From fairytale palaces in misty mountains to golden beaches and medieval towns frozen in time, these day trips from Lisbon are your ticket to experiencing more of Portugal without packing your bags.
So grab your camera, hop on a train (or rent a car), and let’s explore!
1. Sintra - Portugal’s Fairytale Escape
Travel Time: 40 minutes by train from Lisbon (Rossio Station)
If you only do one day trip from Lisbon, make it Sintra - a lush, mountain town filled with palaces, gardens, and pure magic. It’s like stepping into a storybook where every turn reveals another royal secret.
Must-See Spots:
- Pena Palace: A whimsical hilltop castle painted in reds and yellows - straight out of a dream.
- Quinta da Regaleira: Wander through mystical gardens, secret tunnels, and an underground “initiation well.”
- Moorish Castle: Climb the ancient walls for sweeping views over Sintra and the Atlantic.
Snack stop: Don’t miss travesseiros (almond pastries) or queijadas (cheese tarts) from the famous Casa Piriquita bakery.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning - Sintra gets busy! Wear comfy shoes; the hills are steep but worth it.
2. Cascais - The Chic Coastal Getaway
Travel Time: 40 minutes by train from Cais do Sodré Station
If Lisbon is the city of charm, Cascais is the city of sunshine and sea breeze. This elegant seaside town was once a royal retreat - today, it’s all about sandy beaches, seafood lunches, and oceanfront strolls.
Top Things to Do:
- Boca do Inferno: A dramatic sea cliff where waves crash into a natural rock arch.
- Praia da Rainha: A small, picturesque beach right in the center of town.
- Marina de Cascais: Perfect for lunch by the water - try grilled sardines or octopus salad.
- Cycle to Guincho Beach: Rent a bike and follow the scenic coastal trail for incredible views of the Atlantic.
Sweet tip: Treat yourself to an ice cream from Santini - locals swear it’s the best in Portugal.
3. Évora - A Step Back in Time
Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car or train
Want a dose of history and mystery? Head east to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city in the heart of the Alentejo region. It’s packed with Roman ruins, whitewashed houses, and timeless charm.
Highlights:
- Roman Temple of Évora: Columns from the 1st century AD standing proudly in the town square.
- Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos): “We bones that here are, for yours await.” Chilling but fascinating.
- Évora Cathedral: Climb the roof for panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops.
- Local Markets: Sample olive oils, cheeses, and wines from nearby farms.
Local tip: Pair your day with an Alentejo wine tasting - rich reds and full-bodied whites that’ll win you over instantly.
4. Azenhas do Mar - A Seaside Secret
Travel Time: 45 minutes by car (combine with Sintra for a scenic route!)
Perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Atlantic, Azenhas do Mar is a postcard-perfect fishing village that feels like a hidden gem.
What to Do:
- Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant with waves crashing below - the seafood rice is unbeatable.
- Take a dip in the natural ocean pool carved into the rocks.
- Capture the view at sunset - it’s pure magic.
Vibe check: Quiet, romantic, and ridiculously photogenic. Perfect for travelers who love coastal charm without the crowds.
5. Setúbal & Arrábida - Beaches and Wine
Travel Time: 1 hour by car or train (Fertagus line)
For those craving nature, Setúbal and the Arrábida Natural Park offer a mix of turquoise beaches, scenic drives, and delicious seafood.
What to Do:
- Portinho da Arrábida: One of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches - calm waters, white sand, and forested cliffs.
- Serra da Arrábida: Hike or drive for stunning viewpoints over the Atlantic.
- Setúbal Market (Mercado do Livramento): Fresh fish, fruits, and local produce - a feast for the senses.
- Palmela Castle: A medieval fortress with sweeping valley views.
Local delicacy: Try the choco frito (fried cuttlefish) - a Setúbal specialty that locals adore.
Bonus: Stop by a Moscatel de Setúbal winery for a tasting of Portugal’s sweetest wine.
6. Costa da Caparica - Surf, Sand & Sunset
Travel Time: 30 minutes by car or ferry + bus
If you’re craving a beach day close to Lisbon, Costa da Caparica is where the locals go. Miles of golden sand stretch along the Atlantic - perfect for surfing, beach bars, and lazy sunbathing.
Don’t Miss:
- Praia da Mata: Great for beginners learning to surf.
- Praia 19: Known for its free-spirited vibes and beach bars.
- Boardwalk cafes: Perfect for a cold beer and sunset views.
Local vibe: Very chill, very Portuguese - no frills, just sunshine and sea.
7. Mafra & Ericeira - Royalty and Surf Towns
Travel Time: 45 minutes by car
Combine culture and coastline with a visit to Mafra and Ericeira.
Start your day at the Mafra National Palace, an enormous Baroque masterpiece with over 1,200 rooms (yes, really!). Then drive 15 minutes west to Ericeira, a laid-back surf town and World Surfing Reserve.
Highlights:
- Explore Mafra Palace: Don’t miss the library - it’s guarded by bats! 🦇
- Chill in Ericeira: Enjoy ocean views, local seafood, and salty air.
- Surf or watch the pros: Ribeira d’Ilhas beach is world-famous for waves.
Lunch stop: Grab a seaside table at Mar d’Areia and try the grilled sea bass or shrimp rice.
Bonus: How to Plan the Perfect Lisbon Day Trip
Best time to go: Spring (April–June) or fall (September–October) for great weather and fewer crowds.
Transport tip: Portugal’s trains are affordable and easy - great for Sintra, Cascais, and Évora.
For more freedom: Rent a car if you want to explore multiple spots in one day (like Mafra + Ericeira).
Essentials: Sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes, and your sense of adventure!
Final Thoughts: Beyond the City Lights
Lisbon may be the heart of Portugal, but its soul spills far beyond its city limits. From royal palaces to rugged cliffs, ancient towns to golden shores - every direction leads to a new story, a new flavor, a new piece of Portugal to fall in love with.
So next time you’re in Lisbon, take a day to wander beyond. You’ll come back sun-kissed, full of stories, and with a newfound love for this little country that just keeps surprising you.
