of stay: Give yourself a full day exploring Coimbra and its attractions. 

Where to eat: For a great dining experience on your day trips from Lisbon Portugal to Coimbra, try Ze Manel dos Ossos. This popular restaurant offers delicious Portuguese cuisine, including traditional dishes like chanfana (goat stew) and roast suckling pig. There are no reservations, so be prepared to wait!

Road trip from Porto to Lisbon

A road trip from Lisbon to Porto is a fantastic way to explore the two biggest towns in Portugal. Although I do not suggest this as a day trip from Lisbon, but it is definitely doable. You will want to give yourself more time to really explore the things to do in Porto. Take a look here if you need to know where to stay in Porto. 

How to get to Porto from Lisbon:

• You can travel between Porto and Lisbon by train or bus as an alternative. Trains depart from Porto’s Campanhã or São Bento stations, taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the type of train (Alfa Pendular or Intercidades). Tickets can be purchased at the station, via the CP – or online before you arrive.
  
• Buses: are operated by Rede Expressos also connect the two cities, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  
• Driving: Renting a car and driving yourself is the most flexible option for a road trip. The distance between Porto and Lisbon is about 313 km, and the journey takes around 3 hours via the A1 highway. However, consider taking a more scenic route along the coast or through the countryside to explore picturesque towns and attractions along the way.

What to do in Porto, Portugal:

Hiking in Porto– There are so many beautiful hiking trails in Porto to explore! The Douro Valley region is one of the prettiest places in the entire country.

Porto Wine Tours– Everyone knows Porto is famous for their port wine. Indulge and treat yourself to a wine tour in the countryside, for a magical trip you will never forget.

Porto Nightlife– The nightlife in Porto is unmatched. If you are looking to let loose and enjoy yourself, Porto is the perfect place to start.

Porto Museums– Spend a day exploring the history of Porto. Or head over to the FC Porto museum and learn about famous Portuguese soccer stars.

During your road trip, consider visiting the following stops between Porto and Lisbon: Aveiro, Coimbra, Fátima, Batalha, and Obidos 

Guided tours: While guided tours are more commonly associated with day trips, there are multi-day tour options that cover the journey between Porto and Lisbon. GetYourGuide.com

Where to eat: The best restaurants in Porto with a view. You cannot go wrong with any of these amazing restaurants. 

Algarve day trip from Lisbon

Taking a day trip from the Algarve from Lisbon way to see the natural beauty of southern Portugal. You are going to love all the best beaches in the Algarve. There is plenty to do in Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira making it one of the top places for day trip destinations from central Portugal. 

Getting to the Algarve from Lisbon:

• Public Transport: You can reach the Algarve from Lisbon by train or bus. Trains depart from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations, taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours to reach Faro, depending on the type of train (Alfa Pendular or Intercidades). Tickets can be purchased at the station, via the CP, or book before online.
  
• Buses: operated by Rede Expressos and EVA Transportes connect Lisbon to various destinations in the Algarve, with a journey time of approximately 3 to 4 hours. Check the rates here!
  
• Driving: Renting a car and driving yourself provides the most flexibility, especially for a day trip. The distance between Lisbon and Faro is about 278 km, and the journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A2 highway. Keep in mind that you may want to visit other towns or beaches in the Algarve, which will require additional driving time.

What to do in the Algarve:

1. Beaches: Relax on the region’s beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Marinha, Praia da Falésia, and Praia do Camilo.
2. Coastal towns: Explore picturesque towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira, featuring charming historic centers, lively marinas, and local shops. More on this below.
3. Boat tours: Take a boat tour to discover the stunning coastline, caves, and grottos of the Algarve, such as the famous Benagil Cave.
4. Ria Formosa Natural Park: Discover the park’s unique coastal lagoons, diverse birdlife, and beautiful landscapes. Some of the best hikes in the Algarve are located here.

Tripsonabbeyroad guides on the Algarve:

Albufeira, Portugal

• Things to do in Albufeira
• Best beaches in Albufeira 
• Albufeira nightlife 
• Restaurants with a view in Albufeira
• Best Beach Resorts in Albufeira

Lagos, Portugal

• Things to do in Lagos 
• Beaches in Lagos
• Lagos nightlife 
• Restaurants with a view in Lagos
• Beach resorts in Lagos

Faro, Portugal

• Things to do in Faro 
• Nightlife in Faro 
• Best hotels in Faro
• Restaurants with a view in Faro

Which area of Portugal is a popular day trip from Lisbon?

The area of Portugal that is a popular day trip from Lisbon is the coast. Lisbon is a beautiful city in Central Portugal, but sometimes you need to get away to see the water. And luckily there are plenty of coastal beach towns to visit on a day trip from Lisbon. Berlengas Island, Cascais, and Nazare are some of the most popular beach day trips!

What cities can I visit from Lisbon?

There are so many cities you can visit from Lisbon. The most popular is Sintra, Cascais, Coimbra, Setúbal, Obidos, and Nazare. What makes Portugal so amazing is that public transportation is affordable and very easy to navigate. I have put together a list of my favorite 17-day trips from Lisbon for you to plan your perfect day trip.

Is Porto a good day trip from Lisbon?

No, I do not recommend taking a day trip from Lisbon to Porto. You will be rushed the whole time, instead, plan to spend a few nights in Porto to explore everything this Port city has to offer. You don’t want to have to cut your Porto wine tour early because you have to catch your train back home!

How many days is enough in Lisbon Portugal?

Three days should be enough to explore Lisbon Portugal. You can grab yourself the Lisbon Card for discounted and recommended tours in Lisbon. Although you might not be able to tick everything off your list of things to do in Lisbon, you will definitely get a good amount done in 3 days.