Located just 24.14km from Lisbon, the idyllic coastal town of Cascais makes for the perfect day visit. Set directly on the Portuguese Riviera, the sandy beaches, beautiful mosaic stone-laid streets and ideal weather attracts Lisboetas and tourists alike.
King Luis I of Portugal made Cascais his family seaside residence in th 1870s followed by King Edward VIII of the UK, King Juan Carlos I of Spain and King Umberto II of Italy. Today it is one of the wealthiest cities in Portugal with the highest cost of living and most expensive real estate in the country.
There is so much to explore in Cascais. The colorful doors, amazing street art, beautiful tile, cafes, boutiques and landmarks abound. But there is more to enjoy right beneath your feet! The typical Portuguese pavements with patterns of black and white stones are called calçada portuguesa. Often creating an optical illusion, the wave-like pattern of Rua Frederico Arouca, the main street of Cascais, is perfectly flat.
The 18th century Camara Municipal de Cascais (Cascais Town Hall) is among the city’s most photographed buildings. Serving as both the municipal building and a museum, the facade is decorated with beautiful Azulejos Tiles depicting various saints. A new Visitors Center is located next to the Town Hall.
Praça 5 de Outubro (Square of 5th October) is the main square of Cascais. Named for the 1910 Revolution when the Portuguese monarchy was abolished, the square is anchored by the Citadel, the Edificio do Relogio, an Information Center and restaurants with a statue of Dom Pedro I in the center.
A popular meeting spot, it is not uncommon to find some form of entertainment, such as this Norwegian Girls Band.
Known for its sparking blue waters, the coastline of Cascais provides some of the most scenic ocean views. Although Portugal is located in the Mediterranean Basin, Cascais is flanked on two sides by the Atlantic Ocean resulting in a spectacular array of scenery. Stunning beaches, waves perfect for surfing, and ragged cliffs, Cascais delivers one of the most diverse coastlines in Portugal.
There are four main beaches within easy walking distance: Praia da Rainha, Praia da Conceição, Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Duquesa. One of the most beautiful is …
Praia da Rainha is a small picturesque beach in the center of Cascais. Named after Queen Amélie of Portugal who, in 1889, used it as her private beach, Praia da Rainha translates as Queen’s Beach. With its beautiful golden sand and beach club, it is ideal for a relaxing day of sunbathing.
Rocky outcrops adjacent to Praia da Rainha are a favorite for climbing while enjoying the sun.
Futevólei (Footvolleyball)is a popular sport on Portuguese beaches. Combining aspects of beach volleyball with football (soccer), players are not allowed to use their hands. The traditional volleyball is replaced with a football. Created on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach, the sport spread to Portugal as well as gaining popularity around the world.
There are far too many restaurants, cafes and sandwich shops in Cascais to list … much less recommend! From the Michelin-starred Fortaleza do Guincho to our favorite Pop Sandwich, there is a culinary delight for everyone.
There are many great restaurants and cafes scattered around Cascais, but our favorite for a sandwich, mini-pizza or bruschetta is Pop Sandwich. Add a Sangria, cold beer, lemonade or coffee and you will not be disappointed. Not the fanciest establishment, but one of the best for a quick bite to eat while exploring the city or relaxing on the beach. Operated by a charming Portuguese couple, the food is prepared fresh, inexpensive and delicious! Located at Rua Frederico 251, it is very close to the Cascais Historic Center.
The Azorean Pineapple is the only variety grown in Europe. Cultivated in greenhouses on the Portuguese island of Sao Miguel, it takes two years to grow.
You will find the Mercado as well as street vendors selling pineapples around Cascais. A Protected Designation of Origin product, be sure to look for the “Azorean” label before buying.
The bustling Mercado da Vila (Cascais Market) is filled with vendors selling fresh produce, fruit, vegetables, fish and meats. Enjoy an evening meal or cocktail at its restaurants and bars that offer both indoor and outdoor seating.
Built in 1868, the Farol de Santa Marta is a small lighthouse boasting one of the most Instagramable photo spots. Overlooking the Cascais Bay, the lighthouse is not only a working lighthouse but a museum as well.
Cascais … one of the best places in Portugal for a day!
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