What to see in Cascais, itinerary including the main monuments and places of interest of this enchanting holiday resort in Portugal, famous for its beaches and caves.
Tourist information
Ancient fishing village located about three kilometers from Estoril in front of a magnificent bay, Cascais has undergone a profound transformation over time, becoming one of the major tourist centers in Portugal.
Between 1870 and 1910 the Lusitanian kings chose it as a vacation spot, as did the presidents of the republic later on.
Following the Portuguese royals, various high society figures arrived, who built luxurious villas, decorated residences and magnificent gardens.
Among the most historically important buildings stands the seventeenth-century citadel, which dominates the coast from the hill with its walls including the remains of the oldest wall circle.
Interesting to see are the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, from the same period but renovated in the twentieth century, the Church of the Naviganti, which is a simple example of Baroque, and the Palazzo dei Duchi di Palmela, built in English style.
The fish market, known as Lota, recalls the times when Cascais was a simple fishing village.
What see
It is worth visiting the Museo do Mar, where clothes, work tools, boats and other objects related to sea fishing are kept.
In addition to this it is worth seeing the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, first owned by an Irishman who, after going bankrupt, was forced to give up the luxurious residence to the Count of Castro Guimarães, who furnished it with a lot of pomp, inserting azulejos and other details oriental objects.
In addition to these artistic beauties, Cascais represents an enchanting location for its naturalistic beauties, including the Bocche dell’Inferno, a spectacular cliff located about a kilometer from the center, including several caves connected to the sea.
As for the beaches, there are two distinct coasts, the eastern one includes quiet beaches, suitable for families, while the northern one is characterized by wild and rugged beaches, ideal for surf lovers.
Recommended readings- Sesimbra (Portugal): what to see in the seaside resort
- Porto Santo (Portugal): what to see on the island
- Algarve (Portugal): what to see in the region
- Cascais (Portugal): what to see
- Braga (Portugal): what to see in the ancient city
Being easily accessible from Lisbon, Cascais also represents the perfect location for short trips to the sea from morning to evening.
