Set along Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coastline, Cascais is a laid-back seaside town with a rich history and undeniable charm. Once a humble fishing village, it transformed into a royal retreat in the 19th century and has since become one of Portugal’s most beloved coastal destinations.

Today, visitors are drawn to its sunny beaches, scenic cobblestone streets, and fresh seafood straight from the ocean. Whether you’re wandering through historic landmarks, relaxing at one of the many beachfront cafes, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze, Cascais offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

With its relaxed pace and timeless beauty, it’s no wonder travelers return again and again. Experience the magic of Cascais: Portugal’s Coastal Gem—and discover why it remains one of Europe’s hidden treasures.

We stayed at the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa in Cascais, and let me just say—it was incredible. Not only was the hotel itself beautiful, but what truly set it apart was the exceptional service. From check-in to check-out, every detail was thoughtfully taken care of, making our stay feel extra special and completely stress-free.

In addition, the ocean views from the hotel were simply breathtaking. The on-site restaurant was top-notch, and every meal was an experience—each bite bursting with fresh, local flavors that lingered long after. Breakfast was another highlight, offering a wide variety of delicious options that made it easy to start the day off right. If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Cascais with stunning views and impeccable service, this hotel is a must.

One of the first things we did was explore the town, and it didn’t take long to appreciate how convenient our hotel was — just steps from beautiful beaches, charming restaurants, boutique shops, and historic landmarks. Cascais is the kind of place where you can wander without a plan and still stumble upon something amazing. Whether we were diving into the town’s rich history, enjoying the coastal scenery, or indulging in a little shopping, everything felt effortlessly accessible.

Top Things to Do in Cascais

• Explore the Historic Center – Wander the cobblestone streets, admire traditional tiled buildings, and pop into boutique shops and cafés.
• Relax on the Beaches – Praia da Rainha (a tiny, scenic cove) and Praia do Guincho (a favorite for surfers) are must-visits.
• Visit Boca do Inferno – This dramatic cliffside rock formation is a perfect spot for sunset views and a taste of Cascais’ wild beauty.
• Tour the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães – A gorgeous 19th-century palace turned museum, filled with art, history, and breathtaking gardens.
• Walk or Bike to Estoril – The scenic promenade between Cascais and Estoril is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the coast.
• Dine on Fresh Seafood – Try grilled sardines or a seafood rice dish at a local marisqueria (seafood restaurant).

During our stay in Cascais, we also took the train to Lisbon, a scenic 40-minute ride along the coast that brought us right to the heart of Portugal’s vibrant capital. Once there, we explored the city and even took a Tuk Tuk tour. Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, and her passion for the city’s history made the experience so much more enjoyable.

Some things to do in Lisbon

• Walk Through Alfama – The city’s oldest neighborhood, filled with winding alleys, Fado music, and stunning views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
• Visit Belém – Home to the famous Pastéis de Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Belém Tower.
• Take in the Views from Bairro Alto – A lively area by night, but by day, it offers some of the best city views.
• Try Lisbon’s Food Scene – Sample bacalhau à brás (salt cod dish), fresh seafood, and of course, pastel de nata.

Other Easy Day Trips from Cascais

• Sintra (30 min by train) – A fairytale town with colorful palaces, lush gardens, and misty forests. Don’t miss Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
• Estoril (10 min by train) – A glamorous seaside town known for its casino, beaches, and coastal walks.
• Ericeira (1 hr drive) – A charming fishing village and a top surf destination, perfect for a relaxed beach day or fresh seafood.

Cascais had everything we could want—a perfect balance of relaxation, history, and adventure. From soaking in the coastal views to exploring its charming streets and indulging in incredible food, it felt like the kind of place we could return to again and again.

And with Lisbon just a short train ride away, we loved being able to experience the vibrant energy of the city—its rich history, incredible food scene, and iconic sights—before returning to the laid-back charm of Cascais.

We know we’ll be back!

Have you been to Cascais? Let me know what you loved most!