Hiking Trails Near Lisbon
Looking to escape the city and dive into nature? You don’t have to go far. There are plenty of hiking trails near Lisbon that offer incredible views, fresh air, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for coastal cliffs, forest paths, or mountain viewpoints, Lisbon’s surroundings deliver in a big way.
Here are 10 spectacular hiking trails near Lisbon you won’t want to miss.
10 Spectacular Hiking Trails Near Lisbon: Explore Nature’s Beauty
One of the most popular hiking spots near Lisbon, this park blends fairy-tale forests, dramatic cliffs, and cultural landmarks. Wander past the famous Pena Palace, climb to the top of the Moorish Castle, or hike down to the wild and beautiful Praia da Ursa. Trails range from easy forest walks to tougher coastal routes.
👉 Best for: Variety, history, scenery
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~40 minutes by train or car
Located near Setúbal, this park is a paradise for nature lovers. Hike along limestone hills covered in Mediterranean flora with jaw-dropping views over turquoise coves. Don’t miss the trail from Portinho da Arrábida for one of the best coastal hikes in Portugal.
👉 Best for: Beaches, dramatic views, marine life
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~45 minutes by car
Right inside the city, Monsanto is known as Lisbon’s “green lung.” It’s perfect for a quick escape without leaving town. The trails here are gentle and well-marked, weaving through dense woods, quiet clearings, and scenic lookouts like the Panorâmico de Monsanto.
👉 Best for: Urban hikes, families, picnics
📍 Distance from Lisbon: 10–15 minutes by car, also accessible by bus
🏖️ 4. Praia da Ursa Trail
For an adventurous coastal trek, hike down to Praia da Ursa, one of Portugal’s wildest and most photogenic beaches. The trail is short but steep and rocky—be sure to wear good shoes and avoid rainy days. The reward? Towering cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves.
👉 Best for: Photography, sunsets, experienced hikers
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~45 minutes by car
🌅 5. Cabo da Roca to Azenhas do Mar
Start at Cabo da Roca—the westernmost point of mainland Europe—and follow the cliffside trail north to the charming seaside village of Azenhas do Mar. Along the way, you’ll pass wild beaches, sea views, and dramatic rock formations.
👉 Best for: Coastal views, long scenic walks
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~50 minutes by car
Located within the Sintra-Cascais area, Quinta do Pisão is a peaceful nature reserve ideal for a quiet day out. Its flat trails are perfect for all ages, and you’ll spot everything from wildflowers to grazing donkeys. Great for families or casual hikers.
👉 Best for: Easy walks, nature lovers, kids
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~40 minutes by car
🥾 7. Rota Vicentina (Northern Starting Point)
This famous network of hiking routes stretches along the southwestern coast of Portugal. From Lisbon, you can access the northern sections starting near Santiago do Cacém. Choose from multi-day treks or tackle a shorter section for the day. Think wild beaches, windswept cliffs, and sleepy fishing villages.
👉 Best for: Long-distance hiking, coastal exploration
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~1.5–2 hours by car
Just outside the town of Mafra, this protected forest and wildlife park is home to deer, wild boar, and birds of prey. Follow marked trails or book a guided hike to learn more about local flora and fauna. There’s also a bike route for the adventurous!
👉 Best for: Wildlife spotting, forest walks
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~40 minutes by car
Set high in the Sintra Mountains, this trail leads to the mysterious Sanctuary of Peninha, a small chapel perched above the clouds. The views stretch across the coast and deep into the forests below. It’s a moderate hike and one of the best lesser-known spots in Sintra.
👉 Best for: Panoramic views, hidden gems
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~45 minutes by car
🏔️ 10. Serra da Arrábida
Another jewel in the Arrábida region, the Serra da Arrábida offers hiking trails with a bit more elevation. Climb to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, explore secret coves, and take in Portugal’s raw, rugged beauty.
👉 Best for: More challenging hikes, nature photography
📍 Distance from Lisbon: ~1 hour by car
🌄 Final Tips for Hiking Near Lisbon
Wear good hiking shoes – Some trails are rocky and uneven, especially coastal ones.
Check the weather – Coastal winds and rain can make trails slippery.
Bring water and snacks – Many trails are remote, and there may not be shops nearby.
Download trail maps – Apps like AllTrails or Komoot are super helpful offline.
Respect nature – Stick to marked trails and take your litter with you.
Conclusion
Lisbon isn’t just about city views and tram rides—it’s also the perfect starting point for amazing hikes. These 10 hiking trails near Lisbon offer something for everyone, from peaceful forest walks to epic coastal adventures. So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and hit the trail. Nature is calling—just beyond the city limits.
Leave a Reply