Travel Tips

Excursions From Lisbon: The Best Day Trips Around Lisbon

Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Europe, Portugal is a country that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern-day charm. The capital city, Lisbon, is a treasure trove of cultural attractions, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique experience. In this article, we’ll delve into the best day tours from Lisbon, exploring the surrounding areas and uncovering the secrets that lie just beyond the city limits.

Day Tour 1: Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Just 26 kilometers west of Lisbon lies the stunning Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. This picturesque park is home to the iconic Cabo de Roca, Europe’s westernmost point, and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a guided tour that includes visits to Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca for an unforgettable experience.

Distance: 26.8 km
How to get there: Meeting point in front of the Hard Rock Café, Avenida da Liberdade 2 – Get directions
Duration: Approximately 8 hours; departure time 9:00 am
Cost: Starting from €65.00 per person

This day tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Portugal’s natural beauty. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a haven for hikers, with numerous trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the coastline. Be sure to pack your hiking boots and camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Day Tour 2: Setúbal and Arrábida

Located approximately 37.5 kilometers southeast of Lisbon, the Parque Natural Arrábida and Sesimbra offer a unique blend of stunning beaches, lush forests, and rolling hills. This day tour allows you to explore the zones of Setúbal within the Arrábida National Park, taste local products, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

Distance: 37.5 km
How to get there: Pick-up at hotel in Lisbon
Duration: Approximately 8 hours; departure time 9:00 am
Cost: Starting from €65.00 per person

This day tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore Portugal’s coastal scenery without leaving the city limits. Setúbal and Sesimbra offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing, and kayaking, making this tour an ideal choice for adventure seekers.

Day Tour 3: Fatima, Obidos, and Alcobaça

Located approximately 217 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, Fatima is a renowned pilgrimage site that attracts millions of visitors each year. This day tour takes you to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, Óbidos, and Alcobaça, exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of these iconic destinations.

Distance: 217 km
How to get there: The starting point is Marques de Pombal in Parque Eduardo VII – Get directions
Duration: Approximately 8 hours; departure time 9:00 am
Cost: Starting from €80.00 per person

This day tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Portugal’s historic sites and cultural heritage. Fatima, Óbidos, and Alcobaça offer a wealth of historical landmarks, including the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima, the medieval town of Óbidos, and the stunning monastery of Alcobaça.

Day Tour 4: Berlengas Nature Reserve

Located approximately 86 kilometers west of Lisbon, the Berlengas Nature Reserve is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a unique opportunity to explore the islands by boat or kayak.

Distance: 86 km
How to get there: Pick-up at hotel in Lisbon
Duration: Approximately 8 hours; departure time 8:00 am
Cost: Starting from €100.00 per person

This day tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore Portugal’s coastal scenery by boat or kayak. Berlengas Nature Reserve offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding, making this tour an ideal choice for adventure seekers.

Day Tour 5: Evora

Located approximately 134 kilometers southeast of Lisbon, Evora is a city steeped in history and culture, with landmarks such as the Roman Temple and the Chapel of Bones. This day tour allows you to explore the city’s rich heritage and experience its unique blend of ancient and modern attractions.

Distance: 134 km
How to get there: Pick-up point Marques de Pombal in Parque Eduardo VII – Get directions
Duration: Approximately 10 hours; departure time 8:00 am
Cost: Starting from €80.00 per person

This day tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Portugal’s historic sites and cultural heritage. Evora offers a wealth of historical landmarks, including the Roman Temple, the Chapel of Bones, and the stunning cathedral of Évora.

Day Tour 6: Mafra and Ericeira

Located approximately 35 kilometers north of Lisbon, Mafra is home to the stunning Palacio de Mafra, a palace complex that includes a monastery, basilica, and library. This day tour also takes you to Ericeira, a world-renowned surfing destination with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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Distance: 35.4 km
How to get there: Pick-up at hotel in Lisbon
Duration: Approximately 8 hours; departure time 9:00 am
Cost: Starting from €80.00 per person

This day tour is perfect for surfers and history buffs alike. Mafra offers a unique blend of historical landmarks and cultural attractions, while Ericeira provides access to some of Portugal’s best surfing spots.

Day Tour 7: The Palace of Queluz

Located approximately 12 kilometers west of Lisbon, the Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz is a stunning palace complex that boasts an impressive collection of artwork and furnishings.

Distance: 12.2 km
How to get there: Largo Palácio de Queluz, in Queluz; reachable by train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station – Get directions
Hours open: Every day from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Ticket price: €10.00 per person

This day tour is perfect for art lovers and history buffs who want to explore Portugal’s cultural heritage. The Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz offers a wealth of historical landmarks, including the stunning palace complex and its impressive collection of artwork.

Day Tour 8: Coimbra

Located approximately 200 kilometers north of Lisbon, Coimbra is a city steeped in history and culture, with landmarks such as the University of Coimbra and the Monastery of Santa Clara.

Distance: 200 km
How to get there: Pick-up at hotel in Lisbon
Duration: Approximately 9 hours; departure time 8:00 am
Cost: Starting from €150.00 per person

This day tour is perfect for history buffs who want to explore Portugal’s cultural heritage. Coimbra offers a wealth of historical landmarks, including the University of Coimbra and the Monastery of Santa Clara.

Day Tour 9: Cacilhas and Christ the King statue

Located approximately 5 kilometers south of Lisbon, Cacilhas is a charming town with stunning views of the city skyline. This day tour takes you to the iconic Christ the King statue, which offers breathtaking views of Lisbon.

Distance: 5 km
How to get there: Reachable with the “Cacilhas – Cais do Sodré” ferry from Lisbon’s Terminal Fluvial – Get directions
Hours open: Always accessible
Cost of admission: Free; costs vary depending on attractions visited

This day tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore Portugal’s coastal scenery without leaving the city limits. Cacilhas offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and kayaking, making this tour an ideal choice for adventure seekers.

Day Tour 10: Palmela

Located approximately 43 kilometers southeast of Lisbon, Palmela is a charming town with stunning views of the Serra de Arrabida mountains. This day tour takes you to the picturesque castle that dominates the city.

Distance: 32 km
How to get there: Reachable by train from Lisbon’s Roma-Areeiro Station with line “Roma-Areeiro – Setubal” and getting off at Palmela station – Get directions
Hours open: Always accessible

This day tour is perfect for history buffs who want to explore Portugal’s cultural heritage. Palmela offers a wealth of historical landmarks, including the stunning castle that dominates the city.

In conclusion, Portugal offers a wealth of opportunities for travelers seeking unique cultural experiences. From the stunning natural beauty of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park to the historic sites and cultural attractions of Evora, Mafra, and Coimbra, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. Whether you’re interested in exploring Portugal’s coastal scenery or its cultural heritage, these day tours are an ideal choice for anyone looking for a unique experience.

Tips and Tricks:

Be sure to pack your hiking boots and camera when exploring the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Bring sunscreen and a hat when exploring the coastal scenery of Setúbal and Sesimbra.
Don’t forget to try some of Portugal’s delicious local cuisine, including seafood and pastries.
Consider visiting the Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Be sure to check the hours of operation for each attraction before heading out.

Conclusion:

Portugal is a country with a rich history and culture, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring its natural beauty or cultural heritage, these day tours are an ideal choice for anyone looking for a unique experience. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect tour for your interests and budget. So why wait? Book your tour today and discover all that Portugal has to offer!

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