Cascais

Written by Celine Fournier, Finn Weber
01/09/2025
Charming coastal scene with colorful boats and palm trees in Cascais, Lisbon.
Carlo Primo, Pexels

Cascais offers a charming seaside escape along the Portuguese Riviera, featuring beautiful sandy beaches, a picturesque historic center, and a relaxed atmosphere. It provides opportunities for both leisurely coastal enjoyment and active outdoor pursuits like surfing and cycling.

The Bairro Amarelo district is a lively area for dining with a buzzy atmosphere, while the main pedestrian streets in the town center are ideal for casual strolls and gathering with other tourists. The marina often hosts live music and events, drawing people together. Hostels in the area also foster a communal environment for meeting other travelers.

Top 7 Things to do in Cascais

Visitors can immerse themselves in historical sites, enjoy scenic coastal walks, relax on sandy beaches, and explore local art and culture.

1. Wander through Cascais Historic Centre

Stroll along the charming cobblestone streets of Cascais's old town, adorned with traditional Portuguese mosaic sidewalks and historic buildings. Discover boutique shops, local cafes, and authentic seafood restaurants. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for leisurely exploration and soaking in the local culture.

Cost: Free to explore. Costs for shopping, food, and drinks vary.

Transport: The historic center is easily walkable from the Cascais train station and most accommodations.

2. Explore the Cascais Citadel and Palace

Visit the impressive 16th-century fortress, once a vital defense structure and later a summer residence for Portuguese royalty. Today, it hosts a museum, an art district with galleries, and a hotel. Wandering through its walls offers a glimpse into Cascais's rich past and provides views of the marina.

Cost: The citadel entrance is free. Admission to the palace and its museum is approximately €4-5.

Transport: Located within walking distance of the town center and marina.

3. Visit Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum and Casa de Santa Maria

Discover the distinctive blue-and-white striped Santa Marta Lighthouse, which houses a museum detailing Portuguese lighthouses and maritime history. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Cascais Bay and the Atlantic. Adjacent to the lighthouse is Casa de Santa Maria, a picturesque 20th-century mansion, which can be toured as part of the museum visit.

Cost: A combined ticket for the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum and Casa de Santa Maria costs approximately €5.

Transport: A pleasant walk along the coast from the town center, past the marina.

4. Witness Boca do Inferno

Experience the dramatic natural spectacle of Boca do Inferno, or 'Hell's Mouth'. This unique cliff formation, carved by the Atlantic waves, creates a powerful display as water crashes and surges through its arch. It is particularly striking during high tide or stormy weather. There are viewing platforms to safely observe the forces of nature.

Cost: Free.

Transport: Approximately a 15-20 minute walk from Cascais marina or a 25-30 minute walk from the train station. Alternatively, take the 427 bus from Cascais train station (Praça 5 de Outubro) for about €2, which takes around 10-18 minutes. A taxi ride costs approximately €5-€8.

5. Cycle along the Coastal Path to Guincho Beach

Rent a bicycle and ride along the scenic coastal path, known as the Paredão, which stretches from Cascais towards the wild Atlantic beaches. The route offers breathtaking ocean views, passing by landmarks like Boca do Inferno before reaching Praia do Guincho. This beach is famous for its strong winds and waves, making it ideal for surfing and other watersports, or simply enjoying its rugged beauty.

Cost: Bike rental typically ranges from €15-€20 for a city/hybrid bike for a day, or €30-€35 for an electric bike.

Transport: The cycle path starts near the Cascais town center. Guincho Beach is approximately 10 km from Cascais.

6. Visit Casa das Histórias Paula Rego

Explore this distinctive museum dedicated to the acclaimed Portuguese artist Paula Rego. Designed by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, the building itself is an architectural highlight. The museum showcases a significant collection of Rego's paintings, drawings, and etchings, with a focus on her often surreal and thought-provoking works, offering insights into Portuguese culture and social realities.

Cost: Admission is €5.

Transport: Located a short walk from the historic center, near Parque Marechal Carmona. Easily walkable.

7. Relax or Surf on Cascais Beaches

Enjoy the golden sands and calm waters of urban beaches like Praia da Rainha, Praia da Duquesa, and Praia da Conceição, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For those seeking more adventurous water sports, head to Praia do Guincho, known for its powerful waves, ideal for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Surf lessons are widely available.

Cost: Beach access is free. Group surf lessons typically cost €30-€40 per person for a 1.5-2 hour session, including equipment. Private lessons are around €80-€100. Surf equipment rental is approximately €25 for 2 hours or €35 for a full day.

Transport: Praia da Rainha, Praia da Duquesa, and Praia da Conceição are within easy walking distance of the town center. Praia do Guincho is best reached by cycling, bus (e.g., Scotturb 405/415 from Cascais Villa), or taxi.

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