Cascais, Portugal’s charming coastal town, offers a perfect blend of history, culture and dream beaches. This former royal seaside resort boasts a picturesque town center, fascinating museums and a pleasant seafront. We were won over by the relaxed, elegant atmosphere of this pearl of the Portuguese Riviera.
Discover our 15 ideas for things to do in Cascais, illustrated with photos to whet your appetite. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Marvel at the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães
Why visit?
We were charmed by this museum, housed in a magnificent palace with a castle-like appearance. Nestled in a tiny cove in the heart of Cascais, the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães is one of the city’s architectural and cultural treasures. Built in the early 20th century, it houses an impressive collection of art, furniture and precious objects. We particularly appreciated the library, with its rare books and carved woodwork, and the weapons room under the roof. During your visit, you can admire paintings, tapestries, porcelain and antique musical instruments. The view from the castle is also superb. You’ll be able to see a small beach licking the feet of the palace, a pretty bridge and then the ocean in the distance.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
- Price: €4 for adults
- Allow about 1 hour for the tour
2. Stroll downtown
Why visit?
Cascais town center is a charming labyrinth of cobbled streets and lively squares that invite you to stroll. We loved wandering these picturesque streets, lined with flower-fronted houses and craft stores. The central square, Largo Luís de Camões, is the beating heart of the city, with its cafés and sunny terraces. Don’t miss the Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, whose blue and white azulejos are a fine example of Portuguese art. The atmosphere is both lively and relaxed, perfect for soaking up the local rhythm of life. We recommend you try pastéis de nata in one of the traditional pastry shops in the center – a real treat for the taste buds!
Practical advice
- Bring good shoes to walk on cobblestones
- Tourist office on Praça 5 de Outubro for further information
- Numerous restaurants and cafés for breaks
- Stores generally open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Self-guided tour of the center here
WHERE TO STAY IN Cascais
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Cascais (coming soon)
3. Praia da Duquesa and da Rainha beaches
Why visit?
Praia da Duquesa and Praia da Rainha are two of Cascais’ most beautiful urban beaches. Just a stone’s throw from the town center, they boast golden sands and crystal-clear waters. We particularly appreciated the relaxed, family atmosphere. Praia da Rainha is smaller and sheltered. However, when we were there, it was packed. Praia da Duquesa is larger and has parasols and deckchairs for hire. Both beaches are bordered by a lively promenade with bars and restaurants. We also enjoyed the spectacular sunsets.
Practical advice
- Supervised beaches in summer
- Showers and public toilets
- Sun loungers and parasols for hire on site
- Restaurants on the beach and nearby
- Stairway to Praia da Rainha
- Access by ramp and stairs to Praia da Duqesa
- Arrive early in high season to find a good spot on the beach
- Ideal for families thanks to their calm waters
4. Admire Boca do Inferno
Why visit?
Boca do Inferno, or “Hell’s Mouth”, is an impressive natural phenomenon just a few minutes’ drive from the center of Cascais. This rock formation, sculpted by marine erosion, is a breathtaking sight when the waves rush into the cavity. We were captivated by the power of the ocean raging against the cliffs. A pathway allows you to observe this phenomenon at close quarters, although some of the steps are quite steep. We recommend visiting the site at sunset, when the golden light sublimates the ochre hues of the rock and the deep blue of the Atlantic.
Practical advice
- Free access
- Free parking by the sea, paid parking on the road
- Toilets and water point
- Cycle path along the road leading to the chasm
- Restaurants and snacks on site
- Beware of steep staircases on cliffs
- Bring good shoes
5. Try your luck at the Estoril Casino
Why visit?
The Casino d’Estoril, just a few kilometers from Cascais, is Europe’s largest casino. This iconic establishment, said to have inspired Ian Fleming’s “Casino Royale”, offers what we believe to be a luxurious gaming experience. We were impressed by the variety of games on offer, from slot machines to blackjack and roulette tables. The casino is also home to several restaurants, including the famous Mandarim, specializing in Chinese cuisine. You can also enjoy the music-hall show presented in the auditorium. Even if you’re not a gambler, the building’s Art Deco architecture and gardens are well worth a visit.
Practical advice
- Open every day from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m.
- Free admission on presentation of ID
- Appropriate dress required
- Music-hall shows
- More info on the official website here
6. Relax at Praia do Tamariz
Why visit?
Praia do Tamariz, located in Estoril, is one of the region’s most popular beaches. This long stretch of fine sand is bordered by a lively promenade offering breathtaking ocean views. We particularly appreciated the cosmopolitan atmosphere. The medieval castle overlooking the beach adds a picturesque touch to the landscape. Facilities are plentiful, with numerous bars and restaurants along the promenade. Why not book a deckchair for the day and enjoy the sun in comfort? It’s also the ideal place to watch a magnificent sunset at the end of the day, perhaps while sipping a cocktail in one of the beach bars.
Practical advice
- 5min drive from Cascais
- Supervised beach in summer
- Sun loungers and parasols available for hire
- Easily accessible by train from Lisbon (Estoril stop)
- Numerous water sports on offer
- Ideal for families thanks to its calm waters
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7. Shopping and markets
Why visit?
The city offers a varied shopping experience, combining local designer boutiques, major international brands and traditional markets. We loved strolling through the shopping streets of Cascais and discovering its lively markets. You’ll be transported into Portuguese culture at the Market da Vila or the Fish Market. An opportunity to discover local products and crafts. For more classic shopping, stroll around the center and near the marina or visit a shopping mall like CascaiShopping to treat yourself.
Practical advice
- The Market da Vila is open every day
- Most downtown stores are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- CascaiShopping is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Don’t forget to negotiate prices in the market – it’s common practice!
8. Visit the Casa das Historias Paula Rego Museum
Why visit?
Casa das Historias Paula Rego is a unique contemporary art museum dedicated to the work of Portuguese artist Paula Rego. The building itself, designed by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, is a work of art with its geometric shapes and distinctive terra cotta color. We were fascinated by the building, and in particular by the chimneys in the store, which reminded us of those in the National Palace in Sintra. Inside, we discover a captivating collection of the artist’s paintings, drawings and engravings, known for their powerful and often provocative narratives. We were particularly interested in the themes addressed in the exhibition, such as criticism of the Portuguese Salazar regime and feminism.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
- Price: €5 for adults
- Checkrooms and cafeteria
- Dedicated parking next to the racecourse parking lot
- Garden with large pine trees and green lawn, ideal for a break
- Opposite Parc Marechal Carmona and the racecourse
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9. Enjoy bars and restaurants
Why visit?
Cascais’ culinary scene is quite varied. From traditional restaurants to establishments offering innovative cuisine, there’s something for everyone. We particularly enjoyed the Hifen cocktail bar and restaurant, with its creative cocktails and tasty traditional cuisine. For a gastronomic experience in an exceptional setting, we recommend the Hotel Albatroz restaurant. It offers refined cuisine with a breathtaking view of the ocean. Other small, typical restaurants nestle in the city’s alleyways, notably Rua Alfonso Sanches, which is packed with good addresses. We highly recommend sampling local specialties such as sopa de peixe (fish soup) or polvo grelhado(grilled octopus). Finally, the bars in the city center are perfect for enjoying a drink and tapas at the end of the day.
Practical advice
- Reservations recommended for restaurants, especially in high season
- Taste local specialities such as pastéis de nata and tapas
- Some bars offer happy hours for drinks
10. Stroll along the waterfront and marina
Why visit?
The promenade along the Cascais waterfront is one of the town’s major assets. The paved path stretches for several kilometers, along beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a great place for strolling, jogging and exercising. We were charmed by the panoramic ocean views. The Cascais marina, modern and elegant, is also an interesting point of attraction. A variety of yachts, sailboats and pleasure boats can be found here. It’s also the ideal place to observe the activity of local fishermen and enjoy the typical maritime atmosphere of Cascais.
Practical advice
- To the west of Cascais town center, the promenade is flanked by a railroad.
- Flat course, ideal for families and people with reduced mobility
- Bicycles available for exploring the coast
- Cafés and restaurants along the route
DISCOVER Cascais
- Best things to do in Cascais (coming soon)
- Best hotels (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- How to get to Cascais (coming soon)
11. Discover Casa Santa Maria
Why visit?
Casa Santa Maria is a pretty villa on the Cascais seafront. This magnificent 1901 house, although unfurnished, offers a glimpse into the life of the Portuguese elite in the early 20th century. We were dazzled by the traditionally tiled walls and woodwork ceilings. The view from the terrace is another highlight of the visit, revealing a charming panorama of a small cove. You can also see the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães. We found the decor particularly romantic. Although the villa is relatively small, its location and architecture make it a must-see stop on your visit to Cascais.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
- Price: €5 cash only, bring change
- Allow about 45 minutes for the tour
- Combine the visit with that of the Santa Marta Lighthouse or the nearby Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum.
12. Stroll through Marechal Carmona Park
Why visit?
Marechal Carmona Park is a haven of peace in the heart of Cascais. This public green space offers a tranquil, green escape, perfect for recharging your batteries. We were delighted by the diversity of the spaces: manicured gardens, wooded areas, peaceful ponds and children’s play areas. The site is home to free-ranging animals including turtles, roosters, hens, geese and ducks. We particularly enjoyed the rose garden, wooden amphitheatre, sculptures and fountains scattered around the park. It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic or a walk in the shade of the trees.
Practical advice
- Open daily from 8:30 am to 8 pm in summer and until 6 pm in winter.
- Free admission
- Numerous playgrounds for children
- Children’s library on site
- Opposite the racecourse and the Casa das Historias Paula Rego Museum
13. Entering the citadel
Why visit?
The Cascais Citadel is an imposing fortified complex overlooking the city’s harbour. We were impressed by the robust architecture of the ramparts and amazed to discover what they housed. Here you’ll find a luxury hotel, Pestana Cidadela Cascais – Pousada & Art District, contemporary art galleries, a bookshop, cafés-restaurants and the Citadel Palace. We recommend a guided tour of the palace, which houses the Museum of the Presidency of the Portuguese Republic. The various sculptures scattered around the courtyard add a contemporary dimension to this historic site.
Practical advice
- Allow around 30 minutes for the visit, 1h30 if you wish to visit the citadel palace.
- No indoor parking, park near the marina or in the surrounding streets
- The citadel palace can only be visited on a guided tour
- Several restaurants and cafés inside the citadel
- Free access to the inner courtyard
- Ideal to combine with a stroll around the marina
14. Visit the Farol Santa Marta Museum
Why visit?
The Farol Santa Marta Museum is a tiny museum located near the town’s lighthouse, the emblematic symbol of Cascais. In a modern architectural interpretation center, we discovered a small exhibition tracing the history of Portuguese lighthouses and the evolution of navigation technologies. Two other rooms are dedicated to the operation of a lighthouse and the profession of lighthouse keeper. We particularly appreciated the panoramic view of the ocean and the city of Cascais from the site. Unfortunately, at the time of our visit, it was not possible to climb to the top of the lighthouse due to construction work.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
- No dedicated parking, walk along a path for about 100m
- Guided tours of the lighthouse interior on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11am to 12pm (subject to opening).
- Catering point
- Located right next to Casa Santa Maria
- Allow about 30 minutes for the tour
15. Escape to Praia do Guincho
Why visit?
Praia do Guincho, a 15-minute drive northwest of Cascais, is a wild beach. This vast expanse of golden sand, fringed by dunes and steep cliffs, is renowned for its exceptional surfing and kitesurfing conditions. We were impressed by the raw beauty of the place. Wind and waves make this beach a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Even if you don’t surf, the beach is also ideal for long walks and lazing around. There’s also a bar, Bar Do Guincho, and a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, Fortaleza Do Guincho, just to the east of the beach.
Practical advice
- Accessible by car (paid parking) or bus from Cascais
- Umbrella rental
- Bar Do Guincho on the beach with toilets
- Beach access with path in the sand for people with reduced mobility
- Several surf schools offer lessons and equipment rental
- Restaurants
- Beware of currents and waves
Things to do in Cascais: other ideas
Other museums in Cascais
Cascais is home to several other interesting cultural institutions. Here are our suggestions:
- The Museu da Musica Portugesa offers a fascinating insight into the music of Portugal.
- The Cascais Cultural Center, housed in a former convent, regularly hosts exhibitions of contemporary art.
- History buffs will love the Cascais City Museum, which traces the city’s development over the centuries.
- The Museu do Mar is dedicated to the history of the town’s fishermen and fishing in Portugal.
Other beaches in Cascais
Cascais hides other beaches. Here’s what they are:
- Hotel Albatroz’ s pretty little beach between Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Rainha
- Praia da Rata, a small beach bordered by a jetty
- Ocean pools such as the Alberto Romano sea pool or the Tamariz pool
- The wild Praia da Arriba near Praia do Guincho
- The large Praia dos Carcavelos is ideal for a surfing lesson
Excursions around Cascais
Discover Sintra and its treasures
Sintra is just a few kilometers from Cascais, 25 minutes by car. We were captivated by this picturesque UNESCO World Heritage city, famous for its romantic palaces and lush gardens.
- Let yourself be tempted by this small-group tour of Sintra’s treasures, with pick-up directly from your hotel.
- From Lisbon, discover Cascais as well as Sintra and its palaces!
Visit Lisbon
Lisbon is also close to Cascais, a 40-minute drive away. Portugal’s capital is rich in history and culture!
Escape to nature
Cascais is at the heart of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which offers a varied landscape of steep cliffs, ocean-swept sandy beaches and dense forests. Enticing for hiking and nature lovers.
Let yourself be tempted by these tours:
- Try this dolphin watching trip.
- After exploring Cascais and Sintra, head to the westernmost tip of Portugal at Cabo da Roca, Europe’s most westerly point.
- Climb one of Portugal’s most beautiful cliffs!
Things to do in Cascais with children
In our opinion, Cascais is a family-friendly destination. Children can enjoy the calm waters of the city’s beaches. We also saw an inflatable waterslide park floating on the water opposite Praia da Ribeira. Parc Marechal Carmona is also a great place for younger visitors. Play areas are dedicated to them, and it’s interesting to observe small free-roaming animals such as sea turtles, roosters and ducks. The markets, their smells and their colorful products will also entertain the youngest visitors. Climbing to the very top of the Santa Marta Lighthouse can also be an activity that will take them out of the ordinary!
Things to do in Cascais when it rains
Rainy days in Cascais are rare, but if the weather isn’t kind, there are plenty of options. We recommend visiting Cascais museums such as Casa das Historias Paula Rego, Casa Santa Maria or Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães. Why not enjoy yourself at CascaiShopping, go shopping or go to the cinema? Last but not least, it’s a pleasure to take advantage of the services offered by your hotel. Cascais offers a wide choice of accommodation with luxurious spas and dream rooms!
Useful tips for visiting Cascais
Where is Cascais?
- Cascais is located on Portugal’s Atlantic coast, about 30 km west of Lisbon.
- Cascais to Lisbon = 40min drive
- Cascais to Sintra = 25min drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get to Cascais
Cascais is within easy reach of Lisbon. By car, take the A5 freeway from the capital. In our opinion, the car is one of the most comfortable means of transport for visiting Portugal.
Regular trains depart from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station. The journey takes about 40 minutes. You can also get there by cab, a more expensive but practical option, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
Parking in Cascais
Parking can be tricky in high season, but there are several pay-and-display parking lots in the town center, notably near the racecourse and marina. Parking is also available in the central streets. Parking is also charged. Have some change ready in case the ticket machine doesn’t take your credit card. It happened to us!
Getting around Cascais
Cascais is a relatively small town and most attractions are within walking distance, apart from Boca do Inferno which is 2km from the center. But if walking doesn’t appeal to you, here are your options:
- Get around by bike: Cascais has an inexpensive bike rental scheme.
- By bus: the local “Buscas” bus network serves the city and surrounding area.
- Cabs: handy for more distant destinations.
Where to eat in Cascais
Cascais is home to some great addresses. Here are some of our favorite restaurants:
- The Restaurant de l’Hôtel Albatroz for its breathtaking sea views and refined Portuguese cuisine.
- Restaurant Hífen, a modern tapas restaurant-bar with an excellent cocktail menu.
- The Taberna Clandestina restaurant, tucked away in an alleyway, is very popular!
Visiting Cascais in winter
Cascais is pleasant to visit all year round, but winter offers a different experience. Temperatures are mild (rarely below 10°C) and less crowded. You can enjoy the attractions and restaurants in a quieter atmosphere. Museums and art galleries are open. What’s more, it’s the perfect time of year to take advantage of your hotel’s facilities, including spas, wellness centers and heated pools. But just in case, don’t forget to bring a raincoat and warm clothes for the evenings.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Things to do in Portugal (coming soon)
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon)
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Portugal (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Portugal (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Things to do in Lisbon (coming soon)
Things to do in the Algarve
Things to do in Porto (coming soon)
Things to do in Sintra (coming soon)
