Cascais Visitor Guide

By the Sintra Cascais Guide Editorial Team

Quick answerCascais is an elegant seaside town just west of Lisbon, once a retreat for Portuguese royalty. Its walkable old town, marina, town beaches and the dramatic Boca do Inferno sea arch make it a relaxed coastal counterpoint to Sintra s palaces, and the two pair perfectly in one day.

Old town, marina and beaches

Wander the cobbled streets and squares of the old town, browse the small museums and the marina, then relax on the central town beaches. For something wilder, the Guincho beach a few minutes away is a famous surfing and kitesurfing spot backed by dunes and the Sintra hills.

Boca do Inferno and the coast

A short walk or drive from the center, the Boca do Inferno is a sea arch where Atlantic waves crash into a cliff chasm, most dramatic on windy days. The scenic coast road continues to Cabo da Roca, so many tours link Cascais, the sea arch and the westernmost point of Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cascais worth visiting?

Yes, its old town, beaches and coastal scenery make it a relaxed pairing with Sintra.

How do I get from Lisbon to Cascais?

A direct train from Cais do Sodre runs along the coast in about 40 minutes.

Can I combine Cascais and Sintra in a day?

Yes, this is the classic full-day route from Lisbon, often via Cabo da Roca.