Cascais

Cascais, a coastal town 30 minutes west of Lisbon, has grown from a quiet fishing village into a popular seaside destination. You can relax on golden beaches like Praia da Conceição, explore the historic center with its 19th-century villas, or take a short trip to see the dramatic cliffs at Cabo da Roca. The town's proximity to Lisbon makes it an ideal base for discovering the region's attractions, from the colorful palaces of Sintra to the world-class surfing spots at Praia do Guincho.

Cascais' Beaches

You'll find several beaches within walking distance of Cascais' town center. Praia da Conceição, Praia da Duquesa, and Praia da Rainha have calm waters and soft sand. For surfing and windsurfing, head to Praia do Guincho, about 9 km from town. The coastline between Cascais and Guincho features steep cliffs and unusual rock formations, including Boca do Inferno ("Hell's Mouth"), where waves crash into a small cave, creating impressive sprays of water.

Historical Sites and Museums

Cascais' past as a royal retreat is reflected in its architecture and museums. You can visit the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, housed in a 19th-century villa that resembles a small castle. Inside, you'll see a collection of art, furniture, and a rare 16th-century manuscript. The Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum presents maritime history alongside ocean views. At the Museu do Mar, you can learn about the town's fishing traditions through displays of model boats, photographs, and fishing equipment.

Food and Dining in Cascais

Cascais' location on the coast means you'll find plenty of seafood on local menus. Try traditional dishes like arroz de marisco (seafood rice) or caldeirada (fish stew). For a casual meal, go to the harbor area where small restaurants serve grilled fish caught that day. The Mercado da Vila, Cascais' main market, is a good place to sample local produce and specialties. Cascais also has several restaurants with Michelin stars that blend Portuguese flavors with international cooking techniques.

Getting to and Around Cascais

Trains run every 20 minutes from Lisbon's Cais do Sodré station to Cascais, taking about 40 minutes. The journey passes by the coastline. In Cascais, you can explore the compact town center on foot. For trips to nearby beaches or attractions, use the local bus service or rent a bicycle. Cascais has several bike paths, including one that runs along the coast to Guincho Beach.

Activities Beyond the Beach

Beyond sunbathing, Cascais offers many options for recreation. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which begins just north of town, has hiking trails that lead through sand dunes, pine forests, and rocky cliffs. Golfers can choose from several courses in the area, including the Oitavos Dunes. For a relaxed activity, walk along the promenade that connects Cascais to the neighboring town of Estoril, stopping at cafes and viewpoints along the way.

Day Trips from Cascais

Cascais' location makes it a good starting point for exploring other attractions in the region. The town of Sintra, known for its brightly colored palaces and gardens, is about 20 minutes away by car or bus. You can visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, to see its tall cliffs. The fishing village of Azenhas do Mar, built into a cliff face, is known for its unique architecture and seafood restaurants. You can reach these destinations by public transport or join organized tours from Cascais.