Hiking in Portugal near Lisbon: top experiences

If you're searching for a hiking destination that combines wild coastal landscapes, ancient forests and UNESCO heritage sites, all within a short distance from a major European capital, hiking in Portugal near Lisbon should be at the top of your list.

Lisbon’s proximity to diverse terrain, including the Atlantic coastline, the Sintra Mountains and the Arrábida Natural Park, makes it an exceptional base for hikers of all experience levels. From half day nature escapes to multi day hiking adventures, this region offers some of the most breathtaking walks in Europe, with the added bonus of rich cultural immersion, excellent cuisine and easy access.

Unlike many capital cities, Lisbon is surrounded by stunning natural parks and varied ecosystems.

In less than an hour, you can go from walking through pine covered hills to overlooking dramatic ocean cliffs or wandering through fairy-tale palaces. The region’s trails provide the ideal balance between physical activity, scenic beauty and historical discovery.

Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate means you can hike almost any time of the year. Winters are mild (10-15 °C), and springs and autumns offer the perfect balance of warmth, sunshine and blooming landscapes. Even in summer, the Atlantic breeze keeps coastal routes cooler than expected.

Combine your hike with visits to medieval castles, Moorish ruins or cliffside monasteries. Reward yourself with freshly grilled seafood, local wines from Setúbal or Colares, and of course, a Pastel de Nata with a sea view. Hiking here is never just about the walk, it's a full cultural journey.

• Distance from Lisbon: 30 minutes by car or train;
• Trail types: mountain paths, forested trails, coastal cliffs;
• Difficulty: easy to moderate.

This UNESCO Cultural Landscape is one of Portugal’s most magical hiking regions. Hike past moss covered walls, hidden chapels and Romantic era palaces nestled in dense forests.

Must do hikes in Sintra:

• Pena Palace to Moorish Castle Trail: a historical 6-7 km hike weaving through the Serra de Sintra, with panoramic views over the Atlantic;
• Cabo da Roca to Praia da Ursa: a wild and rugged coastal hike to Portugal’s westernmost point, ending at a hidden beach with surreal rock formations.

Tip: go early or late to avoid crowds at popular monuments. The hiking trails remain peaceful even on busy tourism days.

• Distance from Lisbon: 45 minutes by car;
• Trail types: limestone cliffs, Mediterranean scrubland, forested valleys;
• Difficulty: moderate to challenging.

Known for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, Arrábida is a paradise for nature lovers. Located just outside the town of Setúbal, this park offers both challenging ridge walks and gentle shoreline trails.

Recommended routes:

• Serra do Risco Ridge Trail: a moderate-to-challenging 10 km loop that follows Portugal’s highest coastal cliffs. Views of the Atlantic and Troia Peninsula are unbeatable;
• Praia do Portinho da Arrábida Trail: a gentler hike with access to one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches.

Wildlife note: keep an eye out for Bonelli’s eagles and wild boars, as well as unique Mediterranean flora.

• Distance from Lisbon: 25 minutes across the 25 de Abril Bridge;
• Trail types: coastal boardwalks, sandy paths, pine forests;
• Difficulty: easy.

This underrated area offers long beach walks and dramatic clifftop trails. It’s ideal for a sunset hike or a casual walk paired with beach time.

Best options:

• Capuchos Convent to Fonte da Telha: a scenic 8–10 km hike through pine forests and clifftops, ending at an untouched stretch of golden beach;
• Boardwalk trails: great for beginners or families looking for a flat, relaxing hike with ocean views.

Bonus: combine your hike with surfing or a beach picnic at Costa da Caparica.

• Distance from Lisbon: 40 minutes;
• Trail types: forest trails, historic hunting grounds;
• Difficulty: easy to moderate.

Tapada Nacional de Mafra is a protected area once used as royal hunting grounds. Today, it’s a beautiful park full of wildlife like deer and wild boar.

Green and Red Trails: these marked routes vary in difficulty and allow you to explore forests, gentle hills and the impressive 18th-century Mafra Palace.

Perfect for families or those seeking a peaceful escape with a touch of history.

When to go

• Best months: March-June and September-November;
• Summer hiking: stick to early mornings or coastal trails for cooler conditions;
• Winter: mild, but trails can be muddy, pack accordingly.

What to bring

• Breathable layers and windbreakers (weather changes quickly in the mountains and along the coast);
• Sunscreen, hat and water (even in cooler months);
• Navigation: trails are marked, but apps help.

How to get there

• Train: Sintra and Cascais are accessible from Lisbon’s Rossio and Cais do Sodré stations;
• Car: renting a car opens access to Arrábida, Caparica and Mafra more easily;
• Guided tours: ideal for stress free logistics, cultural context and access to lesser known trails.

Day 1: Forests and Palaces in Sintra

• Morning: hike from Quinta da Regaleira to Moorish Castle;
• Afternoon: visit Pena Palace and gardens;
• Dinner in Sintra’s old town.

Day 2: Cliffs and Coves of Arrábida

• Drive or take a guided tour to Setúbal;
• Morning: hike Serra do Risco ridge;
• Afternoon: swim at Praia da Figueirinha;
• Optional wine tasting in Azeitão.

Day 3: Coastal Caparica and sunset views

• Morning: hike Capuchos to Fonte da Telha;
• Lunch: on the beach;
• Return to Lisbon for sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

Hiking in Portugal near Lisbon offers the ideal balance of nature and culture, challenge and relaxation, independence and immersion.

Whether you’re strolling coastal cliffs at sunset, climbing forested ridges to ancient castles, or relaxing after a rewarding hike with wine and seafood, you’ll quickly understand why this region is a hidden gem for hikers.

Find Authentic Trails guided and self-guided tours.