Explore Cascais: Sun, Sea & Culture on the Lisbon Coast

Welcome to Cascais, a jewel of Portugal’s Atlantic coastline. Nestled just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon, Cascais is a picturesque seaside town known for its golden beaches, sophisticated charm, historic landmarks, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Once a retreat for Portuguese royalty, today it remains one of Portugal’s most beloved holiday destinations.
 

As your travel guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—what to see, where to go, what to eat, and how to make the most of your visit to this sun-soaked town on the Portuguese Riviera.

📍 Where is Cascais?

Cascais is located on the Estoril Coast, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, just a short drive or train ride from Lisbon. It’s close enough for a day trip, but rich enough in culture and natural beauty to merit a longer stay.

🚆 Travel time from Lisbon: ~40 minutes by train from Cais do Sodré

🛣️ By car: ~30–35 minutes via the A5 motorway

🚴‍♀️ Cycling & Coastal Walks: Scenic routes connect Lisbon, Estoril, and Cascais

🏖️ Top Things to Do in Cascais

1. Explore the Historic Old Town

Cascais’ cobblestone streets, tiled buildings, and charming squares invite exploration.

🛍️ Boutique shops and artisan markets

🍽️ Outdoor cafes offering fresh seafood and wine

🖼️ Visit local galleries like Casa Sommer

2. Relax on Cascais’ Beaches

Cascais is home to some of the most beautiful and accessible beaches in Portugal.

🏝️ Praia da Ribeira

Right in the town center, great for families and sunbathers.

🏖️ Praia da Rainha

A small hidden gem with cliffs surrounding the bay—great for photos.

🌊 Praia do Guincho

A few kilometers away, famous for surfing and windsurfing with a wild, rugged backdrop.

3. Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth)

A dramatic sea cliff formation where waves crash into a chasm carved in the rocks.

🌅 Popular for sunset viewing

📸 Great photography spot

Walkable or bikeable from the town center along the coastal path

4. Cascais Marina

A stylish and lively area with luxury yachts, seafood restaurants, and bars.

🚤 Sailing and water sports available

🎶 Occasional live music and weekend events

Walk to Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum nearby

5. Cidadela de Cascais (Cascais Citadel)

A fortress complex overlooking the marina, with a rich military history and modern twist.

Now home to art exhibitions, boutique hotels, and restaurants

Great mix of old-world charm and contemporary art

6. Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães

A fairy tale-like palace turned museum in Marechal Carmona Park.

🖼️ Collections of Portuguese art, antique furniture, and rare books

🌳 Located in a tranquil garden setting

7. Casa das Histórias Paula Rego

A contemporary art museum dedicated to the Portuguese-British painter Paula Rego.

🎨 Striking red architecture by Eduardo Souto de Moura

Exhibitions highlighting women’s roles in Portuguese culture and history

8. Cycle the Coastal Path to Guincho

Rent a bike and follow the scenic Ciclovia de Cascais, a dedicated bike path stretching along the cliffs from Cascais to Praia do Guincho.

🚴 Stop by Boca do Inferno and viewpoints

🌿 Spot local flora, lighthouses, and ocean views along the way

9. Take a Day Trip to Sintra

From Cascais, it’s a short drive or bus ride to Sintra, a fairytale town in the mountains.

Visit Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Moorish Castle

Combine a beach escape with historic exploration

🍽️ What to Eat in Cascais

Cascais is a seafood lover’s paradise, but there’s plenty for every palate.

Must-Try Dishes:

🐟 Grilled sardines – a Portuguese summer staple

🥘 Arroz de Marisco – seafood rice stew

🦐 Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato – clams in garlic and wine

🐙 Polvo à Lagareiro – baked octopus with olive oil and garlic

🍰 Areias de Cascais – local shortbread cookies

Best Restaurants:

Mar do Inferno – near Boca do Inferno, known for seafood

Hífen – trendy spot with ocean views and fusion dishes

Baía do Peixe – seafood platters with bay views

Taberna da Praça – inside the Cidadela, Portuguese tapas

🛍️ Shopping in Cascais

Cascais blends local crafts with upscale boutiques:

👜 Hand-painted ceramics

🕯️ Portuguese cork products

🧼 Local soaps and perfumes

👗 Fashion boutiques in the historic center

Visit the Mercado da Vila, a fresh market with gourmet stalls and weekend events.

🏨 Where to Stay in Cascais

From luxurious resorts to charming guesthouses, Cascais offers a range of accommodations:

Luxury:

The Albatroz Hotel – perched above the sea, historical elegance

Farol Hotel – modern boutique with oceanfront views

Pestana Cidadela Cascais – stylish hotel inside the citadel walls

Mid-Range:

Villa Vasco da Gama – cozy guesthouse with Portuguese decor

Hotel Baía – excellent location by the beach and town square

Budget-Friendly:

Cascais Boutique Hostel – clean, central, and social

HI Hostel – great for backpackers and budget travelers

🎉 Events & Festivals in Cascais

Cascais has a vibrant cultural calendar:

Festas do Mar (Sea Festival) – August, with music, fireworks, and boat parades

Cascais Jazz Festival – international jazz performances

Ironman Portugal – triathlon drawing athletes from around the world

Christmas Village – December, with lights and festive markets

📅 Best Time to Visit Cascais

🚆 How to Get to Cascais

From Lisbon:

Train: Take the Linha de Cascais from Cais do Sodré station – 40 mins

Car: Drive west on A5 or the scenic coastal road (EN6/Marginal)

Bike or E-scooter: Available in Lisbon and along the coastal path

Getting Around Cascais:

Walking: Most sights are within walking distance

Biking: Rent bikes along the promenade

Tuk-tuks & Taxis: For local trips or beach hopping

Scooters/E-bikes: Available via local apps or rental shops

💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Cascais

Bring sun protection—the Atlantic breeze can mask the sun’s strength

Book accommodation early during summer and festivals

Don’t skip day trips to Sintra or Estoril

Try the local gelato from Santini, a beloved Portuguese brand

Many locals speak English, but learning a few Portuguese phrases is appreciated!

🧡 Why You’ll Love Cascais

Whether you're strolling through its historic center, diving into the Atlantic, or sipping wine with a view of the marina, Cascais is both relaxed and refined. It’s perfect for:

Couples looking for a romantic escape

Families who want beach + history

Solo travelers seeking safe, scenic adventures

Digital nomads and culture lovers

Cascais combines the vibrancy of a cosmopolitan seaside town with the peace of coastal Portugal—an irresistible blend that keeps visitors coming back.