Top 19 Day Trips from Lisbon

Hemmed with history-ridden streets and hypnotic architecture, Lisbon hones in on a huge haul of crowd-pleasers. Harmonising humble villages and hefty scenery in the outskirts, there are copious day trips from Lisbon to discover.

Dowsed with a dazzling mix of cultural influences, Portugal’s capital city makes for a fantastic foray.

From mouth-watering cuisine and modern museums to centuries-old monuments and time-worn hot spots, Lisbon has something to satisfy every type of visitor.

If you need a break from the somewhat ceaseless sightseeing, hold your horses, because you’re in luck. Perfectly positioned in Portugal’s western stretch, Lisbon serves as an ideal base for day trips. Boo yeah!

Whether you’re looking to escape to the undulating hilltops, crashing coastline or bucolic villages, there’s a spot that’s tailored to your tastes.

Before you embark on your next endeavour, save these Top 19 Day Tours from Lisbon, Portugal.

Must-See Day Trips from Lisbon, Portugal

Carved with culture, cuisine and colourful streets, Lisbon rightfully draws in countless crowds every year. Little do they know, that some of the best day trips are just a stone’s throw away. And better yet, you don’t even need a car for some of these destinations! Whether you want to see sun-soaked Lagos, untamed Nazaré or medieval Óbidos, there are a plethora of possibilities to sprinkle into your itinerary.

Here are some of the top day tours from Lisbon, Portugal:

• Costa da Caparica

• Serra da Arrábida

• Cabo da Roca & Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

• Aveiro

• Mafra

• Peniche

• Porto Covo

• Serras de Aire

• Lagos

• Setúbal

• Batalha

• Fátima

• Tomar 

• Évora

• Óbidos

• Nazaré

• Porto

• Cascais

• Sintra

19. Costa da Caparica

Touted as Lisbon’s summer playground, the Costa da Caparica encompasses eclectic beaches and undulating sand dunes. This former fishing village boasts a panoramic train, the ‘Transpraia’, which harnesses the coastline.

This hot spot hones in on a huge haul of watersports activities, with everything from surfing and bodyboarding to beach volleyball and slow yoga. Brimming with beach bars and traditional restaurants, don't forget to try the local speciality, caldeiradas (fish casseroles). If you're looking for a quick day trip from Lisbon, the Costa da Caparica is a seaside haven.

18. Arrábida National Park

The Serra da Arrábida is nestled with nonpareil natural splendour, from the tranquil turquoise waters to the saline-white sands. This secluded sojourn hones in on Portugal’s most panoramic scenery, and you won’t be disappointed.

Arrabida National Park is easily one of the best day tours from Lisbon! If you’re a nature enthusiast, add this gem to your bucket list!

Be mesmerised on a dolphin-watching boat tour, get your heart rate up on a coasteering adventure and uncover hidden caves and beaches. Dive deep into a scuba diving experience, hit the heights on a paragliding adventure and get wet on this kayaking and snorkelling tour. If you’re seeking a temporary respite from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, the Arrábida National Park is the perfect option for you.

17. Cabo da Roca & Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

As the most western point of Europe’s mainland, Cabo da Roca encapsulates all round awe. With green hilltops that plunder down precipitously, this is a must-see sight. Situated within the stunning Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, you can combine walking trails, history and nature into one!

Jump on this all-inclusive Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Pena Palace day trip from Lisbon. With transport, tickets and a guide included, you can sit back and bask in all the beauty.

16. Aveiro

Notorious among locals as the ‘Venice of Portugal’, Aveiro is one of the top off-the-radar destinations from Lisbon. Positioned among the maze of canals, this quaint town is teeming with art, history and museums.

Hop aboard a moliceiro ride around the town, stroll through the character-packed streets on a walking tour and wine and dine among locals. Here you can really get a taste for authentic pastel de nata!

Daredevils can get their kick in the nearby Arouca 516 Footbridge. What’s this, you may ask? Oh, just the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, no problems.

Straddling soaring heights and verdant views, this is a must-see for adrenaline junkies! The Arouca 516 Footbridge is easily one of the best day trips from Lisbon, Portugal.

15. Mafra

History-drenched Mafra is melded with terracotta-tiled homes, lush greenery and a show-stopped palace. The Palace of Mafra, locally known as the Mosteiro Pálacio Nacional de Mafra, merits a mesmerising sense of wonder for this sizable site.

Home to the largest tunnel ever built inside a palace, this 18th-century Baroque masterpiece stretches for over 4 hectares. You can wander astray for hours at a time! If you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly option, this day tour from Lisbon hones in on all the highlights. Including Mafra, Ericeira & Queluz, you can kick back and relax knowing that transport and tickets are all covered. Simple!

14. Peniche

Just a short hour north of Lisbon, Peniche is adorned with an old-school feel and azure-blue beaches. Sheltered by a rather shabby appearance, this authentic fishing village is fringed with mouth-watering seafood restaurants, a hefty history and a killer surf scene.

Head out to Portugal’s oldest nature reserve, the baffling Berlengas Islands, observe the Sao Joao Baptista Fort or see the old political prison, the Fortaleza de Peniche. Catch a wave at Praia do Baleal or Praia dos Supertubos or simply soak in the sunshine from the shoreline.

See the stellar sights on this Berlengas day tour from Lisbon. You’ll trail through this alluring archipelago and discover why this UNESCO-listed site is such a hit.

13. Porto Covo

While the Algarve is the real show-stopper, Porto Covo also deserves some attention. Sheltered by sweeping sand dunes, soaring cliffs and sublime beaches, this is seriously an underrated destination. 

Bordering the southwestern coast of Portugal, Porto Covo harnesses whitewashed homes and open streets. This former fishing village is the perfect beach day trip from Lisbon, with crowd favourites like Praia Grande and Praia dos Buizinhos storming the scene.

Jump on a day trip to Ilha do Pessegueiro, discover the ruins of Forte do Santo Alberto or head out on a hike on the Rota Vicentina.

12. Serras de Aire

Engulfed by Extremadura’s limestone mountains, this part of Portugal is something special. The Serras de Aire e Candeeiros National Park poses plummeting plateaus sandwiched between two mountain ranges.

Accentuated with alluring trekking trails, wind-worn caves and all-around adventure, Serras de Aire is one of the top day trips from Lisbon. Swing by the hill-perched Porto de Dos Castle, peer out the Mira de Aire Caves and stroll around the awe-worthy Fórnea Amphitheatre.

Oh yes, how could I forget? The pinnacle point of this park? The dinosaur footprints. Yes, that's right! Nestled in the western side of Serras de Aire, you’ll find ancient dinosaur footprints from the Jurassic period. Dating back over 175 million years, this is an archaeologist’s haven!

11. Lagos

Anchoring Southern Portugal, the Algarve is amplified by paradisal beaches, sweeping clifftops and quaint villages. Decked out with a castle, Lagos is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon. Spice it up with a kayaking tour, a  cruise down the Golden Coast or a horse-riding tour down on the beach.

Towns like Lagos are a little more built-up, with popular resorts and attractions dotting the scene. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get off the beaten track! Whether you’re drawn in by the wind-sculpted caves, eerie grottos or turquoise-coloured beaches, there are many Things You Can’t Miss in the Algarve.

Southern Portugal straddles something truly unique, so don't be surprised if you want to spend more than a day. Take your Portugal itinerary up to the next level with this 7-Day Algarve Itinerary.  

10. Setúbal

Set 1 hour south of Lisbon, Setúbal is a seaside city that’s well worth the visit. Crowned by a compelling mix of sandy beaches, natural scenery and sea-to-table seafood restaurants, it doesn’t get much fresher than this. Pun intended.

Pop on over to Azeitão’s world-class wineries and satisfy your taste buds! Pair it perfectly with a plate of cheese or local delicacy, as you dabble in the afternoon sun. Known for the undulating clifftops and crystal-clear waters of the Parque Natural da Arrábida, Setúbal makes for a stellar sojourn. Even if it’s only for the day!

Revel in all the rapture on this Arrábida Natural Park & Sesimbra day trip from Lisbon. Unplug from the city buzz as you soak in the serenity of this Portuguese paradise.

9. Batalha

Located just 1.5 hours up from Lisbon, Batalha is home to the crowd-pleasing UNESCO-listed monastery. Dating back to the 14th century, the Batalha Monastery merits a fine example of eccentric Manueline and Gothic style.

Highlights also include the Leiria Castle, Sé de Leiria and the Aljubarrota Battlefield and Museum. If you’re into architecture and history, this city could be worth the visit. Enjoy this all-in-one day trip from Lisbon, featuring a visit to Batalha, Obidos, Fatima and Nazaré.

8. Fátima

Sitting 1.5 hours north of Lisbon, Fátima is framed as a site of replete religious significance. Famous for its basilica, the Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário de Fátima, this is a popular pilgrimage site for the Portuguese.

Topped with a Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Chapel of the Apparition, Fátima is one of the most favourable day trips from Lisbon. If you're interested in religion and history, add this spot to your Portugal itinerary.

Make things hassle-free with this full-day Fátima tour from Lisbon.

7. Tomar  

Situated 2 hours north of Lisbon, Tomar is teeming with wind-worn ruins. The UNESCO-listed castle, the Convento de Cristo, is a real highlight. Dating back to the 12th century, this history-rich gem is bursting with delight.

Cemented in central Portugal, Tomar sits on the cusp of the trickling Nabão River. Entrenched with a rich history, every inch of this quaint town straddles story-telling. As one of the most influential cities of the ancient Iberian Peninsula, this was once the religious home of the Knights Templar.

Their potent power can still be felt today in the monastery and castle complex of the Convento de Cristo and Charola Chapel. If you’re interested in history, make sure you wiggle a little extra room into your Portugal itinerary! Enjoy a conundrum-free experience with this Knights Templar day tour from Lisbon.

6. Évora

Etched 1.5 hours east of Lisbon, Évora has stood time’s tendency to obliterate. Replete with an ancient Roman Temple, the Templo de Diana and an eye-catching cathedral, the Sé de Évora, this city is oozing with time-worn stories.

Don’t miss the Church of St Francis, the scenery of Alentejo and the Chapel of Bones (that’s filled with authentic human remains). Yowza. If you’re a fan of history and architecture, Évora is the perfect day trip from Lisbon, Portugal.

With transport and tickets included, make things easier for yourself by jumping on this Évora and Megalith's full-day tour from Lisbon.

5. Óbidos

Nestled just an hour north of Lisbon, Óbidos is coined for its well-intact ancient walls, winding alleyways and white-drenched edifices. Entrenched with a Medieval flair, this history-ridden hot spot is arrayed with ample architectural finds. Pipe your Portugal itinerary up a bit at the Town Gate, Pousada de Óbidos, St Mary’s Church and St Peter’s Church. 

As one of the best-preserved old towns in the country, make sure there’s room for this day trip from Lisbon. Kill two birds, well five, with one stone on this Óbidos & Atlantic Coast day tour from Lisbon. This pocket-friendly option poses plenty of conveniences, with a guide, transport, and a schedule all set up for you. Plus, you’ll even get a free chocolate cup of glorious ginja liqueur. Bottoms up!

4. Nazaré

Hugging the west coast of Portugal, Nazaré is well-known for its unforgiving waves. Packed with coastal charm, you’ll find fantastic local eateries and boutique shops. The real show-stopper here, is, of course, the ocean.

This is the spot where the world record for the biggest wave ever surfed has continuously been beaten … So it’s kind of a big deal! Whether you're a clueless kook or a passionate surfer, you can't leave Nazaré without giving it a go. It doesn’t matter if you get completely barrelled, at least you can tell everyone you surfed in Nazaré!

Nazare is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon. If you want to catch the best waves, make sure you plan your trip right. Otherwise, you might get whistled at by the lifeguards for just trying to swim in the water! The big waves season in Nazare is between October and March, the winter.

To catch all the glory, you’ll need to head to Praia do Norte Beach. Easy peasy. Surf fanatics can take it one step further and pop into the Surf Museum, which only costs €1 to enter. Take the stress out of organising everything yourself with this Nazaré tour from Lisbon.

You’ll also swing by other hot spots in Portugal, so if you’ve got limited time and are trying to watch your pennies, this affordable activity is a suitable option.

3. Porto

If it’s your first time visiting the country, you may be wondering if Porto can be a day trip from Lisbon… And the answer is yes!

Perched on the rolling Douro River, Porto is the pinnacle of postcard-worthy experiences.

This popular Portuguese city is drenched in dazzling highlights, from the Cathedral and Liberdade Square to the Bridge of Dom Luis I and the Avenida dos Aliados.

Stroll along this river-hugging Ribeira, wind your way through the cobblestone streets and soak up all the seaside ambience as you uncover Porto’s charm.

Of course, you can’t travel to Porto without locking lips with an archetypal Port fortified wine. It would be rude not to!

Although Porto is in the north end of the country, you can drive here in less than 3 hours. Alternatively, this sprightly city is one of the top day trips from Lisbon by train, taking only 4 hours.

Hit the hay early the night before, and make the most of your day trip to Porto!

If you’re wondering whether Porto is more fun than Lisbon, that answer depends highly on your preferences and travel style. Both Porto and Lisbon offer unique experiences for different kinds of travellers.

Lisbon, being the larger city, is perfectly fit for those seeking famous tourist attractions and pleasant weather. Meanwhile, Porto is a smaller city in the north that provides a more relaxed ambience. With fewer crowds and a higher concentration of wineries, there is a higher chance you can get immersed in the authentic culture.

Fortunately, travelling between the two cities is easy and convenient, even for money-saving backpackers touring Europe. There are plenty of affordable public transportation options available that operate daily. So if you want to take a day tour from Lisbon, you can let it rip!

2. Cascais

Anchoring Southern Portugal, Cascais fuses flourishing natural scenery and coastal living into one. Sitting a quick 40 minutes west of Lisbon, this seaside city is brimming with azure-blue beaches, delectable seafood and a laid-back feel. From the crashing Boca do Infierno to the Cascais Marina, this lovely town makes for a stellar spot to spend the day.

Hosting a captivating mix of contemporary and classic museums and restaurants, Cascais is an ideal spot for art-loving foodies too. Don’t forget to try the bacalhau à brás (salted cod fish with onions, potatoes and eggs)!

For insider advice and things not to miss, save this guide on the Best Things to do in Cascais.

Enjoy a conundrum-free experience with this organised day trip from Lisbon to Cascais, Cabo da Roca and Sintra. This is one of the top pocket-friendly ways to see this pocket of Portugal.

Given its well-connected with public transport, Cascais is one of the best day trips from Lisbon by train.

1. Sintra

If you were wondering what is the most popular day trip from Lisbon, this top-rated gem takes the title!

Situated a speedy 30-minute drive from Lisbon, Sintra is nothing short of a scintillating spectacle.

Framed by fairytale-like architecture, ancient palaces and plant-draped castles, this destination is unencumbered by unparalleled splendour.

Peruse the plummeting walls of the Castelo dos Mouros and admire the opulent architecture in the Palácio Nacional de Sintra.

Top off your time in this UNESCO-listed town as you trot through the verdant gardens and luxurious rooms of the enchanting Palácio Nacional da Pena.

Tie it all together in this guided tour from Lisbon and take a step back in time as you travel through Sintra, Regaleira and Pena Palace. Given its convenient and frequent transport routes, Sintra is the ideal day trip from Lisbon by train. If you only have one, two or three days in Lisbon, make sure you visit this gem!

More Day Trip Destinations from Lisbon:

• Sesimbra

• Reserva Natural do Estuário do Sado

• Alcobaça

• Palácio Nacional de Queluz

• Cheleiros and Bucelas Wine Regions

• Setubal

• Knights Templar

• Palmela

• Ilhavo

3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary

If you’re flying into Lisbon for 72 hours, this stretch of scenic to-do’s probably has you feeling a bit overwhelmed. Even if you’re setting up a base for day trips from Lisbon, the inundating inventory of possibilities can be hard to wrap your head around.

Portugal’s capital city is crowned with captivating attractions and activities. Just because you’ll be there for a swift stay doesn’t mean that you have to miss out. This 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary is replete with a rich tapestry of things to do.

From the water-hovering Belém Tower to the towering Aqueducto das Águas Livres to San Jerónimos Monastery, you can squeeze in more than you can imagine! Obrigada Lisboa!

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Now that you’re up to speed on the best day tours from Lisbon, it’s time to get stuck into the nitty gritty. Lisbon is peppered with postcard-worthy villas, panoramic city apartments and hard-to-beat hostels. The country's capital city spans a surprising series of accommodations, but how do you know what's right for you?

If you’re taking a day trip from Lisbon, there’s no better feeling than coming home to relax. Or collapse on top of the bed. Face first. Ditch the conundrum of finding the perfect fit and save this guide on Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal. Featuring a full neighbourhood breakdown topped by the city’s top-rated accommodations, you’ll be set for gold.

7-Day Portugal Itinerary

Pinned with a perplexing fusion of cultural influences, Portugal is arrayed with unique architecture, luscious landscapes and iconic cuisine.

Bordered by baffling national parks, verdant vineyards, rolling rivers and eye-catching cities, there sure is a lot on offer.

Whether you're planning a 1-week trip or a month-long stay-cay, Portugal is packed with exciting opportunities. The north to the south poses a huge haul of hidden gems and top-rated attractions.

Lisbon serves as the perfect base to explore Portugal’s pristine landscape. Polarised by playful locals, plausible architectural gems, paradisal beaches and personality-packed towns, there sure are a lot of day trips on offer. 

From the vibrant Pena Palace and the crashing Algarve Coast to the undulating Douro Valley and lively streets of Porto, this 7-Day Portugal Itinerary includes all the highlights.

Enjoy this in-depth travel guide without having to worry about a thing! Alternatively, you could base yourself in the capital city and still enjoy most of these activities. Just do the itinerary as part of the day trips from Lisbon!

Better yet, combine it with this 7-Day Algarve Itinerary for the ultimate rendezvous!

FAQS

How many days is enough in Lisbon Portugal?

72 hours in Lisbon is considered enough to visit the sights, take an iconic tram ride and taste Portuguese cuisine. A 3-day Lisbon itinerary will allow you to explore the colourful neighbourhoods, enjoy unique activities and go wild in the nightlife scene.

What tourist city is close to Lisbon?

Lisbon is well-connected with public transport, making day trips to the surrounding cities easy. Some of the most popular sites include Sintra, Cascais, Cabo da Roca and Estoril.

Is Porto worth a day trip from Lisbon?

Although a Porto day trip from Lisbon is possible, it may not be all that ideal. You’ll be able to see the main sites, but you won’t get an authentic feel for the city. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, set aside at least 2 days in Porto.

Are 2 weeks in Lisbon too long?

Two weeks in Lisbon is a great time to see the highlights and hidden gems. You’ll be able to taste authentic local cuisine, explore beyond the tourist traps and take a few day trips to cities like Sintra, Cascais and Porto.

Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Lisbon?

Lapped by lucent architecture, wind-sculpted scenery and a delightful dining scene, Lisbon is a must-see destination. This European hot spot attracts millions of visitors every single year, and for good reason.

Take a break from the strenuous city sightseeing and step out of Lisbon. Whether you want to surf waves in Nazaré, peruse palaces in Sintra or get lost in the splendid Serra da Arrábida, there are a plethora of pleasurable pursuits. So, why not jump at the opportunity to take one of these day trips from Lisbon?