17 Perfect Day Trips from Lisbon by Train, Bus, or Car (2024)

Need a day trip from Lisbon by train, bus, or car? Check out these incredible Portuguese cities!

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s full of adventure and new experiences Lisbon is a great place to start. But don’t spend all your time in one city – there are plenty of popular day trips from Lisbon waiting to be taken.

Whether you want to explore Portugal’s stunning coastline, take a journey back in time, or see some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone.

I’ve partnered with some amazing travel bloggers to share our favorite day trips from Lisbon ranging anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours away!

So read on for our list of the 17 best day trips from Lisbon by train, bus, and car to get planning!

1. Ericeira

• Recommended by Michelle at Ericeira Family Adventures

Ericeira is a quaint seaside village on Lisbon’s northern coast and is the only World Surf Reserve in Europe. Although tourism has modernized the village considerably, the white buildings perched on the cliffs above the crashing waves still speak of another time when fishermen mended their nets and fresh fish was sold at the market. 

Located 30 minutes north of Lisbon, it is easily accessible by car or bus and makes the perfect day trip from Lisbon. Most tourists rent a car or take an Uber for about 40 Euros since the 12 Euro bus ride takes about an hour. Once there, you can easily get around the village on foot, and either drive to one of the 11 beaches or take the convenient beach bus for a few euros.  

Although surfing is one of the main activities people do here, both the young and the old enjoy a wide variety of things to do such as wine tasting, biking, hiking, and sunbathing on the beach. The village itself is a real treat to visit with its beautiful architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and squares bustling with people sitting at small tables in the sunshine.

Ericeira is also well known for its high-quality fish and seafood. You’ll enjoy the abundant seafood platters and fresh grilled fish at the beautifully renovated Ribas restaurant in the village.

You also won’t want to miss having a drink at sunset at the Mar das Latas wine bar. Nothing feels more like a vacation than sea salt on sun-kissed skin and a glass of regional wine at sunset. 

Ericeira is very popular with Lisbonites due to both its proximity and the microclimate which makes things about 10 degrees cooler during the summer months. When packing, remember evenings are always cool, and temperatures never rise to more than 86°F (30°C).

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2. Mafra

• Recommended by Jami at Celiac Travel Pack

The city of Mafra is 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Lisbon making it easily accessible for a day or half-day trip. The most economical way to get to the castle is to take the 209 bus from Lisbon’s Campo Grande Station. The ride will cost about €4 and take 30 minutes.

Alternatively, consider a tour to nearby Ericeira and Mafra or consider using a rideshare app (they are very economical in Portugal).

Mafra National Palace is one of the former residences of the royal family. The palace was built during the peak of the Brazilian gold imports so the king of Portugal was able to indulge in some extravagance.

The palace has an incredible library which is the highlight of the visit. Connected to the palace you’ll find a basilica made with beautiful pink marble that makes it feel brighter than other churches. The basilica is also home to six organs! 

If you’re not traveling with a tour, try to arrive in the afternoon so you miss the group tour crowds. Mafra is off the beaten path a bit and you can have the palace basically to yourself in the afternoon when the tour groups have moved on to their next destination. 

After your visit is finished wander the cobblestone streets of Mafra and look for a bakery to get a treat. Pastelaria Fradinho is very close to the palace. They are the creators of the traditional Mafran pastry by the same name. Try the traditional pastry while sitting outside and taking in the site of the massive palace.

3. Belem

• Recommended by Pafoua at Her Wanderful World

Belem is a great Lisbon day trip because it is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Even if you don’t have a full day to spend in Belem, you can spend half a day in Belem and still be able to enjoy the best of Belem’s main attractions.

The historic monument Torre de Belem, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the river Tagus.

The Jeronimos Monastery is another must-see attraction in Belem and is one of the most beautiful examples of Portuguese architecture, and just a short walk away from the bus stop in Belem.

There are also a few other things to see and do in Belem that aren’t quite as famous as the Torre de Belem or the Jeronimos Monastery but are still worth a visit. The Monument to the Discoveries, for example, is a tribute to all of the Portuguese explorers who have made discoveries around the world.

There are also various museums to check out in Belem including the National Coach Museum and the Berardo Museum of Art.

The Portugal-famous Pasteis de Nata also originated from the monastery in Belem. These little egg tarts are delicious and need to be tasted at the Pasteis de Belem pastry shop. You’ll know it by the long lines going out the door!

To get to Belem, you can ride Tram 15 or hop on a city bus. The ride will be around 40 minutes long from the center of Lisbon and will drop you right off near the Jeronimos Monastery.

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Lisbon for a day, Belem is the perfect place to do it!

4. Sintra

• Recommended by Mary at Be Right Back

One of the best things to do while visiting Lisbon is a day trip to Sintra. Located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Sintra is a charming town known for housing about a dozen of castles and palaces, some with incredible views over the Natural Park. 

Taking a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra by train is easy and affordable. You can purchase a train ticket at the Rossio station and ride for about 45 minutes for €5 per person. It is recommended to take the train early, ideally before 9:30 to avoid crowds and queues.

Sintra is a town that is spread out in the mountains so you will need to choose a means of transportation to get around. At the train station, you will find many tuk-tuks waiting for visitors. They cost about 10€ per person and can take you where you want while giving you information on the places you are driving by.

Another way to get around is by booking a Uber, although a bit less touristy. There are also several buses that depart from the train station and stop at the main points of interest. 

Finally, you can choose to book a small-group tour to Sintra where you will get a personalized itinerary from a local guide.

Although it is difficult to see everything in Sintra in a day, some of the highlights of Sintra include the Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.

While Pena Palace looks like a real-life Disney castle, the Moorish Castle is a beautiful medieval castle, and Quinta da Regaleira is a gothic mansion with a Bali-like decor. 

>> Book your small-group tour to Sintra! <<

5. Cabo Da Roca

• Recommended by Kenny at Knycx Journeying

If you look at the map, the Iberia peninsula that includes Spain and Portugal is like the head of a man glazing toward the Atlantic Ocean. While Spain looks like the hair that was blown backward by the wind, Portugal looks like a face. There’s a spot called Cabo da Roca, and it is the tip of the “nose” – also known as the westernmost point of Continental Europe. 

Cabo da Roca is in the municipality of Sintra and it is close to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Apart from Sintra’s magical Pena National Palace, the Castle of the Moors, and many other UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites, the nature park offers beautiful forests, parks, ancient ruins, and dramatic coastlines. 

The best way to get there is by bus from Sintra or self-driving. Start the day walking leisurely on one of the many hiking trails in Nature Park: explore the deep valleys, visit intimate farms, or simply observe the unique flora and fauna.

Enjoy a refreshment or an afternoon tea in one of the exotic resorts on the South Coast. Finally, head to Cabo da Roca in the evening, it is one of the best spots in Europe to view the sunset because it offers an unobstructed, panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean. 

The cape is a small open area with a lighthouse and a monument that says “Aqui, onde a terra se acaba e o mar começa…” (Where the land ends and the sea begins). This is a unique location and the poetic inscriptions hold dear to many visitors’ hearts. 

6. Cascais

• Recommended by Pafoua at Her Wanderful World

Cascais is one of the best day trips from Lisbon by train because it’s a coastal town in Portugal with spectacular views and beautiful beaches. You can get to Cascais from Lisbon by train, which will take you about 1 hour.

When you get to Cascais, enjoy a walk down the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town of Cascais where you can browse the souvenir shops, grab an espresso, or have a snack to eat. There are also lookout areas where you can stop to take in the views of the ocean.

One of the best attractions in Cascais is the Museu dos Condes de Castro Guimarães. This mansion does have collections of the families that lived in it from furniture to antiques, but there are also gorgeous sea views, too!

Another historic site to visit is the Citadela de Cascais. This was a fort built in the 15th century to protect Lisbon from attacks at the mouth of the Tagus river. You can sign up for a guided tour to see its surroundings and art center.

If you’re visiting Cascais for the beach, don’t forget your swimsuit if you want to swim! One of the best beaches in Cascais is Praia da Rainha, which has sandy coves and low cliffs. It’s also near restaurants if you get hungry while sunbathing. One of the best places to get gelato in Cascais is Santorini’s, which you can enjoy right on the beach!

You can also head to Tamariz beach, which barely has waves so it is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. To get to Tamariz beach, you can follow the beach walk, also known as Cascais Paredao, and get scenic views of the water.

While in Cascais-Estoril, you will also want to check out Casino Estoril. It is a modern-day working casino, but it is magnificent and also referred to as one of the largest in Europe. In front of Casino Estoril, you’ll also see beautifully manicured gardens.

7. Obidos

• Recommended by Lauren at Never Ending Footsteps

Obidos is one of Portugal’s most beautiful villages, famous for its white-washed buildings, medieval architecture, and castle walls. It’s a popular day trip destination from Lisbon, as it’s located just 1 hour north of the capital. 

To gain the best views of Obidos, venture over to one of eight medieval gates and make your way up to the ancient city walls. From there, you can walk the circumference of the village from up high, looking down at the houses, churches, and surrounding countryside. 

While you’re in town, don’t forget to sample the local village tipple: ginjinha d’Obidos. It’s a sour cherry liqueur that’s served inside a small chocolate cup, which you pop in your mouth after finishing your drink. You’ll see vendors all over the village serving it and can expect to pay just over €1 for the experience. 

There are plenty of beautiful churches to check out in Obidos, but the absolute best is Igreja de Santa Maria. Originally a Visigothic temple, it was later turned into a mosque, and then finally, a church. These days, it’s home to an impressive interior that’s blanketed in blue tiles and extravagant oil paintings. 

One of the best restaurants in Obidos is Ja!mon Ja!mon, a cozy establishment that offers up Portuguese tapas. Opt for the pork cheeks and chicken gizzards if you’re feeling adventurous, while the croquettes, risottos, and soups will suit even the pickiest of eaters.

If you’re visiting Portugal on a budget, head to Senhor da Pedra for your meals instead, which is home to some of the best cheap eats in the village.

There are several options for getting to Obidos. If you have your own transport, it will take 1 hour to drive there, following the A8 highway for the majority of the way. If not, express buses regularly run from Campo Grande station in Lisbon.

On weekdays, buses depart every hour and every 2 hours on the weekends. As with driving, you can expect the journey to take 1 hour. Buses cost €8 each way.

• Recommended by Maartje + Sebastiaan at The Orange Backpack

Visiting the Buddha Eden Garden is one of the more unique places to visit in Portugal. It is one of the largest Oriental gardens in Europe, filled with Buddha statues, gardens, modern art, and more. This hidden gem in Portugal should definitely be on your wish list for your upcoming trip to Lisbon.

The Buddha park is enormous and it is still being developed into an even larger garden park. Its construction started only in 2001 when a billionaire bought a large estate in this area to produce wine and put his Buddha collection on display. He had collected about 6,000 tons of marble and granite worth of beautiful statues and decided to show this unique collection to the world in a sculpture garden.

The park opened in 2010 and construction is still ongoing. Each year new areas are added and the sculpture garden is no longer just about Buddhas. There is a large area with an entire zoo of metal animal sculptures, a large pond with a red pagoda, modern African art, and a blue terracotta army.

The Buddha statues might still be the most impressive though. There is a monumental staircase in the heart of the park. It has large golden Buddhas, a huge reclining Buddha, and a giant Buddha of 21 meters high!

The Buddha Eden Garden is located in the village of Bombarral, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the white town of Obidos. It makes a great day trip from Lisbon to visit both in one go. The park is only a 70-minute drive from Lisbon. The entrance is € 5 per person. You’ll pay extra to use the tourist train in the park. There are two small restaurants for a snack and drinks.

9. Dinosaur Footprints

• Recommended by Linn at Amused by Algarve

One of the most unusual day trips you can do from Lisbon is to the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park to see some of the world’s largest sauropod footprints that are found in the world.

The dinosaur footprints were discovered in a quarry in 1994 and 3 years later the area was declared a natural monument. Now you can enjoy a 1.2 mile (2 kilometers) walk around the quarry with informational boards along the way, taking you onto a wooden boardwalk that crosses the quarry alongside the 175 million-year-old footprints.

Just imagine walking right next to where these giants once strolled across mudflats that stored their footprints through millions of years of geological layers. Now, they are perfectly preserved in limestone.

To protect the area, make sure you stay on the path and do not walk off to step on or touch the footprints. The walk loops back to the visitor center where you can see informational videos about the finds and learn more about the sauropods.

If you travel with children, there are also many cool dinosaur items to be bought in the shop. There is also a full-size dinosaur statue on the premises to give you an idea about the size of these prehistoric creatures.

There are also a large number of caves in the natural park that you can visit.

The only way you can get to the Pegadas de Dinossáurios da Serra de Aire Natural Monument from Lisbon is if you rent a car. It is about a 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon.

The day trip can easily be combined with visiting the nearby town of Fatima or enjoying the hiking trails in the area. Fatima is your best bet for finding a place for lunch unless you decide to bring a lunch pack and enjoy it in nature.

10. Fatima

• Recommended by Noel at The Mature Traveler

If you are looking for a historic site to visit from Lisbon on a day trip, then consider visiting Fatima.

The historic town and Catholic site of Fatima is one of the main pilgrimage sites in Portugal, if not all of Europe, to visit and an easy day trip from Lisbon. Fatima is about a 1.5-hour ride by bus, private car, or even a group tour to the area.

The religious center has many churches, chapels, and monuments to visit in Fatima, which include the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, The Capelinha, the Chapel of the Apparitions, and the Museum of Fatima.

One of the most popular stories in Fatima is about the Lady of Fatima, who appeared during turbulent times in Europe and was a sign of comfort to believers of the Catholic faith and showing the children and all faithful that she is with them at all times.

This apparition has developed Fatima into a religious and pilgrimage site that Catholics come to year-round and during the key days of May 13th to October 13th when the apparitions are celebrated on-site.

The church and site have developed into an entire city that serves the pilgrims looking for housing, food, and places to also visit in the area. The large square of Fatima is large and can fit almost double the size of St. Peter’s Square in Rome. Two churches were built as well–one more traditional and a larger church that can service a larger attendance for big gatherings on site.

A visit to Fatima is very spiritual even if you are not a practicing Catholic and a fascinating look at apparitions and beliefs of these pilgrimage sites creates a holy presence to visitors that come to the area.

11. Nazaré

• Recommended by Bradley at Dream Big Travel Far

Nazaré can either be an easy day trip or part of an epic and longer Portugal road trip. Either way, it’s around a 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon. Or you can hop on the Rede Expressos bus, which will take you to the center of Nazaré in 2 hours for roughly 10 Euros.

White sands, a charming fishermen’s village, and scrumptious seafood. These are some things you can expect from the town. But what has put Nazaré on the global map is actually its world-famous gigantic waves! Professional big wave surfers and enthusiasts flock here from around the globe, especially during the big wave season between October and February.

Farol da Nazaré is a red lighthouse where you can get one of the most epic views of the beach and waves. It also houses a museum explaining the geology of the massive waves, as well as a gallery featuring the famous athletes who have surfed them.

There is also the 10-day Our Lady Of Nazaré Festival that takes place on September 8-18 every year. Filled with bullfights, concerts, and folk parades, it commemorates the rescue of Dom Fuas by the Virgin Mary herself.

Other than its legendary surf spot, this town also has an important fishing history. The fishermen’s district comprises a few miles of coastal streets along the Praca Manuel de Arriaga. The sight of men hauling fish nets, children playing soccer, and charming seaside houses will transport you back in time.

In terms of culinary destinations, A Tasquinha is not to miss. From octopus salad to monkfish rice, this family-run restaurant serves authentic Portuguese cuisine and the freshest seafood in town. The friendly service reflects the local warmth, while the simple and rustic decor makes it feel like dining in a friend’s home!

12. Monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaca

• Recommended by Soumya at Stories by Soumya

One of the best day trips from Lisbon is to the UNESCO world heritage monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaca in Central Portugal. Both the monasteries are exemplary of medieval Gothic architecture and make for an interesting stop on every heritage lover’s Portugal itinerary. 

One of the most impressive religious buildings in Portugal, the Batalha Monastery was built to commemorate the Portuguese victory at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. The architecture is a tasteful mix of Gothic and Manueline styles. Highlights include the Royal Cloisters, an unfinished chapel, and the tomb of Henry, the Navigator. 

The Monastery at Alcobaca is home to the graves of King Pedro I and Ines de Castro, his mistress. Theirs was one of the most tragic love stories in the world. Built in the 12th century, the monastery was the first Gothic structure in Portugal. Over centuries, it has accumulated several Manueline components and Baroque sculptures and is an attractive piece of layered stonework. 

There are several amazing restaurants right outside the Alcobaca Monastery to grab a quick bite once you are done with your tour. Origens Restaurant comes highly recommended. 

It is easy to get to Alcobaca from Lisbon, and onwards to Batalha, by car. Because the monasteries are located just 30 minutes away from each other, they can be easily done in a day. You can also take a Rede Expressos bus from the Lisbon Sete Rios terminal. The bus journey to Alcobaca takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. 

13. Porto Covo

• Recommended by Dean + Laynni at Routinely Nomadic

One of the underrated gems of the relatively unknown Portuguese Alentejo Coast, clean and tidy Porto Covo is an outstanding beach destination. A world away from the overcrowded sandy beaches of the Algarve, Porto Covo is a traditional fishing village that just happens to be surrounded by wonderful sand, rocky coves, and phenomenal surf breaks.

A day trip from Lisbon to Porto Covo is around 2 hours by car, and there are also several daily Rede Expressos buses that take 2.5 hours.

Of course, its main claim to fame may be its status as the first (or last) stop on the epic Fishermen’s Trail long-distance hiking path. Covering 4 days of fabulous shoreline trails, it is one of the best coastal treks in Europe. Visitors can hike small portions of the trail or, for those even more adventurous types, it is also part of the much longer Rota Vicentina trek that runs 140 miles (225 kilometers) from Sao Torpes to Lagos.

Surfers flock to Porto Covo for the impressive range of surf breaks, with nearby Praia de Vale Figueiros boasting particularly big surfing waves, excellent body boarding, and a handy surf shop.

Of course, if your idea of beach time is more about relaxation than adrenaline, Praia Grande is a beautiful stretch of beach just to the north, and right below town Praia dos Buizinhos is backed by spectacular cliffs.

A short drive or easy walk south of Porto Covo, you’ll find Pessegueiro Beach, Fort Island, offering sand, history, and views. The 17th-century fort provides a fascinating look at the maritime history of the Alentejo region and the island is an important bird sanctuary that is visited by several boat trips per day in summer.

Plus, while enjoying the wide streets and gorgeous whitewashed buildings of Porto Covo, be sure to set aside time for some fresh seafood at the friendly Restaurant Ze Inacio.

14. Tomar

• Recommended by Or at My Path in the World

For those who want to visit one of the most incredible landmarks in Portugal, Tomar would be an ideal day trip from Lisbon. While it can make a great stop on a road trip, this city is also easily reachable by train from Lisbon, and the journey takes about 2 hours.

The number one reason why Tomar has become such a famous and popular place is the 12th-century complex of the Convent of Christ, one of the most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal.

Not only was it the seat of the Knights Templar and, later on, the Knights of the Order of Christ, but also the financial resource for the maritime expeditions of Prince Henry the Navigator (who was also the Grand Master of the Order of Christ) during Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

The complex consists of a convent, a castle, and its walls and is built in Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural styles.

After stepping back in time to this amazing landmark, continue to explore the city itself. From visiting the medieval Synagogue of Tomar, a proof of the city’s Jewish history, to seeing the quirky Museu dos Fósforos (Match Museum) to wandering through the quintessential Portuguese streets, there’s a lot to love about Tomar.

If you’re getting hungry, you can have a unique experience at the medieval-themed Taverna Antiqua (make a reservation if possible). After that, head to the Estrelas De Tomar bakery for a cup of coffee and a local sweet called ‘beija-me depressa’ (‘kiss me quick’).

15. Coimbra

• Recommended by Vidyut at Triplyzer

Historical in origin but young at heart, Coimbra is a university town in Portugal. The city is a unique blend of historic architecture, a burgeoning art scene, and youthful energy making it a perfect day trip from Lisbon.

The top things to do in Coimbra include a number of historical and cultural attractions.

The good thing is as most of the sites are packed together, you can conveniently walk amongst them. Begin by taking a walk through the charming cobbled stone streets, and let the sites discover you.

Located in Paço das Escolas plaza, the Alcaçova Palace is a stunning building from the 16th century. The royal palace welcomes its visitors with stunning staterooms, a royal library, and an intricately decorated chapel

Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha is another interesting site worth visiting. The well-preserved ruins. Wander through this 14th-century monastery complex and wonder how life would have been when it was functional.

Traditionally performed by students, a musical night of Fado is something that shouldn’t be missed.

Coimbra is well connected with neighboring cities via regular bus and train services. From Lisbon take the express train to Coimbra which costs about €24 and covers the distance in 2 hours.

16. Aveiro

• Recommended by Samantha at New England Wanderlust

Aveiro is an amazing little town north of Lisbon that only takes about 2.5-3 hours by train to get to, and makes for a spectacular day trip. Depending on your schedule and budget, both the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades trains will take you there, providing you with plenty of options throughout the day.

The train station in Aveiro is a short and easy 10-minute walk to the center of town. You can also rent a car and drive, which will take you about 2.5 hours, and offer even more flexibility. 

Sometimes referred to as the “Venice of Portugal,” one of the best things to do in Aveiro is to take a ride on a Moliceiro, which are beautiful boats that look like gondolas. These boats will take you through the canals of Aveiro, offering you a unique perspective of the town. 

After your journey through the canals, be sure to try some Ovos Moles, a delicious egg and sugar pastry that was created right in Aveiro. You’ll be able to find them in bakeries and cafes all over town, but the best place to get them is the Maria da Apresentacao da Cruz bakery. 

With your Ovos Moles in hand, walk around to take in some of the top sites in Aveiro like the Museu de Arte Nova, Igreja da Misericórdia de Aveiro, the adorable bridges covered in thousands of colorful ribbons at The Forum, and the beautiful Aveiro city center. 

One of the best things about a day trip to Aveiro from Lisbon is that you can visit two amazing destinations in one. A short 15-minute drive from Aveiro, you’ll find yourself in Costa Nova, a really fun little town that’s best known for its colorful, striped beach houses.

Stroll along Praia da Costa Nova for the best views of these houses, and then be sure to walk the 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) long boardwalk along the beach to Farol da Barra to see Portugal’s tallest lighthouse. To get to Costa Nova from Aveiro, you can request an Uber or a taxi, take the bus, or drive if you have a car.

Once you’re back in Aveiro, head to Restaurante O Bairro, one of the best restaurants for fresh seafood and amazing pasta dishes with outdoor seating. Finish your night with gelato from Saborini before heading back to Lisbon.

17. Agueda

• Recommended by Jackie at Jou Jou Travels 

Agueda, Portugal is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and makes an easy day trip from Lisbon. To get there, it is best to drive and it will take about 2.5 hours.

Agueda is a small place to explore so you don’t need any set agenda. It is best to go in the months between July to September. This is when the streets are decorated with colorful umbrellas or balloons floating throughout the sky on several streets.

The happy town explodes with color and the umbrellas are displayed each year in an effort to shade the hot streets from the beating sun. This project was started by the Umbrella Sky Project initially in Agueda.

Since then many other umbrella streets have been created in other cities around the world. Not only that but there is also an annual Ágitagueda Art Festival where you will find many art installments and a live music festival takes place.

Wander the narrow streets admiring all the fun displays including graffiti, painted staircases, and more. Be sure to grab lunch at O Tipico for some local cuisine in town. This Michelin-star restaurant has many great options for food including cod gratin with mashed potatoes.

Many pair Agueda with Aveiro as it’s situated 15 miles (23 kilometers) east and takes only 30 minutes to drive from there!  Agueda is definitely a great off-the-beaten-path destination to visit. You won’t find it overcrowded with tourists and it is such a creative and wonderful place to add to your bucket list.

Map of Day Trips from Lisbon

In short, a trip to Porto is better spent over a weekend. Although you can visit Porto on a day trip from Lisbon as it’s 3 hours away, there is so much to explore in Porto that it wouldn’t be worth a 6-hour round-trip train ride.

With so much to do in Porto, you’ll have plenty of activities to fill out a 2-day itinerary in Porto.

Start by visiting the Sao Bento Train station, one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. You can also head to the Rio Douro next and take a cruise down the river to get views of all the bridges that Porto is famous for.

One of the best churches to visit is Igreja de Sao Francisco, which is beautifully gilded in gold from floor to ceiling. It’s awe-inspiring standing within those walls!

When in Porto, you’ll need to try the famous franchesinha, which is a hardy sandwich filled with 3 different types of meat, covered in cheese, and has beer and tomato sauce poured over it.

Trains and Buses

Public transportation is the best way to take day trips from Lisbon. There are buses and trains that will take you to different towns and cities in Portugal and depending on where you want to go, one choice will be more reasonable than the other.

In regards to trains, you can book the Alfa Pendular train which is Portugal’s high-speed train, or the Intercididades which is a slower train and more budget-friendly.

You can usually buy your tickets ahead of time on Omio or purchase them directly from the train station.

>> Book your Alfa Pendular Train Tickets! <<

Car Rentals

If you’re looking to rent a car in Lisbon, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. You will usually be okay renting a car in Portugal without an international driver’s license if you’re staying less than 6 months, but you do need one from your home country to rent.

The second thing, most cars unless specified will be manual cars. So you’ll need to know how to drive a stick shift to get around the hills and narrow streets.

>> Book your rental car for Lisbon at Discover Cars! <<

Lisbon Card

The Lisboa Card is a visitor’s card that gives you free access to all public transportation as well as discounts on various tourist attractions.

You can purchase the Lisboa Card for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days and it’s a great way to save money on sightseeing.

When you’re traveling around Lisbon, this tourist card really helps with unlimited public transportation. You’ll even get a train ride to Sintra included with the card!

>> Purchase Your Lisboa Card ahead of time! <<

When traveling to different towns and cities in Portugal, it’s important to pack appropriately. Here are a few items that you’ll want to make sure to bring with you:

👟 Comfortable walking shoes: Portugal is a country best explored on foot and you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable shoes to walk in, especially with all the hills you’ll be climbing.

☀️ Sunscreen: The sun in Portugal can be quite strong, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months. Make sure to pack sunscreen and reapply throughout the day.

💧 Water bottle: Similar to sunscreen, make sure to stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle. You can refill them with the public fountains found in the city.

✨ Portable phone charger: There’s nothing worse than being out and about and having your phone die on you. If you’re using your phone for maps or taking pictures, your battery will be working hard! Be prepared by bringing a portable charger with you.

🎒 Fanny pack: You’ll want something to carry all your personal items in. I highly recommend a fanny pack, but you can bring a backpack. Make sure it sticks close to you!

Portugal is a beautiful country with so many picturesque towns to visit. If you’re looking for day trips from Lisbon, we’ve outlined some of the best options for you here.

Whether you choose to take the train, or bus, or rent a car, there are plenty of amazing places to explore in Portugal.

Ready to head to Portugal? Check out these Portugal resources!

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