Cascais, Portugal: Top Attractions & Things to Do

Cascais Portugal is a well-known beach town in Portugal. It is just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon and is characterized by beautiful scenery, its quaint old town, and a rich history. This is a quaint, beautiful seaside town that is both old-world and modern, making it the perfect place to unwind, learn about the culture, and have fun. Cascais has everything you want to do, whether you want to relax on the beautiful beaches, visit historical sites, or enjoy outdoor activities.

This travel guide will help you make the most of your trip to Cascais by showing you the best attractions and activities.

Why Visit Cascais Portugal?

Cascais has evolved from a small fishing village into a fashionable seaside town renowned for its friendly people, stunning beaches, and historic buildings. Cascais is always fun, whether you're visiting cultural sites in the town or doing outdoor activities along the coast.

It is only 30 kilometers (approximately 18 miles) west of Lisbon, making it easy to reach for a day trip or a weekend getaway. The town is easily accessible from the capital by car or public transportation, making it a great destination for tourists seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

It has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The weather is pleasant throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as visiting the beach, hiking, and exploring the town's numerous parks and gardens.

Top Attractions in Cascais, Portugal

1. Cascais Old Town: A Step Back in Time

The center of the town is the Old Town of Cascais. It boasts of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and old squares. Taking a stroll in the town can be likened to time travel. The bright fronts of the buildings, the aroma of the fresh pastries of the local bakeries, and the sound of the busy cafes will land you into the realm of charm and tradition.

• Praça 5 de Outubro: This is the city center square, a pleasant place to start your visit. Cafes and restaurants are plentiful around the square, making it an ideal spot to sit and watch the people.

• Cascais Marina: Located along the waterfront, the marina is home to luxurious yachts and a selection of chic restaurants and shops. It’s also the starting point for boat tours and other water activities.

2. Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell)

The Boca do Inferno is a seafaring cave that is located just outside Cascais center. It is considered one of the most dramatic natural sites in the region. The name Mouth of Hell derives from the noise generated by the waves as they strike the cave in the form of roaring fire. Its cliffs are breathtaking and offer great opportunities for capturing pictures and watching the strength of nature as well as the Atlantic Ocean. You can travel by car to Boca do Inferno or even walk through the town.

3. Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães

The Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães is a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts. The museum is situated in a 19th-century mansion by the sea. Its line of items consists of Portuguese aristocratic art, archaeology, and furniture. The mansion is one of the most beautiful places in Cascais, thanks to its stunning gardens and breathtaking coastal views. The museum also hosts temporary art shows throughout the year.

4. Cascais Citadel and Santa Marta Lighthouse

The Cascais Citadel is an ancient fort constructed during the 16th century. The citadel, which was used to defend the town against pirates, is now a museum and cultural center. Visitors are allowed to walk around the fortifications, have a view of the harbor in every direction, and visit a nearby lighthouse at Santa Marta. The lighthouse is an impressive 19th-century construction, offering wonderful views of the coast and the Atlantic Ocean.

5. Praia da Rainha

Beautiful beaches are numerous in Cascais, and one of the most famous is Praia da Rainha (Queen Beach). This tiny beach is sandwiched between the rocks and is in the middle of a town center and is encircled with steep cliffs, which makes it appear more intimate. Its beach is clear and sandy, making it a lovely spot to relax, swim, or simply take in the view. It is popular among people in the region, and it is accessible since it is so near the town.

6. Praia do Guincho

Praia do Guincho is the place where people can spend their time more intensively. It is a large beach that is located 7 km outside the town center. It is well equipped with good surfing winds and waves. A considerable number visit there to windsurf, kitesurf, and surf as well. The scenic beauty of this beach, including its rough dunes, is worth visiting, although you are not fond of water sports.

7. Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

 Visitors who love nature would simply enjoy Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. It has over 14,000 hectares of preserved areas, forests, hills, and coastal cliffs. It is an excellent spot for hiking and birdwatching, offering a spectacular view of the countryside and seashore. Two of the historic spots of the park include the Moorish Castle and the Pena Palace in nearby Sintra.

8. Casa das Histórias Paula Rego

 Art enthusiasts will be pleased to visit Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, a contemporary museum showcasing the work of the renowned Portuguese artist Paula Rego. The museum was in an impressive modern building designed by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura. It contains a series of the powerful and some surreal paintings, drawings, and etchings of Rego. The museum also features learning programs and rotating exhibits.

9. Parque Marechal Carmona

 The best place to visit when one wants to unwind and enjoy nature is Parque Marechal Carmona. A brisk walk through the middle of Cascais easily accesses this large civic park. The park boasts magnificent gardens, shaded walks, and a small lake. It is a great place for picnics or leisurely walks. The park is family-friendly, thanks to its playground, and is also suitable for individuals seeking peace and tranquility.

10. Cabo da Roca

 The westernmost tip of the European mainland is Cabo da Roca, located just a short distance down the road from Cascais. The Atlantic Ocean views here are spectacular, and the point features a beautiful lighthouse that makes a terrific spot for picture-taking. It is a lovely place to ponder the vastness of the ocean and the beauty of the surrounding land. The area also features several scenic hiking paths that lead to other stunning locations along the coastline.

Outdoor Activities in Cascais

While the town offers a wide range of activities, the natural beauty of Cascais makes it a prime destination for outdoor pursuits. These are some of the finest outdoor activities, ranging between the hills and the beach:

• Surfing and Windsurfing: These activities are particularly popular on the beaches at Cascais, notably Praia do Guincho, which is renowned for its strong winds and watersports. Wherever you are in terms of surfing, there are numerous sites where you can hire equipment and get lessons.

• Biking: The Guincho Bicycle Path is a 10-kilometer-long footpath that stretches along the coast, offering stunning ocean scenery. It is possible to rent bikes in town and explore wonderful parks and nature.

• Golfing:  Cascais boasts of some of the finest golf courses in the world, including Oitavos Dunes and the Cascais Golf Club. The courses are spectacular with great ocean views and are ideal for all golfers.

• Hiking:  The hills and forests bordering Cascais make hiking an excellent activity. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park has numerous trails that can serve any individual irrespective of his/her level of skill. These trails are very picturesque, and they provide an opportunity to learn about the rich flora and fauna in the area.

Best time to visit Cascais, Portugal

When do you think it is best to visit Cascais? It depends on what you like. When you are fond of heat and much action, the months between June and September are the most suitable periods. However, if you would rather avoid the crowds and the weather is not too hot, the spring and fall months (March to May and September to November) are also a good time to visit.

Where to Stay in Cascais

Cascais offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from resorts to small hotels. It has something to offer everyone, regardless of their taste and budget. You will have the option of either a beachfront house or a hillside escape. Some of the best choices are

Hotel Cascais Miragem is a luxurious hotel offering a stunning ocean view, an extensive spa, and multiple dining venues.

Pestana Cidadela Cascais is a historic hotel situated within the Cascais Citadel, having successfully integrated the old world with luxury.

Oitavos Hotel is a contemporary hotel situated in the heart of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. It is a serene location to reside in, and it is near golf courses and hiking trails.

Cascais is a place that every visitor to Portugal should visit. It is not difficult to understand why it is one of the most favored touristic spots of the country. It is a historically rich, culturally diverse, outdoorsy, and scenic destination. Cascais can offer you much that will make your stay memorable, whether it's during walks along the quaint old town, spending time on the beach, or visiting the nearby natural park.