There is a lot to see and do in Lisbon, but if you want to escape the city for a day, traveling to nearby Portuguese towns and villages is too easy. With convenient and cheap transportation, you can discover a completely different side of Portugal just an hour or two from the capital.

 

Sesimbra

Sesimbras lazy holiday resort is an ideal retreat for those looking for some sand and sea. No wonder it is adored by the Portuguese, this city really has delicious seafood and a coastline of beaches worth exploring.  

If you prefer some adventure, Sesimbra also offers activities to get your adrenaline pumping, including hiking and biking, surfing, some of the best diving in Portugal, and kayaking along the coast.

With no direct train, the bus is the best option when traveling to the city from Lisbon - which takes 30 minutes to an hour depending on traffic.

 

Bethlehem

Reached by train from Cais do Sodré Station, and the first major stop after Lisbon, Belém is full of museums and historical monuments. Try taking a seat in the window on the left side of the train to get a panoramic view of the Lisbon coastline. Alternatively, take tram 15 for a slightly longer ride.

Belém is the home - arguably - of the best Portuguese pies. Many travelers make the trip exclusively to visit Pasteis de Belem, where you can taste the warm cream pies in their crispy packaging.

Dont let the long line deter you, these baked goods are worth the wait. Although the café has indoor seating, bring your pies to enjoy at a nearby park.

While in Belem, be sure to check out the Jeronimos Monastery, one of the UNESCO world heritage sites in Portugal. Then head to Belém Tower, where you can climb a narrow spiral staircase to see the city and the Tagus River from above.

Cascais

As summer rolls on (June-August), Cascais fishing village takes on a completely different vibe. Attracting both local tourists and holidaymakers, this city is just 40 minutes from Lisbon, but it feels set aside thanks to its relaxed atmosphere.

Cascais is well known for its bustling nightlife and delicious seafood, so be prepared to discover a lively selection of bars and restaurants. Replacing Lisbons great avenues with narrow streets, it will be difficult to choose among all the trendy boutiques and restaurants.

Depending on your priorities, make your choice on various beaches. Head to Conceição Beach or Duquesa Beach for a range of water activities, including paddle boarding and windsurfing, or take a scenic stroll to the end of Tamariz Beach promenade for a slightly more relaxing feel.

Easily accessible by train, leave Lisbon from the Cais do Sodré train station and finish in the center of Cascais about 30 minutes later.

Óbidos

Visiting Obidos will feel like returning to the medieval era. The small town is built within the castle walls and has been dubbed the most picturesque city in Portugal. With whitewashed houses, contrasted by colorful and vibrant portals, its easy to see why Obidos won the title.

If youre feeling brave, you can walk the city walls for an aerial view of the city and countryside. Proceed with caution: Some parts of the wall are steep and narrow, with some travel hazards thrown into the mix.

Then be sure to take a sip of  ginjinha  . The sweet alcoholic beverage is served in an edible chocolate cup and is famous in the region.

Easily reachable by bus in a one-hour journey, Óbidos is an ideal day trip if you feel like going back in time and seeing the unique side of Portugal.

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