Sitting pretty on the Estoril Coast close to Lisbon, Cascais Town charms visitors as a lovely seaside town. Indeed, that mixes old-world appeal with a lively present-day vibe. From golden beaches and steep cliffs to a wealth of culture, Cascais has something to please every traveler on a riviera travel trip to Portugal. If you want to wander its twisting streets soak up sun by the ocean, or enjoy local treats, this guide will tell you where Cascais is and why you should put it at the top of your must-see list.
A Brief History of Cascais Town
Cascais has a rich history starting in the 12th century. At first, it was just a small fishing port, but its spot on the Atlantic coast turned it into a key maritime hub. As time went on, Cascais became a favorite summer getaway for Portuguese nobles. Ultimately, who loved its nice weather and beautiful scenery along the Costa do Sol. This royal link helped Cascais grow into the classy and lively vacation spot we see today.
During the late 1800s, Cascais became where the Portuguese royal family spent their summers bringing many nobles and rich families to the well-off area. In fact, people built lots of fancy houses from the 1800s at this time making the town even prettier. The town got more and more popular in the 1900s turning into a worldly high-end spot while keeping its old-time appeal.
What to do in Cascais Town
1. Wander around the Old Town
The historic centre of Cascais Town also called Cascais Old Town, has a charming network of narrow, cobblestone streets with colorful buildings small shops, and snug cafes. Walk through the town’s pretty squares, like Praça 5 de Outubro, to see the classic Portuguese architecture and enjoy the bustling surroundings.
A standout feature in the historic centre is the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum, which sits in a beautiful 19th-century mansion. This museum gives visitors a chance to explore the history and culture of Cascais showing everything from old artifacts to artwork. You’ll also want to check out the gardens around it, which provide great views of the marina and the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Relax on the Cascais Beaches
Cascais Town boasts some of the most stunning beaches on the Portuguese Riviera. Praia da Conceição and Praia da Rainha sit right in the heart of town, with their golden sands and crystal-clear, tranquil waters that are great for a swim. These beaches work well for families because they’re easy to get to and have lots of facilities nearby.
If you want a quieter spot, check out Praia do Guincho just a quick drive from downtown. Guincho Beach, with its towering cliffs and big waves, is a dream come true for surfing enthusiasts. Even if you’re not into catching waves, you’ll love the raw beauty of this beach and its breathtaking sunsets. It’s worth a visit.
3. Visit Boca do Inferno
Boca do Inferno, or “Hell’s Mouth,” stands out as one of Cascais‘ most well-known natural landmarks. This striking cliff formation shaped by the constant Atlantic Ocean waves, creates a captivating sight as water smashes into the rocks. The spot shines during rough weather when the waves reach their peak strength. You’ll find a lookout point where you can watch the action and soak in the stunning coastal views.
4. Explore the Cascais Marina
The Cascais Marina serves as a lively center of action, with fancy yachts anchored next to old-school fishing boats. Fancy restaurants in Cascais, bars, and shops encircle the marina turning it into an ideal spot to chill out for an afternoon or evening. You can take it easy with a stroll by the water, grab a bite with a nice view or just kick back and watch the boats sail in and out.
5. Explore the Cultural Treasures of Cascais
Cascais Town has quite a few cultural spots that you should check out. The Palácio da Cidadela de Cascais once a royal residence now functions as a fancy hotel and culture hub. This palace shows off Portuguese building style and its grounds have pretty gardens and a little chapel. Right next door, the Cidadela Art District is home to modern art galleries and studios, which creates an interesting mix with the town’s old-time sites.
Another cultural highlight is the Casa de Santa Maria, a museum that showcases the work of the well-known Portuguese-British artist Paula Rego. The museum’s eye-catching red building, which architect Eduardo Souto de Moura designed, is just as artistic as the pieces it displays. Inside, you’ll discover a collection of Rego’s paintings, drawings and prints, which demonstrate her strong and creative style.
Where to Eat in Cascais Town
Cascais Town boasts a wide range of food choices, from local Portuguese dishes to foods from around the world. If you love seafood, you’ll be thrilled – the town is famous for its just-caught fish and shellfish. You can find many of the top restaurants in Cascais along the water’s edge where you can savor meals like grilled sardines, octopus salad and arroz de marisco (seafood rice) while looking out at the sea.
To get a taste of local dishes, visit Mar do Inferno, a well-liked restaurant near Boca do Inferno. This family-owned place has made a name for itself with its big servings of seafood and warm service. You might also want to try O Pescador, a lovely spot in the historic centre that people know for its classic Portuguese meals and snug feel.
If you want to try something else, Cascais also has many international restaurants, with Italian, Japanese and Mediterranean food on offer. A lot of these places let you eat outside, so you can take in the town’s lively vibe while you enjoy your food.
Where to Stay in Cascais Town
Cascais has accommodation to match every preference and wallet. If you’re looking to splurge, you might want to book a room at the Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness. This five-star hotel has welcomed royals and famous faces over time. It boasts stylish rooms, a top-notch spa, and sits close to both Cascais and nearby Estoril. Thus, perfect for Portuguese weddings.
For a more unique stay, try Villa Cascais, a welcoming guesthouse in the historic centre‘s core. This renovated 19th-century villa boasts elegant rooms overlooking the sea, a snug bar and attentive service that makes guests feel at home.
Travelers on a tight budget can find many affordable guesthouses and hostels in Cascais Town. These places often provide cozy lodgings with a warm relaxed vibe making them ideal for backpackers and solo adventurers.
Exploring Beyond Cascais Town
Cascais Town has a lot to offer, but it’s also a great starting point to check out the area around it. The Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais is just a quick car ride away. This protected zone is known for its jaw-dropping natural beauty. You can take a hike through dense woods, stop by old palaces and soak in wide-open views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The town of Sintra near Cascais has UNESCO World Heritage status. People know it for castles and palaces that seem to come from fairy tales. The Pena Palace stands out as the most well-known. This bright castle sits on a hill and looks like it’s from a story book. When you visit Sintra, you should also see the Quinta da Regaleira. It has gardens that feel magical and tunnels hidden from view. The Moorish Castle is another must-see. It gives you wide views of the area around it.
Many people also take day trips from Cascais to Cabo da Roca. This place marks the most western point of mainland Europe. The headland here is rough and rocky. It gives you amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. Finally, lots of folks come here to hike or have picnics.
Next, read about Porto and the Douro Valley.
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