Lisbon is a charming city, but its surroundings hide incredible places that are well worth exploring. If I had to choose what I loved most about Lisbon, it would definitely be the destinations I visited outside the city, such as Sintra or Cabo da Roca. So, if you’re visiting Lisbon and want to escape the city—even just for a few hours—here are some easily accessible day trips from the Portuguese capital.
1. Sintra
Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon and one of the most enchanting towns in Portugal. You can reach it by train from Rossio Station in about 40 minutes (round-trip ticket: ~€5).
Top Attractions in Sintra:
- Pena Palace (€14 entry fee)
- Moorish Castle
- Quinta da Regaleira (€11 entry fee)
- Sintra National Palace
- Monserrate Palace
2. Cascais
If you want to enjoy the ocean in one of Portugal’s most sophisticated seaside resorts, Cascais is a must-visit. In addition to its stunning promenade, you can explore the charming old town filled with cafes, terraces, and boutique shops. The train from Lisbon (Cais do Sodré) takes approximately 40 minutes to reach Cascais (round-trip ticket: ~€5).
Top Attractions in Cascais:
- Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth)
- Guincho Beach
- Cidadela Palace
- Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum
3. Cabo da Roca și Praia da Ursa
Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic. It’s one of my favorite places in Europe. The scenery is truly mesmerizing, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Just a short walk from Cabo da Roca lies Praia da Ursa, one of the most beautiful wild beaches in Portugal. There’s no direct transport from Lisbon, so you’ll need to travel first to Sintra or Cascais and then take bus 403 (€4) to Cabo da Roca.
4. Palatul Mafra și Ericeira
Mafra is home to one of Europe’s largest palaces, the National Palace of Mafra, a grand structure with an impressive library. Just a few kilometers away, you’ll find Ericeira, a charming fishing village known internationally for its perfect surfing waves. Direct buses from Lisbon to Mafra take about 45 minutes (€4 one way), and from Mafra to Ericeira, it’s another 15-minute bus ride.
Top Attractions in Mafra & Ericeira:
- National Palace of Mafra
- Mafra Monastery
- Royal Library
- Ribeira d’Ilhas & São Julião beaches in Ericeira
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5. Óbidos
Óbidos is a picturesque medieval town with cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a glass of ginjinha, the traditional cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups. Buses from Lisbon (Campo Grande station) take about an hour (€8 one way).
Top Attractions in Óbidos:
- Óbidos Castle
- Santa Maria Church
- Óbidos Aqueduct
- Porta da Vila (Town Gate)
- Santiago Bookstore
6. Setúbal & Arrábida Natural Park
If you have time, Setúbal is a must-visit. It’s a dream destination for nature enthusiasts and seafood lovers, with its main attraction being the stunning Arrábida Natural Park. Trains from Lisbon (Oriente or Roma-Areeiro stations) take about 50 minutes (€5 one way).
Top Attractions in Setúbal & Arrábida:
- São Filipe Castle
- Mercado do Livramento (one of Portugal’s best markets)
- Arrábida Natural Park
- Praia da Figueirinha
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Enjoy your trips!🥰
