Holiday in Cascais

What makes Cascais special as a destination?

Cascais is Lisbon's elegant Riviera – a sophisticated coastal town at the mouth of the Tagus River, which has served as the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family since the 19th century and has retained its aristocratic charm to this day. Located just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon and accessible by train in 40 minutes, Cascais combines the comfort of a seaside resort with the accessibility of a major city, making it one of the most versatile travel destinations in the Lisbon region. The old town of Cascais enchants with cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, elegant squares, and a wealth of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. The fishing harbor, the marina, and the expansive promenade leading to Estoril give the place a Mediterranean flair reminiscent of the Côte d'Azur. The cultural offerings are remarkable for a town of this size: The Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, a striking red museum designed by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, showcases works by the most significant Portuguese artist. West of Cascais lies the spectacular Boca do Inferno, the Mouth of Hell – a sea cave carved by the waves, into which the Atlantic water crashes with a thunderous roar. Further west is Praia do Guincho, one of the best surfing beaches in Europe and host to international windsurfing competitions. The Guincho coastal road to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of the European mainland, is one of the most beautiful coastal drives in Portugal. For German travelers, Cascais is the perfect base for a versatile vacation in Portugal. The train connection to Lisbon allows for day trips without a rental car, the beaches are within walking distance, and the nightlife offers everything from cozy Fado bars to trendy clubs. The Casino Estoril, once the inspiration for Ian Fleming's James Bond novel Casino Royale, is just a short walk away.