Sintra's Royal Whimsy
Just a short journey from Lisbon lies Sintra, a town steeped in romance and mystery, nestled amidst lush mountains. It's famed for its opulent palaces
and mystical estates, offering a fantastical escape. Don't miss the vibrant Pena Palace, perched dramatically on a hilltop, and the intriguing Quinta da Regaleira with its famed Initiation Well, a site whispered to be surrounded by legends. For a taste of history, the medieval Castelo dos Mouros provides sweeping vistas. After exploring these wonders, wander through Sintra's charming historic center, perhaps stopping at Palácio Nacional de Sintra. No visit is complete without indulging in local pastries like the 'travesseiros' and 'queijadas de Sintra' from the renowned Casa Piriquita. Reaching Sintra is simple, with frequent suburban trains from Rossio station taking about 45 minutes to an hour, or a quicker 35-minute drive.
Ericeira's Coastal Charm
Ericeira, once a humble fishing village, now captivates with its picturesque streets, whitewashed houses accented with cobalt blue, and a vibrant beach culture. While mornings can be breezy and misty, afternoons typically warm up, perfect for exploring. This coastal gem is a haven for surfers, boasting renowned spots like Ribeira d’Ilhas, a frequent host of championships. For beginners, Praia de São Sebastião offers gentler waves. Beyond the surf, the town's historic center beckons with the tiled Capela da Boa Viagem and the scenic Praia dos Pescadores, ideal for people-watching. For a sweet treat, try the local 'ouriços'. Getting to Ericeira is convenient via bus from Campo Grande Metro station, taking around an hour, or a 45-minute drive.
Setúbal's Cultural Pulse
Setúbal, situated between the Arrábida hills and the Atlantic, offers a relaxed atmosphere filled with cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Once a significant hub for the canned fish industry, the town now thrives with a laid-back vibe. Explore the bustling Mercado do Livramento, a market celebrated for its fresh produce and fish, or delve into the city's history at the Museu de Arqueologia e Etnografia. For architectural enthusiasts, the Convento de Jesus, a restored 15th-century Manueline-style convent, is a must-see. Food lovers should savor the local specialty, 'choco frito' (deep-fried cuttlefish), at one of the city's restaurants. After lunch, consider a responsible boat tour to observe the resident dolphin population in the Sado Estuary. Setúbal is accessible by train from Lisbon in about an hour, or a 50-minute drive.
Óbidos' Medieval Walls
Step into a living fairy tale in Óbidos, a perfectly preserved medieval town enclosed by ancient fortifications. Its charming core features cobbled lanes lined with whitewashed houses, adorned with vibrant flowers. For breathtaking panoramas, ascend the town's walls and take in the views stretching towards the 13th-century Castelo de Óbidos, now a luxurious Pousada. The main street, Rua Direita, tempts visitors with local delicacies like chocolate and the famous cherry liqueur, 'ginjinha'. Óbidos is also a haven for book lovers, housing unique bookstores such as Livraria de Santiago, which is nestled within an 18th-century church. Travel to Óbidos takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car via the A8, or about 2 hours by bus from Campo Grande bus station.
Barreiro's Industrial Roots
Across the Rio Tejo from Lisbon lies Barreiro, a city undergoing a fascinating transformation from its industrial past. Once dominated by factories, it's now emerging as an attractive day-trip destination, with its attractions celebrating its heritage. You'll find street art adorning the city, with renowned artists choosing it as their base. Near the ferry terminal, discover Alburrica beach, known for its windmills and popularity among locals during warmer months. Don't miss exploring the street art along Av Bento Gonçalves and visiting local cultural hubs housed in refurbished buildings. Barreiro's culinary scene reflects its Algarvio and Alentejano influences, with many restaurants on 'Beach Avenue' serving delectable fish dishes. Reach Barreiro in just 25 minutes via a frequent ferry from Terreiro do Paço.
Cacilhas' Riverside Charm
Often overlooked as a mere transit point to the Cristo Rei viewpoint, Cacilhas, a colorful riverside district of Almada, offers a delightful experience in its own right. Indulge in freshly grilled fish at the waterfront restaurants while enjoying stunning views of Lisbon across the Rio Tejo. Explore the charming small-town houses and soak in the local amateur fishing scene. The cultural center provides opportunities to view contemporary art exhibitions, and its terrace offers a coffee with a view. Wander down Rua Cândido dos Reis, the main artery, bustling with bars, shops, and eateries. Book lovers will appreciate shops like Livraria de Antigos Tomos e Letras. Cacilhas is easily reached by a quick 10-minute ferry ride from Cais do Sodré.
Setúbal & Arrábida Park
Venture south to Setúbal, a vibrant port city renowned for its culinary delights and its proximity to the breathtaking Arrábida Natural Park. Start your exploration at the Mercado do Livramento, a beautiful market brimming with local produce. Then, immerse yourself in the park's dramatic landscapes, characterized by limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush Mediterranean flora. Boat excursions from Setúbal provide an excellent opportunity to witness dolphins in their natural habitat within the Sado Estuary. The city itself offers a relaxed atmosphere, a departure from Lisbon's bustling pace. Access Setúbal via train from Lisbon in roughly 40 minutes, or a 50-minute car journey.
Nazaré's Dramatic Coast
Famous for its colossal waves that attract world-class surfers, Nazaré presents a dramatic coastal spectacle alongside its traditional fishing village charm. Even outside the big wave season, the vistas from Sítio da Nazaré, perched high above the town, are truly spectacular. Visitors can enjoy exceptionally fresh grilled fish while experiencing the authentic Portuguese culture. The town retains a strong connection to its maritime heritage, with colorful boats often seen along the shore. The dramatic cliffs and the power of the Atlantic Ocean are the main draws here, offering a raw and untamed beauty. Nazaré is accessible by bus from Lisbon's Campo Grande bus terminal in approximately 1.5 hours.
Mafra's Royal Grandeur
Mafra is dominated by its immense National Palace, a testament to Portugal's rich royal history, commissioned by King John V. This colossal complex encompasses a stunning basilica, a royal convent, and an awe-inspiring library housing over 36,000 ancient volumes. The sheer scale and opulent Baroque architecture of the palace are profoundly impressive, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Portuguese royalty. Exploring its vast halls and intricate details provides a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and ambition of the era. The palace serves as a monumental reminder of Portugal's imperial past. Reaching Mafra from Lisbon is feasible by bus from Campo Grande bus terminal, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes.
Azenhas do Mar's Cliffside Beauty
Perched precariously on a cliff overlooking the vast Atlantic Ocean, Azenhas do Mar is a truly picturesque village that seems to have sprung from a dream. Its iconic whitewashed houses cascade down the rugged cliff face, leading to a natural ocean swimming pool carved by the sea. This charming location is perfect for a leisurely stroll, to simply soak in the refreshing sea breeze, and to capture unforgettable photographs of the stunning coastal scenery. The unique setting, where the village meets the powerful ocean, creates a dramatic and serene atmosphere. While public transport is limited, it is best reached by car or taxi from nearby Sintra or Cascais.
