City & Sea: Lisbon to Ericeira in One Perfect Week
City Energy Meets Barefoot Beach Days
If you can’t decide between a city break and a beach escape… don’t. Do both.
Portugal does this combo so well. Three days in Lisbon for culture, food, and that cinematic European charm then a short coastal hop to Ericeira for surf, sea air, and slow mornings.
It’s the kind of trip that feels balanced. Energising but never rushed. Stylish but never try-hard.
Here’s how I’d plan it.
Lisbon: Slow, Stylish, and Sun-Soaked
Spend three nights getting properly lost in Lisbon. Start with Tram 28 early in the morning before it gets crowded, winding through Alfama and Graça while the city is still waking up. Wander through Alfama’s backstreets afterwards and head up to Miradouro das Portas do Sol for that classic terracotta rooftop view.
Make time for Belém one afternoon. Visit Jerónimos Monastery, stroll along the river to Belém Tower, and of course stop at Pastéis de Belém for the original custard tarts. If you love design and culture, the National Tile Museum is worth the short bus ride for its incredible azulejo panels.
Evenings are for Bairro Alto or Chiado. Ride the Glória funicular up to São Pedro de Alcântara for sunset, sip ginjinha in a tiny standing bar, and book a late Fado show in Alfama for something atmospheric but still intimate. Lisbon is hilly, so build in long lunches and coffee stops. It’s a city that rewards slowing down.
Getting Around (Without the Stress)
From Lisbon Airport, you’re only 20 to 25 minutes from the city centre, so a pre booked transfer or taxi keeps things smooth. When it’s time to head to Ericeira, about 45 minutes away, I usually suggest hiring a car for flexibility. It means you can explore the coastline properly and even pop over to the nearby Mafra National Palace, a UNESCO listed landmark just 10 minutes from town.
Ericeira: Salt Air & Slower Mornings
Ericeira isn’t just pretty, it’s Europe’s only officially designated World Surf Reserve. Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is where you’ll find some of the best waves and most beginner surf lessons, while Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul are perfect for slower beach days right by town. A little further out, Foz do Lizandro is another favourite with a laid back feel and great beach bars.
Beyond the surf, wander the white and blue old town, stop for gelato at Nutwood Gelataria, book a yoga class, or cycle the clifftop trails. Keep an eye on events at You and The Sea, they often host markets and open air cinema nights. It’s outdoorsy but still stylish.
Where You Stay Matters
In Ericeira, I stayed at Immerso and it was beautiful. It’s a short drive into town with an incredible restaurant, a serene pool overlooking the hills, and yoga on site. It’s the kind of place that makes you genuinely slow down.
In Lisbon, it depends on your vibe. Bairro Alto Hotel is perfect for rooftop terrace views, Torel Palace Lisbon is ideal for slow breakfasts and afternoons by the pool, and The Ivens has the most beautiful interiors. If you are leaning fully into luxury, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon never disappoints.
This trip works beautifully for couples, solo travellers, or friends who want culture and coast in one easy week. When it’s planned well, it feels completely seamless.