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Places to visit near Lisbon that offer an intriguing mix of cultural life, natural beauty, and historical charm, all within easy reach of Portugal’s capital. From fairytale palaces on wooded hills to golden coastlines and medieval villages, these villages provide the perfect setting for day excursions or weekend getaways. Whether drawn by ancient monasteries, surfing communities, or Roman ruins, Lisbon’s environs have something for every kind of traveller. These places near Lisbon will enrich your Portugal travel plan and will bring a beautiful contrast to urban life.
10 Best Places To Visit Near Lisbon
Discover these places to visit near Lisbon, offering diverse experiences from UNESCO World Heritage sites to serene seafront retreats, perfect for history enthusiasts, sunbathers, and art lovers.
1. Sintra
Photo: Katia De Juan / Unsplash
Sintra, only 30 kilometres west of Lisbon, is one of Portugal’s loveliest spots and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. As one of the top places to visit near Lisbon, it sits in the forested hills of the Serra de Sintra and is famous for its fairy-tale buildings, lush gardens, and misty, foggy climate that feels utterly magical. The vibrant Pena Palace, with its bold colours and whimsical towers, crowns a hill and grants the visitor a panoramic view of the region. Nearby is the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, which leaves visitors awestruck with its symbolic architecture, elaborate hidden tunnels, and world-famous Initiation Well.
How To Reach: Train from Rossio Station (40 minutes)
Major Attractions: Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Moorish Castle
Entry Fee: €14 / ₹1400
2. Cascais
Photo: Jeroen den Otter / Unsplash
Cascais, an elegant coastal town just west of Lisbon, is Portugal’s popular beach resort. It was a modest fishing village until it was transformed into the happening vacation spot it now is with golden shores, a high-end marina, and elegant 19th-century villas. The old cobblestone streets in the town are dotted with bright houses, designer boutiques, and outdoor cafes which offer a relaxed yet stylish ambience. They can soak up the sun all day on Praia da Rainha, surf along Guincho Beach, or feast on seafood at seafront restaurants. One of the most breathtaking natural features of Cascais is Boca do Inferno (“Mouth of Hell”), a stunning cliff formation where the sea thunders into the rocky chasm.
How To Reach: Train from Cais do Sodré Station (40 minutes)
Major Attractions: Praia da Rainha, Boca do Inferno, Cascais Marina
Entry Fee: €4 – 6 / ₹400 – 600
3. Óbidos
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Óbidos is a charming medieval village around 85 kilometres north of Lisbon, which is famous for its perfectly preserved historic beauty and fairy-tale ambience. As one of the most enchanting places to visit near Lisbon, this hilltop town is surrounded by strong stone walls and beckons one to travel back in time while wandering along narrow cobblestone lanes lined with whitewashed houses splashed with brightly coloured bougainvillaea and painted trims. The town boasts an impressive castle that is today converted into a boutique hotel, and strolling along the old ramparts provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. One experience not to be missed in Óbidos is tasting Ginja.
How To Reach: Bus from Campo Grande (1 hour)
Major Attractions: Óbidos Castle, Livraria de Santiago, Porta da Vila
Entry Fee: €5 / ₹500
4. Évora
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage city situated in Portugal’s Alentejo region, Évora presents an incredible mix of Roman, medieval, and Baroque influences. Located about an hour and a half from the capital by train or road, it stands out as one of the most captivating places to see near Lisbon. Évora feels like a living museum, with its tight old town packed with monuments centuries old and cobblestone streets that are narrow. The 1st-century Roman Temple of Évora, or the Temple of Diana, is one of the city’s most popular symbols. Nearby, the Évora Cathedral is Gothic-dominated, with views from the rooftop.
How To Reach: Train or bus (1.5–2 hours)
Major Attractions: Roman Temple, Capela dos Ossos, Évora Cathedral
Entry Fee: €5 – 6 / ₹500 – 600
5. Azenhas Do Mar
Photo: Adamina / Wikimedia Commons
Azenhas do Mar is a beautiful seaside village a short drive from Lisbon, near Sintra, and renowned for its dramatic scenery on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With whitewashed houses spilling down the hillside and waves breaking below, the village presents a picture-postcard scene that captures the drama of Portugal’s dramatic coastline. Among its most beloved amenities is the ocean swimming pool naturally fed from the rock at the bottom of the cliffs, which provides a private and shady spot to relax in warm weather. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at cliffside restaurants while taking in panoramic ocean views.
How To Reach: Motor or bus via Sintra (40 minutes)
Major Attractions: Natural pool, cliffside restaurants, Praia das Maçãs
6. Setúbal And Arrábida Natural Park
Photo: Alexandre Contador / Unsplash
Setúbal, a little less than an hour west of Lisbon, is a charming beach town that blends a vibrant seafaring history with instant proximity to one of the most stunning natural parks in Portugal, which is Arrábida Natural Park. As one of the most diverse tourist attractions near Lisbon, Setúbal is renowned for its fresh seafood, dynamic markets, and laid-back atmosphere, along with golden beaches and dramatic cliff scenery. Praia da Figueirinha is also a popular choice among the region’s top destination beaches, with serene, clear waters ideal for sunbathing and swimming. For the nature lover, there’s Arrábida with its lush nature walks, hidden coves, and Atlantic vistas from the summit.
How To Reach: Train from Lisbon (1 hour)
Major Attractions: Beaches, São Filipe Fortress, Arrábida trails
Entry Fee: €3 / ₹300 (fortress)
7. Ericeira
Ericeira, a coastal town about 45 minutes northwest of Lisbon, is renowned worldwide as the world’s first European World Surfing Reserve. This laid-back fishing village has turned into a surfers’ heaven because of its consistent waves and pristine beaches like Ribeira d’Ilhas and Foz do Lizandro. Ericeira, nonetheless, has a secret or two up its sleeve besides surfing; it’s quaint, with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and a friendly, welcoming ambience. Tourists may take a walk on seashore cliffs, enjoy wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean, or sit at a local café and savour fresh seafood dishes, especially the grilled sardines.
How To Reach: Bus from Campo Grande or drive (45 minutes)
Major Attractions: Surf beaches, local markets, Ribeira d’Ilhas
Entry Fee: ₹1500 (surf rental)
8. Batalha And Alcobaça
Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons
Batalha and Alcobaça are two of Portugal’s most sensational towns, both boasting stunning monastic complexes that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and gorgeous examples of Gothic architecture. As remarkable places to visit near Lisbon, these towns are located approximately 120 km from the capital and can easily be explored on a day trip packed with history. The Batalha Monastery, built to celebrate the Portuguese triumph at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, features intricately carved stonework, imposing spires, and the ruined chapels that leave visitors agog. These monasteries reflect Portugal’s rich religious and monarchic past.
How To Reach: Car or guided tour (~1.5 hours)
Major Attractions: Batalha Monastery, Alcobaça Monastery
Entry Fee: €6 – 8 per person / ₹600 – 800
9. Troia Peninsula
Photo: Walterpeitz / Wikimedia Commons
The Troia Peninsula is a sunbaked oasis located south of Lisbon, with the closest large city, Setúbal, providing the scenic ferry ride to reach it. With white sand beaches and waters that are crystal-clear, Troia offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with nature and history intertwining. Swimming, sunbathing, and strolling through dunes of what appears to be an infinite shoreline is perfect here. Off the beach, Roman ruins date from the 1st century AD and include remains of a fish-salting plant, baths, and old houses. Dolphin-watching excursions in the adjacent Sado Estuary are favourite activities among family travellers and nature enthusiasts.
How To Reach: Train to Setúbal, ferry to Troia
Major Attractions: Beaches, Roman ruins, Marina de Troia
Entry Fee: €3 / ₹300 (ruins)
10. Sesimbra
Photo: Gerrit Sonka / Wikimedia Commons
Sesimbra is a picturesque fisherman’s village only 40 km south of Lisbon, located between rugged cliffs and the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It has a lazy vibe, sandy beaches, and decent seafood, which is why it is a favourite haunt of both locals and tourists. The picturesque bay of the town is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, and the seafront promenade has cafes with freshly landed seafood and local vintages. Those interested in history will like a walk to Sesimbra Castle, a splendidly preserved Moorish castle, with breathtaking views across the coastline and the hills.
How To Reach: Car or bus (45 minutes)
Major Attractions: Sesimbra Castle, Praia da California, seafood tavernas
Entry Fee: €3 / ₹300 (castle)
From sun-kissed beaches and ancient monasteries to forested cliffs and Roman ruins, places to visit near Lisbon highlight Portugal’s rich heritage and stunning nature. Scenic escapes extend toward Spain and the Atlantic coast, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Whether exploring history, culture, or seaside beauty, the area around Lisbon promises diverse adventures. Begin your journey today with TripXL and discover the best nearby attractions for an enriching getaway.
Cover Photo: Filipe Nobre / Unsplash
