What treats await outside Lisbon?

Have a question? Ask our expert Simon Calder

The coastal town of Cascais is a (bargain) 40-minute train ride from central Lisbon (Alamy)

Q A friend and I have a week in Lisbon, staying in an Airbnb in the centre, beginning on 7 January. What is the best day trip we could make from the city? We both enjoy walking.

Louise E

A Your timing is perfect. The Christmas and new year rush finishes on Sunday 6 January, at which point crowds melt away from airports and fine European cities such as Lisbon. So I hope you have found some good-value flights as well as accommodation. Lisbon airport is extremely close to the city, and outside rush hour the Aerobus takes only 15-20 minutes and serves most locations – check before you board for the right one to your destination.