12 Best Family Day Trips from Lisbon by Train (Kid-Friendly Guide)

There’s a particular alchemy to mornings in Lisbon. The light hits the pastel tiles in a way that makes the city feel like a waking dream, the smell of burnt sugar from the pastéis mingles with the scent of strong bica (espresso), and the city hums with a gentle, optimistic energy. But as any parent knows, that Lisbon magic can sometimes feel confined to the city’s labyrinthine streets. You look at your kids—full of boundless energy, asking for the tenth time what there is to do—and you realize that the real secret to loving this city is knowing when to leave it.

Lisbon is the perfect launchpad. Its central location on the Iberian Peninsula means you are never more than an hour or two from wild Atlantic waves, ancient Roman ruins, whimsical palaces that look like they’ve been plucked from a fairytale, or sleepy villages where time seems to have stopped. And the best part? You don’t need a car. You can trade the stress of the IC-17 for the rhythmic clatter of a train carriage, watching the landscape shift from urban sprawl to cork oak forests and sun-drenched coastlines.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the difference between a good family day trip and a legendary one lies in the details: a train station with a working elevator, a beach with a gentle slope for tiny toes, a castle with just enough gore to keep a ten-year-old enthralled, and, crucially, a place that serves excellent coffee for the adults. Here are twelve of the very best family day trips from Lisbon, broken down by what makes them special, how to get there, and where to find the good stuff.

1. Sintra: The Fairytale Fortress

The Vibe: If you only do one day trip, it has to be Sintra. It’s the place where Portuguese kings spent their summers escaping the Lisbon heat, and they built palaces and castles with a whimsical disregard for reality. For a kid, it’s a real-life Lego set. For adults, it’s a lesson in architecture and a fantastic walk through lush, misty forests.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The National Palace of Pena is the showstopper. Its bright yellow and red turrets and grotesque gargoyles are an instant hit. Tell your kids to look for the Great Owl over the entrance—the symbol of King Ferdinand II. Then, head down to the Moorish Castle. The ramparts are a thrilling, slightly scary climb that offers sweeping views and makes everyone feel like a knight defending the kingdom. The town of Sintra itself, with its winding streets and colorful trams, feels like a movie set.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Vila de Sintra, Portugal. The main train station is a short walk from the historic center, but you'll likely want to take the 434 bus loop up to the palaces.
• Hours: Pena Palace (Main Palace) is typically open 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30). The Park and Terraces have slightly longer hours. The Moorish Castle is usually 10:00 - 18:00. Always check official websites in advance; hours fluctuate seasonally.
• Getting There: Take the train from Lisbon's Rossio Station. It's a scenic 40-50 minute journey. Do not drive; parking is a nightmare.
• Pro Tip: Buy your Pena Palace and Moorish Castle tickets online in advance. The lines can be soul-crushingly long. Pack raincoats; Sintra has its own microclimate and is often misty and damp, even when Lisbon is sunny.

2. Cascais: The Seaside Aristocrat

The Vibe: Cascais is Lisbon’s sophisticated older brother who moved to the beach and learned to surf. Once a humble fishing village, it became the summer retreat of choice for Portuguese nobility in the late 19th century. The result is a charming town with a bustling marina, elegant mansions, and a fantastic coastline.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The beach here is perfect for a first taste of the Atlantic. The water in the main cove is relatively calm, and the sand is soft. But the real star for kids is the "Boca do Inferno" (Hell’s Mouth). It’s a dramatic cliff formation where waves crash into a sea cave with a thunderous roar. It’s safe to view from the top, and the sheer power of nature is captivating. There's also a fantastic seafront promenade perfect for scooters and ice cream.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Cascais, Portugal. The main action is centered around the Marina and Rua da Misericórdia.
• Hours: The town and beaches are always open. Museums like the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães are typically open 10:00 - 18:00 (closed Mondays).
• Getting There: Take the train from Lisbon's Cais do Sodré station. The journey along the river is one of the most beautiful commutes in the world, taking about 40 minutes. Get a window seat on the right-hand side.
• Pro Tip: The train line terminates at Cascais station, which is right in the heart of the action. After exploring the town, you can walk west along the coast to Boca do Inferno in about 15 minutes.

3. Mafra: The Baroque Behemoth

The Vibe: If Versailles and Buckingham Palace had a baby, it might look something like the Mafra National Palace. This isn't a cozy, fairytale castle; it's a monument to absolute power and jaw-dropping opulence. King João V poured so much money into its construction that he nearly bankrupted the country. The sheer scale is what gets you.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The Palace is a labyrinth. Kids love the immense main courtyard and the sheer number of windows and doors. The real highlight is the Royal Basilica, with its two towers full of bells that are rung by the monks (or, these days, a machine). The Royal Library is stunning but may require a hushed tone. The extensive gardens are perfect for running off steam. The nearby Tapada de Mafra (a former royal hunting ground) offers nature trails and a small zoological section.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Praça do Palácio, 2640-492 Mafra, Portugal.
• Hours: October to March: 10:00 - 17:30 (last entry 16:30). April to September: 10:00 - 18:30 (last entry 17:30). Closed on Mondays.
• Getting There: From Lisbon's Oriente or Entrecampos stations, take a train to Mafra. The station is a bit of a walk (about 20-25 minutes) from the palace, but it's a flat, straightforward route through the town.
• Pro Tip: The sheer size of the palace can be overwhelming. Focus on the State Apartments and the Basilica. For a full day, combine it with a trip to the nearby Ericeira (see below) or the Tapada de Mafra.

4. Évora: A Journey Back in Time

The Vibe: Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage city that feels like stepping into a history book. It has Roman walls, a medieval cathedral, and narrow, whitewashed streets that bake in the Alentejo sun. It’s a bit further afield, but the high-speed train makes it surprisingly quick, and the cultural payoff is immense.

Why It’s Great for Kids: History here is tangible and slightly macabre, which kids often love. They can walk through the 2,000-year-old Roman Temple, wander the winding alleys, and then visit the Chapel of Bones. I’ll never forget my nephew’s wide-eyed reaction to the interior, which is lined from floor to ceiling with the skulls and bones of over 5,000 monks. It’s a powerful lesson in mortality, sure, but also just incredibly weird and memorable. The Sé (cathedral) is also impressive, with a gothic interior and a tranquil cloister.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Évora, Portugal. The historic center is compact and walkable.
• Hours: Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) is usually open 10:00 - 18:00. The Sé has similar hours. Always double-check, especially on Sundays.
• Getting There: Take the high-speed train (Alfa Pendular) from Lisbon's Oriente or Entrecampos station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It's comfortable and scenic.
• Pro Tip: Évora gets incredibly hot in the summer. Go in the shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) if you can. If you go in summer, do your sightseeing in the morning, find a shady spot for lunch, and maybe take a siesta before exploring again in the late afternoon. The Praça do Giraldo is the main square and a great place for a rest.

5. Setúbal & Arrábida: Dolphins and Turquoise Waters

The Vibe: This is a two-for-one combo that gives you both a bustling port city and a stunning natural park. Setúbal is famous for its fried calamari (choco frito) and dolphin population. Just south of it, the Arrábida Natural Park rises dramatically from the sea with white-sand beaches that look more like the Caribbean than Portugal.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The main event here is dolphin watching. Several companies in Setúbal’s marina offer boat trips into the Sado Estuary, a protected nature reserve where a resident population of bottlenose dolphins lives. Seeing them leap out of the water is pure magic. Afterwards, you can drive (or take a bus) a few minutes south to the beaches of Portinho da Arrábida or Figueirinha. The water here is famously calm and turquoise, sheltered by the mountain, making it one of the safest and most beautiful swimming spots for families.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Setúbal Marina (for dolphins) and Portinho da Arrábida (for the beach). Setúbal is about 50km south of Lisbon.
• Hours: Dolphin tours run throughout the day, typically from 10:00 onwards. Beaches are open all day.
• Getting There: There isn't a direct train that takes you all the way to the best spots. You can take a train from Lisbon to Setúbal (from Roma-Areeiro station, about 1h 15m), but you would then need a taxi or bus to get to the marina and another bus/taxi to the Arrábida beaches. For this one, driving gives the most flexibility, but it is doable by public transport with patience.
• Pro Tip: Book your dolphin tour in advance, especially in high season. The sea can get choppy, so if you're prone to seasickness, consider a larger, more stable boat or taking a pill beforehand. For the beach, Portinho da Arrábida has facilities and a restaurant, making it easier for families than the more wild Figueirinha.

6. Costa da Caparica: The Endless Summer Beach

The Vibe: If you want a classic, no-frills Portuguese beach day, this is it. Costa da Caparica is a long, wide stretch of golden sand that faces the full force of the Atlantic. It’s a favorite for Lisbon locals, and it has a lively, slightly chaotic energy that’s perfect for a family looking to relax and play.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Space. There is so much space. Even on the busiest August day, you can find a spot to lay down your towels. The waves here are bigger than in Cascais, making it a magnet for surfers, but there are lifeguard-patrolled areas in the summer that are safer for swimming. The town itself has a cheerful, resort-like feel with plenty of ice cream parlors and casual restaurants. The wooden boardwalks that stretch along the dunes are great for a stroll.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Costa da Caparica, Almada, Portugal.
• Hours: The beach is 24/7, but lifeguards are on duty in designated areas during the summer months (roughly June to September).
• Getting There: From Lisbon (e.g., Cais do Sodré), take the train to Pragal or Corroios, then catch a bus (Carris Metropolitana) across the 25 de Abril Bridge to Costa da Caparica. Alternatively, there's a direct ferry from Terreiro do Paço to Cacilhas, followed by a bus.
• Pro Tip: The beach is divided into numbered sections ("postos"). Posto 1 is closest to the town and tends to be the most crowded. Walk a bit further north to find more space. The wind can be strong, so bring a windbreaker even on a sunny day.

7. Ericeira: The Surf Village Charm

The Vibe: Ericeira is a former fishing village that has morphed into a World Surfing Reserve. It retains a laid-back, authentic charm with its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and a cliff-edge setting that offers spectacular sunset views. It’s more rugged and bohemian than Cascais.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The surf. Ericeira is arguably the best place near Lisbon for kids to try surfing. Several surf schools, like the highly-regarded Up Surf School, offer lessons for all ages. They use soft-top boards and focus on safety and fun. Even if they don't surf, the rock pools at Praia dos Pescadores (the main beach) are fantastic for exploring at low tide, and the fresh seafood at the restaurants overlooking the water is a treat.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Ericeira, Portugal.
• Hours: Surf schools and restaurants generally operate from 9:00 - 19:00.
• Getting There: There is no train. The best way is by bus from Lisbon's Campo Grande station (Rede Expressos or Mafrense). The journey takes about 50-60 minutes and is quite scenic.
• Pro Tip: Ericeira is a year-round destination. In the summer, it's buzzing. In the winter, it’s a moody, beautiful place to watch the big waves from a cozy café. For a family, staying overnight is a great option, but a day trip is perfectly feasible.

8. Óbidos: The Walled Town in a Wine Glass

The Vibe: Óbidos is the quintessential medieval Portuguese town. Encircled by a formidable castle and 14th-century walls, its interior is a maze of narrow, flower-draped cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses with bright yellow trim. It’s incredibly picturesque, but be warned: it’s popular.

Why It’s Great for Kids: Walking the castle walls. You can climb up and walk a significant portion of the perimeter, getting a bird’s-eye view of the town’s red-tiled roofs and the surrounding countryside. It makes you feel like you’re on patrol. The town also has a quirky side; it’s famous for its Ginja (a sweet cherry liqueur), which is served in tiny chocolate cups. Kids get a kick out of eating the cup after the (very small) drink. Many shops offer free samples.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Óbidos, Portugal.
• Hours: The town is always accessible. The castle walls' access points usually open around 9:00 and close around sunset.
• Getting There: The easiest way is by bus from Lisbon's Campo Grande station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. There are also train options, but the station is a bit far from the town center, requiring a short taxi or bus ride.
• Pro Tip: Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest tour bus crowds. The town is small and gets very congested in the middle of the day. Parking outside the walls is straightforward if you decide to drive.

9. Tomar: The Knights Templar's HQ

The Vibe: For kids obsessed with knights, secret societies, and Indiana Jones, Tomar is the ultimate day trip. It was the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal, and the Convento de Cristo is a masterpiece of Manueline (Portuguese late Gothic) architecture that is simply mind-boggling in its detail.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The Convento de Cristo feels like a fortress and a monastery rolled into one. They can see the Charola (the round church where the Templars prayed), explore the vast cloisters, and stare up at the incredible window in the Chapter House, which is covered in intricate carvings of corals, shells, and knots. The town itself is lovely, with a pleasant riverfront and a sense of history that’s less overwhelming than Évora.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Convento de Cristo, Largo Dr. António José de Almeida, 2300-116 Tomar, Portugal.
• Hours: Generally 9:00 - 18:30 in summer, and 9:00 - 17:30 in winter. Closed on Mondays.
• Getting There: Take a train from Lisbon's Oriente or Entrecampos station. The journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• Pro Tip: Tomar is part of the "Schist Villages" region. If you have a car, you could combine it with a trip to a nearby village like Fajão or Piodão, but it's a fantastic standalone trip by train. Allocate at least 3-4 hours for the Convento alone.

10. Azeitão & Arrábida: A Taste of the South

The Vibe: This is a more relaxed, culinary-focused trip. Azeitão is a charming town at the foot of the Arrábida mountains, famous for its two things: the exceptionally sweet Azeitão sheep cheese and the Moscatel de Setúbal wine. It’s a slow-paced, delicious escape.

Why It’s Great for Kids: It’s a sensory experience. They can run around the main square, see the beautiful 16th-century church, and most importantly, taste things. While the wine is for adults, the cheese is a hit with all ages. You can buy a fresh loaf of bread from a local padaria and a chunk of cheese and have a simple, perfect picnic. It’s also a great base to visit the Arrábida beaches (see #5) without the bustle of Setúbal.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Azeitão, Setúbal, Portugal.
• Hours: Most local shops and cafes operate during standard business hours, roughly 9:00 - 19:00.
• Getting There: Like Setúbal/Arrábida, this is best reached by car or by taking a train to Setúbal and then a local bus or taxi to Azeitão (about 15-20 minutes).
• Pro Tip: Look for the "Queijaria" signs to buy cheese directly from producers. A great spot is the Convento de Azeitão, which has a restaurant and shop. It’s a perfect stop after a morning at Portinho da Arrábida.

11. Vila Franca de Xira: The Bullfighting Town

The Vibe: Located just north of Lisbon on the banks of the Tagus, Vila Franca de Xira is the heart of Portugal's bullfighting tradition. While the spectacle itself is a complex and controversial topic, the town's culture surrounding it is fascinating, and the "Casa do Toureiro" (Bullfighter's House) offers a museum-like insight without the bloodsport.

Why It’s Great for Kids: The museum is a hit. It’s a beautifully restored 18th-century house filled with colorful costumes, swords, and memorabilia. It feels like stepping into a different world. The town itself has a lovely riverside park perfect for a walk and watching the boats. The real draw for families, however, is the annual "Festa do Colete Encarnado" in September, a quirky festival where people wear red sashes and run with bulls through the streets (safely, in pens).

The Practical Magic:

• Address: Casa do Toureiro, Rua do Carmo 16, 2600-233 Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal.
• Hours: Casa do Toureiro is typically open 10:00 - 12:30 and 14:00 - 17:30 (closed Mondays).
• Getting There: Extremely easy by train. From Lisbon's Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations, it's a quick 20-30 minute ride on the Azambuja line.
• Pro Tip: This is a good option if you want a half-day trip or something different. It's less of a full-day commitment than Évora or Tomar. Combine it with a trip to the nearby Parque das Nações if the kids want more modern attractions in the afternoon.

12. Azambuja: The Roman Villa

The Vibe: For a deep cut that’s incredibly kid-friendly, head to Azambuja. It’s a quiet, unassuming town, but it holds a fantastic secret: the Villa Romana de Rabaçal. It’s one of the most important Roman ruins in Portugal, and it’s presented in a way that’s accessible and exciting.

Why It’s Great for Kids: This isn’t just a pile of old stones. The ruins are covered by a modern, walkable structure that lets you look down on the preserved mosaic floors and the layout of the rooms. There are informative panels (some in English) and, crucially, a small but excellent museum with artifacts found on-site. It’s a real-life history lesson where they can see how people lived 1,800 years ago. It’s small enough not to overwhelm and fascinating enough to hold their attention.

The Practical Magic:

• Address: N114, 2050-014 Azambuja, Portugal.
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30). Closed on Mondays.
• Getting There: Take the train from Lisbon's Oriente or Santa Apolónia station to Azambuja (about 35-40 minutes). The station is a short walk or a quick taxi ride from the site.
• Pro Tip: This is a fantastic option for a hot day, as the visit is mostly indoors and shaded. Combine it with a simple lunch in the town of Azambuja before heading back to Lisbon. It’s a low-stress, high-reward trip that feels like you’ve discovered a secret.

Navigating these trips with family is an art form, not a science. Some days will be perfect, the train will be on time, the sun will shine, and the kids will marvel at a 12th-century castle. Other days, it might rain, someone might get a blister, and the only thing that will save the day is the promise of a warm pastel de nata. But that’s the beauty of it. These day trips aren’t just about the destinations; they’re about the shared experience of discovery, the small adventures on the train, the new tastes, and the stories you’ll tell long after the sand has been shaken out of your shoes. So pick a direction, check the train schedule, and go.