Cascais is a charming little town on the coast of Portugal, about a 30-minute drive from Lisbon. While on a city trip to Lisbon, you can spend a day here to visit the beach. However, if you are on a road trip through Portugal, it also serves as a great base to explore the beautiful surrounding area for two or three days. Of course, you can explore the surroundings from Lisbon as well, but if you’ve already seen everything there, Cascais is a more relaxing option. It saves you from having to leave the big city every time, and after a few days in Lisbon, changing your base can be refreshing! We’ve listed all our tips for Cascais below.
Tip: To explore this beautiful region, renting a car is ideal as it gives you all the freedom. However, you can also get around by bus, but you’ll be dependent on the bus schedule, which may take more time. For more information, read our tips for renting a car in Portugal.
#1 Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe. From this 140-meter-high (459-feet-high) cape, it seems like the world ends. The view along the rugged coastline is very impressive, and you’ll find the oldest lighthouse in Portugal, built in 1772. Since it can get quite windy here, it’s a good idea to bring a jacket.
#2 Hike to Ursa Beach
The rugged Ursa Beach is our favorite beach in all of Portugal. It takes a bit of effort to get there as it’s not accessible by car, but that also makes it quieter and more beautiful. The approximately 30-minute hike starts from Cabo da Roca and takes you along some fantastic viewpoints. Once you reach the beach, you’ll find yourself enclosed by cliffs, with several unique rock formations in the sea. Ursa Beach is most beautiful during sunset, so bring a phone or flashlight for when twilight sets in on the way back. You can download the map of Portugal on the maps.me app, where you can see the hiking route.
Note: Due to strong currents, it’s not advisable to swim at Ursa Beach. Of course, you can dip your feet in the water to cool off, but don’t go too deep.
#3 Day Trip to Sintra
If you’re on a city trip to Lisbon, you’ll visit Sintra from Lisbon. However, if you’re on a road trip through Portugal, it’s more relaxing to do it from Cascais. In the town of Sintra, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Here, you’ll find colorful castles, palaces, and mansions often surrounded by the most beautiful gardens.
#4 Dining at House of Wonders in Cascais
Cascais has plenty of cozy places to enjoy a delicious meal, but one in particular we’d like to recommend is House of Wonders. Here, you can indulge in a super healthy, vegetarian, and, most importantly, delicious meal. Not only are the dishes colorful, but the charming terrace and rooftop are also painted in cheerful colors. It’s a delightful place.
#5 The Beaches of Cascais
The great thing about Cascais is that it has several beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. The beaches in Cascais itself can get quite crowded in the summer, but along the coastline to the east, you’ll find more beaches with calm waters that are larger and, therefore, have more space. If you want to surf, head west to Praia de Guincho. If you prefer to stay in Cascais itself, it’s a good idea to go early to secure a spot. The beaches of Cascais include Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição.
Our Favorite Places to Stay in Cascais
If you’re looking for a lively place to stay, check out Nice Way Cascais. Besides offering excellent accommodations, they also organize many fun activities. They have “sharing dinners” three days a week where you can dine with a group of up to 30 guests. You can take surf lessons and enjoy daily yoga classes. There’s also a lovely swimming pool, and the atmosphere is delightful. Another great option is LEGASEA. This small boutique hotel in the center of Cascais is simply charming and beautiful. Both the interior of the common areas and the rooms are delightful. The breakfast is incredibly delicious and extensive. Another good hotel in the city center is Cascais City & Beach Hotel. It may not be as small and cozy as LEGASEA, but you’ll stay in a very comfortable room in a prime location. Breakfast is included in the price.
  Nice Way Cascais |
  LEGASEA |
  Cascais City & Beach Hotel |
