Cascais vacation packages

How to reach Cascais

• Transfer time: Taxis or rideshares directly from Lisbon Airport to Cascais take 30 to 40 minutes. You can also take a bus or metro to Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon, followed by a 40-minute train ride to Cascais.

• Price: A one-way train ticket from Lisbon to Cascais costs around $2.50. A taxi from Lisbon Airport to Cascais will cost you $40–$50.

Best time to visit Cascais

A trip to Cascais is enjoyable year-round due to the town’s mild, pleasant climate, but the best time to visit largely depends on whether you plan to bask in the sun or prefer a quieter season.

• April to June offers pleasant weather, with average temperatures hovering around 61°F to 72°F, up to 9 hours of sunshine a day, and sporadic rainfall. If you prefer exploring without summer crowds, this season is for you.

• July to August is Cascais’ peak season. With temperatures averaging around 77°F, up to 11 hours of sunshine daily, and minimal rain, it’s a beachgoer’s dream. However, the town can get crowded and prices may be higher than the rest of the year.

• September to November brings cooler weather and crowds quickly begin to thin. Autumn temperatures range from 70°F in September to 59°F in November, so they are still comfortable. This time of year is ideal for coastal walks or indulging in Cascais’ culinary delights.

• December to March offers mild winters with temperatures hovering around 54°F to 59°F. Although rainfall is more frequent, sunny days are still common (4 to 5 hours of sunshine daily), making it a peaceful winter escape.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in Cascais, particularly in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Life here has a relaxed pace. Friendly greetings like “bom dia” (good morning) are always appreciated.

• Currency: Portugal uses the Euro. ATMs are abundant, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted, although some smaller establishments may prefer cash.

• Getting around: Cascais is compact and perfectly walkable. The local bus network covers nearby beaches and towns, with tickets costing around $1.50.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V, with Type C and F plugs, so travelers from the US will need an adapter.

• Time zone: Cascais operates on Western European Time.

• Required travel documentation: US nationals can stay in Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with a passport valid for at least six months.

Best things to do in Cascais

Cascais is a beautiful resort town featuring grand mansions and former fishermen’s houses surrounding a bay with sandy beaches, making it a perfect vacation destination.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Boca do Inferno: This dramatic coastal cliff formation is a top local attraction. Witnessing the powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the rocks is breathtaking, especially during winter storms.

• Santa Marta Lighthouse: The distinctive blue-and-white-striped Santa Marta Lighthouse now serves as a small museum. The panoramic views of the marina and ocean are worth the climb, as is the lovely terrace café.

The best districts

• Cascais Old Town: The mosaic-paved, partly pedestrianized streets of Cascais Old Town are almost as appealing as its beaches. The area exudes a laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for immersing yourself in Cascais’ vibrant ambiance.

• Guincho Coastline: Praia do Guincho is one of Portugal’s top surfing destinations. It’s an expansive sandy beach, and while the waves are often too large for swimming, it’s a fantastic place for surfing and windsurfing.

Parks and gardens

• Marechal Carmona Park: This pleasant park features a small zoo, a serene pond, a playground, and numerous picnic areas. Colorful peacocks roam freely in the park.

• Gandarinha Park: A peaceful retreat with a mini-zoo and a small lake, the lush expanses of Gandarinha Park are perfect for tranquil strolls or morning jogs.

Historical monuments

• Cascais Citadel: Built in the 17th century to defend the mouth of the Tagus, the citadel later became a summer home for the royal family. Visitors can explore the lower-floor exhibition space and the top two floors. A lovely tea room with fine ocean views is also available.

• Counts of Castro Guimarães Museum: Situated on the seafront side of Gandarinha Park, this museum-library is housed in the former grand mansion of the Counts of Guimarães. It’s now a house museum where you can explore opulent rooms filled with period furniture, paintings, and antiques.

Day trips in the area

• Sintra: Just a short train ride from Cascais, Sintra is a fairy-tale town with colorful palaces, romantic gardens, and hilltop castles. Key highlights include the Pena Palace, National Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.

• Lisbon: Portugal’s capital is only 40 minutes by train. Sprawling over a series of hills facing the Tejo estuary, Lisbon is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Admire its hills and cobbled alleys, still traversed by ancient trams and funiculars, where old-fashioned shops and cafés abound.

• Cabo da Roca: A 15km trip from Cascais takes you to Cabo da Roca, this dramatic clifftop point. It’s officially the most westerly point on the mainland, and below the cape’s lighthouse, you’ll see how the Atlantic breakers crash against the cliffs.

Family activities in Cascais

Cascais is a fantastic family-friendly destination, combining natural beauty with fun attractions for all ages.

• Beaches: Cascais offers family-friendly beaches such as Praia da Rainha and Praia de Carcavelos, where calm, shallow waters are perfect for young swimmers and sandcastle builders.

• Cycling along the coast: Rent bikes for the whole family and ride the scenic coastal path from Cascais to Guincho Beach. It’s a safe and picturesque route with many places to stop.

• Museum of the Sea: The modern and engaging Museum of the Sea explores the town’s relationship with the sea through a fascinating collection of model boats, fossils, and stuffed fish. Children will especially enjoy stories and finds from various local shipwrecks.

Free things to do in Cascais

Enjoying Cascais doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of free activities that allow you to enjoy your stay without spending a cent.

• Marina de Cascais: Just below the Cascais fortress, the entrance to the Marina de Cascais is an enclave of expensive yachts serviced by restaurants, bars, and boutiques. This flashy marina is worth a visit and entry is free.

• Mercado da Vila: On Wednesdays and Saturdays, Cascais hosts Mercado da Vila, a farmers’ market with a fantastic selection of fresh produce, cheese, baked foods, fish, and meats. Feel free to wander through the stalls and soak in the local atmosphere without purchasing anything.

• Church of Our Lady of the Assumption: Visit the graceful Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, which retains its original tile panels dating back to the 18th century. It’s free to enter, but it opens only during services, so it’s best to arrive before Mass on Sunday or on a Saturday when weddings often occur.

Nature and outdoor activities in Cascais

Trips to Cascais offer splendid dramatic landscapes and excellent adventure opportunities.

• Surfing and windsurfing: Cascais, especially Guincho Beach, is a superb place for surfing and windsurfing if you’re experienced – the World Windsurfing Championships are often held here in August.

• Golfing: Cascais boasts several high-end world-class courses, such as Quinta da Marinha and Oitavos Dunes, set against stunning backdrops.

• National Parks: The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a treasure trove of diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore coastal cliffs, forests, and rugged hills, with scenic routes like the trail to Cabo da Roca offering unforgettable vistas.

Beaches to enjoy on Cascais vacations

Cascais vacations are a paradise for beach enthusiasts, featuring a stunning stretch of coastline along Portugal’s Riviera. With golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and calm blue waters, the beaches in and around Cascais cater to every type of traveler, from families to surfers.

• Praia da Conceição: Situated near the town center, this popular beach is perfect for families and couples. With calm waters ideal for swimming and a backdrop of lively cafes and shops, it’s a convenient spot for a relaxing day by the sea.

• Praia do Guincho: Just a short drive from Cascais, Praia do Guincho is a must-visit for surfers and windsurfers. Known for its wild beauty and larger waves, this beach is surrounded by dunes and offers a more adventurous seaside experience.

• Praia da Rainha: A small yet picturesque beach tucked away in the heart of Cascais, Praia da Rainha offers a peaceful escape. Its clear waters and intimate setting make it a favorite for those looking for a quieter spot to unwind.

• Carcavelos Beach: Located between Cascais and Lisbon, Carcavelos Beach is known for its long stretch of sand and lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for water sports, beach volleyball, or simply soaking up the sun.

• Praia de São Pedro do Estoril: For those seeking tranquility, this beach offers a more relaxed vibe with stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for snorkeling or enjoying the scenic views.

Cascais’s beaches provide the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, whether you’re lounging on Praia da Conceição, riding the waves at Guincho, or exploring hidden gems like Praia da Rainha. With their natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere, these beaches are a highlight of any Cascais vacation.

Local dishes in Cascais

Vacations to Cascais offer a delightful blend of fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, and mouthwatering desserts.

Some typical dishes

• Caldo Verde: This traditional soup, made with finely shredded kale leaves, onion, and potatoes in broth, is warming and delicious. It usually comes with chouriço (Portuguese sausage) in it.

• Arroz de Marisco: Typical of the Portuguese coast, arroz de marisco is mixed seafood in a thick soupy rice, usually packed with prawns, clams, and crab.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Bacalhau à Brás: The most typical Portuguese fish dish is bacalhau (dried, salted cod), which is practically the national dish, with reputedly 365 different ways of preparing it. For newcomers, the best to try is bacalhau à brás, fried with egg, onions, and potatoes.

• Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Reflecting its coastal location, Cascais offers this mouthwatering clam dish cooked with garlic, coriander, and white wine. It's a must-try for all seafood enthusiasts!

Sweets and desserts

• Pastéis de Nata: These are classic Lisbon custard tarts, popular throughout Portugal, with a sweet creamy filling and a deliciously flaky crust. For an extra touch of flavor, enjoy them with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

• Queijadas de Sintra: Small, round pastries made with cheese, sugar, and cinnamon, originating from nearby Sintra, are very hard to resist. They pair well with espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Local drinks

• Vinho Verde: This light, slightly sparkling wine comes from northern Portugal but is popular nationwide and wonderfully refreshing. Best when served chilled, it's perfect for enjoying with seafood on a sunny afternoon in Cascais.

• Ginjinha: The region specializes in the punchy cherry brandy Ginjinha, typically served as a shot at small bars. Everyone should try it at least once during their Portuguese vacations.