Best Day Trips from Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais & More

Portugal’s vibrant capital,Lisbon, serves as an excellent base for exploring some of the country’s most captivating towns and landscapes. From fairytale palaces to dramatic coastlines, a wealth of experiences awaits just a short journey away. Discover the best day trips that will enrich your Portuguese adventure.

Sintra: A Fairytale Escape into History

Just a short train ride from Lisbon,Sintra feels like stepping into a whimsical storybook. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its romantic 19th-century architecture, lush gardens, and historic estates nestled amidst rolling hills. It’s an absolute must-visit for anyone in the region.

Key Attractions in Sintra

Pena Palace:Perched atop a hill, the vibrant, multi-colored Pena Palace is an iconic symbol of Portuguese Romanticism. Its eclectic mix of architectural styles and stunning panoramic views are unforgettable. Allow ample time to explore both the palace interiors and the extensive surrounding park.
Quinta da Regaleira:This enchanting estate is less about grand halls and more about mystical gardens, hidden tunnels, grottoes, and the famous Initiation Well. It's a place where history, legend, and natural beauty intertwine, inviting exploration and discovery.
Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros):Offering a stark contrast to the palaces, these ancient ramparts provide breathtaking views across the Sintra region and out to the Atlantic. Walk along the defensive walls and imagine centuries of history unfolding.
Sintra National Palace:Easily recognizable by its twin conical chimneys, this palace is located in the heart of the historic town. It served as a royal residence for centuries and features beautifully tiled rooms and a rich collection of art.

Tips for Visiting Sintra

Sintra can get very crowded, especially during peak season. Start your day early, consider visiting during the off-season, or prioritize which palaces you want to see. Public transport within Sintra can be busy; walking between some sites is possible, but steep. Taxis, tuk-tuks, or tourist buses are available.

Cascais & Estoril: Coastal Charm and Riviera Glamour

For a dose of sun, sea, and sophisticated charm, head west from Lisbon to the picturesque coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril. Easily accessible by a scenic train ride along the Tagus estuary, these destinations offer beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Highlights of Cascais and Estoril

Cascais Old Town:Wander through the narrow cobbled streets, discover charming boutiques, and enjoy a meal at one of the many seafood restaurants. The town's former fishing village character is still evident, blending seamlessly with its modern, upscale vibe.
Beaches:Enjoy the golden sands of Praia da Rainha, Praia da Conceição, or Praia do Tamariz in Estoril. These sheltered beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Boca do Inferno:A dramatic chasm in the coastal cliffs where the ocean powerfully crashes against the rocks, creating impressive natural blowholes. It's particularly spectacular on a windy day.
Marina de Cascais:Stroll along the marina, admire the yachts, and soak in the glamorous atmosphere.
Estoril Casino:One of Europe's largest casinos, famously inspiring Ian Fleming's James Bond novel "Casino Royale."

Getting to Cascais and Estoril

The train from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon offers a stunning coastal journey, making the trip itself part of the experience. The towns are well-connected by local buses and are very walkable.

Fun Fact:During World War II, Estoril was a hub for exiled royals and spies due to Portugal's neutrality, adding to its mystique and charm.

Óbidos: A Medieval Walled Village

Step back in time with a visit to Óbidos, a captivating medieval town encircled by ancient walls. Its whitewashed houses, adorned with vibrant flowers and painted blue or yellow trim, make for an incredibly picturesque setting.

What to See and Do in Óbidos

Walk the Walls:For the adventurous, walking along the top of the town walls offers incredible views of the village and the surrounding countryside. Be aware that there are no handrails in some sections.
Óbidos Castle:The beautifully preserved castle, now a luxury hotel, dominates the town. Even if you're not staying there, its exterior is impressive.
Rua Direita:The main street is lined with traditional shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's the perfect place to sample Ginjinha, a traditional sour cherry liqueur, often served in a chocolate cup.
Churches:Explore the charming Igreja de Santa Maria and other smaller churches that dot the town.

Visiting Óbidos

Óbidos is easily reached by bus from Lisbon(Campo Grande station). It's a relatively small town, making it ideal for a half-day or full-day trip, especially if combined with another nearby destination.

Évora: Roman History in the Alentejo

Venturing further inland into the sun-drenched Alentejo region, you'll find Évora, another UNESCO World Heritage city. Rich in history, it showcases a remarkable collection of monuments from various periods, particularly Roman and medieval.

Key Sights in Évora

Roman Temple of Évora (Templo de Diana):One of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Portugal, dating back to the 1st century AD.
Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos):A unique and haunting chapel adorned with the bones and skulls of an estimated 5,000 monks. A stark reminder of mortality.
Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora):A magnificent Gothic cathedral offering panoramic views from its rooftop.
Praça do Giraldo:The main square, a lively hub with cafes and a distinctive fountain.

Getting to Évora

Évora is accessible by train or bus from Lisbon(Sete Rios or Oriente stations), with the bus often being quicker and more frequent. It's a longer day trip but incredibly rewarding for history buffs.

Ericeira: Portugal's Surfing Capital

For those seeking waves and a laid-back coastal vibe, the charming fishing village of Ericeira is an excellent choice. Recognized as a World Surfing Reserve, it attracts surfers from across the globe but also offers beautiful beaches and delicious seafood for non-surfers.

Why Visit Ericeira?

World Surfing Reserve:Explore the various surf spots suitable for all levels, or simply watch the pros ride the waves.
Beaches:Enjoy the sandy shores of Praia dos Pescadores or Praia do Sul, perfect for relaxing or sunbathing.
Fresh Seafood:Indulge in the catch of the day at one of the many local restaurants, offering authentic Portuguese cuisine.
Charming Village:Wander through the narrow streets, admire the traditional blue and white houses, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Travel to Ericeira

Buses run regularly from Lisbon(Campo Grande bus terminal) to Ericeira, making it an easy and direct journey.

Nazaré: Home of Giant Waves

Further north along the coast lies Nazaré, a traditional fishing town that has gained international fame for its monstrous winter waves. Even outside of big wave season, it's a fascinating destination to experience authentic Portuguese coastal life.

Highlights of Nazaré

Praia do Norte:The beach famous for the world's largest surfable waves. During winter, if the conditions are right, you can witness colossal waves attracting big-wave surfers.
Sítio da Nazaré:Take the funicular up to Sítio, the historic upper town, for breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and town below.
Nazaré Lighthouse (Farol da Nazaré):Located at the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo, this is the best viewpoint to observe Praia do Norte and learn about the science behind the giant waves. There's also a small museum dedicated to big wave surfing.
Traditional Culture:Observe the local women still wearing traditional seven-skirt outfits and the unique wooden fishing boats on the main beach.

Getting to Nazaré

Nazaré is best reached by bus from Lisbon(Sete Rios or Oriente stations). It's a longer day trip, often combined with Óbidos due to its proximity.

Practical Tips for Your Day Trips

Transportation:Portugal has an excellent public transport network. Trains are great for coastal trips (like Cascais and Sintra), while buses are often better for inland destinations (Óbidos, Évora, Ericeira, Nazaré). Renting a car offers flexibility, especially if combining multiple stops.
Start Early:Popular destinations like Sintra can get crowded. Arriving early helps beat the rush and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Comfortable Shoes:You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially in historic towns with cobbled streets and hilly terrain.
Check Opening Hours:Always verify the operating hours of attractions, especially outside of peak season.
Book Ahead:For major attractions like Pena Palace, purchasing tickets online in advance can save time.

From the whimsical palaces of Sintra to the dramatic cliffs of Nazaré, the diverse range of day trips from Lisbon promises unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek history, natural beauty, or coastal relaxation, Portugal's heartland and coastline have something truly special to offer every traveler.