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When it comes to European city breaks, it’s not hard to see why Lisbon is such a popular choice. With stunning pastel buildings, a buzzing nightlife scene, an incredible choice of dining options and easily accessible coastline, Lisbon really has so much to offer!

Basing yourself in the Portuguese capital city is ideal for exploring the abundant beauty and unique sites that surround Lisbon. For those who wish to see the best highlights of Portugal without doing a road trip, there are many great day trips from Lisbon to choose from.

To inspire your next visit to Portugal, this detailed guide will help you to find the perfect Lisbon day trip destination. It also covers all of the essential info such as how to get there by train or bus, the best organised tours, attractions that can’t be missed and much more.

From the prettiest villages in Portugal to fairy-tale castles and quaint seaside towns, read on to discover the very best day trips from Lisbon!

Viewpoint in Lisbon, Portugal

The 13 Best Day Trips From Lisbon in 2025

Sintra

The UNESCO listed town of Sintra is home to a collection of the most unique and stunning palaces in Portugal. Located a convenient 40 minute train journey from Lisbon’s city centre, it’s no wonder Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon.

This colourful town was once a summer getaway for Portuguese royals and nobility. Nestled in the hills outside of Lisbon, Sintra made the perfect spot for beautiful mansions, palaces and castles to be built. Nowadays the town attracts millions of tourists every year.

While it may be impossible to visit every palace in Sintra in a single day trip, below you’ll find the top 3 that deserve a spot on your Sintra day trip itinerary. Seeing all 3 of them in one day is possible as long as you make an early start from Lisbon in the morning.

Top Sintra Tip: Ensure you eat a full breakfast before you begin the day of sightseeing as the palaces do not sell food. You can stop for lunch in Sintra’s town centre to break up your day of palace hopping.

Visit Pena Palace on a day trip from Lisbon

The gorgeous Pena Palace

Pena Palace This eye-catching palace is the most popular of the bunch and for good reason; it’s truly like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Pena Palace is perched on a hilltop in the picturesque Sintra Mountains boasting sweeping views over the town and countryside below.

To avoid standing in the notoriously long queue at Pena Palace, I would highly recommend buying your ticket online in advance. This will allow you to skip the ticket line but you will still have to wait in the queue to enter the palace. Allow up to 2 hours for your visit.

Opening hours: 9am – 6pm daily

Tickets: €14 – Purchase your Pena Palace skip-the-line ticket here

Castle of the Moors -Sintra

Spectacular views from the Castle of the Moors

Castle of the Moors – This impressive medieval fortress is located fairly close to Pena Palace. Dating to the 10th century, the Moors built this castle in a strategic location along the ridge of the Sintra Hills.

The highlight of visiting the Castle of the Moors is witnessing the spectacular panoramic views that can be seen from its vantage point high above the town of Sintra.

Opening hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm daily

Tickets: €8 – Get your Castle of the Moors fast track ticket here

Quinta da Regaleira - Sintra

Explore the beautiful gardens of Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira – Continue your day trip to Sintra with a visit to the mystical estate of Quinta da Regaleira. This ornate mansion and its enchanting gardens will be sure to spark your imagination.

The large network of paths will lead you through overgrown vegetation, underground initiation wells and dark moss covered tunnels, getting lost is all part of the fun.

Quinta da Regaleira is located an easy 10 minute walk from Sintra’s town centre making it easy to visit after stopping for lunch in town. It will take you around 1.5 hours to see the palace and grounds.

Opening hours: 9:30am – 8pm daily

Tickets: €10 – Get your skip-the-line ticket and audio guide here

Getting to Sintra

The easiest way to travel from Lisbon to Sintra is by taking the train which departs from Rossio Station.

Once you arrive in Sintra, get on the tourist bus 434 at the train station which runs in a loop stopping at the main tourist attractions around the town.

This bus service caters specifically to tourists and costs €11.50 per ticket. This gives you unlimited access to use the Sintra bus for up to 24 hours.

Best Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon

If you don’t feel like navigating public transportation, this popular day tour is the best option. See the best of Sintra on a full day trip from Lisbon with stops at Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira and Sintra’s old town.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Obidos

The lovely white-washed town of Obidos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire country. Obidos makes a great addition to your Portugal road trip, however it’s also a great choice when it comes to day trips from Lisbon.

Obidos is a charming walled village steeped in fascinating history and full of cute traditional houses. The town is small and compact which makes it easy to see everything by foot in a single day.

Obidos Castle is one of the most striking features of the town and dates to the 700’s when the Moors occupied the area. It has even been recognised as one of the 7 wonders of Portugal!

Spend a relaxed day wandering through the maze of cobbled lanes, finding pretty squares and flower covered buildings around each corner. Take a walk along the town’s historic walls for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

Be sure to check out the Porta da Vila which is the town’s main gate. It dates to the 1700’s and features beautifully painted blue and white tiles which makes for a lovely photo.

Don’t leave Obidos without trying some of the locally produced cherry liqueur, ginja. This sweet drink can be found in most of the bars around town and souvenir bottles can be bought from the local shops.

Obidos - day trip

Getting to Obidos

The express bus service that runs between Lisbon and Obidos is the most efficient way to get there on a day trip. Buses depart throughout the day from the Campo Grande bus station in Lisbon and the journey takes 1 hour.

Tickets cost €8 and can be purchased directly from the bus driver. See the timetable for this bus service by clicking here.

Day trip from Lisbon to Obidos walking the Obidos city wall

Best Obidos Day Trip from Lisbon

See the highlights of Obidos on a full day trip from Lisbon which also includes stops in the towns of Fatima, Batalha and NazarΓ©. This day trip is the perfect combination of historic towns, coastal scenery and traditional food.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Cascais

-By Meredith from The Longest Weekend

For a relaxing day excursion from Lisbon, head to the quaint beach town of Cascais. Forty minutes by train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodre station, Cascais is a refreshing contrast from the bustle of the city and the perfect way to add some R&R to your holiday.

Cascais has everything you’d imagine of the Portuguese coast – a lively beach scene, an old town lined with beautiful tiled streets and houses, plenty of culture and rugged beachside cliffs overlooking the Atlantic.

Upon arrival in Cascais, stroll down to the Praia da Conceição, the largest of the town’s beaches. Rent a pair of chairs and an umbrella for 20 euros for the day, and enjoy a glass of sangria and a light lunch from the restaurant on site.

In lieu of rushing back to Lisbon for the evening, stay for sunset and head down to the Boca do Inferno, β€œthe devil’s mouth” in Portuguese. A leisurely 15 minute’s walk from the beach, this epic viewpoint showcases an unparalleled sunset and a truly unique landscape.

If you’re short on time in Portugal, Cascais is a great alternative to the Algarve and an easy day trip from Lisbon.

Cascais - Day Trips From Lisbon Cascais - Day Trips From Lisbon

Getting to Cascais

The quickest way to reach Cascais is by catching the train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodre Station. The train journey is straightforward and takes no longer than 40 minutes each way.

Tickets can be purchased at the train station and cost €2.25 per person for a single journey. Return tickets are not available so you must buy each ticket separately on arrival at the station.

Cascais - Day Trips From Lisbon

Best Day Tour from Lisbon to Cascais

Combine your day trip to Cascais with a visit to Sintra and the amazing seaside cliffs of Cabo da Roca. This full day trip from Lisbon will aim to show you some of the best coastal views of the region with a stop at Pena Palace along the way.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Evora

-By De Wet from Museum of Wander

Evora, the capital of Alentejo, is one of the prettiest cities in Portugal and an excellent day trip from Lisbon.

The city has a well-preserved old town surrounded by a medieval city wall. The entire old town is a UNESCO site. With its cobblestone alleys and distinct whitewashed architecture with yellow trimmings, Evora is best explored on foot.

Start exploring Evora from PraΓ§a do Giraldo, the city’s main square. Grab a short black coffee and a Queijadas de Γ‰vora (cheese tart) from Cafe Arcada and enjoy the beautiful architecture surrounding the square.

Next, head to the Bone Chapel to see the macabre church, with its interior entirely covered by human skulls and bones. It is one of the strangest and most unique sights in Portugal.

While you’re there, check out the Igreja de SΓ£o Francisco church next door. It is a pretty Baroque church with beautiful religious art and an interesting nativity museum. The church’s rooftop provides a panoramic view over the city’s tiled roofs.

Day trips from Lisbon - Evora

The beautiful town of Evora

Find your way to Largo Conde de Vila Flor Square, where you’ll find another two of Evora’s top sights. The Roman Temple in the square, with its Corinthian columns, dates back to the first century AD and is considered the best Roman structure in Iberia.

Besides the Roman Temple, check out the imposing Evora cathedral. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the city and the vineyards in the country from the roof.

Evora has a reputation as a top food and wine destination. Go for a wine-tasting session at one of the wineries around town and enjoy a hearty Alentejo meal before heading back to the capital.

Getting to Evora

Buses leave Lisbon’s Sete Rios bus terminal every hour or so between 7am and 10:30pm. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. You could also catch a train from Santa ApolΓ³nia station, but it only runs four times daily and takes 1.5 hours.

Evora Old Town, Portugal

Evora Old Town

Best Day Tour to Evora from Lisbon

Take a step back in time while discovering the historic sites of Evora on a fully organised day tour from Lisbon. Visit the UNESCO city of Evora, marvel at the ancient megaliths of Almendres and explore the Roman Temple of Diana.

This 8 hour tour includes hotel pick up and drop off in Lisbon, entry to various attractions, and a local guide.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Cabo Da Roca

-By Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel

If you’re looking for a wild and remote day trip, look no further than Cabo da Roca. Located just an hour from Lisbon, this windswept headland marks the westernmost point of mainland Europe, giving it a unique edge-of-the-world atmosphere.

Although there isn’t anything more than a lighthouse, coffee shop and gift shop in terms of infrastructure, the rugged beauty that surrounds this spot is truly breathtaking.

For an exciting day trip from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca, start by taking in the views from the cliffs at Praia do Guincho beach. This beach is a surfer’s paradise and home to some of the region’s most powerful waves.

After taking in the sights, get ready to explore the unique landscape of Cabo da Roca. Take a walk along the shoreline or venture further inland to discover hidden coves and impressive views from atop this wild headland.

Cabo da Roca views

Enjoy the natural scenery of Cabo da Roca

For the more daring adventurers, a challenging hike along the coastal paths is also possible. These trails skirt along the top of rocky cliffs, providing stunning vistas and leading to some of the most beautiful secluded beaches in the area such as Praia da Ursa or Praia da Adraga. Here you can enjoy a peaceful dip in the ocean or just take in the stunning beauty of this remote location.

If you’re looking for a truly magical experience, be sure to visit Cabo da Roca at sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon and casts its golden hues on the calm waters of the Atlantic, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another world.

Getting to Cabo da Roca

There is no direct travel route from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca via public transportation. The easiest way to get there is to catch the train to Cascais from Lisbon’s Cais do SodrΓ© Station.

From there you can hop on the bus 403 at the Cascais Villa shopping centre which is located near the train station in Cascais. The bus will get you to Cabo da Roca in 22 minutes for only $4.30 per ticket!

Cabo da Roca, Portugal

Beautiful ocean views at Cabo da Roca

Best Day Tour from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca

Admire the amazing coastal views at Cabo da Roca on an exciting full day tour from Lisbon. This popular day trip combines several other great stops such as the UNESCO listed town of Sintra, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Cascais.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Nazare

-By Abbey from Trips on Abbey Road

Taking a day trip from Lisbon to Nazare is a great idea any time of the year! This is because in the summertime you can relax on one of the many beaches of Nazare.

The most popular beach in Nazare is known as Praia do Norte or North Beach. It has an amazing view of the seaside cliffs and the famous old lighthouse.

If you are visiting in the wintertime you have a chance to see the monster big waves. HBO has made a docu-series about the town of Nazare. On the big swell days, the waves can reach up to 100 feet.

Men and women have figured out a way to ride these monsters with tow-in jet skis. Be sure to check out the wave report to figure out the best day to visit.

There are plenty of great activities in Nazare, no matter what time of year you plan to visit. You can check out one of the many small museums in town. Be sure to stop and walk through the Forte de Sao Arcanjo.

Dating to the year 1570, this historic building is now a museum dedicated to the men and women who brought surfing to Nazare. Like most Portuguese towns, the city centre is beautiful and full of lovely architecture and local restaurants.

Day Trip to Nazare from Lisbon

Visit the stunning seaside town of Nazare on a day trip from Lisbon

Getting to Nazare

Nazare is located on the coast of central Portugal. Driving is the easiest way to get there from Lisbon as it only takes about an hour and a half.

You can travel from Lisbon to Nazare on the FlexiBus, which is very reasonably priced and offers daily routes. If you are thinking about taking the train, it is possible if your heart is set on it. Keep in mind that it involves switching trains along the way.

Day Trips from Lisbon - Nazare

Best Day Tour to Nazare from Lisbon

See the highlights of Nazare on a small group tour from Lisbon which also includes stops in Obidos and Fatima. This popular day trip will show you a variety of scenic landscapes and beautiful historic villages.

This trip is a great way to experience true Portuguese culture, learn some local history and take in the beautiful natural scenery that surrounds Lisbon.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Fatima

-By Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew

Looking for a fun day trip that’s sure to leave you speechless? Consider visiting Fatima, a small city in central Portugal with stunning natural beauty and cultural significance.

The main reason for a visit to Fatima is its fascinating religious history. It also makes a very easy day trip from Lisbon.

One of the most popular sites in Fatima is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of FΓ‘tima. This beautiful cathedral was built over the site where three children claimed to have seen visions of the Virgin Mary in 1917.

Millions of visitors flock here every year to see these holy grounds, including an iconic statue of Our Lady. Outside, you will find lush gardens and plenty of space for contemplation and prayer.

Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity is where masses take place, and when visiting Fatima one can plan to attend. There are religious exhibits and more at the Sanctuary which can be explored for free. The entire complex is huge and can easily occupy a few hours of your day trip.

Fatima, Portugal

Sanctuary of Our Lady of FΓ‘tima

If you want to get away from it all, then look no further than the Coin Caves. This hidden gem is full of stalactites and stalagmites – a geological wonder.

There are several points along the way where you can stop for pictures or simply take in your surroundings, so make sure to bring your camera! Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a hiker, this trail is easily accessible and provides an excellent opportunity to connect with nature.

Fatima is home to some delicious restaurants offering local cuisine at reasonable prices. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try one or two dishes that are unique to this region? Whether it’s cured meats, seafood stew or traditional desserts like pastel de nata (custard tarts), there’s something for every taste!

A day trip to Fatima is a calming experience – a place that will leave you captivated by its rich cultural heritage. It is a must add to any Lisbon itinerary.

Getting to Fatima

The best way to travel from Lisbon to Fatima is by bus. Buses depart regularly throughout the day from Lisbon’s Oriente Station. The entire journey takes 1.5 hours each way, and tickets can be booked on Flixbus.

Fatima - Day Trip from Lisbon

Beautiful Fatima

Best Day Tour to Fatima from Lisbon

This fully guided tour will pick you up from your Lisbon hotel and take you on a tour through Obidos and Fatima. Stop for lunch in the seaside town of Nazare, tick off two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and visit the famous Sanctuary of Our Lady of FΓ‘tima before returning to Lisbon in the evening.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Ericeira

-By Penny from Globe Trove

Ericeira is a small and quaint Portuguese town that often gets overlooked by tourists. What was once a quiet fishing village has now become a popular hotspot for surfers who flock there from all over the world.

The blend of historic buildings, great nightlife and modern surfing culture makes for a unique place to escape the city for a day trip. The coast surrounding Ericeira has some really fabulous beaches too. All of which are easily accessible from the city.

With its cobbled streets and traditional buildings, the city is very picturesque. Take your time exploring the little shops selling Portuguese handicrafts and stop for a bite to eat at one of the restaurants in the main square. Don’t miss out on trying the delicious seafood that the town is known for!

One of the best things to do in Ericeira is to simply wander around the city. It is easy to explore the town by foot and see all of the main highlights in a single day.

The architecture is beautiful and the town is much less crowded than the major tourist sites near Lisbon. Taking a day tip to Ericeira is perfect for those seeking for a peaceful getaway from the bustle of city life.

A great addition to your day trip would be a stop in the nearby town of Mafra to see the stunning 18th century Mafra Palace before returning to Lisbon in the afternoon.

How to visit Ericeira on a day Trip from Lisbon

The lovely white-washed town of Ericeira

Getting to Ericeira

For only €7 per person, you can catch the bus from Lisbon’s Campo Grande Station to the town of Ericeira. Buses depart regularly throughout the day and the journey takes just under one hour.

Best Day Tour to Ericeira from Lisbon

Discover the pretty fishing town of Ericeira with stops in Azenhas do Mar and Mafra Palace. Take in the impressive coastal scenery of Portugal and learn the history behind the famous palace on a fully guided 7 hour day trip from Lisbon.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Azenhas Do Mar

-By Allison from Renovating Life

Tucked in the side of a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find one of the most picturesque and Instagrammable spots in Portugal. Just outside of Sintra in the Colares parish, this magical seaside village is only 45 minutes from Lisbon by car.

White houses with blue trim and red tiled rooftops, reminiscent of a Grecian seascape, are built into the cliff overlooking the wild waves of the western coast of Portugal and are so beautiful you may even decide to move to Portugal.

Originally a fishing village, you can still catch a glimpse of older Portuguese men fishing off the side of the cliff using massive poles. It’s quite impressive! Azenhas do Mar means “Watermills of the Sea” and you can see evidence of the watermills that used to sustain the town all around.

Just below the houses and overlooking the sea is a local seafood restaurantβ€”Restaurante Azenhas do Marβ€”with amazing views and even better food. From the restaurant you can walk down to a small beach surrounded by rock formations. Beware of the tide, as it comes in quickly and overtakes the entire beach area.

Azenhas do Mar, Portugal

The seaside village of Azenhas do Mar

Next to the beach and under the restaurant is a natural ocean water pool surrounded by a rock wall. As the tide comes in, it fills the shallow pool and allows for swimming in the warmer months.

During the summer and tourist season, a snack bar opens with tiki tables and loungers for rent and you can make a full day of eating, lounging and swimming in the seawater pool.

From the base of the cliff, walk up the cliffside stairs opposite the village to access the miradouro (viewpoint) in order to capture the best photographs of this beautiful Portuguese town.

Getting to Azenhas do Mar

Trains depart from Oriente and Rossio stations in Lisbon to take you to the Portela de Sintra train station. From there, grab the 440 or 441 bus line for the 45 minute ride to Azenhas do Mar.

The whole public transportation journey will take about an hour and 45 minutes and cost you approximately €5 one way.

Azenhas do Mar Beach

Azenhas do Mar seaside views

Best Day Tour to Azenhas do Mar from Lisbon

Join this 8 hour tour from Lisbon to take in the beauty of Portugal’s coast with stops at Cascais, Azenhas do Mar and Cabo da Roca. This tour also includes a stop in Sintra to see the fairy-tale palaces and explore the quaint streets of the town.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

SetΓΊbal

-By Christian from RandomTrip

Though SetΓΊbal may be eclipsed by its amazing ArrΓ‘bida beaches, the city hides some gems that make the day trip from Lisbon worth it. Famous for its grilled fish restaurants, a terrace overlooking the Sado River is an excellent idea if you’re craving some seafood. “O Miguel” is not to be missed.

Taking a walk through the historical centre is the perfect way to get some exercise after lunch. Stroll along the city’s main street, Luisa Todi’s Avenue, as this is where most of the hustle and cultural vibes are concentrated.

The Casa da BaΓ­a’s centre is where you will find the best cultural events. It’s close to one of SetΓΊbal’s architectural pearls, the Monastery of Jesus. The church was built in 1491 by the same architect as the impressive Monastery of JerΓ³nimos in Lisbon.

Don’t miss the Livramento Market which is home to more than 300 stalls and the beautiful 19th century tile panel with more than 5,000 handmade pieces. If you’re craving a coffee or tea, Largo da Ribeira Velha’s terrace will impress with live music, especially on the weekends.

Continue to explore Baixa’s narrow streets with sea decorations until you reach Bocage’s square. Look up and say hi to the statue of the famous local poet and his muse, MarΓ­lia, looking at him all the way from Luisa Todi.

Day Trips from Lisbon - Setubal

Beautiful coastal scenery in SetΓΊbal

If you’re in the mood for a museum, be sure to visit Bocage’s old house where the Municipal Archive of Photography AmΓ©rico Ribeiro, famous local photographer, is now located. Here you will find more than 10,000 photos that will take you through the history of SetΓΊbal from the beginning of the 20th century.

Wrap up your day trip up with some cocktails at the SΓ£o Filipe Fortress and take in the breathtaking views of SetΓΊbal’s bay, Arrabida’s mountains and Troia peninsula before heading back to Lisbon. If you’ve had one too many, bear in mind that there are beautiful accommodations in the city, starting with the fortress hotel itself.

Getting to SetΓΊbal

SetΓΊbal is less than an hour away from Lisbon and is easily accessible by public transport. Get on the Fertagus train to SetΓΊbal, (there’s one every hour from Roma Areeiro, Entrecampos or Campolide station) and experience crossing the 25 de Abril bridge by train.

If you prefer to take the bus, the 562 bus departs from Lisbon Oriente (via the Vasco da Gama bridge) and the Rede Expressos bus runs the Sete Rios – SetΓΊbal route (via the 25 de Abril bridge). There is a bus every hour and the journey takes 50 minutes but consider the traffic at rush hour.

Day Trips from Lisbon - Setubal

Colourful centre of SetΓΊbal

Best Day Tour to SetΓΊbal from Lisbon

Discover the stunning seaside landscapes south of Lisbon and taste the delicious foods that the region is known for on this full day trip. The tour will take you over the Tagus River across one of the largest suspension bridges in the world.

Enjoy a delicious lunch of fresh seafood in SetΓΊbal followed by a chance to explore the majestic ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park and stop at several panoramic viewpoints. Return to Lisbon in the evening by crossing over the famous Vasco da Gama bridge which is the longest in Europe!

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park

-By Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker

One of the best nature-focused day trips from Lisbon is visiting ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park by scooter or motorbike. Many Lisbon city trippers don’t venture further south of the Tejo River than the Cristo Rei statue. Exploring ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park will provide a unique cultural experience while rewarding you with breathtaking natural scenery.

The park boasts endless views of spectacular cliffs and makes a great addition to your road trip through southern Portugal. Some highlights are the beaches of Galapinhos and Figueirinha, the village of Portinho da ArrΓ‘bida, the quarry of Jaspe, various caves, and the Convent of Our Lady of ArrΓ‘bida. For a guided tour of the convent, you should aim to book in advance.

Visit ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park on a day trip from Lisbon It’s possible and enjoyable to visit the park year-round, although it’s important to dress for the weather and to pick a clear day for the best vistas. The park and its beaches get busy with Lisboans during the summer.

There’s no entrance fee to the protected area since it’s also a residential area. In winter, many cafΓ©s and restaurants are closed, but there are always some businesses open to serve hot drinks to visitors.

Getting to ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park

To reach ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park from Lisbon, you must first take a bus to Sesimbra or SetΓΊbal. SetΓΊbal is much bigger and there are hourly buses from a few places in Lisbon. There’s also a train to SetΓΊbal which departs every hour from Roma Areeiro Station in Lisbon. Both modes of transport take around one hour.

There are various scooter, motorbike, and eBike rentals in SetΓΊbal. It’s a short drive from SetΓΊbal to the highlights of ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park, but the full experience will take up the whole day.

Stunning landscapes of ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park

Stunning landscapes of ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park

Best Day Tour to ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park from Lisbon

Escape the city to spend a day surrounded by awe-inspiring coastal views and lush green forests. Your guide will take you through the pretty fishing village of Sesimbra, visit a Moorish castle, swim at a hidden beach and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.

This tour is ideal for those who wish to reconnect with nature and explore some of Portugal’s best hidden gems. The day trip includes pick up and drop off from your hotel in Lisbon. This is the most convenient option if you don’t wish to take public transportation to ArrΓ‘bida Natural Park from Lisbon.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Tomar

Located in central Portugal, the historic city of Tomar is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, traditional buildings, and fascinating history.

Tomar makes an excellent day trip from Lisbon for those who are interested to learn more about the history of the Knights Templar. If you’re planning to do a road trip through Portugal, Tomar is the perfect stop on a Porto to Lisbon road trip.

The biggest draw to Tomar is visiting the Castle of the Knights Templar, which is also known as the Convent of Christ. Steeped in mystery, this beautifully preserved castle dates to the 12th century and was once home to the seat of the Order of the Knights Templar.

Castle of the Knights Templar, Tomar

Castle of the Knights Templar, Tomar

Allow yourself a few hours to explore the castle and its surrounding gardens, be sure to get an audio guide to take along on your visit. Once you finish up at the castle, make your way to the PegΓ΅es Aqueduct which is located quite close to the Convent of Christ.

This 17th century aqueduct was once used to supply water to the Convent of Christ and today it is open to visitors who dare to venture over the top. Be warned, there are no railings or safety measures in place but the views are truly spectacular!

Don’t miss out on a stroll through the medieval town centre of Tomar to see the charming buildings and pretty cobbled streets. There are plenty of shops and traditional cafes where you can stop for a coffee and a local pastry.

Getting to Tomar

Tomar can easily be reached by taking a direct train from Lisbon’s Santa ApolΓ³nia Station. The journey is straightforward and will take you just under 2 hours to get there.

Visit Tomar on a day trip from Lisbon

PegΓ΅es Aqueduct, Tomar

Best Tomar Day Trip From Lisbon

Take a walk back through the history of the Knights Templar on a full day trip to Tomar. After seeing the highlights of Tomar, the tour will make a stop at Almoural Castle followed by a visit to the nearby village of ConstΓ’ncia.

This day trip from Lisbon includes entrance fees to Almourol Castel and a guided visit of the Convent of Christ.

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Alcobaça & Batalha

Discover the rich history of two historical towns in central Portugal. Alcobaça and Batalha are located about 30 minutes apart and can both be seen on a single day trip from Lisbon.

Getting to the town of AlcobaΓ§a takes just under 2 hours from Lisbon and once you’re there, you can easily travel to Batalha.

The towns are both famed for their unique monasteries that showcase an impressive example of early Gothic architecture. Even if you are not a religious person, the sight of these churches will blow you away with their beauty and ornate detailing.

Built in the late 14th century, the Batalha Monastery is one of the most important religious buildings in the country and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage listed monument. Within the monastery you can visit the tombs of King JoΓ£o I and his family members.

Visit the incredible Alcobaca Monastery on a day trip from Lisbon

The amazing Alcobaça Monastery

The Monastery of Alcobaça is another iconic Portuguese monument and just as impressive as the Batalha Monastery. Dating back to the 12th century, this elaborately designed building is the oldest Gothic church in Portugal and is also listed as a UNESCO site. Inside you will explore the stunning cloister and see several famous tombs of Portuguese royalty.

If you are also planning to visit Tomar, it is possible to see all three towns in one day if you depart Lisbon early in the morning. This is easy to do if you’re driving there by car or joining a day tour from Lisbon. Booking an organised day trip is the most convenient way to see all three towns, see below for my recommended tour.

Top Tip: Avoid standing in a long queue and buy your skip-the-line ticket to the Batalha Monastery online before you go.

Getting to Alcobaça & Batalha

Taking a bus from Lisbon to Alcobaça will take around 2 hours. Buses depart daily from the Sete Rios bus station in the north of Lisbon.

You can also take a local bus between Alcobaça and Batalha however this day trip is much easier by joining a tour, especially if you want to include a stop in Tomar.

Visit the incredible Batalha Monastery on a day trip from Lisbon

The beautiful Batalha Monastery

Best Tour to Alcobaça & Batalha from Lisbon

Allow a local expert to guide you through the UNESCO listed monasteries of AlcobaΓ§a and Batalha. Marvel at some of Portugal’s famous historic monuments on a full day tour with stops in AlcobaΓ§a, Batalha and Tomar. This tour is a must for anyone who loves history!

➀Find tour prices and availability here

 

Where to Stay for These Lisbon Day Trips

To easily reach all of the day trip destinations listed above, staying somewhere in central Lisbon is key. It also makes sightseeing in Lisbon easier when you can access all of the top attractions around the city by foot.

Budget

Pensao Residencial Estrela do Mondego – Stay in a traditional building in the centre of Lisbon for a very reasonable price. With air-conditioning, private bathrooms and many restaurants nearby, you really can’t go wrong with basing yourself in this comfortable accommodation.

It is also a short walk from Rossio Station so if you’re planning to day trip from Lisbon by train, look no further than this lovely guest house!

Mid Range

Local House Lisbon – This conveniently located hotel offers easy access to public transportation and the main highlights of Lisbon. With cosy well-decorated rooms, air-conditioning and private bathrooms, the Local House Lisbon makes an excellent choice when it comes to selecting a room in Lisbon.

Luxury

Áurea Museum by Eurostars Hotel Company – For those with a higher budget seeking a hotel with modern facilities and amenities, this stunning property will not disappoint. Set in a great location near the Tagus River, this fabulous hotel has an indoor pool, gym, a restaurant and spacious rooms.

To make it even more unique, the hotel even features a permanent archaeological exhibition. Staying here is a great idea for those who are celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself.

Browse more accommodation options in Lisbon

Exploring the colourful streets of Lisbon

What to Pack for Your Day Trip from Lisbon

Day Pack – This is an essential item for carrying your belongings around on a full day of sightseeing.

Comfortable shoes – It is pretty likely that you’ll do a lot of walking on your day trip, staying comfortable is important!

Collapsible Water Bottle – Keep yourself hydrated, especially if you are day tripping from Lisbon during the summer months.

Camera – Don’t forget to bring a good camera on your day trip!

Portable Phone Charger – Ensure that you will always be ready to capture the sights by having a fully charged phone throughout the day.

Sunglasses – These day trips from Lisbon require spending a full day outdoors, be sure to protect your eyes from the harsh sun.

Umbrella – The weather can be unpredictable, especially if you’re travelling to Portugal during off-season. Throw an umbrella in your backpack to be prepared at all times.

Day Trips From Lisbon

Belem Tower, Lisbon

The Best Travel Insurance for Portugal

Are you travelling to Portugal from overseas? If you are, then you’ll need to get travel insurance before you go.

Travelling to any country without insurance is never a good idea. The reality of travelling overseas is that unexpected things can happen at anytime so the best thing you can do is be prepared.

For peace of mind while abroad, Heymondo is one of the most reputable companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered!

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

β–ΊGet 5% off your Heymondo travel insuranceβ—„

 

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