Living and Working in Lisbon: Why Digital Nomads Love This City
January 20, 2026
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We absolutely love Lisbon as a city, but what surprised us just as much was its stunning surroundings. And did you know it’s incredibly easy to combine your city trip with unforgettable day trips? Within just an hour, you can find yourself at the paradisiacal, turquoise bays of Portinho da Arrábida or discover the more authentic side of Portugal through its culinary traditions in villages like Azeitão, home to the famous Queijo de Azeitão, one of the country’s most iconic cheeses. Curious which places around Lisbon you really shouldn’t miss during your trip? These are the 9 most beautiful day trips from Lisbon.
1. Belém: the cultural starting point of your Lisbon trip
Belém isn’t really a day trip, but it is one of those areas just outside the city centre that you simply shouldn’t miss during your stay in Lisbon. It feels like an open-air museum packed with highlights. Here you’ll find iconic landmarks such as the Torre de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, as well as one of the most famous (and delicious) stops in the city: Pastéis de Belém. Honestly, that alone is almost reason enough to come here.
Want to dive deeper into this beautiful neighbourhood? We’ve put together a full guide with all the highlights, hidden gems and best hotspots. Read all of our tips in the in-depth blog about Belém.
Practical tips for Belém:
The easiest way to get here from the city centre is by taking tram 15E from Praça do Comércio. In about 20 to 30 minutes you’ll arrive right among the monuments. If you prefer a quicker or less crowded option, you can also take the train from Cais do Sodré (towards Cascais) and get off at Belém, or simply hop in an Uber or Bolt for just a few euros.
2. Cascais: the Portuguese Riviera’s laid-back charm
Cascais is one of those places that instantly shows you why Lisbon is such a perfect base for a city trip in Portugal. Within less than an hour, you’ll find yourself in this elegant coastal town, with its colourful streets, lively squares and a relaxed seaside promenade.
It feels a bit more polished and vibrant than you might expect. Cafés spill out onto the streets, seafood lunches come with ocean views, and the coastal walk towards small hidden beaches is the perfect way to slow down. Wander through the photogenic old town, or rent a bike and cycle out to Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliff formation where the Atlantic Ocean crashes into the rocks.
A fun fact: even Cristiano Ronaldo chose Cascais as the location for one of his more recent homes, in the exclusive Quinta da Marinha area. Not a bad spot to settle down, if you ask us.
Practical tips for your day trip to Cascais:
You can easily reach Cascais from Lisbon by train from Cais do Sodré station. The scenic ride along the coast takes about 40 minutes and is already an experience in itself. Another option is of course renting a car if you want more flexibility to explore the coastline.
3. Praia do Guincho: windswept dunes and wild Atlantic coastline
Just a short ride from Cascais, Praia do Guincho feels like stepping into a completely different world. Here, wide open dunes, powerful Atlantic waves and a constant ocean breeze create one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline near Lisbon. It’s a favourite spot for surfers, but even if you don’t step on a board, this is the perfect place to go for a walk, breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy the raw beauty of the landscape. On clear days, you can even spot the rugged outlines of the Serra de Sintra in the distance.
Practical tips for Guincho:
Guincho is only about 15 minutes by car from Cascais, making it an easy addition to a day trip along the coast. You can start your day with lunch in Cascais and end it with a sunset walk along this wild beach. If you prefer public transport, you can take bus 405 or 415 from Cascais train station, which gets you to the beach in around 15 minutes. A more active and fun option is to rent an e-bike in Cascais and cycle along the coastal road in about 30 to 40 minutes.
4. Ericeira: authentic surf vibes and fresh seafood
Ericeira is a beautiful whitewashed fishing village perched on dramatic cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean. It’s officially recognised as a World Surfing Reserve, which instantly gives it that relaxed, surfy atmosphere you feel as soon as you arrive. Even if you’re not here to surf, Ericeira is a joy to explore. Wander through its narrow blue-and-white streets, soak up the laid-back vibe, and take your time to simply enjoy life by the sea.
The village is also known for its incredible seafood scene. One of our favourite local spots is Clube Naval, a place you might easily walk past without noticing, but where you can enjoy some of the freshest fish around. Ask for the daily catch and you’ll get a truly local, no-frills dining experience, far away from tourist menus.
Practical tips for your day trip to Ericeira:
Ericeira is located about 50 km north of Lisbon. From Campo Grande bus station in Lisbon, you can take a direct express bus (Carris Metropolitana) that gets you there in just under an hour. Renting a car is another great option if you want more flexibility to explore the coastline along the way.
5. Azeitão: home of Portugal’s most famous cheese
Azeitão (officially Vila Nogueira de Azeitão) is a true paradise for foodies and wine lovers. This charming village, nestled between vineyards and the rolling hills of the Setúbal region, has even been recognised by the UNWTO as one of the “Best Tourism Villages in the World.” It’s best known for Queijo de Azeitão, a rich, creamy sheep’s cheese made from raw milk. It’s so soft and indulgent that you traditionally cut off the top and scoop it out with a spoon.
But there’s more to Azeitão than cheese. The village is also famous for Torta de Azeitão, a sweet rolled sponge cake flavoured with egg, lemon and cinnamon. The best place to try it is Casa Negrito, a local favourite. Pair all of this with a visit to the historic winery José Maria da Fonseca, where you can wander through atmospheric cellars and taste the region’s famous Moscatel de Setúbal. It doesn’t get much better than this when it comes to a culinary day trip from Lisbon.
Practical tips for your visit to Azeitão:
Azeitão is about 40 minutes south of Lisbon, just across the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. While it’s technically reachable by bus, public transport is not very convenient. Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you want to combine your visit with the nearby Arrábida Natural Park.
6. Portinho da Arrábida: turquoise bays and a protected natural park
If you see photos of Portinho da Arrábida, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Portugal. The crystal-clear turquoise water, white sandy beaches and lush green mountains in the background make it feel more like a tropical island than mainland Europe. This hidden gem is located inside the Arrábida Natural Park, a protected area where dramatic cliffs drop straight into the Atlantic Ocean. The water here is exceptionally clear and calm, making it one of the best places near Lisbon for swimming, snorkelling or simply relaxing on one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches.
Practical tips for reaching the Parque Natural da Arrábida:
Because Portinho da Arrábida is located inside a protected natural park, it’s difficult to reach by public transport. The best option is to rent a car from Lisbon, which takes around 50 minutes. It’s also highly recommended to combine your visit with Azeitão along the way. Do keep in mind that during the summer months, there are strict parking and traffic restrictions in place to protect the area.
Another great option is joining a guided day tour from Lisbon.
7. Sintra: fairytale mountains and hidden gems
Sintra is one of those places that absolutely deserves a spot on any Lisbon itinerary. Misty hills, colourful palaces and lush gardens make it feel like stepping straight into a fairytale. The iconic Palácio da Pena and mysterious Quinta da Regaleira attract most of the crowds, and for good reason, but this also means Sintra can get very busy, especially during peak hours.
If you want to escape the crowds and discover something truly special, head to the Convento dos Capuchos instead. This 16th-century Franciscan monastery is tucked deep into the forest and built in perfect harmony with nature. The monks lived here in tiny, simple cells lined with cork to protect them from the cold and damp. The silence and serenity you’ll find here feel like a world away from the busier palace sites and leave a lasting impression.
Practical tips for your day trip to Sintra:
From Rossio station in central Lisbon, you can reach Sintra in about 40 minutes by direct train. If you want to visit Convento dos Capuchos, you’ll need a car, as it is located deeper in the hills and is not easily accessible by public transport.
8. Coimbra: historic student city full of character
If you’re willing to travel a little further, Coimbra is an absolute gem that’s well worth the journey. Once the capital of Portugal, this historic city is now known for its unique atmosphere, shaped by centuries of history and a vibrant student life. Built on a hillside along the Mondego River, Coimbra is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.
The highlight here is the Biblioteca Joanina, a breathtaking baroque library that feels like something straight out of a Harry Potter film. Wander through the narrow, steep streets of the old town, and if you stay until the evening, you might hear the melancholic sounds of traditional Coimbra Fado, a unique style of fado typically performed by male students. It all adds to the city’s deeply atmospheric and youthful character.
Practical tips for Coimbra:
Coimbra is located about 200 km north of Lisbon, but it’s very easy to reach by train, making it a great option for a long day trip. From Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations, you can take the Alfa Pendular or Intercidades train, which gets you there in around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Book a guided tour of the University of Coimbra, including entrance tickets
If you find a day trip a bit too rushed and prefer to explore Coimbra at a slower pace, staying overnight is a great option. The CBR Boutique Hotel – Coimbra is a highly recommended choice in the historic city centre.
9. Tomar: a Templar city and hidden gem
We’re finishing this list with a true favourite for history lovers: Tomar. This atmospheric town was once the headquarters of the legendary Knights Templar in Portugal, and you can still feel that mysterious past everywhere you go.
The absolute highlight is the Convento de Cristo, a vast hilltop monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its cloisters, admire the richly decorated architecture, and discover the incredible influence this knightly order once had. One of the most impressive details is the famous Manueline window, full of intricate maritime symbolism. Beyond the monastery, Tomar’s historic centre is equally charming, with quiet pedestrian streets, one of the oldest synagogues in Portugal, and a peaceful riverside park where you can take a break.
Just outside the city, you’ll also find an impressive hidden gem: the Aqueduto dos Pegões. This massive 17th-century aqueduct stretches across the valley with 180 arches and was originally built to supply water to the convent. It’s a striking sight and a perfect final stop on your visit. For anyone interested in history, culture and lesser-known destinations, Tomar is easily one of the most rewarding day trips from Lisbon.
Practical tips for visiting Tomar:
Tomar is located about 135 kilometres northeast of Lisbon and is, besides travelling by car, also very comfortable to reach by train. From Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations, you can take a direct Intercidades train. After a relaxed journey of around two hours, you’ll arrive just next to the historic city centre.
Hotel tip: Tomar is far too beautiful to rush through. If you want to truly soak up the atmosphere and explore the culture at a relaxed pace, the Vila Gale Collection Tomar is the perfect base in the city centre. It’s housed in two beautifully restored historic buildings (the former Santa Iria Convent and the Colégio Feminino), right along the River Nabão.
Here's how to plan the best day trips from Lisbon
Now that you know which places we absolutely recommend as day trips from Lisbon, it’s time to talk logistics. With a good plan, you can really make the most of your time around the city. The great thing about Lisbon is that many of these destinations are surprisingly close by. However, the best way to get there depends on the place you’re visiting.
Car rental vs. public transport
Some day trips are very easy to reach by public transport, while others are much better explored with the freedom of a rental car.
Destinations such as Belém, Cascais, Ericeira and Sintra (with the exception of Convento dos Capuchos) are easy to visit without a car. From the city centre of Lisbon, you can reach these places easily by public transport.
For Azeitão and Portinho da Arrábida, we recommend renting a car. Especially in the Arrábida Natural Park, you’ll want the freedom to stop along the way at viewpoints and hidden coves, something that’s much harder to do by public transport. It also allows you to easily combine multiple places in one day. For example, start your day with local cheeses, a glass of wine and lunch in Azeitão, and then continue on to the turquoise bays of Arrábida.
If you want to travel stress-free without dealing with extra insurance on the spot, choose a fully insured all-in rental car via Sunny Cars.
Coimbra and Tomar are both easy to reach by car as well as by public transport. For these destinations, it mainly depends on your wider travel plans and, of course, your personal preference when deciding which option works best.
Practical tips for your day trips from Lisbon
Depart early: places like Belém and Sintra are world-famous, so make sure to arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat.
Buy train tickets in advance: for longer train journeys to Coimbra and Tomar, it’s worth booking your tickets online in advance via the CP (Comboios de Portugal) website. This often saves you a significant amount of money.
Check the weather along the coast: in coastal areas (such as Praia do Guincho and Ericeira), it can feel much cooler and windier than in the warm city centre of Lisbon. Make sure to bring an extra layer of clothing.
More inspiration for your trip to Portugal
Craving more inspiration for your trip? We’ve written extensively about Portugal to help you plan the ultimate journey. Check out our other blogs full of tips, sights and unique places:
All about Lisbon:
Sightseeing: the most beautiful sights in Lisbon you shouldn’t miss
Food and hotspots: our favourite hotspots: the best restaurants and cafés in Lisbon
Hotel tips: where to stay in Lisbon? The best neighbourhoods and hotel tips
More beautiful destinations in Portugal:
Porto: the ultimate city break guide to Porto: sights, port tasting and tips
Alentejo: Alentejo travel guide: tranquility, culture and vast nature
Aldeias Históricas: discover the Aldeias Históricas, the 12 historic villages of Portugal
Aldeias do Xisto: magical Portugal: a road trip through the traditional schist villages
Tailor-made trip to Portugal
Do you want to experience ultimate freedom and discover all the beauty around Lisbon and the rest of Portugal at your own pace? Then get inspired by our complete 18-day fly & drive through Portugal. During this varied road trip, you’ll have plenty of time to explore vibrant Lisbon and take the most beautiful day trips from this list with your own car. You’ll also discover the lively city of Porto, the untouched nature of Serra da Estrela, and the hidden gems of the Aldeias do Xisto and Aldeias Históricas. And the best part: this itinerary can be fully customised to your preferences.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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