Cascais Holidays

Drenched in tradition and brimming with scenic allure, Cascais is a true gem on the Portuguese Riviera. An illustrious history as a Royal summer retreat lends the town an air of elegance, tarnished only by the tantalizing whispers of scandal echoing from its opulent properties.

An exciting dichotomy between rich history and vibrant modern culture, coupled with an enduring affinity for the ceaseless Atlantic waves, ensures this seaside siren will capture your heart. If you're in search of radiant beaches, thought-provoking heritage, mouth-watering delicacies, and a dash of allure, your journey ends in Cascais.

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Things to See and Do

From exploring dark caves to immersing yourself in a mix of architectural styles, here are some highlights of what Cascais has in store for you.

Sink into the moodiness of Boca do Inferno

The 'Mouth of Hell' hardly sounds like a day at the beach, but don't let its intimidating name deter you. This cliff-side complex of caves offers dramatic views as the waves whip into the rugged cliffs. Be sure to stay for the sunset, widely considered Cascais' most astonishing spectacle.

Journey through time at Santa Maria House Museum

Once a residence for an well-heeled Irish tobacco tycoon, Casa de Santa Maria now welcomes guests free of charge. Admire the building's unique blend of architectural styles before delving into the exhibits to uncover some of Cascais' rich history.

Savour the sea breeze at Farol do Cabo Raso

Well off the beaten track, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the picture-perfect coastline and the endless Atlantic sea. Perfect for a family outing, explore the sandy beaches, cliff trails and refresh with a cool drink at the nearby café.

Bathe in the sun at Carcavelos Beach

The tranquil waters of Carcavelos Beach, framed by stretches of golden sands, are a favourite amongst both locals and tourists. Enjoy water sports or simply rest beneath a sunshade with a good book.

Discover the past at Estoril Casino

Not only one of the largest casinos in Europe, the glamorous Estoril Casino served as an inspiration for Ian Fleming's James Bond novel, Casino Royale. Try your luck at one of the tables or just soak in the atmosphere over a Martini, shaken, not stirred, of course.

Food and Drink

Satiate your hunger and quench your thirst with Cascais' local delicacies.

Indulge in Açorda

A traditional Portuguese dish, Açorda is a delicious concoction of garlic, coriander, olive oil, vinegar, bread and eggs. Usually served with prawns, find it at most local eateries for an authentic Cascais culinary experience.

Feast on Grilled Sardines

Nothing embodies coastal living like fresh seafood. Grilled sardines, served with a generous squeeze of lemon, are a staple in Cascais. Find them in local markets or beachside restaurants for a true taste of the sea.

Savour some Queijadas de Sintra

Made from fresh cheese, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon, these indulgent pastries are a traditional delicacy. Grab one from Piriquita bakery in Sintra for a sweet memory of Cascais.

Drink in the scenery with a glass of Vinho Verde

Light, refreshing, and slightly fizzy, Vinho Verde is an essential accompaniment to seafood. Choose from various wineries around Cascais to sample this delightfully crisp white wine.

Discover Arroz Doce

This creamy rice pudding, dusted with cinnamon, is the perfect sweet treat to round off your gastronomic adventure. You can find the best ones at the Cascais Market’s food court.

Destination Essentials

A beautiful destination year-round, Cascais offers the best weather during its balmy summer months.

From June to August, Cascais is a sun-lover's dream, with stunning weather and an array of international events. As you may expect, these months are also the most popular, so accommodation and flights can be pricier.

The quieter months of April, May, September, and October still provide pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower costs. They also offer the perfect weather for exploring the historical sites or enjoying the flourishing local festivals of food, music, and films.

Beaches

Cascais is famous for its beaches, from the bustling social scenes to the secluded and serene.

Kick back at Poça Beach

Easily accessible and charming, dotted with cafés offering stunning views, Poça Beach (also known as São João do Estoril) serves as an amazing backdrop for a family day out.

Watch the world go by at Praia da Rata

A true symbol of history, Praia da Rata presents an unadulterated view of the busy fishing harbour. Despite being relatively small, it boasts a coterie of bars, restaurants, and shops nearby, making it a popular choice for tourists.

Relax at Praia da Rainha

Encircled by rugged cliffs, Praia da Rainha is the ideal family-friendly beach. Soak in the views of Cascais Bay’s clam waters or take a short stroll to Praia da Conceição for a more dynamic atmosphere.

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