Hiking in Lisbon

When it comes to activities in Lisbon, very few people look beyond the city’s borders for a fun-filled day. However, if you venture just outside the city you’ll come face to face with wonderful nature and mesmerizing landscapes.

One of the best ways to explore the capital’s natural splendor is with a Lisbon hiking tour — providing you with an unforgettable day in the great outdoors. These excursions come in a variety of intensity levels, and there are even a couple of combo tours available.

Check out our helpful guide with all the details about hiking, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Lisbon.

What are the best hiking tours in Lisbon?

There are several prime hiking destinations just outside of Lisbon, making it a breeze to find the best one.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park hiking tour from Lisbon

Sintra is arguably best known for its palaces — like the stunning National Palace — but the region is also home to a pristine natural park that boasts some of the best-preserved patches of old-growth forest in Portugal.

Combine this with the well-marked-out trails winding through the forest, coastal bushland and mountainous cliffs and you have the ideal setting for a hiking trip. Follow your experienced guide as they tell you more about local fauna and flora while you journey all the way to the Cabo Raso lighthouse — where an air-conditioned van will be waiting to take your weary feet back home.

Lisbon hiking tour to the dinosaur footprints of the Espichel Cape

You’ll find the Espichel Cape roughly 30 kilometers south of Lisbon in an area called Setúbal. Apart from being famous for its sweet wines, this region also boasts some of the oldest attractions in all of Europe — Sauropod footprints that date back a mindboggling 150 million years.

These ancient markings are also the main destination of your hiking trip, as your passionate tour leader guides you along this stunning coastline.

Full-day hiking tour to Arrábida Natural Park from Lisbon

This hiking tour will allow you to take in some of the most mesmerizing views that Portugal’s western coast has to offer as you wind your way through the iconic limestone mountains and zigzagging trails of Arrábida Natural Park.

Venture ever higher under the watchful eye of your guide, eventually reaching a height just shy of 400 meters — perfect to admire the azure waters of the Atlantic below.

Are there any hiking combo tours in Lisbon?

Combining your Lisbon hiking tour with another activity is a great way to save time while also cutting down on costs.

Sintra hiking tour with Pena Palace visit

This small group hiking tour presents the most comprehensive way to explore Sintra and the many treasures it holds. Travel to Sintra by van, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour of the town — before heading to the unique kaleidoscope that is Pena Palace.

After exploring the palace and grounds, you’ll head to Cabo da Roca where you’ll enjoy a 5-kilometer trail along the coastline — taking in unobstructed views of this stunning landscape before heading back home.

Lisbon’s jeep safari and sunset hike with tapas and wine-tasting

If the idea of an entire day on your feet doesn’t sound all that appealing, you should consider this combination tour — featuring a perfect balance between driving, hiking, eating and drinking.

Enjoy a jeep tour to most of Sintra’s most famous palaces, before heading to the shoreline for a short sunset hike — after which you’ll get to enjoy local delicacies and a wine tasting while you watch the sun disappear in the Atlantic Ocean.

How much do hiking tours in Lisbon cost?

Hiking tours in Lisbon cost between €50 and €90 per person — with the main reason for the higher prices being the distance of the hiking destinations from the capital.

A Sintra-Cascais Natural Park hiking tour from Lisbon will cost €50 per person — the best value for money considering that it’s limited to eight people. However, it only lasts 4 hours with transport included.

Hiking tours to the dinosaur footprints of the Espichel Cape will cost €65 per person — and this full-day excursion includes a light lunch and snacks.

A full-day hiking tour to Arrábida Natural Park from Lisbon will cost €90 per person. This might sound steep but it offers the most specialized of hikes on offer — and you’ll be accompanied by a guide who’s well-versed in the local fauna and flora.

Combination tours also vary in price, and a tour that includes a Pena Palace visit can cost €80 per person, while a jeep safari and sunset hike tour can cost €90 per person.

What is included?

As the majority of hiking tours in Lisbon take place outside of the city’s borders, transport to and from the capital will be included. Along with this, you’ll also enjoy the guidance of a local hiking guide who is well acquainted with the trails.

Whether entrance into landmarks like Pena Palace is included will depend on the tour in question. Consider confirming this information when making your reservation.

Where does it start?

Hiking tours in Lisbon will typically depart from the tour company’s office, or from a pre-determined location in the city. This will differ from tour to tour, but it will usually be a landmark in the Alfama or Belém districts.

How long do hiking trips in Lisbon usually last?

Lisbon’s hiking tours usually last between 4 and 9 hours, depending on the location of the hike, as well as the number of activities included. However, you’ll seldom spend all of your time hiking with the tours offering ample opportunity to catch your breath.

When is the best time for a hiking tour in Lisbon?

The best time for a hiking tour in Lisbon is in the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). This is when temperatures are more moderate, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

It's always a good idea to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat of midday and to give yourself enough time to complete it.

Is it safe?

Hiking tours are safe and are led by professional guides. However, they are not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with back problems or other serious medical conditions.

Can children join along?

Children are allowed, but there may be age restrictions depending on the intensity of the hike. Check with your tour operator beforehand to ensure the whole family can participate.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Hiking tours in Lisbon will be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, and you can reschedule your trip or get a refund.

Which other outdoor activities are popular in Lisbon?

• Boat tours in Lisbon
• Bike tours in Lisbon
• Horse riding tours in Lisbon
• Kayaking tours in Lisbon
• Dolphin watching tours in Lisbon

Travel tips

• Make sure you wear study hiking shoes to hit the trails with.
• A moderate level of fitness is recommended for hiking tours.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable to physical activity.
• Pack water and snacks to ensure you stay hydrated and fueled.
• Always wear sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.