18 Best Day trips from Lisbon Portugal worth exploring

Love it? Share it!

Lisbon is the stunning capital city of Portugal. The city has tons of history, architectural gems, good food, and a cool vibe. To make the most of your trip, add any one (or more) of these best day trips from Lisbon Portugal. Many of them are quick destinations (like 30 minutes train ride) and there are many where you will want to go back a second time – they are so pretty.

We have included all the cool things to do in each day trip from Lisbon plus the various ways to get there – drive, train, and/or tour option. There are multi-city tour options included as well so that you can explore as many places as you can in a short time.

So, let’s begin – 18 Incredibly easy and best day trips from Lisbon Portugal.

18 Best Day Trips from Lisbon Portugal worth exploring

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel Tips: Best Day Trips from Lisbon Portugal 

Keeping Lisbon as the base city for your Portugal adventures is a great idea. There are tons of things to see in and around Lisbon.

The best thing about this is that there is something for everyone – beach lovers, history buffs, castles and photography, religious shrines, wine, and food lovers, and more!

All the destinations cited in this guide are located in Portugal (so no additional travel documents or currency changes) and MOST of them can be explored by a guided tour or using public transportation.

A word about the mode of transportation

Driving – It is easy to rent a car and drive in and around Portugal. But some of the day trips from Lisbon are not car-friendly like parking hassles at Sintra or the walled city of Obidos. But quite handy for beach day trips. Most car rentals in Lisbon are manual transmissions.

Trains and buses – Lisbon and Portugal, in general, have a good transportation network. It is fast, safe, clean and very cheap! Depending on the destination, some places are better served by express buses and some by train zones. We have included all options for each destination. 

Tours – We loved taking guided tours because sometimes that makes a trip most comfortable. If you are traveling during peak tourist seasons or summer months, a guided tour will be so easy rather than waiting for buses, and trains, or walking from the parking lot. 

As a BONUS, day tours from Lisbon cover multiple destinations – which is great for people who want to explore more in a short time.

A small group tour is always the best. In fact, you can just take any of the day tours mentioned below for a Portugal itinerary, or if you just want to see the highlights and return back later!  

Book Day Tours from Lisbon 

1. Sintra: Day trip to Sintra from Lisbon (45 minutes)

The famed Pena Palace is ONE of the most important reasons, why the internet is looking for Sintra. Sintra is a beautiful hilly area, located just 45 minutes from Lisbon.

Other than the Pena Palace and park, there are many other amazing castles and places to see in Sintra.

READ: Sintra one day itinerary from Lisbon

Top things to do in Sintra

• Pena Palace and Park – The bright yellow and red palace in the midst of the Sintra mountains is a delightful sight. Many travelers visit Sintra – for the Pena Palace alone. It takes 2-5 hours to completely explore the palace staterooms and hike the palace gardens or park. To fit everything in a day trip, cut the hike or walk at the park. Instead, go for a short stroll.
• Quinta de Regaleira – A beautiful 20th-century residence, the Quinta de Regaleira is an ode to perfection in stone. The site is filled with quirky items like an initiation well, palaces, and beautiful fountains. You can easily spend 1.50-2 hours here.
• Moorish Castle – Located at the helm of the Sintra Mountains, is the stunning Moorish castle. Many travelers love to hike the Moorish castle and capture amazing shots of Sintra and Pena Palace from the top. Allot 2-4 hours to completely enjoy the castle.
• Sintra Town Center – You will be arriving at the town center, whether it is by train or on a tour. (10-minute walk from the train station to arrive at the town center). This is where you will have your lunch. Explore the quaint town center, go souvenir shopping, or just wander.
• Palácio Nacional da Pena – Palácio Nacional da Pena or the Pena National Palace is located in the town center, and can be quickly explored before departing from Sintra. 

Day trip Itinerary Ideas

As you can see there are tons of things to do in Sintra and everything major item requires 2-4 hours. So here is what we recommend.

Choose only 2 major tourist attractions for sightseeing – Pena Palace – Moorish Castle (2-5+ hours), or Pena Palace and Quinta de Regaleira (2- 4 hours).

To access Pena Palace and Moorish Castle, you will have to board the 434 bus, which is like a hop on and hop off style bus meant for sightseeing stops. You can stop at the Moorish Castle first, then explore Pena Palace and use the same bus to return to the town center.

Quinta de Regaleira is located 10 minutes away from the town center. So for this combination, take the 434 bus to Pena Palace first, then Moorish Castle, spend 4 hours there, and after that head to the town center (via 434 bus), eat lunch, and then walk to Quinta de Regaleira.

There is some walking involved at the castle grounds and to reach the site. So wear comfortable shoes.

How to get to Sintra from Lisbon?

Drive: The drive from Lisbon to Sintra is 40-45 minutes. But we do not recommend driving there, because parking at Pena Palace is difficult. And you might end up taking the 434 bus to reach the sightseeing locations – so skip the car.

Train: Trains take 45 to an hour minutes to reach Sintra. It is one of the budget options to get to Sintra. Once you arrive at the Sintra train station, a quick walk of 10 minutes, will take you to their town center.

From here you can take the 434 bus to the sightseeing areas. During peak seasons, 434 buses can be quite crowded (and hot). Don’t forget to book tickets online for the Pena Palace

Tours: Tours are a great way to see more of Sintra and nearby areas. Day tours cover a guided tour to the Pena Palace (they also use the 434 bus, but it is reserved for tour participants only and not for the public). You may or may not get any time at the park, it depends.

But you are given 2-2.50 hours of free time – this is where you can explore the town center or quickly explore Quinta de Regaleira (rushed). For an intimate sightseeing day, a private tour is always an option.

Day Tours from Lisbon (5 to 9 hours)	Book Here
Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Raco	Book Here
Sintra – Pena Palace, Regaleira, Monserrate	Book Here
Pena Palace + Regaleira	Book Here

2. Cascais: Day trip to Cascais from Lisbon (45 minutes)

Cascais is a beautiful resort town in Portugal, located 45 minutes outside of Lisbon. Originally a fishing village, today it is a coastal town with some of the finest beaches located near Lisbon.

If you have not heard of Cascais, we HIGHLY recommend taking a day trip or one of the multi-stop tours to experience this town. We are sure you will want to come back for more.

You can expect all the slow travel and relaxation opportunities here.

What to do in Cascais?

• Hit the beach – Being a coastal resort town, you should hit the beach and soak some sun. Beaches in Cascais are characterized by white sands and they are clean. Its location near the Atlantic Ocean means you have access to beaches at the heart of the city.
• Near the town center, you will find 2-3 beaches, namely Praia da Conceicao, Praia da Duquesa, and Praia da Poca. There are designated areas for swimming, resting, playing ball, surfing, and more.
• Cascais Town Center – Cascais town center is pretty small but very artsy. The main square has a central figure with patterned tiles on the floor. This is the place to hang out, eat your meals, or just go on romantic strolls. The central area is car-free.
• Art museums at the Museum Quarter – If you are into art, you should visit the Centro Cultural de Cascais. The original site of the Cultural Centre of Cascais was a convent, and today it holds art exhibitions.
• Casa de Santa Maria – In the same museum district, you will find another museum called the Casa de Santa Maria. Once upon a time, this building was a summer residence and today it is a stunning location to view the coastal bay and admire the painting and ceiling designs.
• Cidadela de Cascais (Cidadela Art District) – Cidadela de Cascais is a 15th-century fortress offering pristine views of the harbor. It is a beautiful place to wander around and enjoy many colorful pieces of artwork.

Day trip itinerary ideas

On a day trip from Lisbon to Cascais, you can enjoy sandy beaches, cute-town centers, artsy museums, and more. You can start early morning via commuter trains or drive. Hit a museum or two, then lunch and wander the town center.

After 02:00 or 03:00 pm, head to the beach and stay there until the sun goes down. Relax, read your favorite book, or play ball. Have dinner in Cascais or return to Lisbon – just in time for supper.

How to get to Cascais from Lisbon?

Drive: You can certainly drive from Lisbon to Cascais and back. Travel time is 45 minutes one way. However, parking during summertime might be a pain.

Trains: By using public transportation you can reach Cascais in less than an hour, one way.  The train station in Cascais is located in the central area. You will have to depart from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodre Train station (west end of the city).

The Linha de Cascais train network connects Lisbon to Cascais. Ticket fares are 2.25 euros one way– which is a 4-zone ticket. You can add that to the Viva Viagem re-loadable Lisbon transit ticket. There are 24-hour or 72-hour tickets available as well, with unlimited rides.

Tickets can be purchased at the train station and cannot be booked online.

Tours: Cascais small group tour + multi-city tour – explore Cascais, Cabo da Raco, and Pena Palace

3. Cabo da Roca and the Western Coast – Sintra – Cascais Natural Park (50 minutes)

Cabo da Roca is located within the Sintra – Cascais Natural Park on the western coast. There are many multi-city tours that incorporate a quick stop at the Cabo da Roca.

But the reason we included this as one of the day trips from Lisbon is that you can explore the natural park, which is one of the 13 natural parks in Portugal on its own – that is away from Pena palace or town centres, just in the lap of nature.

Cabo da Roca means the Cape of Roca. It is the westernmost tip of continental Europe. So yea, it’s one of those things that you can boast about. ‘I went to the westernmost tip of Europe, pretty much like how I saw the European and Asian continental shifting in southern Iceland” – brag busters!

Okay, okay, on a serious note. Cabo da Roca pulls tourists to its shores where the blue waters of the Atlantic sea touch the sky and make it so wonderful to look at.

What to do at Cabo da Roca and the Western Coast?

There are some quick things that you can do in and around Cabo da Roca.

There is a big statue of Jesus Christ with the continental marking – Cabo da Roca. There is a lighthouse that adorns the area and makes for pretty postcard shots.

Near the Cabo da Roca, there is a small art exhibition and gallery, where you can also buy souvenirs and refreshments.

The western coast of the Sintra – Cascais Natural Park is popular for its stunning cliffs and white coastal towns. And a little further away from Cape of Roca are 2 beautiful beaches where you can admire the turquoise blue waters – Praia de Adraga and Praia do Magoito.

Praia de Adraga is very rugged but extremely beautiful with rock formations.

Day trip Itinerary Ideas

Exploring Cabo da Roca from Lisbon means it’s an outdoorsy beach and cliffs-filled day trip. Pack beach essentials and soak in the sun. Don’t forget to include your camera.

If you are not a beach person, we recommend visiting Cabo da Roca for its significance. You can also include a road trip to see the Praia de Adraga’s rock formations and then head to Mafra.

Mafra is a small community town on the west coast of Portugal. You can unwind and relax in a café or wander through their quaint neighborhood.

How to get to Cabo da Raco and the west coast from Lisbon?

Drive: It takes 50 minutes to an hour to drive from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca (inside the Sintra Cascais Natural Park).

Although public transport is available from Lisbon via Cascais to Cabo da Roca, to explore the other beaches – the car is the way to go. You will be driving through small roads to get to the scenic points. But parking should not be an issue here.

Trains: Getting to Cabo da Roca from Lisbon via train is possible. Use the same train as listed above – depart from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodre train station and reach Cascais. 

Cascais to Cabo da Roca is another 2.50 kilometres (1.55 miles) and can be reached by local transport. To explore other areas near Cabo da Roca, you can either book a tour or a private taxi. Or add that to Cascais’ itinerary, if using local transportation.

Tour – There are many multi-city stops at the Sintra National Park and Cascais. Check out this tour here

4. Queluz National Palace – Queluz day trip from Lisbon (25 minutes)

Queluz National Palace is a beautiful 18th-century palace located at Queluz, in the city of the Sintra Municipality. The Queluz Palace was the royal residence of Queen D. Maria I and her husband Dom Pedro III (prince regent), who started the construction of the palace (in 1747). 

It is believed that later on, the mad queen Maria was kept here, away from the public view. 

This Baroque palace is often overlooked as people visit Sintra for the Pena Palace, without a stop here. 

Things to see at the Queluz National Palace

The Queluz National Palace is considered a National Monument. And it is one of the unique things to see in and around Lisbon. 

Visiting and exploring the Queluz palace interiors is a must. Although many of the paintings and artwork from the staterooms have been replaced, as they were destroyed – the interiors are still stunning. 

There is a beautiful garden outside the palace. You can wander through the gardens and admire the lakes, fountains, and mythological statues. The ceramic tiled canal –  Canal dos Azulejos is beautifully adorned with 18th-century scenes of the royal family. 

How to get to Queluz National Palace?

Queluz National Palace is located between Sintra and Lisbon – both 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) away from each other. 

Drive: You can reach Queluz Palace in 25 minutes from Lisbon. Parking is available and is wheelchair accessible. 

Train: Take the train from Lisbon city center, towards Sintra, and exit at the Queluz-Belas train station. Walkabout 10 minutes to reach the palace. 

Tour: This multi-stop tour covers Queluz Palace as well as highlights from Sintra and Cascais. BOOK THIS TOUR HERE

Read: Best palaces of Sintra

5. Praia do Guincho – Beach day trips from Lisbon with CAR (50 minutes)

Praia do Guincho is THE stunning Lisbon beach. Located only 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) from Cascais, Praia do Guincho has been mesmerizing both tourists and locals. The location of the Praia do Guincho is super scenic, with the Atlantic Ocean waves and the Sintra mountains. 

Because of the tons of activities that you do at the beach, it is worth taking a day trip to Praia do Guincho. 

Things to do in Praia do Guincho

As a beach location, you can spend a day surfing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. You can relax and soak in the sun. 

The Praia do Guincho itself is quite large and you can rent sunbeds. There is a cafe/bar at the beach – Bar do Guincho. Keep in mind that it could get quite windy at times at the beach. 

The best time to visit the beach is from May to mid-September. June to August though could get really hot. The early spring and late autumn are great for exploring the region on a full-day trip.

How to get to Praia do Guincho

Drive: You do need a car to get to Praia do Guincho and enjoy the day. It takes 50 minutes to arrive from Lisbon to the Praia do Guincho. Parking is available. From the parking lot, it is a 5-minute walk to the beach. 

6. Praia de Carcavelos – Beach day trips from Lisbon – Without a car (30 minutes – 1 hour)

We wanted to include a beach option, with public transport. Praia de Carcavelos is another stunning beach located at the Lisbon-Estoril-Cascais coastline and it is accessible via public transportation. 

Things to do in Praia de Carcavelos

Praia de Carcavelos beach is great for swimming and surfing. You can add this as a full day activity or as an add-on with other beaches if you have access to a car. 

Surfing is one of the finest here, and during winter the waves are fast and hollow. You will also see beach rugby or surf competitions held many times at the beach. 

You can see the São Julião da Barra Fort from the Carcavalos beach. São Julião da Barra Fort is the largest military defense complex in Portugal. However, it is not open to the public. 

How to get to Praia de Carcavelos?

Drive: You can, of course, drive to Carcavalos Beach and it takes 30 minutes. 

Train/Bus: Trains are available to travel to Carcavalos Beach and it takes 30 minutes to arrive. The train departs from the Cais do Sodre train station and Carcavalos is the final stop on the green metro line.

Lisbon-Cascais railway is an urban train service, so there are numerous hourly departures. The train fare from Lisbon to Carcavelos is 1.90 euros one way (three fare zones). There are no return tickets, so the price is 1.90 euros one way, each. It is still quite cheap!

7. Costa de Caparica Almada – Beach day trips from Lisbon (20 minutes)

Located only 21 minutes from Lisbon, is the resort of Costa de Caparica. It is perfect for day trips and is accessible by car and train. Remember the 25 April bridge – the other side of the bridge leads you to Costa de Caparica – in the Almada municipality.

Things to do in Costa de Caparica

At the Costa de Caparica resort beaches, you will find all the modern resort amenities, like lively bars and restaurants along the beachfront, lifeguards on duty, and luxury views – Cristo Rei viewpoint.

Fonte da Telha is a beach, located about 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) south of the main resort. It is surrounded by golden cliffs, pine, and eucalyptus trees. Great stop for surfing and hanging out at beach bars. 

Praia 19, located to the north of Fonte da Telha, is the top gay beach in the Lisbon area.

North of Fonte da Telha is also a natural park site. Medos National Forest was planted in the 1700s to protect the farmland and is home to stone pines, mastic trees, and eucalyptus today. 

How to get to Costa de Caparica from Lisbon?

Drive: Driving to Costa de Caparica is a good option and you cross the iconic April 25 bridge. Travel time is 20 minutes. 

Train/Bus: Here are a few options to get to Costa da Caparica. Some are a bit tedious! 

• Direct bus departs from Lisbon to Costa da Caparica and it takes 40-60 minutes to arrive. The 161 bus service is operated by Transportes Sul do Tejo (TST) and is not part of the Lisbon Viva Viagem card. One way ticket costs 3.40 euros. The bus station in Lisbon is at Praca do Areeiro. 
• Taking a ferry is a good and faster option. The ferry departs from the Cais do Sodre ferry terminal and costs 1.50 euros. When you reach the other end, you can take an express bus service from Cacilhas to Costa da Caparica (TST 135 bus service for 2.40 euros.) This route is faster than the bus-only route. 

Tours: Book this surfing tour in the Costa de Caparica area

8. Knights Templar – Tomar day trips from Lisbon (1.50 hour)

Tomar is a history lovers’ paradise. It is home to the legacy of the Knights Templar. Knights Templar was an elite fighting group in Portugal. They rose to prominence in the 12th century under the Crusades and then disappeared for a while.

Later in the 14th century, they re-surfaced as the “Order of the Christ”.

Things to do in Tomar

Tomar is also known as Thomar in English. Here are some of the things to do in Tomar

• Convent of Christ church and castle – The Convent of Christ is the original site of the Knight Templar stronghold which was later known as the Knights of the Order of Christ (14th century). There are castle grounds near the church, overlooking the town of Tomar.
• Pegos Aquaduct – Pegos Aquaduct is a 6 kilometre (3.7 miles) aqueduct from the 17th century.
• Castelo de Bode Dam – It is a concrete arch-gravity dam on the Zêzere River, which is a tributary of the Tagus River. This dam is one of the tallest in Portugal.
• Church of Santa Maria do Olival – The Church of Santa Maria do Olival was built in the 12th century and was used as a burial place for the knights. Due to its historical significance, this church is characterized as the National Monument (since 1910). 

How to get to Tomar from Lisbon?

Drive: Driving to Tomar is the fastest and easiest way to reach it. It takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Tomar from Lisbon. 

Train/Bus: Trains are available to travel to Tomar. The fastest train will get you to Tomar in 1 hour 45 minutes. Getting back to Lisbon is the same travel duration. 

Tours: Here is a day tour to explore the Templar Knights

Multi-city option (small group tour) > Book this day tour to Tomar and Almoural Castles 

9. Obidos: Day trips from Lisbon (1 hour)

Obidos is a beautiful medieval walled city. The town is not very big and hence exploring Obidos in a day is quite easy and enjoyable.

The lovely thing about Óbidos is that you will hardly find crowded cafes or busy fast-food chains, so in a way, the city is still untouched and very delightful for a first-time visitor. Or for anyone looking for a romantic holiday!

Read: One Day in Obidos itinerary

Things to do in Obidos

• Walled city – Explore the medieval fort and the walled city. Awesome place to capture photos and wander through the white-washed lanes.
• Castle of Obidos – The Castle of Obidos is a medieval castle with a grand history behind them. The castle site appeared in history in the 4th and later in the 6th century. Its history can be traced back to Muslim domination. Christian forces took over the castle in the later centuries and major settlements were built in and around it after the victory in the Battle of Aljubarrota. Due to its historical significance, in 1951 it was declared a National Monument.
• Lagoon of Obidos – Lagoon is known for kite-surfing, windsurfing, and trail running.
• Heaven for Book Lovers – In Obidos, you will find some of the oldest churches and hotels, turned into libraries. And some with over 20,000 books. 
• Try Obidos Ginja – It is a cherry-based liquor, served in a chocolate cup! YUM!

How to get to Obidos from Lisbon?

Drive: You can drive to Obidos from Lisbon. It takes 1 hour 20 minutes – one way. You can park your vehicle outside of the city walls, as cars are not allowed inside. 

Bus: Take public buses to reach Obidos – they are faster and their frequency is better than trains. You can reach Obidos in 1 hour from Lisbon. Buses are operated by ‘Rapida Verde – Green Express”. You can purchase tickets on the bus from the driver. Fares are less than 8 euros one way.

On your way back, purchase the return tickets. (Lisbon bus station is located near the Sporting Lisbon football Club or the Campo Grande bus station).

There are about 32 buses in a day. Trains are quite infrequent and cost 10 euros approx. one way.  

Tours: Here are a few options for tours. For exploring Obidos only, it’s a 5-6 hour tour. For 2 city stops, the day tour is for 8 hours. 

• To explore Obidos: BOOK THIS TOUR
• Fatima, Obidos, Batalha, and Nazaré Group Tour: BOOK THIS TOUR

10. Evora Day trip from Lisbon (1.50 hours)

Another historic Portuguese city, Evora is also known for being very laid back with medieval charm and a historic city center.

Top things to do in Evora 

• Praca do Giraldo – Head to the main square – Praca do Giraldo. This picturesque medieval square had witnessed some violent acts (king’s beheading) in Portugal. Today it is very tranquil and is a great spot to eat and relax. At the center of the Praça do Giraldo is a 16th-century water fountain. 
• Cathedral of Évora – A 12th-century Gothic cathedral.
• Roman Temple of Évora  – One of the many Roman ruins in the city of Evora, dating back to the 2nd or 3rd centuries. The temple is characterized by 14 Corinthian columns and is considered one of the BEST preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. 
• Capela dos Ossos – The MOST visited site in Evora, is this small church lined with human bones and skulls called the Capela dos Ossos. 

One thing to keep in mind is that Evora is located in the central region and it can get pretty hot in the summer. 

How to get to Evora from Lisbon?

Drive: You can drive to Evora in 2 hours 

Bus/Train: Both buses and trains can be used to travel to Evora in a day. It takes 2 hours to arrive by bus, one way.

Buses depart from the Sete Rios bus station in Lisbon and arrive at the west end of the city. You can walk down to reach the city gate and the main square – Praca do Giraldo. Fare 12+ euros one way.

Trains depart from the Oriente Station in Lisbon. Fast trains will get you to Evora in 1.50 hours. Same fares at 12+ euros – second class ticket. The train station is located on the south end of the city. 

Tours: Book this wine tasting tour to Evora 

11. Coimbra: Lisbon to Coimbra Day trip (1.50 hour)

Coimbra was the previous capital of Lisbon. A riverfront city, Coimbra is known for the University of Coimbra and its medieval heritage. 

Top things to do in Coimbra

• University of Coimbra – The University of Coimbra was built on the site of a former palace and today it is known for its baroque library and the 18th century bell tower – Biblioteca Joanina.
• Sé Velha Cathedral – Se Velha Cathedral is a 12th century Romanesque cathedral located inside the city quarters.
• Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha – There are 14th century ruins of the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, which are worth visiting. The monastery is dedicated to Portugal’s saintly queen, Santa Isabel. Wander and explore the ruins.
• Santa Cruz Monastery – Another monastery – Santa Cruz Monastery, also known as Igreja de Santa Cruz is recognized as the National Pantheon. Two of the first Portuguese kings were buried in their church.
• Portugal dos Pequenitos – A miniature amusement park with a Barbie museum. 

One day in Coimbra Itinerary 

Start the day at Coimbra University when you arrive. Spend a couple of hours at the religious sites – Santa Cruz Monastery and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha. 

In the late afternoon, wander through the city and admire the riverfront. If interested take a river cruise or head to the miniature amusement park.  

How to get to Coimbra from Lisbon?

Drive: Lisbon to Coimbra is about 2 hours 20 minutes drive. Parking is a hassle in the town center. Choose train or tour options instead. 

Train/Bus: Fast train will get you to Coimbra in about 1.50 hours. Fares start at 25 euros one way. Slower trains will get you to Coimbra in 2 hours. You will pass through one train station in Coimbra, before arriving at the train station located near the city center.

So you will have to transfer to the second train at no extra cost to get near the town center in 5 minutes (Note: Fare for the transfer is included in the main ticket)

Buses take about 2.50 hours to reach Coimbra. Fares start at 15 euros one way. As it takes a longer time, it is better to use trains instead. 

Tours: Book this combined tour of Aveiro and Coimbra

12. Nature Park of Arrabida – Day trip from Lisbon (1 hour)

Located only an hour away from Lisbon is the stunning Nature Park of Arrábida. It is your answer to stunning beaches, coastlines, and limestone rocks. 

Nature Park of Arrabida is located between the small town of Sesimbra and Setubal, in the south of River Tagus. It is a protected area and the park elevation at the highest peak is 1637 feet (or 499 metres).

The beauty of Arrábida Natural Park is the Mediterranean-like vegetation and 3 beaches. You can easily spend a relaxing day at the Nature Park of Arrabida. 

Things to do at the Arrábida Natural Park

You are at the Arrábida Natural Park, you can hike or laze at the beach. There are 3 beaches worth exploring – Galapinhos, Portinho da Arrabida, and Figueurinha. They are quite popular with locals and tourists. 

Figueirinha Beach is the MOST loved with cafes and modern amenities. It has good parking areas, but it gets quite busy during the summer months (June to September). A shuttle bus service is offered from parking areas to the beach, during peak seasons. 

Another popular spot is the Cove of Praia Galapinhos. The beach is super clean and you will love the white sands and turquoise-blue waters. 

From the beaches, you can also explore a 16th-century monastery and now convent – Convent of Our Lady of Arrabida. 

How to get to the Nature Park of Arrábida from Lisbon?

Drive: The drive from Lisbon to the Nature Park of Arrábida is an hour one way. And it is a good idea to drive there.  

Trains/Bus: There are no direct trains or buses to go inside the park. You can arrive in Setúbal or Sesimbra from Lisbon and then take a taxi to the park. It will be slightly tedious, but not super expensive. Sesimbra is located in the south of Lisbon. 

Tours: Many tours to Arrabida include wine tasting and scenic views. 

• Arrabida and Sesimbra wine tasting tour
• Private tour: Arrabida Wine Tasting 

13. Fatima:  Day Trips to Lisbon – Shrines (1.50 hours)

Fatima is a religious city in Portugal, located in the central region. The city is known for the religious sanctuary of Lady Fatima.

Lisbon to Fatima is a popular day tour route. Many tours also include stops at Batalha and Odibos.

What to see and do in Fátima?

As mentioned Fatima is a religious site and many tourists visit the city for that same reason. There is a steady flow of visitors to the Sanctuary of Lady Fatima all year round. However, in October you will see thousands of people heading to Fátima.

The story goes that about 100+ years ago, three shepherd children saw the Virgin Mary and received special messages from her. And people have seen many miraculous things happening at the holy site. The Sanctuary is huge and you can easily spend 1 to 2 hours here.

Other religious sites in Fatima include the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the original shrine site of the Chapel of the Apparitions.

Day trip Itinerary Ideas

Ideally, it is a good idea to combine multi-cities while you are exploring Fatima. You can pay a visit to the Sanctuary of Fatima first and then venture out to explore nearby towns. View multi-city tours – Fatima + Obidos + Batalha tour

If the purpose of the visit is purely religious then, of course, visit the Sanctuary and other holy shrines in the city. 

How to get to Fatima from Lisbon?

Drive: The drive from Lisbon to Fatima is 1.50 hours one way. And it is a good idea to drive there.  

Trains: There are no direct trains to Fatima from Lisbon. The nearest Fatima train station is Caxarias and from there, you have either take a bus or taxi. Travel time will be 2.50 hours to up to 3+ hours.

If you do not have access to a car, we recommend taking a tour to cover multiple stops – in day trips from Lisbon

Tours: Here are some of the best day trips from Lisbon to Fatima, including multi-city stops.

• Visit Fatima, Obidos, and Batalha in one day – BOOK > Fatima + Obidos + Batalha tour
• Explore Fatima and Obidos in a day – BOOK > Fatima + Obidos day tour 

14. Batalha – Day trips from Lisbon (1.75 hours)

Batalha is another site known for its religious shrines. Batalha is located in the Leiria Hills area.

The Batalha Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Saint Mary of the Victory, was built when the Portuguese won the Battle of Aljubarrota.

The Portuguese king made a promise to commemorate their victory by building a monastery. This monastery is a great example of stonework – in the Gothic style.

What to do in Batalha?

Batalha town, as such is very small and can be easily explored in a day. Batalha Monastery is the place to be when you are visiting. It is a great architectural gem with its ornate designs and archways. There are elegant tombs in the monastery as well.

There are gardens in and around the monastery that are worth exploring. 

Day trip itinerary idea

It is a good idea to add Fatima to the itinerary and explore both in one day. The distance between Fatima and Batalha is 25 minutes by car. 

How to get to Batalha from Lisbon?

Drive: The drive from Lisbon to Batalha is 1 hour and 45 minutes, which is the fastest way to get there

Train/Bus: There are no direct trains from Lisbon to Batalha. There are buses available to reach Batalha and it takes 2.50 hours. Fares start at $14+ 

Tours: Tours are a great way to explore Batalha and Fatima on a single trip. This is more convenient and makes the most of the trip. BOOK THIS TOUR

Read: Portugal Travel bucket list

15. Cheleiros and Bucelas Wine Regions – Day trip from Lisbon (40 minutes)

In Portugal, you SHOULD try wine tasting in one of the finest and most historic wine regions – Cheleiros and Bucelas. 

Cheleiros is a lovely small village located near Mafra. Not only wines, but this tiny destination also boasts a lot of history too. On the other hand, Bucelas is home to wine cellars and museums depicting the same. Bucelas is located in the municipality of Loures. 

Things to do in Cheleiros and Bucelas

Both Cheleiros and Bucelas are wine regions and you can visit both on a tour. As you will be wine tasting, we recommend a tour and it will take the same driving time as driving yourself (but safer and full of wine stories)

On a tour, you will get to sample famous wines and learn about the area’s history. Visit many small wineries is also included. 

How to get to Cheleiros and Bucelas

Drive: You can drive to Bucelas in Loures first, which is 35 minutes away from Lisbon. And then head to Cheleiros – which is another 15 minutes from Bucelas. But to properly indulge in wine tasting and see winemaking demonstrations, it is better to take a tour. 

Tour: Book this wine-tasting tour of Cheleiros and Bucelas

Read: Best Portugal souvenirs to buy

16. Peniche Day Trip from Lisbon (1 hour 20 minutes)

Peniche is one of the amazing day trip destinations from Lisbon. It is known for its breathtaking coastline and laid-back atmosphere that make it an ideal vacation spot. 

Peniche boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, with stunning white sand and crystal blue waters. The area is also rich in culture and history, as well as offering a myriad of activities and attractions for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Portugal. 

Whether you’re a beach lover, an adventure enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good holiday, Peniche is the perfect destination for your next getaway!

Things to do in Peniche on a day trip 

• Praia dos Supertubos: Sunbathe, and soak in the views of high waves, learn to surf or just relax
• Relax and soak up the sun at Praia do Medão Grande: This beautiful beach is known for its white sand, turquoise sea waters, and stunning views 
• Explore the local culture at Peniche Fortress: This iconic castle was built in 1557 to protect Peniche from sea invasions. Today, you can explore the fort’s grounds and learn about its local historical significance.
• Visit the Fortress of St. John the Baptist: Built in 1651 on the orders of Dom João IV, and completed in 1656, the Fort of São João Baptista das Berlengas is located on the largest island of the archipelago of the Berlengas
• Take a boat tour of the stunning coastline: Boats leave from Peniche harbor, offering visitors the chance to explore the area’s breathtaking cliffs and coves while enjoying stunning views of Berlenga Island. 

You can also spend the entire day on Berlenga Grande or the Berlengas Nature Reserve, on the Island. 

How to get to Peniche from Lisbon

Drive: Getting from Lisbon to Peniche is easy and convenient! The driving distance from Lisbon to Peniche is about 100 km (62 miles), making it a comfortable one hour and a few minutes drive. 

Bus/ Train: Alternatively, you can take public transport – train and bus journey. The trip takes a little under 2 hours one way. Buses depart from Lisbon’s Oriente Station and arrives at the Peniche bus station.

17. Aveiro Day Trip from Lisbon (2.50 hours)

Aveiro is a stunning waterfront city located in the western part of Portugal. It is set along a lagoon called Ria de Aveiro and is filled with canals, making it a perfect setting for romantic day trips from Lisbon. And not only that Aveiro is also a foodie paradise!

Things to do in Aveiro

Aveiro definitely deserves more than a day in your Portugal road trip itinerary. But if you only have a day here is what you should do!

• Visit the Mosteiro de Jesus – Mosteiro de Jesus is a convent of Jesus, which was built between the 15th-17th centuries. The convent was home to Joanna Princess of Portugal, (daughter of Afonso V), who led a very modest life at the convent. Her tomb is placed at the lower chancel of the monument, beautifully blending marble and ceramics.

• Explore the Canals of Aveiro – The canals in the city are fed by Aveiro’s lagoon and are lined by stunning houses, painted in bright colors. You can take a cruise or stroll across the canal. This is a great photography spot too!
• Canal boat tour – A canal boat tour, also known as  “moliceiros” is a great way to explore the city from the water. 
• Costa Nova – If you wish to visit a beach, you can head to the beach town of Costa Nova. Take a taxi from Aveiro town center, to get there faster. Costa Nova is known for its interesting architecture and striped houses.
• Food and drink – Don’t skip the wonderful seafood and wine in Aveiro. You can dine in Costa Nova or in the city center area of Aveiro. Definitely give Port Wine a try! 

How to get to Aveiro from Lisbon?

Drive: Driving time from Lisbon to Aveiro is 2.50 hours

Train: You can take a direct train from Lisbon (Santa Apolonia station) to Aveiro station. The journey is about 2.50 hours. The earliest train starts at 06:30 am. The last train from Aveiro to Lisbon is at 09:15 pm. 

Tour: Book this combined tour of Aveiro and Coimbra

18. Porto Day trip from Lisbon (3 hours)

Porto is located far away from Lisbon, like a 3-hour drive. Ideally, you should spend at least 2 to 3 days in Porto or more to fully appreciate the city. But if you REALLY want to visit Porto on a day trip. Well, you can – when there is a will, there is a way I say.

You can drive or take the train. Remember you can only see the city highlights on this trip.

Things to see in Porto

There are TONS of things to see and do in Porto and definitely, a day or a few hours is not enough. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and once you visit you will know why! We recommend staying in the old town area and exploring in and around that neighborhood.

Start with the Porto Cathedral which is one of the important sights in Porto, followed by the 19th-century Bolsa Palace. Have lunch in the city centre and admire the Luis I Bridge.

Visit the Porto Calem for wine-tasting sessions – that’s what Porto is known for and sign off the day trip by visiting the popular book store with the wooden staircase – Livraria Lello.

Day trip itinerary

If you are arriving by train try to catch the early morning ride, like at 06:00 or 07:00 am and you will be in Porto by 10:00 am. That’s a good time to explore the city’s highlights and have lunch and wine tasting in the city.

You will also get to see the Sao Railway station. You can depart around 06:30 pm or 08:30 pm – the latest to get back to town. Check train schedules here.

How to get to Porto from Lisbon?

Drive: Driving to Porto is a good option and you can definitely find space for parking. You can start as early as you want and leave later in the day – your choice. 3-hour driving time – one way is the travel duration. But a 6-hour drive in a day is a lot, plus the city exploring.

If you really wish to visit, try the trains instead and rest your eyes!

Train: Trains take about the same time as driving from Lisbon to Porto. The earliest train is at 06:00 am and the last train leaves at about 08:30 pm from Porto. There are high-speed trains that operate in Portugal serving the major cities called – Alfa Pendular.  

Tours: There are no tours for this route, but you can take sightseeing tours in Porto to explore.

Google Maps – Best Day Trips from Lisbon Portugal 

Lastly, we are sharing a Google map with all the day trips from Lisbon. Each destination has one way travel time included (fastest route). 

 

So that’s it. We hope you enjoyed this list of best day trips from Lisbon Portugal. Truly there is so much to see and do in Portugal from checking out UNESCO World Heritage Sites to activities and more!

Don’t forget to enjoy the lovely weather and food in Lisbon – it’s one of our favorite cities. Happy Travels!

Read other posts – Portugal Travel Guide

• Travel guide and Itinerary – 3 day Lisbon trip itinerary
• Spain and Portugal – Spain and Portugal Itinerary 10 days trip
• Lisbon Accommodation – Where to stay in Lisbon for the first time visitors
• Lisbon Airbnbs – Best Lisbon Airbnbs for your stay
• Lisbon Photography Guide – 15 best photo spots in Lisbon

Start your Europe exploration with these handy guides

• ✔  Europe 101 – Guide to planning a Trip to Europe
• ✔  Guide to Schengen Visa – read the guide and checklist here
• ✔  European Bucket list – Europe bucket list ideas
• ✔  Europe Itinerary Samples – Make the most of your visit to Europe with 27 itinerary samples to Europe
• ✔  Visiting Europe in winter – Top European winter vacation spots
• ✔  Europe Packing Guide – This is the only packing guide to Europe you will ever need

Pin: 18 Best Day trips from Lisbon Portugal worth exploring

Love it? Share it!