Things to do in  Cascais

Just north of Lisbon, Cabo da Roca is known for its dramatic views and scenic cliff-top walking path. As the westernmost point in continental Europe, it was once believed by Europeans to be the edge of the world. Today, it is home to a defensive lighthouse built in the 16th century and serves as a haven for local birdlife, which you can see soaring above the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean below.

Since the 11th century, the Castelo de São Jorge (or St. George’s Castle) has stood tall in the Lisbon skyline, viewable from almost every point in the city. The Moorish castle overlooks various districts and offers some of the best panoramas of the city. Even if you only have a few hours, the former fortress offers plenty to do, from climbing its ramparts and viewing the camera obscura to exploring the artifacts at its archaeological museum.

A short drive from Lisbon on the Portuguese Riviera, Estoril is known for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and waterfront promenade that winds all the way to the neighboring town of Cascais. Many of Estoril’s luxurious amenities date back to World War II, when neutral Portugal was an escape for soldiers and civilians. This includes its star attraction, Casino Estoril—said to have inspired Ian Fleming while writing the James Bond novel, Casino Royale.

The dramatically named Boca do Inferno, or Mouth of Hell, is a unique rock formation in the seaside town of Cascais in Portugal. It’s constantly battered by the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean—when they’re at their most mighty, water surging through the chasm gives the effect of an erupting volcano.

Two rust-colored pyramids may mark the location of the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, but they don’t reveal much from the outside. Inside, you’ll see a collection of works by acclaimed painter Dame Paula Rego, spanning hundreds of her prints, drawings, and paintings—which often examine the issue of women’s rights—and some works by her husband, Victor Willing.

Semi-connected to the equally lovely Praia da Duquesa, Praia da Conceicao is a stretch of golden sand lapped by the Atlantic Ocean in Cascais. Within easy reach of Lisbon, this beach is a well-equipped place to spend the day soaking up the sunshine, swimming, and enjoying activities such as paddleboarding.

Blending neo-Gothic and Romantic styles, the gorgeously grand Palacio Seixas is an architectural symbol of Cascais, a sophisticated seaside resort just outside Lisbon. Built in the late 19th century, the palace is notable for its carved stone facade and wooden interiors, surrounded by a lush garden filled with statues of mythological figures.

Perched over the ocean in the charming Portuguese town of Cascais, Casa da Guia is a magnet for travelers of all tastes. Housed in a 19th-century mansion and surrounded by lush gardens, it’s home to a diverse collection of shops and an art gallery. Outside, restaurants and cafés offer outdoor dining with stunning views of the sea.

While a modern roof covers the hall at Cascais’ Mercado da Vila, decades of tradition can be found among its ever changing vendors and kiosks. Rows of stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables are flanked by butchers, fishmongers, and plenty of local produce, while cafés and eateries line a large outdoor dining area.

Though compact, Cascais’ Museu do Mar (Museum of the Sea) hosts a rich collection of exhibits exploring Portugal’s maritime history. Surrounded by manicured gardens in the affluent coastal resort near Lisbon, this museum displays everything from boat models and marine fossils to artifacts salvaged from shipwrecks.

Breaking up the string of beaches along the coast, Marina de Cascais features a high-end shopping and dining complex, alongside its many moored sailboats. Here, you’ll find boutiques, beauty studios, and a range of restaurants, many of which boast generous outdoor seating areas, so you can enjoy your meal with sea views.

The 19th-century palace that houses this museum is the same color as the custard inside a Portuguese egg tart or pastel de nata. Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães is a cultural highlight in Cascais. The museum exhibits art, artifacts dating to the prehistoric period, rare Indo-Portuguese furniture, and rooms that appear as if royal visitors have just left.

Connected to Praia da Conceicao on the scenic and sun-soaked coast of Cascais, Praia da Duquesa boasts a prime location near the center of the resort. Year-round calm waters mean the beach is ideal for families and swimmers, while golden sands that offer parasol and sunbed rentals are perfect for relaxing.

Quiet, shaded trails lead through the grounds of Marechal Carmona Park in the south of Cascais. The park is bordered by grand old buildings, including the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, but at its heart lies sheltered areas with picnic tables, sculptures, and open lawns. Chickens, ducks, and peacocks wander about the park—as do tourists seeking views of Santa Marta Beach.

The heart of Caiscais, 5th of October Square (Praça 5 de Outubro) is a gathering place for locals and visitors. Named for the Portuguese revolution of October 5, 1910, which marked the transition from monarchy to republic, the square’s setting in the center of the coastal resort town reflects the historical importance of the turning point in Portuguese history.