Day Trips Lisbon
Day Trips in Lisbon: A Comprehensive Guide
🏛️ Alcobaça Monastery (Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Alcobaça): Located approximately one hour from Lisbon, this stunning monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for its unique gothic architecture and the tombs of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, and his courtly lover, Urraca of Castile.
🏰 Sintra: A fairytale town nestled in the hills west of Lisbon. Sintra is home to numerous palaces, castles, and gardens, including Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira. Don’t forget to explore the historic center of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site itself!
🏖️ Cascais: A charming coastal town offering beautiful beaches, upscale shopping, and delicious seafood restaurants. Take a stroll along the Marina de Cascais or visit the Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), a dramatic cliffside formation with stunning ocean views.
🏞️ Serra da Arrábida: This beautiful natural park is located just south of Setúbal. It offers breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and a rich biodiversity. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat trip to explore the Sado Estuary and its resident dolphins!
🏠 Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage city located approximately two hours from Lisbon. Évora is famous for its Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos). The city’s historic center is compact enough to explore on foot.
🚶 Mafra Palace (Palácio Nacional de Mafra): Located about an hour north of Lisbon, this grand palace was built in the early 18th century by King John V. It’s a remarkable example of baroque architecture and houses a massive library, a Benedictine monastery, and a large basilica.
When planning your day trips, remember to consider travel times, ticket prices, and opening hours. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and pack sunscreen, water, and snacks for the day. Enjoy your exploration of Lisbon and its surroundings!