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Renting a car in Lisbon isn’t always worth it. After years of getting around by train and bus, these are the day trips I recommend when you want to explore beyond the city without dealing with traffic, parking, or tolls.
Days Trips From Lisbon Without A Car
Lisbon is a city brimming with charm, history, and culture. From pastel-colored buildings to lively plazas, the Portuguese capital has so much to offer. But beyond Lisbon, an entire world of castles, beaches, and medieval towns awaits—and you don’t need a car to see them.
Thanks to Portugal’s excellent public transport system—trains, buses, and ferries—you can easily take memorable day trips from Lisbon without a car. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family seeking adventure, these destinations are convenient, affordable, and rewarding.
Here are the top 10 best day trips from Lisbon by train or bus, with travel tips to make the most of each one.
Top 10 Best Days Trips From Lisbon Without A Car
1. Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon: Palaces & Castles
If there’s one day trip from Lisbon you can’t miss, it’s Sintra. This is one of the first day trips I took when I moved to Lisbon. This UNESCO World Heritage town is famous for its fairy-tale palaces, enchanted forests, and mystical castles.
Highlights include:
Pena Palace, with its colorful towers and breathtaking views.
Quinta da Regaleira, a magical estate with secret tunnels and gardens.
The Moorish Castle, offering panoramic views of the region.
In the town center, wander charming streets lined with traditional pastry shops—don’t skip the local Travesseiros de Sintra, a puff-pastry delight.
How to get there: Train from Rossio Station in Lisbon to Sintra (approx. 40 minutes).
2. Cascais Day Trip: Beaches and Seaside Charm
Once a humble fishing village, Cascais is now a stylish seaside escape with golden beaches, a marina, and vibrant nightlife.
Things to do:
Relax on Praia da Rainha or Praia da Conceição.
Walk the coastal promenade from Cascais to Estoril.
Visit Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliffside viewpoint.
How to get there: Train from Cais do Sodré station to Cascais (approx. 40 minutes). I’ve done this trip multiple times using the local train. If it’s your first trip, this is the simplest choice.
3. Óbidos Day Trip: Medieval Walled Town
If you love medieval towns, Óbidos is a dream. Enclosed by ancient stone walls, this charming village is full of whitewashed houses adorned with flowers.
Top experiences:
Stroll the castle walls for sweeping views.
Sample the local cherry liqueur, Ginja de Óbidos, often served in a chocolate cup.
Shop for handmade crafts in cobbled alleys.
How to get there: Bus from Campo Grande station (approx. 1 hour).
4. Fátima Pilgrimage from Lisbon
For those seeking a deeper cultural and religious connection, Fátima is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.
Highlights include:
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima.
The Basilica of the Rosary.
The Chapel of Apparitions, where the Virgin Mary appeared in 1917.
How to get there: Bus from Sete Rios station (approx. 1.5 hours).
5. Nazaré: Surf, Seafood & Stunning Views
Famous for its giant waves, Nazaré is the ultimate destination for surf lovers. But it’s more than just adrenaline—this town is also known for its fishing traditions and stunning viewpoints.
Don’t miss:
Praia do Norte, where world-record waves break.
The Sítio viewpoint, accessible by funicular.
Fresh seafood at beachside restaurants.
How to get there: Bus from Sete Rios station (approx. 1.5 hours).
6. Mafra Day Trip: National Palace & Forest Walks
History buffs will love Mafra, home to the monumental Mafra National Palace. This baroque masterpiece includes a basilica, monastery, and an enormous library with rare books.
Nearby, you’ll find Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a protected forest perfect for hikes and spotting wildlife.
How to get there: Bus from Campo Grande station (approx. 1 hour).
7. Setúbal: Seafood, Dolphins & Natural Beauty
South of Lisbon, Setúbal is famous for its fresh seafood—especially fried cuttlefish. It’s also the gateway to the Arrábida Natural Park and Troia Peninsula beaches, making it an ideal mix of food and nature.
Highlights include:
Mercado do Livramento, a vibrant local market.
São Filipe Fortress, with views across the bay.
A boat trip to see wild dolphins in the Sado estuary.
How to get there: Bus from Sete Rios station (approx. 1 hour).
8. Tomar Day Trip: Knights Templar History
Tomar is a hidden gem with rich history. The star attraction is the Convent of Christ, founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Other highlights:
The charming old town with riverside cafés.
The medieval bridge over the Nabão River.
Lush gardens perfect for a relaxing stroll.
How to get there: Train from Santa Apolónia station (approx. 1.5 hours).
9. Costa da Caparica: Best Beaches Near Lisbon
If you’re craving pure relaxation, head south to Costa da Caparica. Just across the Tagus River, it boasts endless sandy beaches and a lively summer vibe.
Things to do:
Spend the day at Praia da Morena or Praia da Fonte da Telha.
Try surfing lessons if you’re a beginner.
Enjoy fresh grilled fish in beachfront restaurants.
How to get there: Bus from Cais do Sodré (approx. 30 minutes).
10. Évora Day Trip: Roman and Medieval Wonders
In the heart of the Alentejo, Évora is a city steeped in history. This UNESCO World Heritage site is like an open-air museum.
Must-see attractions:
The Roman Temple of Évora.
The eerie Chapel of Bones.
The Évora Cathedral, one of Portugal’s oldest.
How to get there: Train from Oriente station (approx. 1.5 hours).
Bonus Day Trips from Lisbon by Ferry
For something closer, hop on a ferry from Lisbon and discover the towns across the river. Cacilhas is known for seafood restaurants with stunning city views, while Almada offers the Cristo Rei statue, Lisbon’s answer to Rio’s Christ the Redeemer.
Final Thoughts: Explore Portugal Without a Car
Taking day trips from Lisbon by public transport is not only possible—it’s one of the best ways to experience the diversity of Portugal. From surf towns and medieval castles to wine regions and UNESCO cities, there’s a trip for every traveler.
So, pack a day bag, grab your train or bus ticket, and let Portugal surprise you.
Which of these day trips are you adding to your Lisbon itinerary?
About the author
I’m Duncan, a Lisbon-based guide and writer who’s lived here for 11 years and taken hundreds of visitors around the city. I created Lisbon Listicles to share everything you need to know about Lisbon in clear, practical lists — from iconic sights to hidden gems — so you can plan your trip easily and make the most of your time here.
All recommendations are based on personal experience and the questions I hear most often from visitors.
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