Cascais travel guide

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Introduction to Cascais

Cascais is known for attractions like Boca do Inferno, Mercado da Vila, and Piscina Oceânica Alberto Romano. Travelers who visit this municipality and town of Portugal are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this town in Portugal on foot and walk alongside the 206.5 thousand locals who live in Cascais. For further insights into the town's events, traditions, and heritage, consult the official website of Cascais.

Traveling to Cascais is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Easily accessible, Cascais is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Portugal any time of the year. Before booking a flight to Cascais, it's helpful to know that the town observes the UTC±00:00 time zone.

History of Cascais

Cascais, a picturesque coastal town in Portugal, is steeped in a rich tapestry of history. Once a humble fishing village, it rose to prominence in the 19th century when King Luis I selected it as his royal summer retreat.

The town quickly garnered a reputation as a haven for European aristocracy and high society. Its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and vibrant cultural scene continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Historians will appreciate the well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive Citadel of Cascais, a 15th-century fortress that once guarded the town from sea invasions. The Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum and the Museum of the Sea offer captivating insights into the town's seafaring history.

With a history that weaves together royal glamour, maritime traditions, and artistic flair, Cascais is a fascinating destination for any curious traveler.

Top services in Cascais

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Cascais, Portugal. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Cascais, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Portugal. Check out the best things to do in Cascais by browsing over 91 top-rated tours available to you in the town. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of places to stay and 4 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Cascais with this travel guide.

Experience the best of Cascais with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Cascais from our free 24/7 customer support.

Continue reading this Cascais travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Cascais!

Best time to visit Cascais

The best time to explore Cascais, Portugal is typically between late spring and early fall, specifically from May to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, averaging around 20-27 degrees Celsius, ideal for beach activities and outdoor explorations. The summer crowd peaks in August, so if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in May, June, or September. The Cascais Jazz Festival in November is a notable event that jazz lovers wouldn't want to miss, despite the onset of cooler weather. Similarly, the Lumina Festival in September transforms the town with stunning light installations, making it a uniquely magical time to visit. For those interested in surfing, the winter months provide the strongest waves. However, the weather can be unpredictable and a bit chilly, averaging around 15 degrees Celsius. Regardless of when you decide to visit, be sure to check the local event calendar as Cascais often hosts various cultural and sporting events throughout the year.

Local tip for visiting Cascais

One insider tip that locals in Cascais often share is to visit the local markets, particularly the Mercado da Vila. Unlike the typical tourist destinations, this market offers a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine. Every Wednesday and Saturday, a farmers' market is held where you can find fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, and breads. And on the last Sunday of each month, an antique fair is organized where you can buy vintage items and handmade crafts. The market also hosts various food festivals throughout the year. So, if your travel dates coincide, don't miss out on the chance to taste the best of Portuguese gastronomy. Also, don't forget to try the local wine and the famous pastries. This insider tip will offer you a deeper immersion into the local life of Cascais, enhancing your travel experience.

Learn more about Portugal

With destinations such as Cascais, a trip to Portugal needs no further explanation. Spanning over 92,225 square kilometers, Portugal is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Portugal has something to enchant every traveler.

In Cascais alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Boca do Inferno, Mercado da Vila, and Piscina Oceânica Alberto Romano. Thus, a trip to Portugal becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Portugal offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered. There's so much to explore and uncover in Portugal.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Portugal and its offers.

What to see in Cascais

Photo of beautiful beach in Cascais, Portugal.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Cascais, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Cascais offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Cascais travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the town so special.

Top attractions in Cascais

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Cascais is more than just a wonderful town in Portugal. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Portugal's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Cascais is the unforgettable Boca do Inferno. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Cascais.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Cascais, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Cascais, including the fascinating Boca do Inferno, Mercado da Vila, Piscina Oceânica Alberto Romano, Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, and Santa Maria House Museum.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the town map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Cascais.

Things to do in Cascais

Photo of the famous and amazing beach in Cascais city, Portugal.

You've explored Cascais's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Cascais. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Cascais, or learning more about the town's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the town below.

Most popular experiences in Cascais

A visit to Cascais gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the town is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Historical Tours, Bus Tours, Full-day Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Cascais, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant town. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Cascais. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Cascais offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Cascais

In Cascais, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 19 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Learning Experiences.

Learning Experiences offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Cascais. For example, the fantastic Surf Experience in Cascais.

Cascais also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Spies Nest Outdoor Escape Game in Estoril, for example, is the cheapest Walking Tour option in the town. This experience costs around 6 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Cascais adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the town. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Cascais right below.

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Search for things to do in Cascais

Discover the best things to do in Cascais. Choose from 91 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Cascais. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Cascais.

What to eat in Cascais

Cascais, a charming coastal town in Portugal, is a gastronomic paradise, especially for seafood lovers. The town’s old quarter and the area around Largo de Camões are some of the best places to eat in Cascais, offering a variety of culinary experiences ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. One of the must-try traditional dishes is the 'Santola Recheada' - stuffed spider crab, a true delicacy loved by locals. For those seeking a more casual bite, 'Bifanas' - thin pork sandwiches are quite popular in the street food scene. For fine dining, the Michelin-starred Fortaleza do Guincho is a renowned spot, offering exquisite Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary twist. To enhance your dining experience, consider reserving a table in advance at popular eateries, particularly during peak tourist season. Lastly, pairing your meal with a glass of local Portuguese wine, such as Vinho Verde or Douro, will further elevate your gastronomic journey in Cascais.

Best free things to do in Cascais

Cascais, Portugal is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions that will not cost you a dime. One of the best free things to do in Cascais is to visit Boca do Inferno, a stunning seaside cliff formation known for its powerful waves and mesmerizing views. Stroll around the historic Old Town, where you can admire the charming 19th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant public art. Discover the enchanting Parque Marechal Carmona, a lush oasis filled with exotic plants, serene ponds, and free-roaming peacocks. Wander around the Cascais Marina, considered one of the largest and most beautiful marinas in Portugal. Here, you can watch luxurious yachts bobbing in the water and soak in the lively atmosphere. Don't miss the Cascais Citadel Art District, a creative hub showcasing contemporary art installations and exhibitions. Lastly, spend a relaxing day at the pristine beaches like Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição, which are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and catching a spectacular sunset. With such a diverse range of free activities, Cascais promises an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.

Vacation packages in Cascais

Photo of beach, town and dock of Cascais at summer, Portugal.

Booking a vacation package to Cascais means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Cascais to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Cascais also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Cascais travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the town.

Popular types of vacations in Cascais

The most popular way to experience Cascais is by visiting the town as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Portugal. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Cascais on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Portugal, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Portugal, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Cascais, there is a vacation package for you.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Cascais below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

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Find vacation packages in Cascais

Explore and compare vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful town of Cascais. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, hotels, and activities in Cascais tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Portugal. Your customized holiday package to Cascais is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Cascais

From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Cascais.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Cascais, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Cascais.

Find cheap flights to Cascais

Photo of beautiful view of Cascais ,coastal resort and fishing town, with Santa Maria House and Lighthouse , Portugal.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Cascais is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Cascais. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the town. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Cascais, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Cascais even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Cascais both affordable and unforgettable.

Where to stay in Cascais

Photo of aerial view of people crowd having fun on beach and over Cascais city In Portugal.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Cascais is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Cascais usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Cascais offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Cascais and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Cascais planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Cascais, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Portugal can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Cascais. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Cascais.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Cascais in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Cascais

A trip to Cascais means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the town. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Cascais provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the town, Vila Galé Cascais is one of the top picks of travelers in Cascais. Vila Galé Cascais is a 4-star stay with an average rating of 4061 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Rua Frei Nicolau de Oliveira - Parque da Gandarinha and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, free wi-fi, and room service.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Cascais. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Cascais, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Cascais City & Beach Hotel. For approximately 81 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Single Room at this popular hotel, which also offers free wi-fi, airport shuttle, and more.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Cascais. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

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Search for accommodation in Cascais

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Cascais is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Cascais effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Cascais

Photo of seaside cityscape of Cascais city in summer day. Cascais municipality, Portugal

To navigate Cascais effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 4 car rental companies in Cascais, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Cascais start at 45 EUR per day or 318 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Seat Ibiza. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Cascais, starting at 15 EUR per day or 105 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Cascais, Portugal below.

Search for car rentals in Cascais

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Cascais. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Cascais, Portugal, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Cascais

Cascais, set along the sun-drenched coastline of Portugal, provides travelers with various modes of transportation. The town is served by the Cascais Line, a commuter rail service that links the city to Lisbon, making public transit an efficient way to explore the wider area.

Taxis are readily available and are a convenient option for shorter journeys within the city. Uber is also operational in Cascais, providing another flexible alternative. Car rentals are available from various agencies, providing the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, do keep in mind that parking can be challenging in the city center.

For a unique local experience, try the traditional horse-drawn carriages, or the quaint Remodelado trams that trundle through the town's narrow lanes. Bike rentals are also popular, with numerous cycle paths offering scenic routes along the coastline. Finally, for those interested in water transport, there are regular boat trips from Cascais marina to nearby beaches and fishing spots.

Popular destinations to visit after Cascais

Photo of Cascais Marina with boats on distance. Summer season with blue sky.

The town of Cascais is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Portugal. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Portugal has it all.

Each destination in Portugal offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Portugal that are as magical as the town of Cascais. The most popular travel destinations in Portugal are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Portugal

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Portugal. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Cascais

Photo of aerial view of Praia da Rainha and historic city centre of Cascais with it's beautiful beach, Portugal.

Experience the authentic charm of Portugal by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Cascais. Explore other destinations around Portugal with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Cascais to other amazing locations in Portugal, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Portugal for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Cascais.

Search domestic flights from Cascais

Traveling to another city or region in Portugal? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Cascais to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Portugal on the selected dates.

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