Ericeira Day Trip from Lisbon: Portugal’s Coolest Coastal Escape
- Madison Wulf
- Jul 25
- 7 min read
Updated: Sep 14
If you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Lisbon that combines coastal charm, fresh seafood, and a cool breeze, Ericeira has it all. In this guide we will explore how to get to Ericeira from Lisbon, the cities top attractions, and everything you need to know to have a successful first time visit.
I fell in love with this little blue-and-white surf town so much that I went three times in the 28 days I stayed in Lisbon (June 2025). Out of all the easy escapes from the city, this one was my favorite — hands down.
The air is cooler, the vibe is slower, and the food is so good it almost feels unfair to the rest of Portugal. So, if you're itching for ocean air and want to explore Ericeira for the day, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip!
Why Visit Ericeira on a Day Trip from Lisbon?
Ericeira is a charming coastal town located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Lisbon. Known for its cool ocean breeze and dramatic shoreline, it’s a refreshing escape from the summer heat of the bustling cities crowded with tourists. Here are some things people often head to Ericeira to check out:
Cooler Coastal Weather: Ericeira, perched on the northern shore of the Atlantic coast, offers a refreshingly breezy alternative to Lisbon. It’s usually several degrees cooler, making it an ideal place to cool off during Portugal’s warmer months.
Blue-Washed Houses + Narrow Streets: Wandering Ericeira feels like walking through a sun-drenched seaside dream. The town is full of whitewashed houses with bright blue trim; a classic coastal color palette that just screams Portuguese fishing village.
Every twist and turn of its narrow cobblestone alleys reveals something charming, whether it's a tucked-away seafood café, a tiled doorway, or a viewpoint of the sea.
Fresh Seafood & Ocean Views: This is a town that knows how to do seafood. Ericeira has long been a fishing village, and the tradition lives on in the town’s incredible food. I had one of my favorite meals in all of Portugal here (more on that below).
How to Get to Ericeira from Lisbon
The easiest and most budget‑friendly way to reach Ericeira from Lisbon is by public bus operated by Carris Metropolitana as there is no train service to Ericeira.
All buses depart from Campo Grande Bus Station, conveniently located next to the green/yellow metro lines.
Here’s what to expect:
Departure point: Campo Grande Bus Station (bays 22–24), Lisbon
Provider: Carris Metropolitana (formerly Mafrense)
One‑way ticket price: Around €4.50 for express routes (lines 2740 & 2803); cheaper (€2.60) on slower, local routes like line 2751
Travel time: Depending on the route, between 45 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes (this depends upon how many stops the bus will be making)
Frequency: Multiple services daily; most frequent lines (e.g. 2740, 2803) run every hour
Last return bus: Typically leaves Ericeira around 10–11 pm, but always check the current timetable before traveling
Where you’ll arrive: Ericeira Terminal Rodoviário (bus station), roughly 10–15 minutes’ walk to the town center
Payment: Buy your ticket with cash only from the driver (buses do not accept cards) or tap your pre-loaded metro card for ride service
While traveling in Portugal I found Google Maps to be a reliable source to check travel information, however i suggest you always double check by looking at the schedule directly with the provider. Check the latest schedules and real-time updates here on the Carris Metropolitana website: [Lines 2740, 2803, 2801]
Top Attractions in Ericeira: What to See and Do
The town’s narrow streets are lined with whitewashed buildings accented in vivid blue, giving Ericeira a breezy, laid-back feel that reflects its deep fishing roots. With a reputation for some of the freshest seafood in Portugal and stunning Atlantic views at every turn, it’s no surprise this picturesque surf town has become a favorite day trip for both locals and visitors.
Stroll Through Ericeira's Historic Center
Ericeira’s historic center is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and iconic blue trim that glows in the Atlantic light.
The village is compact enough to explore in a few hours, but you’ll want to take your time — there’s beauty tucked into every corner. Browse boutiques filled with handmade ceramics, surf gear, and locally made linen, or stop for a pastel de nata and espresso at one of the many cozy cafés that spill out onto sunny plazas.
You’ll pass tiled façades in deep ocean hues, rustic wooden doors framed by flowerpots, and tiny chapels that hint at the town’s deep maritime history. From the lively square at Praça da República, where locals gather and street musicians play, to quiet alleys overlooking the sea, this is a town best enjoyed slowly, one photo-worthy moment at a time.
Experience Local Life at Ericeira Municipal Market
Start your day like a local at the Ericeira Municipal Market, a lively covered market near the town center where fresh seafood, vibrant produce, artisanal cheeses, and local honey await. The market is listed on several signs throughout the city center and is very easy to locate.
Even if you’re not cooking, wandering among the stalls offers a colorful glimpse into the daily life of this fishing village, with friendly vendors and the salty scent of the Atlantic in the air. It’s the perfect spot to soak up Ericeira’s authentic flavors and atmosphere before exploring the rest of the town. Pro Tip: This is a great place to gather snacks before heading to the beach!
Beach Hop Along the Coast
Ericeira’s coastline is one of the most striking in Portugal — a blend of golden sand, rugged shores, and rolling Atlantic waves that seems tailor-made for both surfers and sunseekers. Whether you’re here to ride the swells or just soak in the scenery, beach hopping is one of the best ways to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Praia dos Pescadores sits right at the heart of town and is perfect for a relaxing swim. Framed by boats and backed by cafés, it’s where locals gather for a dip and a dose of sunshine.
Ribeira d’Ilhas is one of the most iconic surf beaches in Europe — and with good reason. Just a short drive or a scenic cliffside hike from the town center, this beach hosts international surf competitions and offers long, glassy waves ideal for both pros and confident beginners.
Praia de São Sebastião is more off-the-beaten path, known for its dramatic rock formations and panoramic views. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and sunset chasers, especially when the tide crashes against the cliffs in a show of ocean power.
Eat at “The Furnas” – My Favorite Restaurant in Town
The Furnas sits perched on a rugged cliffside, with waves crashing just below and the scent of the sea mixing with wood smoke in the air — it's as atmospheric as it gets. What makes this place so special isn’t just the view (though the panoramic ocean backdrop is stunning) — it’s the entire experience of eating there.
When you arrive, you’re invited to step up to the fresh seafood counter, where a wide selection of fish and shellfish is laid out on ice. You literally pick your own fish — sea bass, dourada, sardines, whatever looks best that day.
The staff weigh it right in front of you and then toss it on a wood-fired grill, cooked to perfection in a traditional metal basket that gives the fish an incredible smoky flavor while keeping it juicy and tender. This was hands down the best seafood I have ever eaten.
Find Your Flow: Yoga & Wellness in Ericeira
Ericeira may be known for its surf culture, but it’s also quietly become a hub for wellness, mindfulness, and self-care — the perfect balance to the town’s more adrenaline-fueled activities. Whether you’re visiting for a single day or staying longer, the wellness scene here is warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to nature.
Thanks to the steady stream of surfers, creatives, and slow-living seekers, yoga and holistic health have found a natural home along Ericeira’s cliffs. Studios here are often small and personal, many offering drop-in classes with panoramic ocean views, outdoor terraces, and the kind of calming atmosphere that only comes from being this close to the sea.
Ericeira: A Town Steeped in Surfing History
Ericeira isn’t just another pretty beach town — it’s a world-renowned surf destination with serious credentials. In fact, it holds the title of being Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve, a designation that recognizes its exceptional wave quality and commitment to environmental preservation.
Surfers have been drawn to Ericeira’s coast for decades, thanks to its consistent swells and variety of breaks suitable for all levels. The stretch between Ribeira d’Ilhas and São Lourenço is home to some of the best surf spots in Europe, including reef breaks and long point waves that attract international competitions and pros year-round.
Even if you’re not catching waves yourself, watching the local surf scene is part of the town’s energy — especially at golden hour, when the cliffs turn warm and the surfers dot the horizon. If you are like me, and were obsessed with surf store brands at the beach growing up, this place is a dream.
Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a curious observer, Ericeira's surf culture is woven into the fabric of the town, and it adds to the laid-back, welcoming vibe that makes this place unforgettable.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Ericeira Day Trip
Go Early: The beaches and restaurants get crowded on weekends, especially in summer. I’d recommend catching a morning bus and planning to stay until after dinner if you can. Ex: Arrive in Ericeira at noon and head back to Lisbon on the 7:45 bus.
Bring a Light Jacket: Even in June and July, the breeze here can surprise you. That cool coastal air feels amazing after Lisbon heat, but it’s good to be prepared.
Wear Comfy Shoes: The town is walkable, but the cobblestones can be uneven. You’ll want something sturdier than flip-flops if you're exploring on foot.
Final Thoughts: Is Ericeira Worth the Day Trip from Lisbon?
Absolutely — in fact, I went back several times over exploring new cities during my Portugal stay.
Ericeira was my favorite way to spend a chill Saturday in Portugal. Please visit before it becomes too popular!
If you want to trade the heat and hills of Lisbon for salty air, ocean views, and blue-shuttered streets, Ericeira is the day trip for you.
So pack your sunnies, bring your appetite, and make a beeline for Ericeira. You might just end up planning your second trip before you even leave.
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