Day Trips from Lisbon: Best Places to Visit by Car
Lisbon offers history, food and culture, but one of its biggest advantages is its location. Within one to two hours by car, you can reach beaches, palaces, medieval towns and natural parks that are difficult to access by public transport.
Many travellers ask the same question: what are the best day trips from Lisbon, and is it worth having a car?Timetables, transfers and crowded tours often limit flexibility.
In this guide, you’ll find the best places to visit near Lisbon by car, realistic driving times, practical tips and how to plan smooth day trips without rushing.
What to know before planning day trips from Lisbon
- Distances are short, but traffic can vary by time of day
- Leaving early saves time and avoids crowds
- Some destinations are poorly served by public transport
Updated: February 2026
Planning to explore beyond Lisbon? Having a rental car makes day trips faster and far more flexible.
Sintra – Palaces, forests and viewpoints
- Distance: ~30 km
- Driving time: 35–45 minutes
Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon, known for Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira and its lush surroundings. While trains exist, a car allows you to visit multiple sites in one day and stop at lesser-known viewpoints.
Practical tip
Arrive before 9:00 am and park outside the historic centre to avoid congestion.
Cascais & Guincho Coast – Beaches and ocean views
- Distance: ~30 km
- Driving time: 35 minutes
Cascais combines beaches, coastal roads and relaxed seaside towns. With a car, you can easily reach Guincho Beach, Boca do Inferno and quieter spots that buses rarely serve.
Arrábida Natural Park – Cliffs, beaches and wine
- Distance: ~50 km
- Driving time: 50–60 minutes
Arrábida is one of the most beautiful natural areas near Lisbon, with dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and panoramic coastal roads. Public transport is very limited, which makes this destination almost impossible to explore properly without a car.
With your own vehicle, you can stop at multiple viewpoints, access hidden beaches like Praia do Creiro and combine the trip with a visit to local wineries in Azeitão.
Óbidos – A medieval town frozen in time
- Distance: ~85 km
- Driving time: 1–1h15
Óbidos is a walled medieval village known for its narrow streets, white houses and castle views. It’s an easy and relaxing day trip from Lisbon, especially if you want to avoid organized tours.
Driving allows you to arrive early or stay later, when the town becomes quieter and more atmospheric.
Nazaré – Giant waves and coastal culture
- Distance: ~120 km
- Driving time: 1h20
Famous for its giant waves, Nazaré is a fantastic day trip if you’re curious about Portugal’s surf culture and coastal life. Even outside big-wave season, the viewpoints and lighthouse area are worth the drive.
A car lets you combine Nazaré with nearby coastal towns or inland stops without depending on infrequent bus connections.
Évora – History, wine and the Alentejo vibe
- Distance: ~135 km
- Driving time: 1h30
Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage city with Roman ruins, historic churches and a slower pace of life. While trains exist, driving gives you the option to stop in small Alentejo villages or vineyards along the way.
This is an ideal day trip if you want
Is it worth renting a car for day trips from Lisbon?
Yes, especially if you want to:
- Visit multiple destinations in one day
- Avoid fixed timetables and crowded tours
- Access beaches, parks and viewpoints off the main routes
- Travel comfortably as a couple or family
For travellers staying only inside Lisbon, a car isn’t necessary. But for day trips, it quickly becomes a time-saving and stress-reducing option.
Common mistakes to avoid
Trying to visit too many places in one day
Distances are short, but each destination deserves time.
Leaving Lisbon during rush hour
Morning (8–10 am) and late afternoon traffic can slow exits.
Assuming public transport reaches everywhere
Many of the best spots simply don’t have good connections.
Quick planning tips
- Leave Lisbon early to maximize the day
- Use offline maps for rural areas
- Choose a compact car for easier driving
- Consider full insurance for peace of mind
FAQ – Day trips from Lisbon by car
How many day trips can I realistically do from Lisbon?
Most travellers comfortably do 2–4 day trips during a week-long stay.
Do I need a car for Sintra?
Not strictly, but it helps if you want to see more than one palace or combine it with the coast.
Are roads around Lisbon easy to drive?
Yes. Roads are well maintained and clearly signposted.
Is it expensive to rent a car in Lisbon?
Prices vary by season, but booking early usually offers better value.
Can I pick up the car at the airport and use it for day trips only?
Yes, many travellers do this to avoid city driving on arrival.
Related Articles
- Day Trips from Porto by Car: Douro, Braga & Guimarães (2026)
- Parking in Lisbon (2026): How to Park a Rental Car Without Stress
- Car Hire in Lisbon: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Capital and Beyond
Conclusion
Lisbon is an incredible city, but some of Portugal’s best experiences lie just beyond its borders. From palaces and beaches to medieval towns and natural parks, day trips from Lisbon by car open up a completely different side of the country.
If flexibility, comfort and better use of time matter to you, having a car can turn a good trip into a great one.
Plan your Lisbon trip with freedom — compare car rental options and explore Portugal beyond the city.
