Coimbra is the obvious excursion — 45 minutes by train, with a stunning Joanine Library, Romanesque cathedral, and the energy of one of Europe's oldest universities.
Montemor-o-Velho (20km inland) has one of Portugal's most impressive Moorish castles, rising above rice paddies on the Mondego flood plain.
Praia de Mira (20km south) is a quieter beach alternative on the edge of the Mata Nacional do Dunas de Mira, a pine forest that runs along the coast.
Serra da Lousã (45km inland) offers forested mountain walks, schist villages, and a complete change of landscape from the flat coastal plain.
