Cascais travel guide

Photo of view of a beach in the touristic village of Cascais, Portugal.

Introduction to Cascais

Cascais is a destination 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 over 206.5 thousand locals who live in Cascais. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Cascais as you explore this spectacular town.

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

Get ready to explore and learn more about the town of Cascais below!

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

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Cascais, Portugal. Browse the 61 top-rated tours available to you in Cascais. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Cascais.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Cascais, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Cascais on your vacation in Portugal.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Cascais from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading 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

There are many reasons to visit the town of Cascais, but a trip to Portugal needs no explanation.

Exploring Portugal, which spans 92,212 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Portugal offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Boca do Inferno, Mercado da Vila, and the Piscina Oceânica Alberto Romano, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Portugal.

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

What to see in Cascais

Photo of beautiful beach in Cascais, Portugal.

Cascais has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the town.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the town of Cascais.

Top attractions in Cascais

Home to plenty of top attractions, Cascais is more than just a wonderful town in Portugal. Cascais is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Portugal.

One fascinating sight 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.

Boca do Inferno is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Av. Rei Humberto II de Itália 642, 2750-800 Cascais, Portugal.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Portugal, check out our list of top attractions in Cascais 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

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Cascais.

Things to do in Cascais

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

Enrich your travel experience in Cascais by joining tours and activities. Cascais offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the town.

Discover the most popular experiences in Cascais below.

Search for things to do in Cascais

Discover the best things to do in Cascais. Choose from 61 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.

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.

The best and easiest way to visit Cascais is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in 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, accomodation, 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 you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Cascais is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Cascais, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the town of Cascais.

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Find vacation packages in Cascais

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful town of Cascais.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Cascais get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Portugal. Your customized holiday package to Cascais is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Cascais

To get to the town of Cascais the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Portugal can travel by plane.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Cascais, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you.

Find cheap flights to Cascais

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

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Cascais, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Portugal.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Portugal and the town of Cascais from your city of departure.

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 accommodation in downtown Cascais offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at 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.

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 hotels to budget-friendly accommodations 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 next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Cascais

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.

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.

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

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the town of Cascais on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the town of Cascais that match the information provided.

Car rental in Cascais

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

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Cascais. Cascais has 3 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Cascais start from 21.86 EUR per day or 153 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 from 8.39 EUR per day or 58.71 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Renault Twingo 3D.

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

Search for car rental 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.

Portugal is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! 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 of 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.

A taste of Portugal through a visit to Cascais can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Cascais to another remarkable destination in Portugal.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the town of Cascais to other spectacular locations in Portugal, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

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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