Looking for the perfect day trip from Lisbon? Cascais should be at the top of your list. Just a quick 40-minute train ride from the bustling Portuguese capital, this charming seaside town offers a delightful escape with its blue waters and vibrant atmosphere.
Cascais strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. It has beautiful beaches for swimming, a scenic pedestrian area, and some of the best gelato you’ll find in Portugal.
I fell in love with Cascais on my first visit, wandering through its pretty town center and watching fishing boats bob in the harbor. The contrast between Lisbon’s urban energy and Cascais’s coastal calm makes for an ideal day trip combination. When the summer heat in Lisbon becomes too much, there’s nothing better than cooling off in Cascais’s clear waters.
What makes Cascais special is how much you can pack into a single day. Unlike Sintra with its many palaces that require multiple days to explore properly, Cascais can be enjoyed thoroughly in just one visit.
I recommend starting at the harbor, exploring the pedestrian streets, enjoying fresh seafood for lunch, and spending the afternoon at one of the beautiful beaches that have made this part of the Portuguese Riviera famous.
The Lure of Cascais
Cascais captivates visitors with its perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history. Just a quick 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, this charming coastal town offers an escape that feels worlds away from the bustling capital.
Breathtaking Coastal Charm
The moment I stepped off the train in Cascais, the fresh sea breeze welcomed me to this gorgeous coastal haven. The town boasts stunning beaches that line the Portuguese Riviera, creating a paradise for both sunbathers and water enthusiasts.
Walking along the seaside promenade, I discovered spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The natural wonders here are truly remarkable – from golden sandy beaches to dramatic cliff formations that frame the coastline.
Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point, is just a short trip away. Standing at this magnificent spot where land meets the vast Atlantic, I felt tiny against nature’s grandeur.
Historic Towns and Noble History
Wandering through Cascais’ center, I fell in love with its cobblestone streets lined with Portuguese houses adorned with colorful tiles and wrought-iron balconies. This once-fishing village transformed into a fashionable resort when Portuguese nobility made it their summer playground.
The town’s architectural gems tell stories of its rich past. Beautiful historic buildings blend seamlessly with modern amenities, creating an atmosphere that’s both timeless and vibrant.
I spent hours exploring charming squares and narrow alleys that reveal something new at every turn. The blend of Portuguese tradition with influences from royal European visitors has created a unique cultural identity that feels both authentic and sophisticated.
Transportation Made Easy
Getting to and around Cascais couldn’t be simpler. The efficient public transportation system makes this coastal gem accessible for visitors staying in Lisbon, while the compact town center is perfect for exploring on foot.
The Journey from Lisbon
The train from Lisbon to Cascais is my favorite transportation option. Departing from Cais do Sodré station in downtown Lisbon, these trains run every 20 minutes, making spontaneous trips a breeze. The journey takes about 40 minutes, offering beautiful coastline views along the way.
Image source: Tripadvisor
I recommend buying a reloadable transit card at the station. It works on all public transport in the region and saves time queuing for individual tickets.
For an early start, catch a morning train around 8:30 AM. This gets you to Cascais before the midday crowds and gives you a full day to explore.
Uber is another convenient option if you’re traveling with a group. It costs approximately €25 each way from Lisbon, which can be economical when split between friends.
Navigating Cascais
Once you arrive in Cascais, you’ll find the town is wonderfully walkable. The train station sits right at the edge of the historic center, putting you steps away from beaches, restaurants, and attractions.
I rarely need additional transportation while in town. Most major sights are within a 15-minute walk of each other.
For venturing to nearby beaches or attractions outside the center, consider these options:
- BiCas: Free bikes available with ID (limited to 2 hours)
- Local buses: Inexpensive and connect to outer beaches
- Taxis: Readily available at designated stands
The waterfront promenade connects Cascais to Estoril, making for a scenic 30-minute walk if you’re feeling energetic. Public buses also run frequently between coastal towns if you want to explore more of the Portuguese Riviera.
Cultural and Natural Landmarks
Cascais is surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders and impressive cultural sites that make it much more than just a beach destination. I discovered that the region offers dramatic clifftop views, mysterious coastal formations, and access to some of Portugal’s most magnificent palaces.
Cabo da Roca’s Dramatic Views
Standing at Cabo da Roca was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. This windswept headland marks the westernmost point of continental Europe, where the land dramatically meets the Atlantic Ocean. I was awestruck by the rugged cliffs dropping almost vertically into the crashing waves below.
The lighthouse that stands guard here dates back to 1772 and adds character to this wild landscape. I found a stone monument marking this geographic milestone, which bears the words of Portuguese poet Luís de Camões describing this spot as “where the land ends and the sea begins.”
The panoramic views are simply spectacular. I recommend bringing a jacket even on sunny days as the wind can be surprisingly strong. The sunset here is absolutely magical, with golden light illuminating the cliffs.
The Enigmatic Boca do Inferno
Just a short walk from Cascais center, I discovered the fascinating Boca do Inferno or “Hell’s Mouth.” This unique coastal formation features a small arch and cave that the Atlantic waves crash through with impressive force. The name comes from the way the sea violently swirls inside the cave, creating sounds reminiscent of angry roars.
When I visited, I was mesmerized by the raw power of nature on display. The waves pound relentlessly against the rocky cliff face, sending dramatic sprays of water high into the air. There’s a small viewing platform that provides the perfect vantage point.
Local legends surround this geological wonder, including tales of occultist Aleister Crowley faking his death here in 1930. I found several small cafés nearby where you can enjoy a coffee while taking in the hypnotic rhythm of the waves.
Palatial Wonders Near Cascais
The area surrounding Cascais offers easy access to some of Portugal’s most magnificent palaces. A short trip to nearby Sintra reveals architectural treasures like the colorful Pena Palace, perched dramatically atop a hill. This 19th-century Romanticist castle features vivid yellows and reds that seem to emerge from a fairytale.
I was equally enchanted by Quinta da Regaleira, with its mysterious initiatic wells and underground tunnels. The grounds feel like something from a fantasy novel, with hidden symbolism throughout the gardens.
Closer to Cascais, the elegant Palácio de Seteais now operates as a luxury hotel but visitors can still admire its neoclassical architecture and manicured gardens. The Palácio Nacional in Sintra town center is recognizable by its distinctive twin chimneys and offers fascinating insights into royal Portuguese life through the centuries.
The Flavors of Cascais
Cascais offers a delightful culinary journey that combines fresh seafood with Portuguese traditions. During my visit, I discovered that food is central to experiencing the authentic charm of this coastal gem.
Seafood and Beyond
The seafood in Cascais is absolutely phenomenal! I found restaurants lining the picturesque harbor serving catch-of-the-day specialties that had been swimming just hours before arriving on my plate.
My favorite discovery was the local clams prepared in a garlicky white wine sauce called “amêijoas à Bulhão Pato.” The flavors were so vibrant and fresh!
Don’t miss trying the famous grilled sardines when they’re in season (June-August). They’re simply prepared with sea salt and served with boiled potatoes and roasted peppers.
For non-seafood options, I enjoyed excellent Portuguese staples like the hearty “cozido” stew and the tender “leitão” (roast suckling pig) at traditional tascas throughout town.
Cascais’ Culinary Scene
The restaurant scene in Cascais ranges from casual seaside eateries to upscale dining establishments. During my exploration, I found both traditional and modern interpretations of Portuguese cuisine.
For a truly local experience, I ventured away from the main tourist areas to small family-run restaurants where elderly ladies prepared recipes passed down through generations.
Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with ocean views, perfect for enjoying a glass of vinho verde with your meal. The prices were surprisingly reasonable compared to Lisbon!
Don’t forget to try the famous Portuguese pastries for dessert. Beyond the custard tarts, Cascais has wonderful regional specialties like “travesseiros” (pillow pastries) available in local cafés.
Beach Escapades and Waterfront Leisure
Cascais offers a stunning coastal escape with golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters just 40 minutes from Lisbon. The shoreline ranges from family-friendly coves to dramatic surf spots, making it the perfect seaside destination regardless of your beach preferences.
The Premier Beach Destination Near Lisbon
I’ve visited many beaches around Lisbon, but Cascais truly stands out for its variety and accessibility. The town’s beaches feature soft golden sand and calm azure waters that are perfect for families. Praia da Conceição, right in the center of town, offers convenient amenities with cafés just steps from your beach towel.
For a more upscale experience, I recommend heading to neighboring Estoril. The beaches here have a glamorous feel, reflecting the area’s reputation as the “Portuguese Riviera.” The promenade connecting Cascais to Estoril makes for a lovely seaside walk with stunning natural scenery.
Don’t miss Praia da Rainha, a charming small cove that was once the private beach of Queen Amélia. It’s tucked between rock formations and offers a more intimate setting.
Surf’s Up at Nearby Hotspots
While Cascais proper has calmer waters, serious surfers like me head just a few kilometers north.
Praia das Maçãs offers consistent waves perfect for intermediate surfers. This is especially true during fall and winter months.
For more challenging breaks, I’ve spent countless hours at Praia do Guincho. The powerful Atlantic waves and stunning backdrop of Sintra mountains create an unforgettable surfing experience.
Beginners can find several surf schools offering lessons and equipment rental.
Costa da Caparica, just south across the Tagus River, is another fantastic option with miles of surfing beaches. I often take the ferry from Lisbon when I want variety in my surf spots.
The natural scenery surrounding these beaches adds to their appeal. With dramatic cliffs, golden dunes, and gorgeous sunsets that create perfect photo opportunities.
