Cascais has a fascinating history that is reflected in its museums: it served as the summer residence of Portuguese kings, a place of refuge for exiles during World War II, and a traditional fishing port. We were particularly impressed by the diversity of its cultural offerings, ranging from life at the castle to the Santa Marta Lighthouse, including Paula Rego’s contemporary art exhibitions.
In this article, check out our tips on the best museums in Cascais, our list of the city’s top 6 museums, and a few bonus picks!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The Best Museums in Cascais: Tips
In Cascais, you’ll find a wonderful variety of museums covering local history, contemporary art, maritime heritage, and historic architecture. But there’s much more to do in and around the city: check out our article on things to do in Cascais.
If you only need to do 3, we recommend it:
- Casa das Historias Paula Rego—a contemporary art museum showcasing the work of this leading Portuguese artist
- Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum—a 19th-century Romantic palace with a rich collection of art and furniture
- Casa Santa Maria—a historic residence featuring magnificent azulejos and unique architecture
WHERE TO STAY IN Cascais
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown –
Pergola Hotel – Check photos and availability
Ribeira Beach –
The Albatroz Hotel – Check photos and availability
Estoril, a neighboring town with beach amenities –
Estoril Vintage Hotel – Check photos and availability
1. Paula Rego House of Stories
Why visit it? Our review
This museum is a must-see for fans of contemporary art. We were impressed by the building’s distinctive architecture, with its two brick-red pyramids, designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura. Inside, you’ll discover an exceptional collection tracing Paula Rego’s 50-year career through paintings, drawings, and prints. We particularly liked the way the artist tackles controversial social issues, often drawing inspiration from his childhood and Portuguese culture. The museum also offers a dynamic cultural program featuring lectures, film screenings, and guided tours.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The building’s spectacular architecture, with its pyramidal towers
- The permanent collection tracing Paula Rego’s artistic evolution
- The bookstore and library specializing in contemporary art
Useful tips
- Located at 300 Avenue de la République, across from Parc Marechal Carmona
- A 15- to 20-minute walk from the Cascais train station or the CAS bus line
- Tour duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Educational Activities for Children
- Full adult price: €5
- Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed on Mondays
- Link to the official museum website here
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Read our tips
2. Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum
Why visit it? Our review
We were enchanted by this palace-museum’s eclectic architecture, which blends Romantic, Manueline, and Byzantine styles. We particularly enjoyed its fortified towers and arcades, which are reminiscent of medieval castles. Inside, you’ll discover an exceptional collection of national and international paintings, period furniture, and fine porcelain. The 17th-century Saint-Sébastien Chapel in Marechal Carmona Park and the garden featuring a statue of Joseph Bernard round out the tour.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The 16th-Century Chronicle of King Afonso Henriques by Duarte Galvão
- The armory and its magnificent pieces
- The castle’s Romantic architecture.
Useful tips
- Located on Avenida Rei Humberto II de Itália, in Marechal Carmona Park
- Tour duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Full adult price: €4 (cash only)
- Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; closed on Mondays and holidays
- Link to the official museum website here
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3. Presidential Palace at the Citadel
Why visit it? Our review
The history of this palace is closely linked to that of Portugal. We were fascinated by its history as the summer residence of the Portuguese kings since 1870, before it became the presidential residence after 1910. The renovations carried out between 2007 and 2011 have beautifully preserved the historic character of the site. You can admire the stunning azulejo panels that adorn the walls and appreciate the building’s unique architecture. We are particularly impressed by the way the palace continues to host heads of state while also opening its doors to the public. Please note that tours of the site are available only as guided tours in Spanish or English.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The guided tour and the stories shared
- The Military Architecture of the Citadel
- Temporary Exhibitions in the Historic Rooms
Useful tips
- Located within the walls of the Cascais Citadel
- Near the marina and Marshal Carmona Park
- Tour duration: 1h to 1h30
- The site can only be visited as part of a guided tour in Spanish or English.
- Full adult price: €8
- Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Link to the official museum website here
DISCOVER Cascais
4. Casa Santa Maria
Why visit it? Our review
This historic residence is a beautiful villa located near the Condes de Castro Guimarães Castle. From the outside, it’s very photogenic and makes for an iconic photo of the city. We discovered an interior that contains no furniture but showcases an architectural style that blends Moorish and Portuguese influences. Be sure to take a look at the oil-painted wooden ceilings and the beautiful azulejo tiles. You should also know that this house has hosted distinguished guests such as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The stunning 17th-century azulejos
- The oil-painted wooden ceiling
- The view of the small cove
Useful tips
- Located on Rei Humberto II de Itália Avenue
- Right next to the Lighthouse and the Condes de Guimaraes Museum
- Tour duration: 45 min
- Full adult price: €5, cash only
- Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 2 p.m.–6 p.m.; closed Mondays and on holidays
- Link to the official museum website here
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5. Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum
Why visit it? Our review
We discovered a tiny museum that’s really worth visiting mainly for the view of the bay. In a small room, visitors can see a variety of objects that provide insight into the daily lives of lighthouse keepers as well as the technical workings of these types of buildings. Another room is showing videos on the same topic. The lighthouse has a nice place to eat. We sipped a drink on the terrace, taking in the view, which is well worth the trip.
Our 3 favorite moments
- The view from the terrace
- The Small Exhibition
- The Video Room
Useful tips
- Located near the Casa de Santa Maria
- Tour duration: 15min
- Price: free of charge
- Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed on Mondays
- Link to the official museum website here
6. City Museum
Why visit it? Our review
This small museum traces the history of Cascais from the Paleolithic era to the present day. First of all, we liked the building’s appearance. The interior houses a small collection of Roman artifacts that attest to the long history of human settlement in the region. You’ll also discover stories about famous visitors who left their mark on the city’s history during World War II.
Our 3 favorite moments
- Archaeological Collections and Roman Artifacts
- Interactive displays and historical films
- The exhibition on the city during World War II
Useful tips
- Located in the historic center of Cascais, Praça 5 de Outubro
- On the ground floor of the 18th-century city hall
- Near the marina and the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum
- Price: Free, open to the public
- Duration of the visit: 1 hour
- Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 2 p.m.–6 p.m.; closed Mondays and on holidays
- Link to the official museum website here
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Other Museums in Cascais and the Surrounding Area
Cascais is home to other museums:
- Museu do Mar: dedicated to marine life and the maritime history of Cascais
- Museum of Portuguese Music
- You can also enjoy the cultural attractions of nearby Sintra, home to some magnificent palaces!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
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