Fun Things to Do in Cascais | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Cascais Travel Guide
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Welcome to Cascais! Located just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon, this charming coastal town is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, Cascais offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a sun seeker looking to soak up the rays on the golden sands of Praia do Guincho, a history buff eager to explore the medieval fortress of Cascais Citadel, or a food lover ready to indulge in the local delicacies at the bustling Cascais Market, this town has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Cascais, where the beauty of Portugal awaits you.
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Things To Do In Cascais
Cascais is a beautiful coastal town located just 30 minutes away from Lisbon. There are plenty of things to do in Cascais that cater to different interests and preferences.
One of the main attractions in Cascais is its stunning beaches. Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceicao are two popular beaches where you can relax, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic Ocean. Water sports enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Exploring the historic center of Cascais is another must-do activity. The town is filled with charming narrow streets, picturesque squares, and beautiful architecture. The Citadel of Cascais is a historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and the sea. The Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum is another interesting attraction that showcases the history of maritime navigation.
For art lovers, the Casa das Historias Paula Rego is a must-visit. This museum showcases the works of the renowned Portuguese artist Paula Rego. The museum building itself is a work of art, designed by the famous architect Eduardo Souto de Moura.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which is located nearby. This park offers stunning hiking trails, beautiful cliffs, and breathtaking views. The Boca do Inferno (Hell's Mouth) is a unique natural formation where the waves crash against the rocks, creating a dramatic spectacle.
Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary scene in Cascais. The town is known for its fresh seafood, and you can enjoy delicious fish and seafood dishes at the numerous restaurants along the coast. Don't forget to try the famous pasteis de nata, a traditional Portuguese custard tart.
Lastly, Cascais is also a great base for day trips to other nearby attractions. You can visit the fairy-tale town of Sintra, with its stunning palaces and gardens, or take a short boat ride to the beautiful island of Berlengas.
In summary, Cascais offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Tours And Activities In Cascais
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Best Time To Visit Cascais
The best time to visit Cascais is during the spring and fall seasons. These months, from April to June and September to October, offer mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and less crowded tourist attractions. The summer months of July and August can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and high tourist influx. Winter months, from November to February, are cooler with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but still offer a pleasant climate for exploring the town. However, it is important to note that rainfall is more common during the winter months. Overall, the spring and fall seasons provide the ideal weather and fewer crowds for a pleasant visit to Cascais.
Flight Calendar For Cascais
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Best Areas To Stay In Cascais
Cascais is a beautiful coastal town located just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon. It is known for its stunning beaches, charming old town, and vibrant atmosphere. When it comes to accommodation, there are several best areas that offer different experiences for visitors.
1. Cascais Center: This is the heart of the town and the main area for accommodation. Here, you will find a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments to suit all budgets. Staying in the center allows you to be within walking distance of the beach, restaurants, shops, and attractions such as the Cascais Marina and the Museum of the Sea.
2. Estoril: Located just east of Cascais, Estoril is another popular area for accommodation. It is known for its glamorous atmosphere and luxurious hotels. Estoril is home to the famous Casino Estoril, the largest casino in Europe, as well as beautiful gardens and parks. Staying in Estoril offers a more upscale experience and easy access to Cascais and Lisbon.
3. Guincho: If you are a nature lover or a surfer, Guincho is the perfect area for you. Situated on the outskirts of Cascais, Guincho is famous for its stunning beach and strong winds, making it a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. There are a few hotels and guesthouses in the area, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
4. Carcavelos: Located between Cascais and Lisbon, Carcavelos is a great option for those who want to be close to both cities. It is known for its long sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and surfing. Carcavelos offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale hotels.
Overall, Cascais offers a variety of best areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer to stay in the center, enjoy a luxurious experience in Estoril, embrace nature in Guincho, or have easy access to both Cascais and Lisbon in Carcavelos, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in this beautiful coastal town.
Hotels Map Of Cascais
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Transportation To Cascais
There are several transportation options to get to Cascais:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Cascais is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS). From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Cascais, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away.
2. By Train: Cascais is well-connected by train from Lisbon. You can take a train from Lisbon's Cais do Sodre station to Cascais, which is a scenic journey along the coast. The train ride takes around 40 minutes.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Lisbon to Cascais. You can take a bus from Lisbon's Sete Rios bus station or from the Cais do Sodre train station. The journey by bus takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the A5 highway from Lisbon to Cascais. The drive takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
5. By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Lisbon, and you can hire one to take you directly to Cascais. The journey by taxi takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Once you arrive in Cascais, there are local transportation options such as buses and taxis to get around the town and explore the surrounding areas.
Nearby Destination From Cascais
1. Lisbon: The vibrant capital city of Portugal, known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere.
2. Sintra: A picturesque town famous for its fairytale-like castles and palaces nestled in the mountains.
3. Estoril: A coastal resort town renowned for its beautiful beaches, glamorous casino, and international golf courses.
4. Cabo da Roca: The westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering breathtaking cliffs and stunning ocean views.
5. Guincho Beach: A popular destination for surfers and windsurfers, known for its strong winds and impressive waves.
6. Carcavelos: A charming seaside town with a long sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
7. Oeiras: A historic municipality with a rich cultural heritage, featuring beautiful parks, gardens, and a marina.
8. Mafra: Home to the majestic Mafra National Palace, a Baroque masterpiece and one of Portugal's most impressive monuments.
9. Ericeira: A traditional fishing village turned surfers' paradise, offering world-class waves and a laid-back atmosphere.
10. Sesimbra: A picturesque fishing town with a stunning coastline, known for its fresh seafood and medieval castle.