12 Day Trips From Lisbon, Portugal - Updated 2024

Hannah
Hannah 
Updated
| 4 min read

Lisbon, the capital and largest city in Portugal, is considered to be one of the oldest European cities that predates Rome by many centuries. Many travellers have cited that the food is great, the nightlife vibrant and magical and the weather is warm all year round. The city is perfect to visit at any time of the year as there are lots of accommodation options, from historic hotels with old-world charm to serviced apartments for the atypical travellers. You will never run out of things to do once you are in Lisbon. There are historical treasures like the Belem Tower to discover, architectural gems and a lively atmosphere. The city is capable of attracting families, couples, business travellers and solo tourists. To help you plan the ultimate vacation, read on to learn more about the day trips from Lisbon, Portugal.

1. Batalha (from USD 86.39)

day trips in lisbon | batalha

Batalha is a charming town located north of Lisbon, you can get there by car in an hour and 20 minutes.

The main attraction in Batalha is the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal. You can also explore the town’s historic centre, which has a charming medieval atmosphere. If you want to know more about Batalha’s history and culture, you can visit the Municipal Museum. For a more outdoorsy activity, you can take a hike in the nearby Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park, a stunning area with limestone cliffs, caves, and grottos.

Batalha is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, with many restaurants offering dishes such as grilled fish, seafood stew, and roasted pork. Some popular places to eat include O Moinho, Restaurante Dom Duarte, and Tasca do Joel.

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From Lisbon: Fátima, Batalha, Nazaré & Óbidos Full-Day Tour

Duration: 8.0 hour

447 reviews

2. Costa da Caparica (from USD 32.4)

day trips in lisbon | costa da caparica

A short 30-minute drive will get you to Costa da Caparica, a stunning coastal town suitable for a sun-drenched beach day trip from Lisbon. With its long stretches of coasts, lively atmosphere, and stunning natural scenery, it’s no wonder that it’s a popular day trip destination from Lisbon.

The main attraction in Costa da Caparica is, of course, the beaches. The town has over 15km (9.32 mi) of pristine sandy beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include Praia da Fonte da Telha, Praia da Rainha, and Praia da Nova Vaga. If you’re interested in water sports, there are plenty of opportunities to try surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and more.

Other popular attractions in Costa da Caparica include the Capuchos Convent, which was founded in the 16th century and features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The town also has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment.

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Costa da Caparica: Surf Experience

Duration: 2.0 to 4.0 hour

107 reviews

3. Évora and Almendres Cromlech (from USD 86.39)

day trips in lisbon | évora and almendres cromlech

Evora is a well-preserved city in Portugal that is enclosed by medieval walls. It has an extensive history and a variety of interesting tourist attractions. Its narrow lanes lead to awe-inspiring architectural works, a picturesque town square, ancient monuments, popular restaurants and well-loved wineries. This nine-hour tour of Evora will take you through the most interesting sites including the Roman temple of Diana. Book this tour for an experience of a lifetime.

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Évora and Megaliths Full-Day Tour from Lisbon

Duration: 8.0 hour

161 reviews

4. Serra da Arrábida


Serra da Arrabida is one of the most beautiful natural sanctuaries in Portugal that is full of great sites to discover. You’ll find white sand and turquoise waters backed by the verdant landscape and limestone rocks. It is a great escape from the turmoil of the cities as it provides a tranquil environment where you can take a scenic drive, breath in clean air, enjoy breathtaking views, participate in water-related activities and relax on the white sand.

Serra da Arrábida

Website: Serra da Arrábidan

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Lisbon Tour Guide

Ana-Cristina Paiva

Ana Cristina Paiva

I am an australian-born Portuguese living in Lisbon since I was 8 years old. I studied Tourism and became a Licensed Guide and I absolutely love my job! The Portuguese landscape, history, food, traditions have won me over and I hope to share all this with you! I live in an historical neighborhood and believe that the best way to get to know a city is by walking. During the tours I hope to answer your questions and curiosities, proving a memorable and fun learing experience.

Tours by Ana-cristina

Lisbon Tour Guide

Francisco

Francisco

Hello!!! My name is Francisco, but my friends call me Chico, so, feel free to call me that! I was born, raised and live in Lisbon, but I am a well travelled person, as I work for almost 30 years in the Tourism Industry. I am a family man, father of 3 grown up boys, and my friends say I am a "Social Animal" as I easily make friends! I love sports ( especially soccer and rugby), walking the streets of Lisbon ( I always discover new things. . . ); talking to people; trying a new wine or a different type of food. With a degree in Social & Cultural Anthropology, and with the experience as a Tour Guide, I have learned to look and feel our City and its people with tourist's eyes and heart. I believe that Life is a wonderful gift and must be enjoyed every single day, and in every moment, so my Tours reflect this philosophy. You can expect I will inform you about facts, but I will tell you the stories that made these facts interesting. My favourite themes are History and Traditions, Art and Gastronomy, Sports and People. . . Lisbon People!!! My Tours are relaxed; they are made for people who seek to Know, but also, to Enjoy!!! Aahh. . . and I can customize any of my Tours according to your special interests. Just ask me. So, this is Me. . . I am waiting for your contact!

Tours by Francisco

Lisbon Tour Guide

Marta Côrte-Real

Marta Côrte Real

I was born in Lisbon and I'm forever in love with it! After my family, guiding is my greatest passion: I love what I do! I have a 5 year degree called Touristic Information, specifically to work as a Tourist Guide, as well as the Certificate of Competence acquired through a qualifying examination, in order to be able to exercise this regulated profession. I own and manage a tour company licensed by the Turismo de Portugal IP, Portugal's National Tourism Authority. Tour guiding has been my full time job since 2003 and it has always been incredibly rewarding. In 2021, I was recognized by the Wanderlust Awards as one of the world's "Best Specialist Guides", which I think is a result of doing what I love every day. Waking up knowing I'll meet enthusiastic people who are excited to discover my city makes me a very grateful and happy person. For almost two decades (how am I that old already?!) I travelled around the world as a tour guide and tour manager in Portugal, Europe, South and Central America. I stopped being so nomadic when my first child was born and in 2016, I became part of ToursByLocals' amazing team and since then I've been 100% dedicated to my lovely Lisbon and its surroundings. I am a mother of 3. I love planning family trips. I know how important it is to create special family memories. Travelling means getting to know new places and cultures, experiencing nature more closely, walking and playing more, discovering history through cities, monuments and palaces! Our childhood travel memories are often the sweetest and along with other remarkable moments, we build who we are and how we live in the world. So if you're in need of someone to guide you and your kids and have them thrilled about travelling, I'm your guide! I'm also very fond of small groups of friends, extended family trips and solo travellers. It's a much more personal approach and very interesting and grateful, too. It's so lovely to get to know you! My wish is to make you feel all the unique details of this fairytale country the way I proudly do, welcoming you as a friend, however always assuring professional, original and interesting tours. I offer walking tours or if you prefer to just sit and relax, I also provide tours with transportation included (private minivan, minibus, bus). You can choose from my many tours the one you're most interested in, or we can build together a tailored experience, everything at your pace. Once you send me a message, I'll try to answer right away, but if I'm delivering a tour or busy with my family, I'll let you know that I'll get back to you soon. I'll be happy to create a customized tour just for you and if you have a special request, if it's a family with different age ranges. . . let me know so we can build the best option for your group. Some of my tours can perfectly be combined. I can also help you plan the best timings to avoid the crowds and even buy your tickets, if needed. There are lots of magic places in Portugal: let me know about you, your interests and ideas and according to that I will work on your time here! The most recent experience has been incredible: the virtual tours. The idea came up with the 2020 pandemic scenery and I decided to keep them going in the future as they're such a pleasant way of travelling differently and sustainably. These tours are perfect to gather families and friends who live away from each other and for schools to complement their teaching, as well as to help those who cannot travel for many reasons, to be able to see the world. I believe we always need to make the best out of the worst. Portugal is a country to visit all year round: weather is wonderful and even during the winter you can enjoy the simple pleasures of life like sitting on an esplanade, absorbing each sunbeam! Plus, I love cooking and baking and I'm happy to share my recipes. Portuguese food is simply delicious and the wine is just perfect for a toast to celebrate life! Get ready to deeply fall in love with Portugal! Can't wait to meet you!

Tours by Marta

Lisbon Tour Guide

Beatrice Sacco

Beatrice Sacco

Hello! My name is Beatrice, I'm originally from Milan and I'm currently living in Lisbon. Travel, nature, music and art are among my passions. I'm curious and determined and I love meeting people from different countries. I moved to Portugal after finishing my studies in Art History. Now I'm putting into practice what I have learned by working as a tour guide. I love to share with people all the history, culture and local insights about the beautiful city of Lisbon and its surroundings! Come with me, if you want to go deep into the richness of this place!

Lisbon Tour Guide

Rita Jardim

Rita Jardim

Rita has been a tour guide in Portugal since 2015. She is a passionate storyteller and a history buff whose goal is to immerse curious travelers in the beautiful Portuguese tale. Rita creates customized tours, cultural experiences, and food adventures in Lisbon, Belém, Sintra, Évora, and lesser-explored corners of Portugal. If you're looking for a genuine and immersive experience beyond the typical tourist route, Rita is your guide.

Tours by Rita

5. Sesimbra (from USD 86.0)

Sesimbra is a small fishing village overlooking the sea. It is perched on jagged cliffs that drop down into the calm Setúbal Bay. It has a small monastery that boasts of the best mountain and sea views. Sesimbra is famous for its deep sea fishing and fresh seafood. Grab a bite at the waterfront restaurants serving fresh fish, swim at the clear waters or engage in water sports such as scuba diving. There are excellent hiking trails and beaches in the town.

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Arrabida, Sesimbra Small-Group Wine Tour from Lisbon

Duration: 8 hours

311 reviews

6. Arrábida Natural Park (from USD 74.51)

arrábida natural park

This is a special excursion to one of the world’s most magnificent coastlines. Enjoy scenic views along the way as you head to the historic seaside town of Sesimbra and explore the coastal Nature Park of Arrábida and reconnect with nature.

The adventure begins once you are in the sea. Your guide will bring you to Praia dos Galapinho where you will enjoy a picnic lunch and swim in the clear waters. This Viator day trip from Lisbon is indeed perfect for those who would like to chase the sun and the sea.

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From Lisbon: Arrábida Natural Park Kayak Tour with Lunch

Duration: 8.0 hour

198 reviews

7. Jeronimos Monastery

The Jerónimos Monastery or Hieronymites Monastery
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Heartshade used under CC BY 4.0

Just like the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery is also a well-loved tourist attraction in Lisbon. It is a religious building that was designed to memorialize the return of Vasco da Gama from India. It is built on the site of the former Ermida do Restelo Chapel where Vasco da Gama and the rest of the sailors prayed before setting sail down the African coast to India. It is a lovely building that features Gothic and Renaissance styles. Inside, you will find Vasco da Gama’s tomb.

Jeronimos Monastery

Address: Praca do Imperio 1400-06 Lisboa, Portugal

Website: Jeronimos Monastery

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8. Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais (from USD 61.23)

sintra, cabo da roca, and cascais

On this tour, you’ll discover Sintra and everything it has to offer. Amongst the places, you will visit is a national park that features rare plants and unique trees, the Moorish castle, Monserrate Palace and the chalets. You can also choose to visit the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, a palace surrounded by lovely gardens, lakes, caves and enigmatic constructions with alchemist meanings. Say goodbye to Sintra as you travel along the coast and embrace the Atlantic.

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From Lisbon: Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour

Duration: 8.0 to 8.5 hour

3920 reviews

9. Fatima (from USD 82.07)

fatima

Spend your day exploring Lisbon by booking this tour which features Portugal’s medieval, architectural and religious marvels. The tour starts at 9.00 from Lisbon and ends in Fatima. You will begin with Óbidos, the town that King Dinis gave to his bride, Queen Isabel, on their wedding day. Admire the 45-foot (13.72-meter) high walls of a medieval Moorish castle, the famous Pousada do Castelo and afterwards proceed to Alcobaca where you will visit Alcobaca Monastery, the largest church in Portugal.

You will have your lunch at Nazare and later enjoy stunning views of the beach and the ocean in Sitio. Spend the afternoon enjoying a trip to Batalha Monastery, a site with beautiful stained-glass windows and then end your day by visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima which is a globally recognised pilgrimage destination.

Return to Lisbon using a route that takes you through a rich agricultural region. What a great way to spend your day!

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Full-Day Fátima Tour from Lisbon

Duration: 11.0 hour

613 reviews

10. Aveiro and Ilhavo (from USD 93.53)

aveiro and ilhavo

Also known as the “Venice of Portugal”, Aveiro and Ilhavo feature many canals and a beautiful city centre. Explore this beautiful city as you get to discover the colourful houses, lighthouse and large sand dunes. Ride down the canals in a traditional boat and get to encounter the footbridges and the art nouveau buildings.

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From Porto: Aveiro and Ílhavo Full-Day Tour

Duration: 10.0 hour

11 reviews

11. Óbidos (from USD 181.53)

óbidos

Go on this individual day trip from Lisbon to the medieval town of Óbidos. It is a romantic experience that lets you journey through the past. Start by taking a stroll through the most beautiful squares in Lisbon as you take in breathtaking views. Afterwards, drive north through the rolling hills towards Óbidos. Admire the picturesque cobbled streets and the houses decorated with geraniums and bougainvillaea. Try out Obidos’ Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur served in a cup of hot chocolate. This tour is a guarantee that your time in Lisbon will be unforgettable.

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Individual Day Trip to Lisbon and Óbidos

Duration: 8 hour

1 review

12. Pena Palace and Park (from USD 17.0)

The Palace of Pena stands at the top of a rocky peak, the second highest point in the Sintra hills after the Cruz Alta. It is a red and yellow palace that displays a mix of many styles namely Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance. Pena Park, the surrounding of the palace, features ponds, fountains, statues, lovely walks and a number of rare plants from the former Portuguese colonies. Enjoy this environment with your family and friends as you make the best out of your time in Lisbon.

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Pena Palace & Chalet of Edla Admission Ticket

Duration: 1 day

Historic Lisbon

As you can see, Lisbon has a lot to offer from natural scenery to historic treasures. Whether you are alone, or with your family and friends, you will surely find something to suit your speed. The abovementioned list of day trips around Lisbon is a great guide for you in choosing an activity.

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Frequently asked questions about day trips from Lisbon, Portugal

1. What are the best day trip destinations from Lisbon?

So you can make the most of your time exploring in and around Lisbon, make sure to include these destinations in your list of places to visit: i) Costa da Caparica, ii) Évora and Megaliths, iii) Arrábida Natural Park, and iv) Batalha.

2. What are the best day trip activities from Lisbon?

Your trip to Lisbon will be well worth it if you add these activities to your exciting plans: i) marvel at limestone cliffs and caves with a day tour in Batalha, ii) ride the waves in Costa da Caparica, iii) discover hidden gems via a day tour in Evora, and iv) sample flavorful wines at Sesimbra.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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In addition to her love for writing and adventurous spirit, Hannah is a dedicated learner, always striving to acquire new knowledge with each passing day.

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