11 Best Things to Do in Cascais for First-Time Visitors

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Most people head to Cascais for its golden beaches and relaxed seaside vibe, and while that’s reason enough to visit, there’s so much more to this coastal gem than sun and sand.

When I visited on a day trip during my week in Lisbon, the weather wasn’t the best for the beach. But honestly, that turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Instead of just relaxing by the ocean, I spent my time exploring Cascais’s historic old town, walking the dramatic coastline.

Whether you’re planning a sunny beach day or, like me, want to explore the town’s other charms, here are the best things to do in Cascais and how to make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll the Cascais Promenade (Maybe Even from Estoril)

Stone-paved coastal promenade with two women walking alongside a rocky shoreline, as waves crash against the rocks. The path runs parallel to a stone wall with greenery and a tram line, under a sky filled with scattered clouds and bright blue patches. — Street art at the Cascais promenade

3 street art pictures next to each other, they portray bathing scenes in aquarelle colors — Street art at the Cascais promenade

One of the best ways to start your visit to Cascais is with a scenic walk along the waterfront. When I came on a day trip from Lisbon, I got off the train one stop before Cascais, at Monte Estoril. From there, it’s a beautiful stroll into town.

Keep your eyes peeled for street art along the way, I discovered some cool murals in an underpass that felt like an outdoor gallery.

If you’d like an even longer walk, hop off at Estoril instead and follow the promenade all the way to Cascais. It takes about 30 minutes, but the sea views make every step worth it.

2. Relax on the Beach

An empty beach in Cascais, relaxing on the beach is one of the best things to do in Cascais Portugal — Cascais is the perfect place. if you’re looking for some beach time near Lisbon

Cascais is famous for its golden beaches, and on a sunny day they’re the main reason most people make the trip from Lisbon. Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição are two of the most popular, with soft sand, calm water, and plenty of cafés nearby.

On my visit, the weather wasn’t ideal, a storm the day before had left the sand scattered and the water looking a bit wild. But even then, it was easy to imagine how perfect these beaches must be on a warm summer day.

If you’re lucky enough to visit in good weather, bring your swimwear and spend some time soaking up the sun before continuing your Cascais adventure.

3. Visit Boca do Inferno

A wave crashing into a cave, it's called Boca do Inferno — Boca do Inferno: One of the best Cascais attractions

Just a short walk from the center of Cascais, you’ll find Boca do Inferno, which translates to the “Mouth of Hell.” This dramatic cliff formation was carved out over thousands of years by the power of the Atlantic, leaving behind a natural arch and cave where the waves crash in.

It’s one of those places where you can really feel the force of nature. On stormy days, the waves roar and spray against the rocks, while on calmer days you can simply enjoy the rugged beauty of the coastline.

For me, it was one of the most impressive sights in Cascais.

4. Get Lost in the Old Town

A pedestrian zone in Cascais with shops on the side and people walking through — The floor tiles are really cool in Cascais old town

One of the best ways to experience Cascais is simply to wander its old town. The narrow cobbled streets are full of charm, with colorful buildings, tiled façades, and plenty of cafés where you can stop for a coffee.

I loved spotting the little details, from the patterned floor tiles to bits of street art tucked into alleyways. The atmosphere is laid-back, so don’t rush. Just follow whichever street looks prettiest and enjoy getting a little lost.

Cascais isn’t very big, so you’ll always find your way back. When you’re done exploring, just pull up Google Maps and you’ll be back in the center in minutes.

5. Treat Yourself to a Delicious Donut

A hand holding a doughnut with jam filling and panna cotta on top — Such amazing vegan doughnuts, this one was blueberry and panna cotta

In the heart of Cascais old town, there’s a little spot that’s impossible to resist: Scoop ‘n Dough, a vegan donut and ice cream shop that also has a location in Lisbon.

I stopped in for a blueberry and panna cotta donut, and it was absolutely delicious. The only catch? You’ll want to come early, the best flavors often sell out fast.

Note that the shop is closed in winter, so check their website if you’re visiting in the colder months. But if it’s open during your trip, it’s the perfect sweet break while exploring the town.

6. Visit the Citadel of Cascais

An oversized pair of binoculars in front of a white building with flags on it in Cascais — I really enjoyed the modern art exhibit in the courtyard

Overlooking the harbor, the Citadel of Cascais (Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Luz) was originally built in the 16th century to protect the town from pirate attacks and naval invasions. Today, it’s part historic landmark, part cultural hub.

You can step inside to explore exhibitions and learn more about Cascais’s past, but even if you don’t visit the museum itself, the citadel is worth a stop. I especially enjoyed the modern art installations in the courtyard, a creative contrast to the centuries-old fortress walls.

It’s a great place to soak up both history and contemporary culture in one stop.

7. See the Santa Marta Lighthouse

A lighthouse in the distance, in the front you can see a palm tree, rocks and the ocean — The Cascais lighthouse from a distance

Right on the waterfront, the Santa Marta Lighthouse is one of Cascais’s most picturesque landmarks. Built in the 19th century, it’s still in use today, guiding ships safely into the harbor with its striking blue-and-white striped tower.

There’s also a small museum inside where you can learn more about the history of Portuguese lighthouses. Even if you don’t go in, the setting is stunning, the lighthouse against the ocean makes for a perfect photo stop.

8. Explore Santa Marta Beach

Tina taking a selfie in front of a bridge with a beach underneath — There was very little water at the beach during my visit

Ornate seaside castle with a mix of stone and yellow-painted walls, featuring arched windows, balconies, and a pointed tiled turret. The structure sits directly on a rocky beach, with stone stairs leading down to the sand, framed by overcast skies and lush greenery. — There was very little water at the beach during my visit

Right beside the Santa Marta Lighthouse, this little beach feels unique compared to the bigger ones in Cascais. A narrow inlet connects it to the ocean, with the water flowing under a small bridge before reaching the sand.

It’s not the best spot for swimming, but it’s worth a quick stop to admire the setting, especially with the Palácio dos Condes de Castro Guimarães right next door. The combination of beach, palace, and lighthouse makes this corner of Cascais one of the most photogenic.

9. Relax at Parque Marechal Carmona

A tortoise sunbathing in the sun at the edge of a pool in a park — The tortoises look super chill in the sun

If you’re looking for a quieter spot in Cascais, head to Parque Marechal Carmona. This park is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic away from the busy town center.

The highlight for me was the small lake, where groups of tortoises bask in the sun, they look completely unbothered by the world around them. It’s also a great stop if you’re visiting with kids, or if you just want a short nature break during your day in Cascais.

10. Visit the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego

A unique looking building, which looks like a red pyramid with a tree in front — One of the unique things to do in Cascais Portugal

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, a museum dedicated to one of Portugal’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Known for her bold and often provocative work, Paula Rego’s paintings and drawings are on display here in a rotating collection.

The building itself is a work of art too, with its cool red towers, it stands out against the more traditional architecture of Cascais. Whether you’re familiar with her work or not, it’s a fascinating stop that adds a modern cultural twist to your visit.

11. Take a Trip to Cabo da Roca

Scenic view of Cabo da Roca in Portugal, featuring a red-roofed lighthouse perched on a grassy cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. A wooden path winds along the rugged coastline, with dramatic sea cliffs and crashing waves below. — It can get really windy at Cabo da Roca

If you have the time, make the short journey from Cascais to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Perched high above the Atlantic, the cliffs here are rugged and dramatic, with amazing views.

There’s also a lighthouse and monument marking the spot, making it a popular place for photos. Standing here, with the wind in your hair and the ocean crashing far below, really feels like the edge of the world.

You can easily combine a stop at Cabo da Roca with nearby Sintra, famous for its colorful palaces and castles. In fact, the three, Cascais, Sintra, and Cabo da Roca, make one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon.

A rocky coastline with the ocean crashing against it — Stunning coast line just outside Cascais

Final Thoughts: A Perfect Day Trip from Lisbon

Cascais is one of the easiest day trips from Lisbon. In less than an hour you can swap the busy city for golden beaches, a charming old town, dramatic coastal views, and even a few hidden foodie gems.

If you’d like the step-by-step details on how to get there, check out my guide to taking the train from Lisbon to Cascais.

And if you’re looking for even more ideas, don’t miss my roundup of the best day trips from Lisbon, from the medieval streets of Óbidos to the Roman ruins of Évora, and of course, the fairytale palaces of Sintra.