Cascais

🎭 Activities

Cascais Old Town – March: Wander through the charming streets of Cascais’ historic Old Town, filled with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops. The cobblestone streets lead you to scenic squares and beautiful coastal views. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and discovering local culture. 

Boca do Inferno – April: Visit the dramatic Boca do Inferno, a natural rock formation where the sea crashes into caves, creating impressive waves. It’s an iconic spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. The surrounding views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking. 

Cascais Marina – May: Spend a relaxing afternoon at the Cascais Marina, with its beautiful yachts and lively atmosphere. The Marina is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, making it an ideal spot for dining by the water. The sunset views are particularly stunning. 

Cascais Cultural Centre – June: Explore the Cascais Cultural Centre, a hub for the arts with exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year. The center features a diverse range of cultural activities, including theater, music, and art displays. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local creative scene. 

Festival de Música de Cascais e Oeiras – June: Attend the Cascais and Oeiras Music Festival, which features a variety of classical and contemporary music performances. The festival takes place in beautiful venues across Cascais, offering an exceptional musical experience. It’s a wonderful event for music lovers. 

Praia do Guincho – July: Enjoy a day at Praia do Guincho, one of the most popular beaches near Cascais. Known for its strong winds and waves, it’s a favorite spot for surfers and kite surfers. The beach also offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Cascais Citadel – August: Visit the historic Cascais Citadel, a former royal residence and now a cultural space. The citadel offers exhibitions, art galleries, and fantastic views of the coastline. It’s a must-see for history buffs and those looking to explore the town’s past. 

Cascais Bike Tours – September: Rent a bike and take a guided tour of Cascais to explore its beautiful surroundings. The routes pass through scenic coastal paths, historic landmarks, and charming villages. It’s an active way to see the best of the region, while learning about its history. 

Mercado da Vila – October: Head to the Mercado da Vila, a bustling market in the heart of Cascais offering fresh local produce, seafood, and other regional products. It’s a great place to experience local food culture. You’ll find everything from gourmet treats to everyday essentials. 

Marina de Cascais Boat Trips – November: Take a boat trip from the Marina of Cascais along the beautiful coastline, enjoying views of the cliffs, beaches, and ocean. The boat tours offer opportunities for sightseeing, dolphin watching, or simply enjoying a peaceful day at sea. It’s a perfect way to experience Cascais from the water. 

Festival do Chocolate – December: If you’re in town during the holiday season, visit the Festival do Chocolate, a sweet celebration of all things chocolate. The event features tastings, workshops, and chocolate-themed activities for all ages. It’s an indulgent way to spend an afternoon with family and friends. 

Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais – March: Explore the stunning landscapes of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, located just outside the town. The park offers hiking trails, picturesque viewpoints, and a rich variety of wildlife. It’s a great escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. 

🔹 Small Facts

• Cascais’ Maritime Heritage: Cascais has a rich maritime history, and its fishing heritage has long shaped the local economy. Historically a fishing village, the city now blends its past with modern industries, such as tourism and real estate, while maintaining a connection to the sea through festivals and events. 

• Cascais as a Wealthy Suburb: Cascais is often considered one of Lisbon’s most desirable suburbs due to its proximity to the capital. The city has seen significant growth in recent years, with many affluent professionals and expats choosing to live here. This has contributed to a rise in property values. 

• Environmental Awareness: Cascais is increasingly focused on environmental sustainability. The city has invested in renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly initiatives to ensure a green future. Local authorities also encourage green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable public transport to reduce its environmental footprint. 

• A Hub for International Expats: Cascais has become a popular destination for expats, particularly retirees from Northern Europe. Its relaxed atmosphere, mild climate, and high quality of life make it an attractive location for international residents. This diversity adds to the multicultural environment in the city. 

• A Growing Tech Scene: Cascais is beginning to develop a tech ecosystem, with an increasing number of startups and technology companies setting up operations. Its proximity to Lisbon, combined with its affordable living costs, offers a competitive advantage for tech entrepreneurs. The city is quickly becoming a key player in Portugal’s tech scene. 

• Focus on Arts and Culture: Cascais fosters a thriving arts scene, with local galleries, music events, and theater productions taking center stage. The town’s cultural life has been enriched by various artistic initiatives, promoting the creative expression of local and international artists. This cultural revival enhances the city’s appeal. 

• Public Transport Accessibility: Cascais is well-connected to Lisbon and other nearby regions through public transport. The city benefits from a reliable train line to the capital, as well as buses and taxis, making it easy for residents and visitors to move around. This connectivity strengthens the city’s position as a commuter hub. 

• Green Spaces and Parks: Cascais is known for its extensive green spaces and parks. The city’s natural beauty is preserved in areas like Parque Marechal Carmona, which provides locals with space for outdoor recreation. These green areas not only improve quality of life but also contribute to the city’s environmental initiatives. 

• Sustainable Urban Development: Cascais prioritizes sustainable urban development through strategic planning. The city is focused on maintaining a balance between modern growth and environmental protection. Urban projects in Cascais aim to improve infrastructure while keeping sustainability at the forefront of development plans. 

• High Standard of Living: Cascais is known for its high standard of living, featuring excellent healthcare, education, and public services. The city offers an ideal lifestyle for families, retirees, and young professionals. Its strong local economy and modern infrastructure create a dynamic and prosperous community. 

• Cascais’ Affluent History: Once a humble fishing village, Cascais has evolved into a prestigious resort town. In the 19th century, the Portuguese royal family began vacationing here, attracting wealthy residents and tourists. Today, its luxurious real estate, stylish marina, and upscale lifestyle are a testament to its affluent history. 

• Diverse Culinary Scene: Cascais has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, reflecting the city’s cultural mix. Traditional Portuguese seafood is complemented by international flavors, with numerous fine-dining establishments offering everything from Mediterranean to Asian cuisine. The city’s food culture contributes to its cosmopolitan atmosphere. 

• Education and Research: Cascais places a high emphasis on education and research, with many local institutions offering quality schooling and vocational training. The city is home to several educational programs, making it an attractive location for families. Additionally, its proximity to Lisbon allows residents access to world-class universities and research centers. 

• Annual International Events: Cascais is home to several international events that attract global participants. The city hosts regattas, film festivals, and art exhibitions that draw visitors from around the world. These events contribute to Cascais’ growing reputation as an international cultural hub and enhance the city’s global appeal. 

• Rich Marine Life: The waters surrounding Cascais are known for their rich marine life, attracting marine biologists and environmentalists. Cascais’ coastline is home to a variety of sea creatures, including dolphins and fish species, and the city is committed to preserving its marine biodiversity through conservation projects and research.