Updated 2026
My Home in Portugal – Cascais
Welcome to an in-depth travel guide for Cascais – ‘The Portuguese Riviera’. Written by independent travel planner Candy who has lived in Cascais since 2020. Use this guide to find the best places to visit and things to do in Cascais.
I’ve shared my insider knowledge and travel tips for Cascais below. You’ll find the best hotels, activities, beaches and events alongside everything you need to plan a trip to Cascais. Guaranteed to be up to date because I live here day in, day out.
This is written from my perspective as someone who lives and works from here permanently. I’m not a tourist or digital nomad. I have spent the last 5 years getting to know Cascais and what it has to offer. While I will never be a native Portuguese (much to my disappointment) I’m very proud and honoured to call the country, and Cascais my home. I’ll never stop sharing why it is so special.
Planning a trip to Portugal? You’re in the right place! Welcome to Travel Planning and Itinerary design by Candy. Olá! I’m an independent travel advisor living in Portugal (since 2016). I help people plan their dream trip to Portugal, Spain and Italy. You’re currently reading a post from my collection of travel guides. I also offer personal travel consultation and a bespoke itinerary service.
My main priority for this travel guide is to share the real experiences that I think offer a good glimpse of Cascais. I aim to be an honest source of information for travel in Portugal and I hope you find this guide helpful in planning your trip to Cascais.
Então…
Why Visit Cascais?
If its nickname ‘Charm of the Atlantic’ doesn’t make you at least a bit curious then let me share some of the reasons you should visit Cascais.
‘Charm of the Atlantic’
Cascais’ historical centre is the definition of charming. Imagine tiny streets of calçada, lined with pastel-hued houses, decorated in bougainvillaea. If you did nothing else but wander these streets you would be glad you made the visit. Cascais’ history is draped in royalty and you’ll see signs of opulence and grandeur in the palace-like buildings dotted around the town and along the seafront.
Beach please.
Cascais is home to a string of stunning and captivating beaches from the local hang out of praia da Poça to the tiny but picturesque Praia da Rainha, right up to the windswept and mountain-backed Praia do Guincho. Cascais is a beach hopping paradise satisfyingly close to Lisbon.
Fresh air and outdoor activities
Cascais is no doubt a great place to relax but this seaside town is also one of the best places for an active holiday in Portugal. There is an abundance of activities to take part in such as cycling, surfing, sailing and SUP. If you’re a keen runner or cyclist there is a great 10km cycle path that runs from the Cascais centre to Guincho that follows the coast the whole way. And let’s not forget hiking! Malveira da Serra is only 20 minutes away and has some great trails to enjoy. It’s also home to the Ironman Portugal event in October each year when the town fills up with athletes and supporters, building an energy like no other.
Foodie heaven
Cascais is home to a surprising amount of amazing bars and restaurants with all types of cuisine. Whatever you fancy, there’s a good chance Cascais has it. I’ve written a specific guide for this so hop on over if you are in need of some food inspiration.
Wine lover? Join a Portuguese Wine Discovery tasting event at Vida Vinho
What does ‘Cascais‘ mean
The toponym or name Cascais comes from monte de cascas or ‘mountain of shells’. This refers to marine mollusks that are plentiful on the coast of Cascais. The municipality flag features fishing net, castle and wavy lines, another indication of how deeply the town is entwined with fishing.
Where is Cascais?
Cascais is part of the region of Lisboa, 1/3 of the way up the country. It lies 15 km west of the city of Lisbon.
Booking.com
How to get to, from and around Cascais
I am the biggest advocate for driving in Portugal but for once I’m going to say cars aren’t the best mode of transport in this area. The best way to get to and around Cascais is not with a car. Unless you are planning on driving to Guincho or further up the coast then you don’t really need a car in Cascais. The easiest way to get to Cascais is by train from Lisbon.
Driving to Cascais
If you do drive to Cascais I recommend arriving before 10am in the morning to secure a spot and avoid the worst of the traffic. Traffic in and out of Lisbon during rush hour morning and evening can be very busy so try to avoid it where possible.
Parking in Cascais
Finding parking in Cascais can be difficult during the busy periods, and free parking is like gold dust. My advice would be, if you don’t absolutely need a car, don’t bring one. There are several main car parks but Marchael Carmona is the best in terms of space, ease and location. Alternatively, if you don’t mind a 20/25 minute walk there is lots of free street parking next to Eurostars hotel in Guia. Some of the main hotels have car parking but most guest houses and Airbnb’s do not.
Taking the train to Cascais
If you are visiting from Lisbon then you can use the Linha de Cascais train that departs from Cais do Sodre every 20 minutes and it takes around 40 minutes. Trains run daily between 6am to 1am. There is a great app you can download at www.cp.pt which shows you all the scheduled trains. You cannot book tickets in advance for this journey. To get your ticket visit one of the machines in the train or metro station and buy a Viva card for €0.50 then top that up with a return journey to Cascais which is around €5.
Getting around Cascais
The best way to get around Cascais is by walking. It’s a relatively small town with very few inclines (in comparison to Lisbon!). Cascais is home to the same slippery calçada though so bear that in mind. Uber and Bolt are available and very cheap which you might want to consider for a trip to Praia do Guincho, Cabo da Roca or Malveria da Serra.
If you are visiting Cascais as part of a larger trip then you can hire a car to get around. This way you’ll be able to stop off at some harder to reach places. I always recommend Zest because I have used them many times for my road trip around Portugal without any problem. My tip would be to pick up from Lisbon airport rather than central Lisbon.
How to get to Sintra from Cascais
If you’re thinking of combining Cascais with a trip to Sintra, note that driving to and around Sintra in the peak season is very busy and parking is a faff. Avoid if possible
You can get a bus to Sintra from Cascais here, or there is a very easy and cheap train from Oriente station in Lisbon. If you’re visiting outside of the busiest season the driving is not so bad, but bear in mind that the car parks are outside the centre of Sintra and a long way from Pena Palace. Alternatively think about using a tour guide for the day. Tour guides can get booked up months in advance so once you’ve done your research and found the perfect match get booking!
Cascais and Sintra in one day?
Unpopular opinion but I don’t think it’s the best idea to visit Cascais and Sintra in one day. You can technically do it, but you won’t have time to enjoy the sights properly. Sintra specifically has a lot to explore that takes a lot of pre-planning. If you have the time, my advice would be to spend at least 1 full day in each. You could spend an afternoon in Cascais and see a lot but half a day is not really enough for Sintra. If you absolutely must do both in one day then work with a travel guide/driver to do it.
Where to stay in Cascais
Firstly I want to start by saying do try and actually stay in Cascais rather than just doing a day trip. While I agree Cascais is an easy day trip from Lisbon, there is something special about staying overnight here. Especially if you have been staying in the buzz of the city the rest of the time. Spend a night, get up early for sunrise and have the beach to yourself. Take actual time to see Cascais and not just rush around to tick the box and you’ll appreciate it much more.
This is one of the few travel guides I’ve written where I can’t share recommendations for accommodation based on personal stay experience. I usually always share places I’ve actually stayed the night but since I live here, I haven’t had the opportunity to do that yet. However I do know where the best stays are located. Here is my Cascais wish list based on location, facilities and character.
Hotels/Resorts in Cascais
- Pestana Cidadela 5* Pousada hotel with an “art district”. Right in the historical centre, next to the marina. Features include outdoor pool surrounded by tropical gardens, a gym and a spa.
- Artsy Cascais Gorgeous boutique art hotel with rooftop pool. Some rooms have ocean views.
- The Albatroz 5* Right on one of the most popular beaches in Cascais with 180 degree sea views.
- Estoril Vintage A grande, romantic hotel right on the paredão, a 15 minute walk along the coast to Cascais town centre. The sea view room is 100% unique and worth the splurge.
Guesthouses in Cascais
- Legasea Guesthouse Family guesthouse in central Cascais with a focus on sustainability. Surfy beach vibe and has an excellent stone-baked pizza restaurant on site. Featured in the Cascais Eats + Drinks Guide.
Apartments/ Airbnb’s in Cascais
- Gia’s Home 2 bedroom apartment just 200 meters from the pretty praia da Rainha.
- Duplex Cascais Stylish 3 bedroom apartment. Not central but with free parking (hard to find in Cascais!).
Best Places to Visit in Cascais
Before I elaborate on the best activities and experiences in Cascais, here’s a list of the best places to visit in Cascais. Don’t forget to add them to your itinerary.
- Centro Storico (Historical Centre)
- Mercado da Vila
- Marechal Carmona Park
- Cidadela Art District
- Santa Marta Viewpoint
- Praia da Rainha
- Praia do Guincho
Portugal Travel Planning Map
The best way to plan your Portugal itinerary is by having all of the options in one place. I’ve created a trip planning map for Portugal with hundreds of pins to help you plan your trip. Need trip inspiration or itinerary ideas? You’ll find everything you need on the map.
Best things to do in Cascais – Activities & Experiences
Cascais can be a place to wander and relax or a place to get outdoors and active and anything in between. Whether you are here for beach time, a family holiday or a romantic getaway Cascais likely has what you are looking for.
THINGS TO DO CASCAIS : MORE THAN A BEACH TOWN
Wander the Historical Centre
Definitely set aside some time to wander. Cascais is one of the most beautiful destinations to get lost in. Keep walking until you get thirsty or hungry. Stop off for a bite to eat or a coffee. Repeat.
Pick up picnic supplies at Mercado da Vila
If you happen to be here on a Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday head to the amazing produce market – Mercado da Vila. One of the best produce markets I’ve visited in Portugal (and I’ve visited a lot). The market is very well organised and a fantastic place to pick up fresh ingredients for a picnic in the park or dinner at home. There is also a butchers, large fish market and a few highly rated restaurants.
Get Windswept at Praia do Guincho
One of the most unique beaches I’ve visited in Portugal. Compared to Cascais bay, Praia do Guincho is wild. It has a remote feeling to it and outstanding beauty surrounding it. This is a great spot to surf too. Beware, it can get very windy in the summer!
Fall in Love with The Santa Marta Viewpoint
If you’ve already done some Cascais research you’ve probably seen this view. It has got to be Cascais’ most scenic spot. As you can see it’s gorgeous, and even better in real life. At mid tide on a calm day the water is at its most alluring. I am always surprised that it doesn’t get busier than it is. Did you know you can climb Santa Marta lighthouse? The lighthouse has a very small museum too. It’s free on the first Sunday of each month (like most museums in Cascais).
Find a Peacock in Marchael Carmona
If you have kids (and even if you don’t) Marchael Carmona is a large park with a cafe, library and a whole range of birds including chickens, geese and a few peacocks. There are lots of shady spots and it makes a great location for a summer picnic. Many locals hold kid’s birthday parties here and it’s the perfect place to bring your little ones.
Take away Pizza on the beach at sunset
Pick up a pizza from the exceptional authentic Sicilian pizzeria (Il Siciliano) and devour it on the concrete steps leading down to Praia da Duquesa. Find sunset times here.
Go Paddle boarding in the Bay
For the majority of the year Cascais bay is calm, making it the perfect place to try out some paddle boarding. You can rent right from the beach at SUP com Alma. Enjoy a few hours cruising around above (or falling in) the big blue. In the summer months you will also find a giant inflatable assault course which is great for kids with too much energy!
Hire an eBike or bring your bike and Cycle the N247 to Casa da Guia
As I already mentioned Cascais has a brilliant cycle path that runs all the way to Praia do Guincho. Pick up a bike from one of several locations in town (including next to the train station, next to hotel Baía and next to Santa Marta Lighthouse) and pay via app. Set off to Casa da Guia, where you’ll find a collection cafes, restaurants and shops perched on the edge of the cliffs. Come for lunch and enjoy a chilled afternoon in a unique location. Don’t forget to stop off at Boca do Inferno on your journey. Still got some energy left after lunch? The cycle path runs all the way to Praia do Guincho!
Take a peek at the Paulo Rego Museum
Take a wander around the fascinating Paula Rego museum. Rego, who was born in Portugal displays both parmanent and temporary exhibitions.
Visit the Portuguese Music Museum in Estoril
Casa Verdades de Faria in Estoril offers a glimpse into the world of Portuguese music and instruments.The museum itself is a piece of art, built from 17th century azulejos. Go to the Cascais 360 website for tickets and opening times (they can change depending on the season).
Summer Sangria (or an ice cream!) at Cresmina
If you’re in Cascais in the summer and want to avoid the crowds of the bay head out west towards guincho but stop off at Praia da Cresmina. This sandy beach is a lovely place to spend an afternoon, made even better by the beach bar which serves up giant cups of sweet, refreshing sangria. Bring cash!
Annual Music Festivals & Events in Cascais
Cascais is one of the best places in Portugal for events and festivals and through the summer you’ll find activities most weekends.
Coala Festival
A celebration of Portuguese language music showcasing artists from Portugal, Brazil and Africa.
Aegas CoolJazz Jazz Festival
Some of the most awaited nights of the year. During the summer months CoolJazz brings several artists to the stage, transforming Marechal Carmona park into laid back festival grounds. If you trip to Cascais lands on one of these nights, don’t miss out. The 2026 edition which takes place on various dates between the 1st and 31st July will feature artists such as Scissor Sisters and Franz Ferdinand.
Festas do Mar
For two weeks at the end of summer the historical centre closes the avenida to cars and explodes into a festival town. This family-friendly festival runs over two weeks with some of Portugal’s biggest artists playing on the main stage. You’ll also find local food and artisan stores, kids events and an up and coming stage for local artists. On the final night the exceptional Cascais Symphony Orchestra put on an incredible show (seriously one of the best events I’ve seen in Portugal) followed by fireworks that compete with new years eve. The festival is completely free. Once the line-up is confirmed for 2026 you’ll be able to find the schedule on the Cascais website for Festas do Mar
Chefs on Fire
Every year in September some of Portugal’s best chefs take over Cascais and dish up gourmet cooking over open flames. If you’re a foodie this is one of the best events of the year in Cascais. In 2026 the event will ignite on 19th & 20th September.
Fiartil (Estoril)
The Fiartil open-air event space has markets and events throughout the year so whichever month you are visiting Cascais you’ll find something happening. Keep up to date with events on the Fiartil Instagram page.
Cascais Christmas Village / Christmas Lights
If you’re visiting Portugal over the Christmas period Cascais is a magical place to be based. The festive lights and decorations are some of the best in Portugal. For a whole month the town lights up. Cascais also turns Marechal Carmona park into a Christmas Village loved by kids of all ages. You can buy tickets online in advance or at the entrance.
Sporting Events in Cascais
One of the reasons I love living in Cascais so much is the outdoor lifestyle and accessibility to sport. The town is built around nature and for runners, swimmers and cyclists it’s a dream destination. The town hols various sporting events throughout the year.
Ironman & Ironman70.3 Portugal – Cascais
The biggest sporting event of the year in Cascais. Ironman & Ironman70.3 Portugal – Cascais. This global endurance event brings athletes from all over the world to take on an epic trithalon including 4km of ocean swimming, a 180km ride through Sintra and a 42km run (yes a marathon) to finish. The day is undeniably electric with crowds cheering on the athletes into the dark hours; some of them crossing the finish line gone midnight. The best moment of the day is the swim start when thousands of swimmers enter the water as the sun rises in Baía de Cascais. The experience is emotionally charged and I dare you not to cry.
In 2025 I took part in the 70.3 version (half distance) and I’m currently training for the full distance Ironman in 2026. If you see me on the course, please cheer me on (I’ll need it!).
Montepio Meia-Maratona de Cascais
Every February Cascais hold a half-marathon race, the route following the N247 all the way to windswept Praia do Guincho before turning around and coming back to Cascais for a big welcoming finish at Baía. Other distances are also available (10km, 5km and kids race).
SwimGP Lisbon – Cascais
For distance open-water swimmers swimGP is the pinnacle of the events calendar. During a weekend in July SwimGP hosts a number of swims from 1km all the way to 20km. The iconic 20km ultra marathong swim starts in Belém in Lisbon and finishes in Praia da Pescadores in Cascais.
Cascais Events 2026
In addition to the annual festivals Cascais is always bringing new events to the town. In 2026 you’ll also find:
Where to Eat and Drink in Cascais
There are so many fantastic dining experiences in Cascais it deserves it’s own guide, so I wrote one…
For a quick run down of places to eat, see below…
Rua Amarela / Bairro Amarelo
Bairro Amarelo (yellow district) is a car-free, restaurant-packed area and in my opinion the best area to eat out in Cascais. There is always a really buzzy atmosphere and the perfect outdoor dining environment. A few great restaurants here include Malacopa, Taberna Clandestina and Souldough.
The Paredão
This 3km beach walk runs right from Baía, central Cascais all the way to Praia da Azarujinha. If you’re planning on spending some time on the sand, save these places to your wish list… Emma, Gloria, The Beach Club.
Typical Portuguese Restaurants in Cascais
- O Cantinho da Belinha – Portuguese tasca with small courtyard, tucked away from the centre
- Melody Typical tasca/ snack bar with all the classics, excellent grilled fish and the best desserts
- Jardim dos Frangos – Portuguese style chicken and chips. Simple and delcious. Also does take-away.
- A Leitaria – Cheap Portuguese snacks and lunches with a sunny patio.
Speciality coffee in Cascais
When I first moved here back in 2020 the (still) excellent Lusophonica was the only place you could find speciality coffee in Cascais. Now you can also grab amazing coffee and brunch at Milkees, Euphoria and Fábrica. Cascais is now also home to not one but , two pastéis de nata shops Mateigaria and Aloma.
Best Day Trips from Cascais
Cascais is in the best location for exploring the Sintra coast which is the best escape from the crowds of Lisbon and busier Cascais beaches. The N247 road the runs to Praia do Guincho and on to Cabo da Roca is spectacular for views. Continue on up the coast and you’ll find beaches galore.
Azenhas do Mar
This pretty village tumbles down the cliff to a great beach and sea pool. Book a table outside at Agua e Sal to enjoy some super fresh and tasty fish. You won’t regret it.
Malveria da Serra
Hit one of the many hiking trails in Malveira and take in the views of Praia do Guincho. This 12km route starts at the village and takes you on a lovely loop.
Sintra
Magical Sintra is very close to Cascais and a brilliant day trip to bolt on to your time in Cascais. Remember, if you want to do the main attractions in Sintra allow for plenty of time. You need at least a full day.
Cabo Da Roca and the west coast
Mainland Europe’s most westerly point and the starting point to a string of cliff backed beaches worth a stop at. My pick is always Praia do Magoito.
There we have it, my travel guide for Cascais Portugal! Don’t forget to make time to get lost, explore the streets and find some experiences to call your own. I hope you enjoy this corner of Portugal as much as I do.
If you’re looking for a one of a kind customised itinerary for your Portugal Trip, get in touch.
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