Peniche is a beautiful waterfront city that is featured in many day tours from Lisbon. It is a paradise for beach lovers and also home to one of the largest waves in Europe, making it a surfing hotspot.
Take a bus tour with Comboios De Portugal or Rede Expressos. Buses leave for Lisbon several times daily. This mode of transportation creates the smallest carbon footprint, compared to trains and cars.
1. Visit Fatima
Located in the Central Region, Fatima is famous for its religious historical context, but it also offers plenty of attractions and things to do. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima attracts millions of Catholic pilgrims each year and sparks curiosity from other religions, too.
You can visit the tombs of the three shepherd children who witnessed the apparitions and even attend church services and light candles here. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima is the Sanctuary’s main attraction. It is stunning and peaceful inside.
You can also visit the grottos of Cova de Isto, a series of caves that are part of a network of underground tunnels. The Moinhos Velhos Cave is particularly impressive and is a popular choice for non-religious tourists. It’s the deepest of all the grottoes and it has a walkway that is suitable for all ages. It’s also close to a sensory Ecopark that features traditional stone houses.
2. Explore Lomba de Egua
If you’re looking to escape the windy shores of northern Portugal, head inland to explore a river beach (known as praia fluvial)! Unlike coastal beaches, river beaches are often sheltered from the wind and offer a tranquil place to bathe in nature.
The secluded Foz d’Egua river beach is just at an 8-minute drive from both Piodao and Chas de Egua and you can access it with a car. However, as the area is a natural area there are no official parking lots.
Foz d’Egua is also a popular hiking destination. The secluded praia fluvial is surrounded by lush green forests and a picturesque river, which makes it a great spot for a family hike. Foz d’Egua is best visited in spring and summer for the flowers, but you can enjoy the scenery in autumn as well. Foz d’Egua can be explored on an independent hike or you can join a guided tour. Travelers who opt for tours can take advantage of the convenience of having a driver and guide.
3. Visit Nossa Senhora das Misericordias
Joining the ranks of Sintra and Cascais, Estoril is a swanky coastal resort town renowned for its luxurious entertainment facilities and establishments. It’s often bundled together with the two other towns in day tours from Lisbon. You can also book a full day tour from Klook to explore Estoril and other popular attractions around the area!
The church of Nossa Senhora das Misericordias is a must-see attraction. It features a grand limestone classical facade covered in 19th-century azulejos. On its lower part, the façade has a Corinthian-style portal, topped with four cupolas.
The Convent of Christ church and castle in Tomar was originally a Templar stronghold. It later became the seat of the Order of Christ after the Templars were disbanded in the 14th century. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Monument. The castle has a stunning cathedral that’s worth checking out. It’s best to visit during the day so you can take advantage of the natural light.
4. Visit Ourem
Ourem may not be as well-known as other Portugal destinations, but it has a few unique attractions that are sure to wow any traveller. The highlight is a medieval castle that’s part of the town’s old quarter. It is a huge fortress, with a palace built inside of it in High Gothic style. It is one of the best-preserved castles in all of Europe, and it’s a real sight to behold.
Located south of Ourem is the pilgrimage centre of Fatima, which attracts millions of visitors and followers each year. The Basilica where three shepherd children saw the apparitions of Mary is a major focal point, and you can also see the homes of Sister Lucia, Jacinta, and Marto who all lived to old age.
The town’s central location makes it a great base for exploring the region and its attractions. You can use the local bus service to get around, or hire a taxi for longer trips. Walking is also an option, as the main attractions are within easy reach.
