Summer in Lisbon and Around

A local(ish) guide to summer days, sea dips, and where to eat after

Last summer, I decided to stay home for the holidays—and it was so good! After all, I’m still a bit of a tourist here, and there’s so much to enjoy around Lisbon during this season. This year, I’m planning to do the same before heading to the U.S. end of August for a mix of vacation and work (more on that soon!).

Now, after spending four summers in Lisbon, I feel like I’ve finally mastered our summer itinerary. So here it is: my favorite tips for making the most of days in and around Lisbon. The best part? You can spend the day at a paradise beach and still make it back in time for dinner at your favorite restaurant. Truly the best of both worlds.

---

Beaches South of Lisbon

My go-to: Praia da Princesa (Costa da Caparica)
This is the beach I visit most often. It’s just 30 minutes from my place in Lisbon and offers wide stretches of sand, good restaurants, and a relaxed vibe. It’s our go-to for a “normal” weekend escape. My best tip: go early! I like to get there by 9am and leave before 3pm. You avoid the bridge traffic and the wind (which usually kicks in mid-afternoon). If you're a party soul, the beach restaurants here often host sunset parties. Not really my thing—but the sunset itself is worth seeing!

The postcard-perfect one: Galapinhos (Arrábida)
Unreal turquoise water. I’m talking true paradise. Just about an hour from Lisbon, Galapinhos is worth every step of the short walk from the parking area (the road is closed to cars during high season). It’s not hard, just plan to get there early—spots are limited. This whole area is also amazing for boat tours.

The beach I’m manifesting a house near: Praia do Meco
There’s nothing particularly special about it—but I love the energy here. Big parking lot, a small charming village for lunch nearby, and just the right amount of low-key.

---

Beaches North of Lisbon

Where I go on super hot days: Praia da Adraga (Sintra coast)
Surrounded by dramatic rock formations, this beach is stunning—and cooler than Lisbon, thanks to Sintra’s microclimate. I’m not made for the beach when it's over 32°C, so Adraga is perfect. Easy parking, and surprisingly not crowded.

For a livelier beach day: Praia Grande (Sintra coast)
Still on the Sintra coastline, this beach is more vibrant, with a mix of people and a good vibe. There's even a paid pool on the right side if you're into that kind of thing. I always head to Bar do Canto, a beautiful restaurant just above the sand.

For the view: Azenhas do Mar
This was on my list before I even moved here—and it did not disappoint. Cliffs, white houses, crashing waves. I love going even during the winter, just to sit, breathe, and look at the ocean.

For the view (2): Praia da Ursa
Everyone goes to Cabo da Roca—it’s the westernmost point of continental Europe—but right next to it is Praia da Ursa, and honestly, it’s one of the most incredible places I’ve seen. The trail down to the beach is known to be intense (full disclaimer: I’ve never done it), but you can absolutely go just for the view from the top. Trust me, you won’t regret it. The cliffs, the ocean, the raw beauty—it’s unreal.

For a beach + small surfer city vibe: Ericeira
You’ve probably heard of it—Ericeira is officially on the map now. And it deserves the hype. While I don’t always go for the beach, I love the village. Cute cafés, restaurants, shops, and a cool artisanal scene. Great for a day trip if you're craving a change of scenery.

For the drama: Santa Cruz
Okay, it’s a bit further (about 1h30 from Lisbon), but this one deserves a spot on the list. The waves are wild (not for swimming), but the landscape is stunning. If you're into surf, or just want to feel small next to the power of the ocean, this is your place.

---

Where to Eat Along the Way

Because what’s a beach day without a good meal to wrap it up?

When heading South:

• Princesa – This beach restaurant is right on Praia da Princesa. Good food, chill vibe, and you don’t even need to leave the sand.

• O Farol – Near Galapinhos, this one is magic. Blue tables by the water, fresh seafood, and you’ll feel like you’ve just landed in a Greek island. One of our favorite discoveries from last summer. If you book ahead, they’ll even let you park near the trail entrance.

• O Tropical do Meco – A cozy, laid-back spot near Meco beach, perfect for grilled fish and an ice-cold beer after a dip.

  

  1. Tropical do Meco | 2. O Farol

When heading North (Sintra & Ericeira):

• Azenhas do Mar Restaurante – Go for the views, stay for the seafood. Book a table if you're planning a special lunch—it gets packed.

• Moinho Dom Quixote – This place is such a vibe. Great for sunset drinks or a slow lunch with panoramic views.

• Ribeira d'Ilhas Surf Restaurant & Bar – Super convenient if you’re already at the beach. Great casual stop with a view of the surf.

• Balagan – A more recent favorite with international food and a cool terrace. Perfect for a late lunch.

• Mar das Latas – Small, charming, and with a curated menu. Ideal for a cozy date night after beach hopping.

• Taba – Brazilian food at its absolute best. A low-key gem I found two years ago and go back all the time.

1. Moinho Dom Quixote | 2. Taba | 3. Ribeira d'Ilhas

If you’re passing by Cascais:
I don’t go to the beaches in Cascais that often—just a bit too crowded for my taste—but I love driving along the coast there. And the town has some great food spots:

• Guimas – An institution. Delicious food, cozy terrace.

• Casa da Guia – Not one restaurant, but a collection of spots inside a beautiful property with the best view over the sea.

• Fauna & Flora Estoril – If you're in the mood for a late breakfast or brunch, this is a perfect stop.

Back in Lisbon

After a beach day, nothing beats a slow evening in the city. And trust me, I have a whole routine.

Ice cream is non-negotiable.
Nannarella is a classic—I don’t think there’s a summer without it. But lately, I’ve also been loving Nivá. Both are solid choices to cool off after a salty day.

Cold beer and a slow evening?
You’ll find me at Quiosque do Jardim da Parada. It’s one block from my house and one of my favorite spots to just sit, drink a cold one, and let the day fade out. Actually, the quiosques around Lisbon are always a good option, stay outside, on the shadow of the trees, I love it!

For a people-watching moment:
Head to Praça das Flores. Any of the restaurants around the square will do, the atmosphere is the real treat. Great place to land after a beach or stroll.

A bit of Brazil in Lisbon:
Jobim has everything I need—Brazilian snacks, ice-cold beer, and good music.

Want to keep it laid-back?
Insaciável is a nice pick for an evening drink in a relaxed setting. No fuss, just good vibes.

And of course, you can always check the full list I’ve shared before on my Lisbon guide if you want more options:

---

So yes, I’m staying in Lisbon again this summer—and I couldn’t be more excited about it. There’s just something special about discovering your own city over and over again. I hope this guide inspires you to slow down, soak up the sun, and maybe plan your own version of a “home vacation.”

Anyone coming here for the summer? Let me know!

And don’t forget to share this post to help me grow my little community :)

Happy summer!