Lisbon is an ideal starting point for exploring Portugal, with its spectacular coastline, historic cities, sanctuaries and unspoilt natural landscapes. We were struck by the diversity of escapades accessible in a day from the capital, whether towards the Atlantic, the Alentejo or the Algarve.
Use our practical tips and our many photos to plan your ideal getaway. Check out our selection of the 10 best excursions from Lisbon to make your choice!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Lisbon
Lisbon enjoys a strategic location on the Atlantic coast, offering quick access to many remarkable destinations. To simplify your visits, you can opt for organized excursions. Before presenting our detailed reviews of each tour, here are our 3 favorites:
- Dolphin watching in the Tagus estuary and Atlantic – See prices, photos and availability
- Excursion to Sintra, its palaces, gardens and Atlantic panoramas – See prices, photos and availability
- Getaway to Cascais, the seaside gem of the Portuguese Riviera – See prices, photos and availability
1. Cruise on the Tagus
Why do we recommend this tour?
From Lisbon, a cruise on the Tagus is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover the capital from a different angle. We enjoyed this unique view of the city from the river, where monuments follow one another along the water. You can admire the contemporary silhouette of the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology), the Belém Tower, the statue of Christ Cristo Rei on the opposite bank, and the 25 de Abril Bridge. Private cruises sometimes offer Portuguese wine tastings, which can make for a particularly enjoyable outing. We recommend a sunset cruise to enjoy the golden light on the monuments.
What you will see
- Belem Tower from the river
- MAAT and its contemporary riverside architecture
- The statue of Christ Cristo Rei on the south bank
- The 25 de Abril Bridge, comparable to San Francisco’s Golden Gate
- Lisbon’s waterfront and historic districts seen from the Tagus River
How much time should I allow?
Count on between 1h30 and 3h depending on the formula chosen. The cruise can be combined with a visit to the Belém district on the same day.
Book your Tagus river cruise – see prices and availability
WHERE TO STAY IN lisbon
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Baixa district in the heart of Lisbon
Hotel da Baixa – See prices, photos and availability
Dare Lisbon House Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Alfama district, the oldest and most charming
Hotel Poussada Alfama – See prices, photos and availability
Chiado district, the most elegant
Art Legacy Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
2. Dolphin watching
Why do we recommend this tour?
Dolphin-watching off the coast of Lisbon is a pleasant excursion to take from the Portuguese capital. The waters of the Tagus estuary and the Atlantic are home to several species of dolphin, including the common dolphin and bottlenose dolphin. We find this outing particularly suitable for families. These sea outings combine the discovery of marine fauna with views of the Portuguese coastline from the Atlantic. The boats we use are often catamarans or RIBs, allowing us to get close to the animals in an environmentally-friendly way. It’s not absolutely certain that you’ll see dolphins, however. The sea outing will still be enjoyable.
What you will see
- Common and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat
- Lisbon’s Atlantic coastline seen from the sea
- Depending on the season, other marine species such as flying fish and jellyfish can also be found.
How much time should I allow?
Allow between 2h30 and 4h for this excursion, including the sea journey. Most organized tours leave early in the morning for the best viewing opportunities.
Book your dolphin-watching trip – see prices and availability
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
3. Excursion to Sintra
Why do we recommend this tour?
Just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train or car, Sintra is undoubtedly the most popular excursion from the capital – and for good reason. This UNESCO World Heritage city is home to architecturally rich palaces and parks. We were impressed by the diversity of the monuments, from the romantic Palacio de la Pena to the mysteries of the Quinta da Regaleira. Each site tells the story of a different period in Portugal’s history, from royalty to the wealthy nobles of the 19th century. The lush vegetation that surrounds these buildings adds a particularly dense and verdant backdrop, quite rare for a destination so close to a major capital.
What you will see
- The Palacio Nacional de la Pena, a colourful 19th-century royal residence
- La Quinta da Regaleira, a private estate with an initiatory well and labyrinthine gardens
- Sintra’s National Palace, in the heart of the historic village
- Château des Maures, a medieval fortress perched high above the sea
- The village’s narrow streets and lively shops during the day
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day to visit the main sites. Sintra can be very busy, especially at weekends and in summer. What’s more, the town is very steep. Bring good shoes.
Book your organized excursion to Sintra from Lisbon – see prices and availability
4. Escape to Cascais
Why do we recommend this tour?
Cascais is a seaside destination 40 minutes by train from Lisbon, prized for its lively seafront, beaches and well-preserved historic center. We appreciated the more relaxed atmosphere here than in the capital: the cobbled streets of the center, the museums, the fresh fish restaurants and the walks along the Atlantic coast made for a well-balanced program. The Portuguese Riviera, as the stretch of coastline between Lisbon and Cascais is known, has long attracted Europe’s aristocracy. In fact, you’ll be able to spot some beautiful villas dating from this era along the road.
What you will see
- Cascais seafront and beaches
- La Bouche d’Enfer (Boca do Inferno), a spectacular rock formation on the Atlantic shoreline
- Casa da Paula Rego Museum and Palácio dos Condes de Castro Guimarães
- Cascais citadel
- The historic city center and its restaurants
- Cascais’ wild or urban beaches
How much time should I allow?
A day’s visit gives a good overview of Cascais. You can also combine the tour with a stopover in Sintra, as the two towns are linked by a coastal road. Many tours offer this option.
Book your organized excursion to Cascais from Lisbon – see prices and availability
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5. Admire Cabo da Roca
Why do we recommend this tour?
Cabo da Roca is the most westerly point on the European continent. Perched some 140m above the Atlantic Ocean, this rocky promontory offers breathtaking sea views. We think the place is worth a visit, if only for its symbolic dimension: this is where Europe ends and the Atlantic begins. The Cabo da Roca lighthouse and commemorative cross are the visual landmarks of the site. The surrounding cliffs are also very photogenic in fine weather, especially in the late afternoon when the low-angled light gilds the rocks. This excursion can naturally be combined with a visit to nearby Sintra or Cascais.
What you will see
- The most westerly promontory on the European continent
- Cliffs plunging into the Atlantic
- Cabo da Roca lighthouse and memorial cross
- Sweeping panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean
How much time should I allow?
Allow 1 to 2 hours on site. Cabo da Roca is an ideal part of a day trip combining Sintra and Cascais. From Lisbon, it’s about a 1-hour drive.
Book your trip to Cabo da Roca from Lisbon – see prices and availability
6. Discover the Benagil cave and the Algarve coastline
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Benagil cave is one of Portugal’s most photographed geological formations. This marine cavern, with its vaulted ceiling pierced by a natural oculus that lets the light in, is located on the Algarve coast, about 2h30 drive from Lisbon. We feel that this tour is best suited to those with two days to spare, but a well-organized day trip from the capital will get you there. Access to the cave is by kayak, paddleboard or boat excursion from Benagil beach. The spectacle is striking: the light falling through the opening in the ceiling creates a visual effect that’s hard to forget.
What you will see
- The Benagil cave and its natural oculus allowing light to enter
- The golden cliffs of the Algarve coastline
- The charming village of Carvoeiro near the cave
How much time should I allow?
This is a full-day trip from Lisbon (2h30 to 3h each way).
Book your excursion to the Benagil cave from Lisbon – see prices and availability
FUN around Lisbon: activities
Lisbon by electric bike
Excursion to Sintra from Lisbon
Dolphin watching
Kayaking in Arrabida
Surfing in Cascais
7. Explore Serra de Arrábida, Sesimbra and Setúbal
Why do we recommend this tour?
Around 1 hour’s drive from Lisbon, the Serra de Arrábida Nature Park offers a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of the capital. This limestone massif, which plunges straight into the Atlantic, is home to remarkably clear coves whose turquoise hues are more reminiscent of the Mediterranean than the Atlantic. We were surprised to find such a natural environment so close to the city. The region also includes the town of Sesimbra, whose castle dominates the fishing village, and Setúbal, the starting point for kayak excursions and dolphin watching in the estuary. These three destinations can be combined in one well-organized day.
What you will see
- The turquoise coves and beaches of the Serra de Arrábida Natural Park
- The small town of Sesimbra and its perched medieval castle
- Setúbal and its estuary, ideal for kayaking and dolphin watching
- The landscapes of the Serra de Arrábida limestone massif
How much time should I allow?
A full day covers the main sites.
Book your excursion to the Serra de Arrábida and Sesimbra – see prices and availability
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8. Visit Fátima, Nazaré, Batalha and Óbidos
Why do we recommend this tour?
This tour brings together four major destinations in central Portugal, all within a day’s drive of Lisbon. Fátima is one of the world’s most popular Catholic pilgrimage sites: its sanctuary and basilica welcome millions of visitors every year. Nazaré, on the Atlantic coast, is famous for its giant waves, which attract surfers from all over the world in winter. Batalha is home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed monastery, one of the masterpieces of Portuguese Gothic architecture. Finally, Óbidos is a medieval village whose ramparts, white streets and flower-filled houses make up a remarkably well-preserved setting. We believe that this combination makes it possible to explore many facets of Portugal in a single day.
What you will see
- Fátima Sanctuary and Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Nazaré beach and its famous big-wave surf spot
- Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of the Manueline Gothic style (14th-16th centuries)
- The fortified medieval village of Óbidos and its ramparts
How much time should I allow?
This tour requires a full day, even a busy one. An organized tour from Lisbon is the most practical way to cover all four sites without logistical stress. Fátima is about 1h30 from Lisbon by car.
Book your trip to Fátima and Nazaré from Lisbon – see prices and availability
9. Venture to Lagos and Albufeira
Why do we recommend this tour?
The towns of Lagos andAlbufeira are among the best-known destinations in the Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region. Lagos seduces with its historic old town, golden cliffs and remarkable coves such as Praia Dona Ana. Albufeira is more oriented towards seaside tourism, but its old town retains a real charm. We think this itinerary is best suited to those wishing to extend their stay by a few days: the journey from Lisbon takes around 2h45 to 3h by car. However, organized tours can cover both cities in a single day for those who want a taste of the Algarve.
What you will see
- The cliffs and coves of Lagos, including Praia Dona Ana
- The old town of Lagos and its ramparts
- Albufeira’s historic center and beaches
- The characteristic landscapes of the Algarvin coastline
How much time should I allow?
The distance from Lisbon is considerable (2h45 to 3h drive). A guided tour is the most comfortable way to visit both cities in the same day. If you have more time, we advise you to spend at least one night on site to fully enjoy the Algarve coast. Our Algarve hotel recommendations here.
Book your excursion to Lagos and Albufeira from Lisbon – see prices and availability
10. Dive into the Alentejo
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Alentejo is Portugal’s great inland region of golden plains, medieval castles, vineyards and white villages bordered by blue and yellow borders. Less frequented by tourists than the coast, this region offers immersion in a more rural and authentic Portugal. We find this tour particularly suitable for travellers who want to get away from the usual itineraries. Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most common point of entry: its historic center, Bone Chapel and Roman remains make up a dense and fascinating program. Other towns like Monsaraz, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking Lake Alqueva, are also well worth a visit.
What you will see
- Évora: UNESCO-listed medieval historic center, Roman temple (1st century), cathedral and Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of the Bones)
- Monsaraz: fortified village overlooking Lake Alqueva
- Typical Alentejo landscapes: plains, olive groves, cork oaks and vineyards
- Local gastronomy: grilled meats, cheeses, olive oil and Alentejo wines
How much time should I allow?
Évora is about 1? hours’ drive from Lisbon. One day is enough to visit the city. You can also stay overnight to explore the wider region. An organized tour from Lisbon is a good option for a first discovery.
Book your Alentejo excursion from Lisbon – see prices and availability
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Other excursions from Lisbon
In addition to our main selection, Lisbon offers many other possibilities for day trips. Here are a few more ideas to enrich your stay in Portugal.
Porto
At around 3 hours by train from Lisbon (Alfa Pendular train direct from Oriente station), Porto is technically a day trip, but we recommend spending at least one night to get the most out of it. The city’s charms include the steep streets of the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, the port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia on the other bank of the Douro, iconic bookstores such as Librairie Lello and the omnipresent azulejo architecture. A destination well worth the trip.
Find out more about excursions to Porto from Lisbon here!
Peniche
Approximately 1h30 north of Lisbon, Peniche is a fortified coastal town on a rocky promontory battered by the Atlantic. It is world-famous for its waves, including the famous Supertubos spot, which hosts an annual stage of the World Surfing Championship. Peniche is also the gateway to the Berlengas archipelago, a marine nature reserve with crystal-clear waters and a 17th-century fort. We find this tour particularly suited to those who love nature and the great outdoors.
Find out more about excursions to Peniche here, including to the Berlengas Islands!
Tomar
Tomar is home to one of Portugal’s most unique monuments: the Convent of Christ, founded in the 12th century by the Knights Templar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around 1h30 from Lisbon by car or train, this unique architectural complex blends Romanesque, Manueline Gothic and Renaissance styles over centuries of successive extensions. The town itself is a pleasant place to explore, with its historic center crossed by the River Nabão. We believe that Tomar is a destination that is all too often overlooked by travellers in a hurry, and wrongly so.
Find out more about excursions from Lisbon to Tomar here.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best excursion from Lisbon?
The answer depends on what you want. For culture and history, Sintra and its UNESCO-listed palaces are a must. For nature and the sea, the Serra de Arrábida offers coves with clear waters, and Cascais offers superb beaches less than 1 hour from Lisbon. For a spiritual or historical experience, Alentejo and the center offer a fascinating dive into Portugal’s interior. If you’ve only got a day, we recommend choosing a guided tour from the capital to make the most of your time.
Do I need to hire a car for excursions from Lisbon?
We don’t think this is essential, as you can opt for organized tours. The car remains a flexible solution if you want to go at your own pace. Sintra and Cascais are easily accessible by train from Lisbon. On the other hand, for excursions such as the Serra de Arrábida, the Alentejo or the Algarve, having a vehicle at your disposal will allow you to stop freely, explore secondary roads and adapt your itinerary during the day. To compare offers and book at the best rate, click here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Best attractions in Portugal
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Portugal
Driving tips
