Lisbon is a beautiful city, but so is its entire surroundings. Portugal is a country rich in history and beauty that is not only related to its capital city. On this page you will find a list of the best trips that you can go on and places you can visit near Lisbon. Lisbon is very well connected by train with all places, so you will arrive in no time, and you will surely be delighted.
Cascais, Estoril and Sintra are the three most important places for excursions when you are in Lisbon. Sintra is a small green paradise, surrounded by hills and plains, and hides magnificent palaces, gardens and history, and at the same time turns you into a romantic person. Sintra is a little different in relation to Cascais and Estoril, it could be said that it is much more romantic and has a special emotion. One of the reasons for that is its Pena Palace, which is considered to be the most romantic palace from the Romantic era, and was built in the 19th century. Sintra is also recognizable by the westernmost point of Europe, Cabo da Roca, which is located not far from the center of this town. It is also known for the Moorish fortress, Monserrate palace and numerous other sights that make Sintra a rich cultural and tourist center.
If you were to imagine some fairytale places, it could only be compared to the Pena Palace. This magnificent palace with its appearance and colors of the facade wins everyone's heart. The predominant colors are yellow and red. The towers give it special significance and uniqueness. Pena Palace is an uncut diamond of Portugal, located not far from Lisbon in the charismatic town of Sintra. This is considered to be the most romantic palace in the world. The history of the palace dates back to the Middle Ages.
If you are staying in Lisbon, it is unavoidable to go on a trip to the charming town of Cascais. Cascais was once a fishing village, and it began to develop during the 19th century as an attractive tourist destination when kings chose this place as their home, and some as an ideal holiday destination.The origin of Cascais is connected to the 12th century, and its position changed when Lisbon became the capital of Portugal. The former inhabitants of Cascais lived from the sea, fish and agriculture, and today they live from tourism. Fortresses were built in order to prevent the entry of the Spaniards during the 17th century, and some of them still exist today.
One of the most significant landmarks of Cascais is its fortress from the 15th century, which has had multiple purposes throughout history. This large fortress is located at the mouth of the river Tagus. It was used for defense against pirates, but also for the purpose of defense against Spanish and French attacks. The fortress was built in 1490 by order of the Portuguese King John II in order to defend the city from attacks from the sea.
Monseratte Palace is another very important landmark of Sintra. Located north of Lisbon with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. With its appearance and architecture, together with the landscaped park, it represents a precious jewel of Sintra. According to historical sources, Alfonso Henriques built a chapel in the part of the Virgin Mary after the reconquest of Sintra. On these ruins, a new chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Montserrat was built in 1540. The Mello e Castro family took over the property in the 17th century, and after the catastrophic earthquake that struck Lisbon in 1755, the farmhouse was abandoned and unused.
