Cascais, Portugal is one of those places that has to be experienced to truly appreciate its uniqueness and beauty. Just 30 minutes from Lisbon, this seaside town has so much to offer. You’ll fall in love with its hidden coves and beaches with clear waters, its winding, cobbled streets decorated with colourful flowers, and its local cuisine that leaves the mouth watering. Yes, these are just some of the delights that will greet you when you reach Cascais, Portugal.
Join us as we share our top tips and recommendations on what to see in Cascais. We’ll also cover things to do in Cascais and what foods are a must-try. A word of warning though, we take no responsibility for the sudden urge you’ll feel to book a trip to Cascais.
Main Attractions in Cascais, Portugal
When visiting Cascais, there are several must-see Cascais attractions that we highly recommend you include in your list.
Cascais Marina
The Cascais Marina is the main waterfront area. It’s always got something going on and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or just to sit and watch the world go by. Admire luxury yachts and enjoy a meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães
The Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães offers a glimpse into Cascais’ history with its impressive collection of art and antiques housed in a stunning 19th-century mansion.
Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth)
Boca do Inferno is a dramatic cliff formation where the Atlantic waves crash into a cavern, creating a spectacular and natural display of nature’s power.
Casa de Santa Maria and Lighthouse
The Casa de Santa Maria is a beautiful historic house featuring traditional Portuguese architecture and beautifully restored interiors. Adjacent to it is the Santa Marta Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a fascinating glimpse into Cascais’ maritime heritage.
Cascais Citadel
The Cascais Citadel, a historic fortification, now serves as a cultural venue with museums and galleries, including the Museum of the Sea, offering stunning coastal views. This should definitely be on your list of things to see in Cascais.
What to See in Cascais Old Town
The Cascais Old Town is a maze of charming, narrow streets filled with history and character. The majority of Cascais Old Town is pedestrianised so you can wander around to your heart’s content.
Start your exploration at Praça 5 de Outubro, the town’s central square, where you can experience local life at its most vibrant. The square opens onto Praia da Ribeira (Ribeira Beach) which is also known as Fisherman’s Beach.
Wander through the picturesque streets lined with traditional Portuguese houses and colourful facades. The main pedestrian street is called Rua Frederico Arouca, and is tiled with a very Portuguese wave-patterned design.
Make sure to visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, a historic church with a beautifully preserved interior.
The Cascais Cultural Centre is also worth a visit, featuring exhibitions and cultural events that provide insight into the town’s artistic heritage.
The Best Beaches in Cascais
Looking for the best beach in Cascais? Well, if you plan on spending some quality time on the beach during your trip, Cascais will certainly not disappoint.
Praia da Rainha
Praia da Rainha (Queen’s Beach) is often considered one of the best beaches in Cascais. It’s so beautiful, in fact, that Queen Amélia chose it in 1889 as her own private little slice of paradise. The only drawback is its small size, so it tends to fill up quite quickly.
Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa
Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa are two linked beaches in Cascais that provide a tranquil setting with incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are plenty of services here, such as beach beds and umbrellas, cafes and restaurants for food and drinks, and water activities like kayaking and paddle boarding.
Praia do Guincho
If you’re feeling a bit more on the adventurous side, Praia do Guincho is a great option. Located 5 km from Cascais, this 750m stretch of sandy beach is famous for its dramatic landscapes and strong surf. This beach attracts surfers from around the world and offers stunning views, massive dunes and a rugged coastline.
Find out more about the best beaches in Lisbon and its surroundings.
Events and Festivities in Cascais
Cascais hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, giving visitors a first-hand glimpse into local culture.
In June, the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Luz is a significant religious event with processions and celebrations honouring the town’s patron saint.
The Festas do Mar Cascais is a highlight, featuring a series of concerts, performances, and cultural activities that bring the town to life in August.
Additionally, the Cascais Christmas Market transforms the town into a festive wonderland during the holiday season, with stalls, lights, and seasonal treats.
Typical Cascais Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Cascais offers a delicious reflection of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Cascais is particularly renowned for its seafood. Local specialities include arroz de marisco, a fragrant seafood rice dish brimming with a variety of shellfish, and bacalhau à brás, a traditional Portuguese dish made with salted cod, finely shredded potatoes, and eggs. Make a reservation at “Mar do Inferno” or “Baía do Peixe – Cascais” for a guaranteed, top-quality meal.
Another must-try is the pastéis de nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tarts. These sweet treats, with their flaky pastry and creamy custard filling, are quite possibly… too delicious? Anyway, you’ll just have to try them for yourself.
For an authentic experience, visit the Cascais Fish Market, where you can sample the freshest seafood and lose yourself in the lively atmosphere of local food culture. The market offers a variety of fresh catches and is the perfect place to explore the local culinary scene.
Come and experience Cascais, Portugal for yourself!
Itchy feet? One click away from booking a trip to Cascais? Well, we did warn you!
We could spend all day describing the beauty and allure of Cascais but, to be honest, we’d struggle to do it justice. Cascais, Portugal, is a destination that truly captivates. It seamlessly blends natural beauty, historical charm, and local culture to the point that it becomes somewhat magical.
We invite you to experience the magic of Cascais for yourself and enjoy a stay with us at Allure Villas. Our goal is to ensure that your visit to Cascais is unforgettable, providing the perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure.
Book your stay with us today and immerse yourself in all that this charming seaside town has to offer.
