We fell in love with Cascais, the pearl of the Portuguese coast just a few kilometers from Lisbon. Popular for its seafront, luxury hotels and cultural offerings, the city is sure to win you over. It’s one of Portugal’s most pleasant destinations.
In this article, discover our 10 reasons why Cascais is a must-see destination.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Cascais worth a visit?
The answer is yes! We were won over by Cascais’ blend of history, culture and nature. This former fishing town, now a prestigious seaside resort, will seduce you with its authenticity, preserved despite its tourist development. On the program: museums, exceptional landscapes, beaches and gastronomy!
We list the reasons in more detail below, or you can check out our selection of the city’s top attractions here.
Reason 1 – Its lively historic center
We loved getting lost in the historic heart of Cascais! Its cobbled streets winding between traditional houses with colorful facades are a constant reminder of why we love Portugal so much. The city’s pretty squares are also worth a visit, such as Praça 5 de Outubro, perfect for a coffee and a view of the waterfront. We also recommend the Vila market, which is quite authentic. You can also take advantage of the center to go shopping.
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
Reason 2 – Its urban and wild beaches
In our opinion, the beaches of Cascais are among the most beautiful in the Lisbon area. We particularly enjoyed the Praia da Duquesa and Praia da Rainha, which border the heart of the city. Here you’ll find calm waters, white sand and all the comforts of deckchairs or parasols for hire – the ideal place for family bathing.
Nature lovers will love Praia do Guincho, a little further from the center. It’s a great place to surf and admire the ocean.
Reason 3 – Its luxury establishments
We have had the opportunity to test several hotels in Cascais, and we can assure you that the resort’s hotel offer is attractive. Some accommodations have preserved the historic charm of the buildings while offering impeccable modern comforts, such as the Estoril Vintage Hotel, where we enjoyed a delightfully elegant stay.
Other establishments are well worth a visit for their services. This was particularly true for us at the Evolution Estoril Hotel, where we took full advantage of the spa, 2 swimming pools and sauna!
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips
Reason 4 – Its waterfront and nautical activities
The promenade along the seafront is also one of Cascais’ greatest assets. Why not go for a morning jog, take a sunset stroll or simply sip a cool drink?
In terms of activities, we recommend this dolphin-watching trip! Surfing beginners will also appreciate this surfing course on the large Carcavelos Beach.
Reason 5 – Natural sites like Boca do Inferno
Cascais is located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, home to some exceptional natural sites. Hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers will find plenty to do. The coastal cliffs are also worth exploring. Less than 2km from the city center, Boca do Inferno is one of them. This view of the coast literally took our breath away. We advise you to go at the end of the day, when the setting sun offers its most beautiful light.
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Reason 6 – Its casino and shows
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 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.
Reason 7 – Its superb museums
Cascais is home to many museums. Their quality and aesthetics surprised us. One of our favorites is the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum. We were won over by its romantic setting and its magnificent collections of objects and furnishings.
Casa Paula Rego is also a fascinating museum. Its bold architecture and the committed paintings of the eponymous artist are sure to surprise you. Other museums worth visiting include the Museu da Musica Portugesa, the Museu do Mar and the City Museum.
Reason 8 – Its historical heritage
We fell under the spell of Cascais’ heritage. Don’t miss the Santa Marta lighthouse, featured on many of the town’s postcards. The view of the sea from here is also very beautiful. The Casa Santa Maria, a superb stone villa, is also one of the symbols of the seaside resort.
The citadel, which surrounds part of the city with its thick walls, is a fine example of the successful conversion of a historic building. It’s home to the luxurious Pestana Cidadela Cascais hotel, as well as galleries, a bookshop and a palace.
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Reason 9 – Its gastronomy
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.
Reason 10 – Local excursions
Cascais’ location really did strike us as ideal for exploring the region. Sintra, nestled in the mountains surrounded by romantic palaces, is just a 30-minute drive from Cascais. Small group tours allow those who wish to be guided to explore the city’s treasures. The capital, Lisbon, is also nearby. Go there to immerse yourself in Portuguese history and culture.
DISCOVER Cascais
Some disadvantages of a trip to Cascais
Tourists
Very pleasant, Cascais is also a very popular destination. In July and August, the town can be very busy. To make the most of Cascais, we recommend spring, autumn and even winter, when temperatures remain mild and your stay will be more exclusive.
Parking and traffic
Speaking from experience, parking in the city center can be a real headache, especially in summer. Our tip: use peripheral parking lots such as the racecourse parking lot next to the center. If you find a parking space in the center of town, remember that you have to pay to park, and bring some change in case the ticket machine doesn’t take your card. It happened to us.
Price
The jewel of the Portuguese Riviera, Cascais is a seaside resort that doesn’t come cheap. We strongly advise you to book your accommodation in advance or out of season to take advantage of special offers. Cascais in winter is also very pleasant. Read our article on the subject!
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.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Best attractions in Portugal
The most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Portugal
Driving tips
