Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is one of Europe’s most captivating city break destinations. But if you’re planning to stretch your visit into a longer vacation or working remotely in Portugal, why not explore some incredible day trips from the city?
In less than two hours of travel, you can uncover stunning fairy-tale palaces, pristine sandy beaches, charming historic villages, ancient monasteries, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. After spending several months exploring this beautiful country, we’ve compiled our absolute favorite recommendations just for you. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the most unforgettable day trips from Lisbon!
How to Get Around: Rental Car or Public Transport
We’re big fans of road trips and would always choose a rental car over public transport in a heartbeat.
Some day trips are a breeze with public transport, like the ones to Sintra and Cascais, which are just a short hop from Lisbon. In fact, we’d actually recommend skipping the drive to Sintra yourself, as parking there can be a real challenge. Taking the train from Lisbon is much more convenient, and from there, you can easily hop on the special tourist buses to explore the beautiful palaces scattered across the area.
For other destinations, though, you’ll need to put in a little more effort to make your day trip work, and honestly, we think it’s a bit of a shame to waste valuable vacation time on that. So, we’d suggest you either go for an organized day tour or rent a car for a day (or longer). Renting a car in Lisbon is simple and stress-free.
Best Day Trips from Lisbon
#1 Sintra
No trip to Lisbon is truly complete without a day in the magical town of Sintra. Just a quick 30-minute train ride from the lively Portuguese capital, Sintra is often called one of the most beautiful places in Portugal, and for good reason. This charming town is filled with incredible palaces and castles that transport you to another world.
While the town of Sintra itself may be modest, it’s the palaces that draw visitors from near and far. And when we say “palaces,” we’re not talking about just one or two; Sintra offers a stunning array of royal residences to discover. The most famous is the vibrant, fairy-tale-like Pena Palace, painted in shades of yellow and red, and perched high on a mountaintop. From here, you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding parkland, with its lush greenery and dramatic landscapes. Not far below lies the Castelo dos Mouros, or Moorish Castle. Its 450-meter-long walls rise steeply, making for an imposing and memorable sight.
But for us, the true gem of Sintra is the Quinta da Regaleira. This enchanting palace, surrounded by expansive, otherworldly gardens, is a delightful blend of architectural styles. Wandering through its grounds feels like stepping into a dream, with whimsical towers, hidden tunnels, and curious stone structures popping up around every corner, creating a sense of discovery and wonder.
A little further on, you’ll find another fairy-tale destination: the Palace of Monserrate. Built in the 19th century, it showcases stunning Moorish architecture, complete with intricate mosaics, ornate arches, and finely crafted details. Despite its beauty, Monserrate sees fewer visitors, offering a peaceful escape from the more crowded sites in Sintra.
And if you still can’t get enough of the royal splendor, don’t forget to add the Palacio Nacional to your list. Famous for its striking chimneys, this palace rounds off the full Sintra experience, giving you a glimpse into the town’s rich history and captivating beauty.
#2 Cascais
A short yet scenic train ride along the coastline from Lisbon leads you to the delightful town of Cascais. Nestled between the sun-kissed shores of the Atlantic Ocean and the stunning Sintra Mountains, this charming coastal retreat is the perfect spot for a summer day trip. Known for its beautiful beaches, Cascais is a favorite destination for sun lovers from all over.
The beaches in Cascais are truly the main attraction. Praia da Rainha, a small and intimate beach, offers a serene escape for those looking to relax in peace. In contrast, Praia de Tamariz is lively and full of energy, with both locals and tourists flocking to its golden sands. Both beaches are incredibly popular, so if you’re visiting on a sunny day, it’s a good idea to claim your spot early. For those who enjoy surfing, Guincho Beach is the place to be. With its powerful waves and strong winds, it’s an ideal location for a thrilling surfing experience.
The town itself is equally delightful to wander through. While it can get busy at times, Cascais still maintains the cozy feel of a traditional fishing village, offering a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon. For a memorable meal, we highly recommend House of Wonders. This vegetarian restaurant serves mouthwatering dishes, and the atmosphere is even more enjoyable when you dine on the inviting rooftop terrace with scenic views.
Lastly, don’t miss the chance to visit Boca do Inferno, or ‘Hell’s Mouth,’ a dramatic natural inlet carved into the rocks. Above it, an archway frames a stunning view of the sea crashing against the rocks in a frothy explosion. The sight is awe-inspiring and unforgettable, making it a must-see when visiting Cascais.
#3 Óbidos & Bacalhôa Buddha Eden
When a town is so breathtakingly beautiful that a king gifts it to his queen, it’s clear that it’s a place you simply must visit during your road trip through Portugal. The medieval town of Óbidos is undeniably one of the most picturesque destinations in the country, bursting with charming streets, stunning viewpoints, whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant yellow or blue trim, colorful flowers, and winding cobbled alleys.
Stepping into Óbidos feels like stepping back in time to the Middle Ages. The heart of this historic town lies in its ancient city walls, which have stood strong for centuries. Completed in 1527, these walls once served as the city’s primary line of defense. Unlike many cities where only fragments of the old walls remain, Óbidos boasts almost fully preserved fortifications, complete with picturesque lookouts, battlements, stone stairs, and grand city gates. One of the most rewarding experiences in Óbidos is walking along the city walls and soaking in the views that stretch across this charming town.
Exploring the narrow streets is another must-do activity. The historic town center is nestled within the old city walls, and while its labyrinth of winding streets may seem confusing at first, it’s small enough that you won’t have any trouble finding your way. The main street, which runs from the main gate to the castle gate, is hard to miss and is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can stop and enjoy the local charm.
Just a short distance from Óbidos, you’ll discover one of Portugal’s hidden treasures: the Bacalhôa Buddha Eden Sculpture Park. If you’re visiting Óbidos, be sure to make time for this unique park. You could easily spend hours wandering its vast grounds, marveling at the enormous Buddha statues, or exploring the lush garden that is home to a variety of animal sculptures. The Buddha Eden park is one of the most extraordinary and unexpected attractions in Portugal, and since you’re already nearby, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
#4 Azenhas do Mar
One of Lisbon’s hidden treasures is Azenhas do Mar, a charming coastal village that’s just a short 20-minute drive from the enchanting Sintra. As you arrive, you’re greeted with the sight of quaint houses dramatically perched on and against the cliffs, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and iconic image that makes Azenhas do Mar unforgettable. The whitewashed buildings stand in striking contrast to the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean, framed by the rugged cliffs, making it one of the most photogenic spots you’ll encounter.
The most iconic view of Azenhas do Mar can be found at the Miradouro das Azenhas do Mar viewpoint, located just south of the village. To get there, visitors can follow a stone staircase that winds its way up to the lookout, offering a panoramic view that’s simply awe-inspiring. From here, the sight of the houses clinging to the cliffside, with the endless ocean stretching out before you, is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Adding to the village’s charm is the natural seawater pool, directly fed by the Atlantic Ocean. Nestled at the base of the cliffs, this serene pool is an idyllic place to swim in the crystal-clear waters, all while being surrounded by dramatic rock formations. It’s the perfect spot to relax, soak in the beauty of the surroundings, and create unforgettable memories in this already magical village.
#5 Tomar
Our visit to Tomar led us to one of the most extraordinary places in Portugal. Here, you’ll find the Convento de Cristo, an awe-inspiring monastery-church-castle complex that blends an array of architectural styles and features intricate, stunning details. We had never encountered a building quite like it, and even after wandering for over an hour, we were still captivated, discovering hidden corners of the monastery at every turn.
The true gem of the complex is, without a doubt, the central church – the ‘Charola.’ This isn’t your typical church; it’s round – or more accurately, 16-sided – with a circular altar at its core, surrounded by arches, murals, and rich decorations. With soaring ceilings, intricate carvings, and a sense of grandeur that’s hard to capture in words, you’ll find yourself circling the altar multiple times, taking in the extraordinary details from every angle. It’s easy to see why the Convento de Cristo in Tomar is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Tomar itself is a delightful town to explore. You can stroll through its charming streets in just a few hours, making sure to check out the central square and meandering lanes. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, don’t miss a stop at Insento, where you can enjoy some of the best coffee in the region.
Before you leave, be sure to hop in your rental car and head to the outskirts of Tomar to visit the stunning aqueduct in the Pegões Valley. This remarkable structure reaches an impressive height of 30 meters, with a double row of arches. The aqueduct even takes a dramatic turn, offering some incredible views of the surrounding countryside. For a truly unforgettable experience, climb to one of the waterhouses and walk along the top of the aqueduct, where the vistas will take your breath away!
#6 Monastery of Alcobaça
In the picturesque town of Alcobaça stands one of Portugal’s most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Alcobaça Monastery. This stunning complex of monasteries, churches, and courtyards is a triumph of exuberant architecture that draws visitors from around the world. Nestled between Porto and Lisbon, this historic gem is an essential destination for anyone exploring the region, offering an unforgettable day trip from Lisbon.
The monastery’s church is home to a deeply emotional chapter of Portuguese history, as it serves as the final resting place for a beloved king and his one true love. The tragic love story of King Pedro I and his lady-in-waiting, Inês de Castro, is forever tied to this town. Although Pedro was married to Princess Constance, it was Inês with whom he found his heart’s true companion, and together they had four children. When Constance passed away in 1345, the king, fearing that his son would marry the influential Inês, ordered her cruel murder in a ruthless act of political manipulation. Overcome with grief, Pedro commissioned a lavish tomb for Inês in the Alcobaça church, and later, one for himself, so that they could remain united for all eternity.
The church itself is a breathtaking space, featuring a soaring nave supported by an awe-inspiring forest of columns. The simplicity of the ceiling and columns, especially when compared to the ornate beauty of other parts of the monastery, is striking. Yet, it is this very simplicity—combined with the grandeur of the space—that evokes a profound sense of reverence, leaving a lasting impression on all who step inside.
The Alcobaça Monastery was founded in the 12th century by King Afonso I of Portugal, who vowed to build a monastery if he emerged victorious in a crucial battle against the Moorish invaders. True to his word, the king fulfilled his promise by constructing this monumental Gothic-style masterpiece, which would go on to become one of the wealthiest and most influential monasteries in Portugal.
#7 Nazaré
Anyone planning a visit to Nazaré will soon hear about its legendary giant waves. Just offshore lies the Nazaré Canyon, a deep underwater trench that helps amplify the waves, allowing them to swell into massive, towering giants. This natural phenomenon once meant many fishermen’s wives were left widowed, and the town became steeped in eerie legends of sea monsters. But in recent years, Nazaré has become a surf mecca, attracting wave riders from around the world.
In the winter months, the town’s parking lots are often packed with campervans, surfboards strapped to their roofs. Nazaré’s colossal waves draw surfers from all corners of the globe, each eager to tackle these towering walls of water. Over time, Nazaré has made a name for itself by breaking world records, including the highest wave ever surfed, as well as claiming the title for the tallest wave of each year.
We visited the coastal town in December and were lucky enough to witness some truly impressive waves. While they weren’t the record-breaking monsters, they were still massive enough that we could feel the mist and spray from a distance. The best vantage points to catch the action are from the lookout point at the old fort or the pier at ‘Farol Nazaré Pontão Norte.’ When big waves are expected, the pier becomes a gathering spot for surf enthusiasts and photographers with giant lenses, all waiting for the surfers to take on the waves and show off their skills.
#8 Évora
Évora is undoubtedly one of Portugal’s most picturesque towns. Imagine charming white houses with cheerful yellow accents, narrow cobblestone streets winding through history, striking monuments, breathtaking views, and lively squares. It’s easy to see why this town is proudly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The crowning jewel of Évora is its ancient cathedral, which stands as a testament to the town’s rich history. What makes it even more remarkable is that visitors can climb to the rooftop, where they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the town and its stunning surroundings, along with an up-close view of the cathedral’s unique towers and iconic dome.
Other highlights that you won’t want to miss include the eerie Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), the University of Évora, which showcases exquisite blue-and-white azulejos tiles, the impressive 18th-century aqueduct just outside the town, and the ancient Roman Temple located next to the cathedral. While these landmarks are all worth seeing, don’t forget to leave time for simply wandering through the town. The cobbled streets, the whitewashed houses framed by bright yellow trim, the vibrant flowers that spill from windows, the glimpses through archways, and the winding alleyways all come together to create a spellbinding atmosphere, making the town’s streets one of Évora’s most beautiful attractions in their own right.
#9 Coimbra
Around a two-hour drive from Lisbon, Coimbra is the longest day trip on this list, but it’s undoubtedly worth the journey. This historic and photogenic town ranks among Portugal’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why.
Coimbra is best known for the Universidade de Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded back in 1290. The university campus is a visual treat, with magnificent baroque buildings at every turn. One of the standout features is the Joanina Library, which is home to thousands of ancient books and manuscripts. Situated on one of the highest points in the city, the university also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Coimbra and beyond.
The town itself is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, steep slopes, winding staircases, and inviting squares. As you wander, you’ll be surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Along with the university, another must-see is the Sé Velha, Coimbra’s Old Cathedral. This masterpiece of Romanesque architecture features an awe-inspiring wooden ceiling and intricately carved capitals, making it a draw for visitors from all over the world.
#10 Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca, situated on Portugal’s dramatic coastline, proudly holds the title of the westernmost point of continental Europe. With its towering cliffs that sharply drop into the vast Atlantic Ocean, the views here are nothing short of breathtaking. It’s a place where the land seems to meet the sea in an almost poetic embrace, much like the renowned Portuguese poet Luís de Camões once described.
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the iconic lighthouse standing tall above the cliffs, a historic structure dating back to the 18th century. Still guiding ships today, it offers an ideal vantage point for capturing stunning photographs of this awe-inspiring location.
The landscape surrounding Cabo da Roca is equally remarkable, with its rugged terrain and vibrant, flourishing flora. For nature enthusiasts, it’s a true paradise. A network of hiking trails meanders along the rocky coastline, inviting you to explore its natural beauty and discover each hidden gem of this extraordinary spot.
