5 Great Day Trips From Lisbon
From palaces to fishing huts and beaches to vineyards, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon can arrange day trips that show off the many faces of Portugal.
Just an hour outside Lisbon, Sintra offers a fairy-tale landscape of lush green mountains topped by magnificent palaces and royal retreats. The first castles were built here by the Moors in the eighth and ninth centuries. When Sintra became the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family, the town attracted wealthy aristocrats who built huge mansions and villas, reflecting architectural styles from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Be sure to visit the Pena National Palace with its ice-cream-coloured towers and turrets—befitting a storybook princess. See Lisbon Through Four Seasons Eyes for additional details.
Photography Robert Miller/Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Ericeira is a lively resort town perched on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. On the shore, you’ll find Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve, a 4-km (2.5-mile) stretch of outstanding natural surf breaks. It’s one of only a handful of international protected surf reserves—joining Malibu and Santa Cruz, California, and Manly, Australia. Within the reserve lies Ribeira d’Ilhas Beach, one of Europe’s best surfing beaches and host to the ASP World Tour Surf Championship. See Lisbon Through Four Seasons Eyes for additional details.
Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
For a laid-back day in the country, head east to the region of Alentejo, known as Portugal’s Tuscany. The gently rolling plains are dominated by vineyards and olive groves, and the baking sun inspires a slower pace of life. Explore the tiny walled village of Monsaraz, straight out of medieval times, or visit Vila Viçosa, a whole town constructed from nearly all local white marble. A must-see highlight is Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, widely considered one of Portugal’s most picturesque towns. See Lisbon Through Four Seasons Eyes for additional details.
Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Travel an hour southeast of Lisbon and you’ll discover one of Portugal’s most important wine regions, focused around the charming villages of Azeitão. Enjoy a tour and tasting at Bacalhôa Wines, an innovative winery located in a royal estate dating back to the 15th century. Another delicious destination is José Maria da Fonseca, creator of Moscatel de Setubal, the sweet fortified wine, and also known for Periquita, a more versatile table wine with fruity, spicy character. It’s the perfect day trip for wine collectors! See Lisbon Through Four Seasons Eyes for additional details.
Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotles and Resorts
A favourite hideaway for Princess Caroline of Monaco and Christian Louboutin, Comporta is gaining a reputation as Lisbon’s trendiest—and most chilled-out—summer beach retreat. The soft, powdery sands are wild and natural, and a rustic bohemian vibe abounds. Find a deserted spot to call your own and indulge in the serious art of relaxation—from playing cards on the sand to savouring the grilled catch of the day in a waterfront fish shack. See Lisbon Through Four Seasons Eyes for additional details.
Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
With shopping, museums and galleries, Lisbon’s city centre can keep you very busy. But be sure to save a few days for exploring the nearby countryside. In just an hour or two, you can discover completely different worlds.
You can learn about five multifaceted day trips in the new city guide, Lisbon Through Four Seasons Eyes, produced by Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon.
I spent a day in Sintra (as a side trip from Lisbon) and truly say that it really is magical. Great photo!
We have to agree—it is a must-see.
A visit to Vila Viçosa requires at least an over-night stay in the local Pousada, a historic hotel near the town´s main square.
Sounds lovely, thank you for sharing!