5 Best Day Trips from Lisbon
Updated: Oct 29
Lisbon is a great starting point for exploring more of Portugal. There are so many lovely places nearby, and you don't need to travel far to see something completely different. If you have an extra day or two in Lisbon, here are some day trips I'd definitely recommend considering!
Sintra
Fatima
Cascais
Evora
Ericeira
Sintra
Day trips from Lisbon to Sintra are ideal because it is close to the Portuguese capital and lies east of the Sierra de Sintra mountains, which divide it from the Bay of Biscay. Sintra is renowned for its many castles, lush gardens, parks, green vineyards, and stunning views of the mountains and sea.
A stroll through the city center can be the first activity on the Sintra sightseeing tour. Pena Palace is one of the city’s most well-known landmarks and must-visit spots. The 19th-century palace is one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders and a Sintra UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building looks like a toy because of its elaborate romantic architecture, many turrets, courtyards, and vibrant paintings.
There are several organized day trip options from Lisbon: Sintra & Pena Palace from Lisbon.
Fatima
The Portuguese city of Fatima is a symbol of a religious miracle. In 1917, three children claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary here. The Catholic Church officially acknowledged the Fatima apparitions as a genuine miracle and the Mother of God. You may see the three children’s relics, Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco, who witnessed the Virgin Mary.
Hundreds of believers and nonreligious people feel inspired after visiting the Fatima Sanctuary. This massive structure has undeniable architectural significance. Don’t miss the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the shepherds saw the Virgin Mary appear.
Several tours are available from Lisbon: Sanctuary of Fátima & the Little Shepherds Town.
Cascais
Cascais is a seaside town that was a small fishing village in the middle of the 14th century. It became a city surrounded by the ocean, and fishing remains a significant industry in this area.
Cascais is among the top destinations for day trips from Lisbon for locals and foreign tourists. Its history is closely connected with the royal family, which moved here in the late 19th century. Reminiscences of past prosperity are safely kept until our time. For those who enjoy water sports, Cascais is the ideal location. There are excellent sandy beaches and luxury hotels along the coast of Estoril, which is famous for its casino.
Evora
Evora, founded in 1166, is one of Portugal’s most beautiful cities, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling through its historic center on day trips to Evora from Lisbon, shaped by the Moors and Romans, gives you a sense of eternity. These days, Evora is an outdoor museum where you can spend an engaging day taking in breathtaking views.
The old town of Evora is a maze of winding streets filled with traditionally painted homes and cultural and historical landmarks that blend perfectly with the surrounding area.
Giraldo Square, in the center, looks like a typical Portuguese square. Today, there is a fountain in the square, from which eight major streets go. The fountain is where water from the Silver Water Aqueduct was first received.
Ericeira
Ericeira is a beautiful coastal town located approximately 45 minutes northwest of Lisbon by car. Famous for its surfing culture, charming whitewashed houses, and stunning Atlantic coastline, it's a fantastic destination for a day trip.
The historic centre is full of narrow cobbled streets, little cafés, restaurants, and traditional blue-and-white buildings. It's a lovely place to wander around, enjoy some fresh seafood, and admire the ocean views.
Ericeira will be a great choice if you want to include surfing on your trip! Ericeira is one of Europe's best-known surfing destinations and home to a World Surfing Reserve. Even if you're not interested in surfing, the beaches are worth visiting. Some of the most popular include Praia dos Pescadores, located right beside the town centre, and Praia de Ribeira d'Ilhas, famous for its waves and surfing competitions.
You can see more about Ericeira at the end of this video (3:29):
How to Get Around on Day Trips from Lisbon
There are three main ways to explore places around Lisbon: public transport, renting a car, or joining an organised tour. The best option depends on where you're going and how much flexibility you want. A mind map is a great tool to plan and structure these options clearly.
Public Transport - Trains and buses are usually the cheapest way to travel. Popular destinations like Sintra and Cascais are easy to reach, while others may require more time or connections. Check schedules on Google Maps and official transport websites, especially on weekends and holidays.
Renting a Car - Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you want to visit several places in one day or explore smaller towns and beaches. Just remember to consider parking costs and traffic, particularly around popular attractions.
Guided Tours - If you don't want to organise transport yourself, guided day trips from Lisbon are a convenient option. Most include transportation and a guide, allowing you to visit several attractions without worrying about planning the route.
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FAQ: Day Trips from Lisbon
What are the best day trips from Lisbon?
Some of the best day trips from Lisbon include Sintra, Cascais, and Ericeira. Sintra is famous for its palaces and castles, while Cascais and Ericeira are great options for enjoying Portugal's coastline.
Can you visit Sintra and Cascais in one day?
Yes, you can combine Sintra and Cascais in one day, especially if you're travelling by car or joining an organised tour. However, I'd recommend visiting them separately if you want enough time to explore without rushing.
What is the easiest day trip from Lisbon without a car?
Cascais is one of the easiest day trips from Lisbon without a car. You can take a direct train from Cais do Sodré station, with the journey taking around 40 minutes. Sintra is another convenient option by train.
Are there good beach day trips from Lisbon?
Absolutely! Cascais, Costa da Caparica, and Ericeira are all good options for a beach day. Cascais is particularly convenient by public transport, while Ericeira is famous for its surfing beaches.
Do you need to rent a car for day trips from Lisbon?
Not necessarily. Popular destinations like Sintra and Cascais are easy to reach by public transport. However, renting a car can be useful if you want to visit several places in one day or explore more remote beaches and villages.
