Discover Cascais

Nature, history and maritime themes add different dimensions to a trip to Cascais. When looking for a hotel, you can first consider which aspects of the destination you would like to explore: a vast natural area, historic buildings, museums or activities by the sea.

Nature and seasonal harvests

On the western edge of the municipality of Cascais lies Quinta do Pisão, in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The 380-hectare nature park has been enhanced by Cascais City Council. It offers a variety of nature experiences and insights into traditional activities connected with the land. Along with the landscape, working the land and its traditional practices can therefore be among the focuses of a visit.

Local, organic and seasonal produce grows in the Horta da Quinta do Pisão. Visitors can pick it themselves when it is ripe and at its fullest flavour. Harvesting is therefore tied to the season and the produce’s ripeness: what can be picked changes over the course of the year. If picking your own produce is important to you, it is best to plan your visit for the right season.

Forts and history

Forte de S. Jorge de Oitavos was built between 1642 and 1648 as part of a coastal defence system. It is classified as a monument of public interest. The fort’s construction date and defensive role give it a specific historical context; its classification also reflects its formal significance as a protected monument.

Palácio da Cidadela de Cascais is associated with a different historical story: the palace was once the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. Cascais’s history thus brings together distinct themes—the fort’s coastal defences and the palace’s former role as a royal summer residence.

The former Fortaleza de Cascais is a separate site. Its buildings house a hotel, art galleries, restaurants and shops.

Museums offering different perspectives

Casa das Histórias Paula Rego has 750 m² of exhibition space. It also has a café with a terrace that opens onto a lush garden. The description of the building thus brings together exhibitions, a café and views of the garden—three different aspects that may be relevant when planning a visit.

Museu do Mar Rei D. Carlos presents different perspectives on the relationship between the Cascais area and the sea. Farol Museu de Santa Marta combines exhibition spaces with the function of a coastal signal. The two museums therefore have different emphases: one focuses on the region’s relationship with the sea, while the other presents exhibitions in connection with a coastal signal.

Private and school visits to Farol Museu de Santa Marta are available by prior appointment. To arrange a visit, the museum provides the telephone number 214 815 328 and the email address fmsm@cm-cascais.pt. As contact details can change, it is advisable to check them before making an enquiry.

Cycle path, beach and market

The 8.8 km cycle path runs between Marina de Cascais and Praia do Guincho. The beach lies in the heart of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and is popular with surfers. This gives you two different aspects to consider for your stay: the route between the marina and the beach, and the nature park and surfing associated with Praia do Guincho.

Mercado da Vila is another place to visit for those interested in food and shopping. In addition to Mercado Saloio, which takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, Mercado da Vila currently offers a permanent range of food and commercial offerings. As the market schedule can change, it is best to check the current market days before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Alcabideche, Estoril, Parede, São Domingos de Rana, Carcavelos.

Go to the main travel overview: Cascais.