Roadtrip around Lisbon
Stop 1 - Sintra
Distance from Lisbon Airport: 28.9 kms
Our first stop is the charming town of Sintra, nestled among wooded hills. In the past, the cooler air of Sintra made it a popular summer retreat for Portuguese Royalty and members of the nobility who built extravagant palaces in the town. As a result the architecture is colourful, over-the-top and eccentric.
Don't miss: Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira
Stop 2 - Ursa beach
Distance from Sintra town centre: 17.5 kms
Praia da Ursa is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal and is found within the Sintra Cascais Natural Park. The beach isn't accessible by car, so you need to hike the last bit down a steep cliff. It is worth the effort if you love wild, secluded beaches, however it isn't suitable for small children or people with mobility restrictions.
Top tips: wear proper shoes for the hike as it is quite rocky and can also be slippery. Be careful in the sea as the waves can be very big and there is no lifeguard so stay in the shallows if you are not a strong swimmer.
Stop 3 - Setúbal
Distance from Lisbon: 48 kms south
The coastal town of Setúbal on the other side of Lisbon is your next stop and the perfect place for an overnight stay. Famous for its delicious seafood and local Moscatel wine, the town has a reputation for great restaurants and stunning scenery, set between the mountains and the sea.
Don't miss: São Filipe Fortress, the Monastery of Jesus of Setúbal, Mercado do Livramento.
Stop 4 - Arrábida Natural Park
Distance from Setúbal : 13 kms
This stunning natural park is southwest of Setúbal on the way to Sesimbra. Known for its Mediterranean vegetation, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine beaches such as Praia de Galapinhos and Praia do Creiro. History lovers can visit the 16th-century Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida and the Santa Maria Fort.
Top things to do: hiking scenic trails, dolphin watching in the Sado Estuary, snorkeling in the marine reserve, wine tasting in Azeitão.
Stop 5 - Sesimbra Castle
Distance from Arrábida Natural Park: 15 kms
Sesimbra is a charming fishing town about 40 km south of Lisbon, known for Sesimbra Castle, a 13th-century Moorish fortress, that sits high above the town offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and surrounding hills. Visitors can explore its medieval walls and the small church decorated with traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles (azulejos). Down in the town you can enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour, lounge on Praia do Ouro beach, or stroll through the narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and colorful murals.
Top things to do: visit the Maritime Museum, take a boat tour to explore hidden coves and sea caves along the coast.
Related Articles
- Portugal - Roadtrip from Sintra to Arrábida