The Ultimate Guide to Cascais

Located less than an hour west of Lisbon, the beautiful resort town of Cascais is among Portugal’s most cherished beauties.

Driving or wandering around town, you’ll discover villas and palaces in the “Summer Architecture” style, distinctive to this part of the country. This particular style is a testament to the area’s royal past. In fact, World War II saw Portugal in an unusual position of neutrality. As a result, it became home to several exiled royal families from other parts of Europe, namely Spain, Italy, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

To this day, Cascais’ royal heritage and incredible beauty make it one of Portugal’s most attractive vacation spots—hosting both local and international tourists. So much so, a visit around the Lisbon area would not be complete without including this historical coastal town packed with all kinds of sights and experiences.  

Whether you are looking to sip wine on a terrace by the ocean, be immersed in the region’s history, or embark on a long scenic hike, chances are Cascais is the perfect destination for you—especially if you are visiting Lisbon. To help you plan your visit and make the best out of this amazing little town, here’s our ultimate guide to Cascais.

First things first, a little historical background knowledge is in order:

• First developed in the 12^th century as part of the town of Sintra, the name Cascais is thought to be due to the great number of shells (cascas) found in the town’s port due to its high production of marine mollusks.
• From Medieval times on, fishing became the main profit source for Cascais and surrounding areas, along with its prolific wine, oil, fruit, and cereal production.
• In 1775, the city of Cascais was at the epicenter of a violent earthquake that had a catastrophic impact on the city’s economy.
• In 1807, Cascais was invaded by the Napoleonic troops and occupied by the French.
• Besides being among the top-rated vacation destinations for everyday tourists and jet-setters, the town is a world-known surfing and sailing hub.
• In 2018, Cascais gained the title of European Youth Capital.

HOW TO GET TO CASCAIS

Lucky for you, there is no shortage of options to reach beautiful Cascais. Public transit is affordable and practical, and the network will connect you to Lisbon and the surrounding areas.

• Take a train: If you are visiting Cascais, chances are you will be going there straight from Lisbon. If that’s the case, you’ll find Cascais is easily connected to Cais do Sodre station via line 19001 (also known as the Cascais route). Trains are scheduled every 30-40 minutes, and the journey to the terminal takes roughly 40 minutes. The cost is €2.25.
• Take a bus: If you are coming from the nearby town of Sintra, buses 403 and 417 will get you to Cascais in 40 minutes. A one-way ticket is €3.
• Rent a car: Renting a car in Portugal is cheaper than in other places and will provide you with the flexibility you need in terms of luggage and schedule. Some of the most attractive beaches in the Cascais area will also be easier to reach this way. You can look at rentals in both Lisbon city center or at the airport.
• From the airport: There is no direct link from Lisbon airport, but the Cais do Sodre station in Lisbon is easily connected to the airport by metro (€1.30).

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Unsurprisingly, a coastal town like Cascais is bound to be at its most beautiful in the summertime. This, of course, directly impacts both cost and crowds. If you are planning on a more lowkey and inexpensive vacation and have the flexibility to do so, you might want to avoid visiting Cascais in July and August. Mid-May to June as well as September to October (the shoulder months) are still a great option weather-wise, with the added benefit of smaller crowds of visitors. 

The colder season is—well—cold, with temperatures ranging between 15-7 degrees celsius. Windy days and dramatic ocean views are a big part of Portugal’s charm nonetheless, and Cascais still makes a nice day trip or weekend destination in the wintertime.

WHAT TO WEAR

The general assumption is that a country like Portugal will be warm all year round. Wrong! Being exposed to the coast, Cascais is particularly vulnerable to the weather. Let’s dive into your clothing options according to season.

s p r i n g // f a l l

Spring and fall tend to have similar mild and not too steamy temperatures, making them an ideal time to visit Cascais. If you are in town from April to June or end of September to early November, here’s what you should pack:

• Beach gear: swimming suit, hat, sunglasses. The water temperature might be a bit chilly, but it’s not unusual for locals and tourists alike to dip their toes this time of the year. 
• Sudden temperature drops and hilly winds are not unusual in the area, so bring a windbreaker or a jacket.
• Flip-flops for beach days, light (preferably waterproof) sneakers for all other occasions.
• Sun block. Don’t let the comfortable temperature fool you; the sun in Portugal is strong even this time of the year.

s u m m e r

Summer in Cascais is every bit as sunny and hot as you’d expect. So make sure you pack:

• A swimsuit & beach gear, sunblock.
• A light jacket as wind is still very much a possibility, especially during the evenings.
• A refillable water bottle. There will be plenty of refill stations available around town and at the park.

w i n t e r

And we’ll say it again: winter in Cascais can be windy and cold. This, though, shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a well-deserved break. Just make sure you bring with you:

• Warm clothes from both indoor and outdoor areas. In Cascais, much as in the rest of the country, apartments and hotels tend to be poorly insulated and lack central heating. 
• Layers. On a sunny day, you might be pleasantly surprised by how warm it gets, and at times all you’ll need will be long sleeves.
• Gloves, a hat, and a scarf.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Plenty of accommodation options are available in and around town, a stone’s throw from Cascais’s main attractions, eateries, and beaches.

Of course, since the town is only located a short 30 km from Lisbon, you might prefer finding a hotel in the city and doing a day trip to Cascais. This is a great option as one day will be enough to see all the main architectural attractions. 

If you’d like to take advantage of the beautiful beaches, you should consider staying in Cascais at least for a weekend.

Upscale Hotels & SPAs

• Grande Real Villa Italia Cascais SPA

The exiled Italian king Humberto II previously called this hotel home. It is located 3 minute’s walk from the beach and faces the road from the well-known Boca do Inferno, providing guests with a breathtaking view. The spa, and notably the circuit for Thalassa therapy, is our favorite feature. A must-try if you want to unwind and revitalize your body. 

Budget: during high season, €355-500/night; during low season, €130/ night. 

• Hotel Cascais Miragem Health & SPA

This 5-star hotel has everything you need, even an infinity-edge pool that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel features a spa and a water lounge with a pool, a whirlpool circuit with air and water jets, a family pool, a salt lake, a sauna, a Turkish bath, bi-thermic showers, and an ice fountain.

Budget: during high season, €400/night; during low season, €170/night. 

• Martinhal Lisbon Family Cascais Family Resort Hotel

This is the hotel you should stay at if you are taking your children on a trip. They have a Kids Clubhouse with a play area that is over 700 square meters and attentive staff members who monitor your children while they play in a secure setting. Despite being 6 km from Cascais’ historic center, you can rent your own boutique-style room or, if you feel a little more boogie, a villa with a private balcony and terrace. The 5-star resort is set between 2 championship golf courses, Quinta da Marinha and Oitavos, and has three pools, restaurants, and a spa.

Budget: Room  €220-400/night; Villa  €830/night

• Onyria Quinta Da Marinha Hotel

Are you a golf lover? If so, then this is the best place for you. The Onyria Quinta Da Marinha Hotel is a luxury resort situated in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It has an 18-hole golf course and 2 restaurants.

Budget during high season: €330/night; during low season, €154/night.

Affordable Accommodation & Hostels

• Nice Way Cascais & Surf Camp

This place is ideal for enjoying the sunny Cascais. You can reach the beach within 12 minutes by foot, and the nearest railway station is only a 10-minute walk away. You can make your own meals in the community kitchen or pre-order dinner services for an additional cost. This hostel has a pool bar and a professional crew that will teach you how to surf as well as organize other activities such as cliff jumping and yoga. 

Budget: during high season, between  € 75-135/ night; during low season, € 55- 76/night.

• Ljmonade Cascais

Around a 4-minute walk from the city center and ten minutes from the railway station, the Ljmonade Cascais hostel is a good choice for those who value tranquil surroundings and a welcoming atmosphere. There are room options with private and shared bathrooms. They have delicious breakfast, lovely public areas (which close at 11 p.m.), and the most stunning female dorm room we’ve ever seen. They also plan trips and activities such as surfing, kitesurfing, and yoga packages. 

Budget: during high season, €94/night; during low season, €56/night.

• Cascais Bay Hostel

The hostel’s prime location in downtown Cascais puts it next to everything you’d need while on vacation. The staff is local, friendly, and ready to assist you with any tips you may require during your vacation.

Budget: during high season, €150/ night; during low season, €65/night. 

• Guincho Wayra House

This property is a 3-minute drive to Guincho Beach, part of the Serra de Sintra natural park. The spacious terrace is what we like best about this house. It has panoramic views of the ocean and the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. They also provide yoga sessions, healing therapies, and outdoor activities.

Budget: €52/night

• Turismo do Século part of Fundação O Século 

The beach is easily accessible from this property. The Estoril Casino is 5 minutes away by vehicle, while the Cascais city is 9 minutes away. What’s cool about this place is that by staying here, you will help finance the social work of the Fundação O Século.

Budget: €52/night

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15 THINGS TO SEE IN CASCAIS

Cascais’ great past has left an indelible mark that you can still appreciate nowadays. All around town, you’ll have a chance to admire its architectural wonders.

While there are a few organized tours that you may take, Cascais offers the opportunity to simply wander around and follow the route of the many former royal summer residences and retreats. Modern and contemporary sculptures are also to be found scattered around town, as well as a few interesting museums. 

Cascais Old Town

Get lost in Cascais’s old town’s hidden streets. As you exit the station, cross the roundabout to get to the pedestrian area of downtown Cascais. Its glamourous atmosphere, historic center, and picturesque architecture, its bars with welcoming terraces, and restaurants make Cascais a popular place for visitors and residents alike.   

5^th of October Square

Go to the 5^th of October square and immerse your eyes with the beautiful Cascais Municipal town hall. It is certainly the most emblematic building in Cascais. It is easily recognizable by its many azulejos representing catholic saints. This building dates from the end of the 18^th century. It was the former Palace of the counts of Guarda. It was transformed into a town hall in 1940.     

Palácio Cidadela Cascais (Cascais Citadel Palace)

The Cascais Citadel is an old fortress whose function was to defend Lisbon’s coast from any invasion. The Palace was a summer residence of the kings of Portugal from 1870, then of the Portuguese president after the proclamation of the Republic in 1910. Apart from an interpretive tour of the Palace, visitors can browse through the state rooms of the Palace, the chapel of Our Lady of Victory, and the former bedroom of King Luís or the Arab room, which served as an office to President Craveiro Lopes. Don’t miss Cascais analog tide gauge to the left of the citadel, also known as the Borrel tide gauge. It was installed in 1882 and was one of the first observatories installed in Europe and the first in Portugal dedicated to studying the currents and tides. 

Cascais Marina

You’ll find Cascais Marina along the citadel. Many international events take place here and bring together the best sailors in the world. The marina accommodates up to 650 boats and includes an area dedicated to yachts. Many bars, restaurants, and shops enliven the marina day and night. Sailing and diving lessons are at the delight of all sports enthusiasts’ beginners or professionals.    

Castro Guimaraes Museum 

The Palace of Count Castro Guimaraes is an astonishing castle-like residence overlooking the sea (Praia de Santa Marta). It is located in what is now Marechal Carmona park. The Palace was built at the end of the 19th century under the initiative of the Irishman Jorge O’Neill. Then in 1910, it was sold to Count Castro Guimaraes. The count then left his property to the village of Cascais in his will. He had one condition, though, that the municipality turns his castle and its garden into a museum open to the public while keeping intact characteristics of the residence, in particular the library. 

Parque Marechal Carmona

The Marechal Carmona park as we know it today results from the junction of the palace garden and the magnificent park designed by the Viscount of Gandarinha. There is lush vegetation, a picnic area, grounds, and playgrounds. There is also a pond where the ducks bathe and turtles swim. There is also a café where you can sit and be mesmerized by the beauty of nature. 

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Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum

Located right by the Tagus estuary, the Santa Marta Lighthouse is there to lead the way to vessels coming into Cascais Bay and the town’s new marina. Adjacent to it, you will find the Lighthouse Museum, open to the public since 2007, offering a brief history of this popular landmark as well as insight into the technology applied to lighthouse design across Portugal. Next to it, you have the Santa Maria house, built in 1902. It houses various collections of the 17th-century azulejos acquired by Jose Lino. He was one of the owners of the house and a great art lover. There is also a wooden ceiling painted in oil.  

Cas das Historias Paula Rego Art Gallery 

The contemporary painter Paula Rego had chosen Cascais to build the “Paula Rego House of Stories.” Thus since 2009, this museum has housed a rotating exhibition of artists’ graphic work. There are also some works by her husband, Victor Willing, who died in 1988.   

Museu do Mar Rei D. Carlos

A simple love story between the sea and Cascais, Museu do Mar Rei D. Carlos brings together various collections. Among other things, there are replicas of sailboats, fishing boats, marine fossils, fishing objects, and clothes, as well as the stories of the village fishermen. 

Palacio Seixas

Between Praia da Ribeira and Praia de Rainha, you’ll find Palacio Seixas dominating the scene. This beautiful residence was built between 1920 and 1930 by Henrique Maufroy de Seixas and is now used as a meeting area for Marine officials. Although you can’t go inside, the castle has a beautiful garden you can walk around and spend some time there. The garden has a wide variety of flowers and plants, gum trees, and pink peppercorn trees, as well as a children’s play area. There is also a café on site in the park area.  

Promenade from Cascais to Estoril

The promenade from Cascais to Estoril is worthwhile, beginning at Praia da Conceiço and ending at Praia da Azarujinha. It’s a three-kilometer trek along the sea cliffs that takes around 25 minutes. The promenade is wide and level, making it ideal for walking, cycling, or even skating. While promenading, take your time to check out the beachfront’s large 19th-century houses and modern hotels.

Igreja de Santo António do Estoril

The Church of Santo António do Estoril, or Mother Church of Estoril, is only a 2-minute walk from Estoril station. This early 16th-century church was built on the site of an even older one that was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. A large fire damaged the church again in 1927, nearly two centuries after the earthquake; the tiles of the Baroque facade were preserved. Look up as you enter the church, as Bonvalot’s ceiling paintings will capture your gaze.

Pelourinho de Estoril

Pelourinho’s were common in all towns and cities centuries ago. They were the locations where persons who committed crimes were punished. On the banks of Avenida Marginal, overlooking the shore, lies this well-preserved Pelourinho. The column is composed of stone and topped with a crown.

Estoril Casino

Estoril Casino is one of Europe’s largest operating casinos and the oldest in Portugal. It was one of the safest places on the continent during World War II (since Portugal was neutral) and therefore attracted spies, exiled monarchs, and wealthy people. That setting inspired Ian Fleming, an English novelist, journalist, and British Naval Intelligence Officer, to write the first James Bond novel, “Casino Royale” (1953). It is still a prominent entertainment center today, with fine dining, musical performances, an art gallery, a nightclub, and hundreds of slot machines and game tables. Temporary exhibitions, modern art and sculpture are frequently held at the casino. It has a view of Tamariz Beach, one of the most popular summer destinations on the Lisbon coast. 

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

If you are into surfing and the great outdoors, you might find Cascais is just great for you. From hiking or finding mountain bike trails at Sintra-Cascais National Park to getting surf lessons at the neighboring district of Carcavelos, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to stay active. Viator offers a constantly-updated list of outdoor activities for all seasons. If you are interested in these types of activities, we’d recommend: 

• Surfing on Guincho beach, these waves are perfect for beginners or intermediate surfers. But remember to bring your wetsuit as the water is cold year-round.
• Go rock climbing with Cascais Routes on the sea cliffs of sunny Cascais. 
• Hike around the Sintra-Cascais mountain range to enjoy beautiful views
• Explore some of the main trails in the Sintra-Cascais National Park. Fun fact, this park is one of the 13 Natural Parks of Portugal. Here is a list of some of the best trails to explore in the park:
  • Sintra-Cascais National Park loop tour
  • Praia do Guincho loop tour from Cresmina
  • Praia da Adraga loop tour from Azoia
  • Cabo da Roca loop tour from Almoçageme
  • Lagoa Beach loop tour from Almoçagene
• Head on over to Cabo Roca, the westernmost point in Europe.
• Enjoy a sailing cruise down the beautiful Cascais coastline and discover the stunning white sandy beaches and ancient fortifications along the coast. Or if you want something a little more romantic, why not take a sunset cruise around Cascais?
• Experience a fishing trip out of Cascais marina and discover the beauties of the area from the sea.
• Explore the highlights of Cascais on a small-group tour that weaves together natural beauty, culture, and history to create a vibrant picture of Portugal perfect for visitors with limited time in the region.

If, on the other hand, you are more into relaxing strolls, Cascais’s famous open-air market might be just for you.

• Cascais Antiques Fair
• Cascais Market (Wednesday and Saturdays)

TOP 5 BEACHES IN CASCAIS

If you are considering Cascais as your next destination, you likely love the ocean. Lucky for you, the area offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The Lighthouse Museum also offers a privileged position to enjoy a dramatic view of the sea.

Boca do Inferno

Literally translated as the Mouth of Hell, Boca do Inferno, Boca do Inferno was originally a sea cave, which collapsed and left a chasm and sea arch. The name is due to the size and sheer force of the waves that crash against the rocks during the wintertime. Bocas do Inferno is around 2km to the west of Cascais and is around a 2o minute walk from the center of town. Next to the viewing platform, visitors will find a restaurant, cafeteria, and a few shops selling locally-made products. The best time to visit? Sunset of course. 

Praia do Guincho

A popular Atlantic beach located on Portugal’s Estoril coast, 5 km from the town of Cascais. It is surrounded by a handful of small villages and is a favorite beach among the locals. 

The ideal wind conditions make Praia do Guincho an ideal surf spot, with many surf camps and schools around. Its privileged position by the national park has helped maintain this beach free from excessive urban development and, the presence of camping grounds makes it a nice option for an overnight stay.

Parque Marechal Carmona

Ok, so TECHNICALLY, this isn’t a beach. However, it is the go-to picnic destination for locals and visitors alike. Parque Marechal Carmona offers a nice break from the often too hot summer months thanks to its lush vegetation providing plenty of shade. Scattered around the park, you’ll see interesting modern sculptures and installations. There is also a duck pond and a few playgrounds, making it a nice spot for families traveling with small children.

Praia do Tamariz

Tucked by the Alameda de Estoril, this beach was once an up-scale retreat spot for the royalties. Conveniently located by a train station, Tamariz still attracts large crowds. It is a nice spot for those looking for an equipped beach with the possibility to rent chairs and umbrellas. A salt-water pool is also available.

Praia da Rainha

Located on the Cascais-Estoril coast, Praia da Rainha (Queen’s Beach) owns its name to Queen Amélie d’Orléans, the last queen of Portugal, who liked to bathe there during her stays at the Pena Palace in Sintra. It is said that the queen, an excellent swimmer, saved a swimmer from drowning there. It is the smallest beach in Cascais, and the rocks surrounding it shelter it from all the winds, which accounts for its calm waters.

FOOD & DRINKS:

Cascais is very well-known for drawing in an international crowd. The two diversity is reflected in the broad offering of cuisines from many parts of Europe and beyond the ocean.

The town is packed with family-owned, slightly upper-scale eateries with comfortable terraces offering delicious traditional dishes such as grilled octopus, Piri Piri chicken, and traditional Portuguese sandwiches (prego).

B r e a k f a s t // B r u n c h

Portuguese breakfast is usually just coffee and a small pastry. Whether you are happy with sampling one of the amazing local treats such as pastel de nata or you are looking for something more substantial, we got you covered.

• Bijou de Cascais (Rua Regimento 19 de Infantaria No 55 Largo Camões). Fresh baked goods from Portuguese and international patisserie.
• Pasteleria Garret (Avenida de Nice 54, Estoril, Cascais). Global bakery with vegan and vegetarian options.
• Crepes da Villa Cascais (Travessa Alfonso Sanches 12b). French-inspired crepes made from local and international ingredients.

L u n c h // D i n n e r

Our favorite eateries in Cascais are almost always open for lunch and dinner. Here’s what you should definitely try out.

• Marisco na Praça (R. Padre Moisés da Silva 34). Traditional Portuguese seafood and tapas.
• Café Galeria House of Wonders (Largo da Misericórdia, 53). Portuguese food with a vegetarian twist.
• Bago du Vin (Av. Marginal 8023). Wine and tapa bar.
• Taberna Econômica (R. Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo 35). Best octopus in town.
• Moules & Gin. (R. Nova da Alfarrobeira 14). Although there is a long Belgian tradition that mussels and beer were meant to be together, at this restaurant, it is the gin that goes with mussels.
• De Benedictis – Gastronomia Italiana (R. Frederico Arouca 35). The best place if you are looking to indulge in some delicious homemade Italian food. 
• Cantinho do Avillez –  (R. da Palmeira 6A, 2750-133). Contemporary Portuguese fusion with international influences.
• Lamassa – (R. J A Ferreira 121, 2765-232 Estoril) family-owned handmade fresh pasta recipes and delicious Italian wines.
• Mar do Inferno – ( Avenida Rei Humberto II de Itália) – Locally-sourced seafood. Best known for its stews. 
• Cimas English Bar – (Avenida Marginal ou Avenida de Sabóia, 9) – Traditional English menu with a few French and Galician items.

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SHOPPING

Besides strolling its streets, indulging yourself with its spas and beaches, trying its delicious food, and enjoying the myriad of activities it presents, Cascais offers a wide variety of concept stores, from clothing to home design, books, and much more.

Be We Concept

Be We Concept Store is a 600-square-meter store filled with products by Portuguese and international designers. It focuses on sustainability and sells products made from natural and eco-friendly materials, as well as firms that value social responsibility and innovation. It has everything from bikinis to handmade bags, kimonos, cosmetics, jewelry, sunglasses, and scandals.

Ami Concept Store

Founded in 1984, the AMI Concept Store sells clothing to fund its projects. When purchasing from Amy’s, you can select which project you would like to support. The store also hosts trainings on sustainable best practices. 

Galeria 5050

A 100% Portuguese concept that creates unique and stunning pieces directly in the heart of Cascais. This galeria has two sites on the same street, one focusing on ceramics, china, and sculptures and the other on jewelry; hence the name Galeria 5050 (50 percent art and 50 percent jewelry). It is not just a store but also a jewelry workshop where you may meet the artisans.

White & Voodoo

At White & Voodoo, shoppers can find a range of different items that can cost anywhere between 50 cents to 5000 euros. This concept store, located in the heart of Cascais, offers products for all occasions, including beach dresses, evening attire, jewelry, sunglasses, and last-minute presents.

Sabao & Limao

Come in and let your senses guide you. Sabo & Limao (“soap & lemon”) sells handmade soap, scented candles, outfits, bikinis, and elegant purses. The store only sells women’s apparel, with half of the labels being Portuguese and half foreign.

Zoe by Pavlia Tomic

In the center of Cascais, the Zoe by Pavlia Tomic concept store and its owner, Pavlia Tomic, have both become Cascais fashion icons. It is full of charm, offering original pieces and collections of boho-chic shirts, pants, dresses, shoes, swimwear, purses, and other accessories. 

Deja Lu

Book lovers, this place is for you. “Deja Lu” is French for “pre-read books.” So, it is a bookstore that sells used books in good condition, with all proceeds benefiting the Portuguese Association of Trisomy 21 Carriers. There are many books (over 8,000 titles), and plenty of them are in English.

Cura

Cura is a modest concept store in Monte Estoril. This lifestyle small boutique is dedicated to minimalist clothing and accessories. You’ll find a handpicked selection of everyday products created by remarkable people from all around the world.

San pi

San pi, located in Estoril, is a 100% Portuguese sustainable ceramic table set and lifestyle store. Tea sets, coffee sets, sushi sets, plates, bowls, dishes, cloth, and much more are available.

Cabinet of Curiosities

That’s the place to visit if you want to decorate your home in a unique style. This eccentric furniture concept store is a series of small rooms decorated with handpicked items for sale. At Cabinet of Curiosities, you’ll find everything you need, from furniture to lamps, paintings, and other treasures.

Espace Canelle

Since 1988, Espace Canelle has been an elegant womenswear boutique in Estoril, overlooking the Casino Gardens. It spans three floors and offers attentive and personalized service. The boutique features a selection of the top international brands, focusing on younger lines, such as Chloé, Love Moschino, Paul & Joe Sisters, Twin-Set and J Brand. The careful selection of brands has earned Espace Cannelle recognition as one of the top five fashion stores in Portugal by Vogue Portugal.  

LIVING IN CASCAIS

Cascais is around 30 km from Lisbon. You can get there in about 40 minutes by car, but most residents prefer using the train as roads can get a bit congested. 

While Cascais is a popular tourist destination, it has a lot to offer if you want to live here. It’s close to the perks of Lisbon but still far enough out of the city to have its own vibe and culture. Right along the Atlantic Ocean and very close to where the Tagus river dumps into the ocean, Cascais has quite a temperate temperature. 

But because of these characteristics, the cost of living in Cascais is expensive, as is rent. However, the cost of housing in Cascais depends on the neighborhood, the age of the property (if it’s new or renovated), if it is furnished or not, and if it is close to the beach.

Renting a luxurious apartment in a popular location such as the Quinta Marina can cost up to €8,000/month. A small apartment in Cascais or Estoril (T0/a studio) can cost from €800/month and can go up to €1,200/month. A T1 apartment starts at €650/month and can go up to €2,300/month if it is in a condominium with a swimming pool and other amenities. A T2 apartment can cost €850/month and can go up to €8,000/month.

COWORKING SPACES

Unsurprisingly, Cascais has become one of the most desirable digital nomad destinations. Coworking spaces offer a great opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee while completing a project and possibly connect with like-minded people. Our favorite spots to work on our laptops are:

• Central Admin
• LACS Cascais 
• Cowork Cascais
• The Village Cascais
• LOBO Cowork 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Cascais, with its impressive beaches, historic center, museum quarter, and gorgeous surroundings, is well worth a visit and a great addition to your Lisbon vacation. We recommend that when planning for your trip, make sure to leave some time for spontaneity. Walking through Cascais is, by itself, a fantastic experience. 

If you are planning a trip to Cascais on weekends or public holidays, make sure to take the train or public transport because, besides the congestion, parking places are scarce.

Finally, whether you enjoy museums, cycling, the ocean, or all of the above, Cascais is guaranteed to take your breath away, and this time, not because of its hills (unlike Lisbon, Cascais is pretty much flat).  

If we missed anything, let us know in the comments below.