Cascais From Lisbon 2024: How To Reach + Reasons To Visit
Are you planning a trip to Cascais from Lisbon?
Cascais was one of my favorite day trips that I took from Lisbon. Once known as a simple fishing village, Cascais has grown into a favored tourist destination. From the picturesque beaches to the delicious food, this town should undoubtedly be added to your Portugal itinerary!
Whether you need to reach this town starting in Lisbon for a day trip or an extended stay, you can choose various transportation methods.
In this post, we’ll look at the different transportation options for getting to Cascais, things to do in the town, and more.
Going On A Trip To Cascais? Check Out These Resources!
🛌 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com for my lodging.
🚘 Car Rentals: To find the best prices, I use Discover Cars!
✈️ Flights: To find great flight prices, I check on Expedia.
📍Tours: I use Viator to find memorable experiences.
How to Get to Cascais from Lisbon
With its relatively close distance from Lisbon, Cascais is easy to reach. Even better, you can choose from multiple transportation options to reach the charming destination.
The transportation methods to Cascais include public transportation through the train, taxis, Uber, private transfers, and renting a car if you prefer more flexibility. Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose to go with, it will be a relatively short and scenic journey.
Train to Cascais from Lisbon
The train is by far the easiest and most popular option to get from Lisbon to Cascais. The trains departing to Cascais leave from the Cais do Sodre train station. You will then take the journey and get off at the Cascais stop right after Monte Estoril.
You can also go from Lisbon airport to Cascais via train. This will first require a transfer to the Cais do Sodre Station using the Aerobus or metro.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Some travelers get the regional train stations confused. Make sure you go to Cais do Sodre Station and don’t accidentally go to the Rossio Station!
Each week, there are hundreds of trains heading to Cascais. In return, this helps with planning by allowing you to have a flexible schedule.
How Much is the Train from Lisbon to Cascais?
One of the added benefits of taking the train is its low cost! The Cascais train ticket cost for a single journey is 2.3€, and you can also purchase a round-trip ticket for 5.6€.
The tickets can be purchased at either one of the ticketing machines or the in-person desk.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Expect long queues to purchase Cascais train tickets during peak season. This applies whether you go to the desk or machines. Get there early!
After your purchase, make sure that you scan your ticket when accessing the platforms and keep it in a safe place. The last thing you’d want during your trip is to get hit with a fine by random ticket inspections. Additionally, you must scan your ticket again when departing the platform.
How Long is the Train Ride to Cascais?
The train will only take around 35-40 minutes to reach Cascais, which adds to the convenience of this option. Ensure you get a window seat to view the coastline on your way there!
To view the train schedule, you can check here.
Are there Seat Assignments on the Train to Cascais?
When you book your Cascais train ticket, you cannot choose a seat as it is only standard seating for all coaches. However, during the journey, you are not forced to stay seated, and you can move freely, stand, and change seats as you wish.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Sometimes the trains can get pretty full, so ensure you arrive ahead if you don’t want to stand!
When I took the train to Cascais and back, it was very full at the beginning of the rides, but as the train made stops along the way, seats gradually became free. So, even if you can’t initially grab a window seat, you should be able to as the journey progresses.
Nevertheless, it will be a short and straightforward journey between the two locations.
Taxi to Cascais from Lisbon
Taking a taxi is another option if you don’t want to use public transportation or drive yourself. To get a taxi, the simplest way is by flagging one down in the street, especially if you are in the city center.
In addition to taking taxis, you can use Uber or a private transfer if that is your preferred way of booking drivers.
➡️If traveling from Lisbon Airport to Cascais, check out this excellent Private Transfer: Cascais from Lisbon Airport.
How Much is a Taxi from Lisbon to Cascais?
Compared to European cities like Paris or London, you’ll find that taxis in Lisbon tend to be less expensive within the center. However, you’ll notice the price increase when you go outside the city limits.
To take a taxi to Cascais, you can expect to pay anywhere from 30- 40€. Like many taxi fares, this price will increase during peak hours and at night.
How Long is the Taxi Ride to Cascais?
While this can vary depending on the traffic conditions, the drive to Cascais is around 30 minutes.
While taking a taxi or Uber is more expensive than the train, it still takes around the same time and provides a comfortable experience, especially when traveling with luggage.
Rental Car to Cascais from Lisbon
If you prefer getting to Cascais from Lisbon alone, renting a car will be the best option. This is the most flexible way of reaching the town, allowing you to go your own pace and easily venture to nearby towns of Colares or Carcavelos.
👉TRAVEL TIP: Finding parking can be challenging in Portugal at anytime during the year. As you can expect, this only worsens during the summer months, so make sure you plan to find a spot ahead of time.
You can rent a car at the Lisbon Airport or one of several rental agencies throughout the city.
How Much is a Rental Car from Lisbon to Cascais?
Rental car prices will depend on the type of vehicle you choose and how far in advance you book. You can find the best rates by booking through Discover Cars, which will provide you with the rates and reviews of multiple companies.
However, generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from 30-60€ per day if you opt for a rental car.
➡️Book your rental car to Cascais with Discover Cars!
This is who I use.
Tour to Cascais
If none of these transportation options are attractive and you’d rather have a guide take you through Cascais, you’re in luck! Multiple tours go from Lisbon to Cascais daily.
Moreover, as a bonus, many of these tours also stop in Sintra, allowing you to see two of the best day trips from Lisbon. Sintra is another easy day trip you can do exclusively from Lisbon.
➡️I highly recommend this Sintra and Cascais Group Tour!
Distance from Lisbon to Cascais
As previously mentioned, Lisbon and Cascais are close to one another. That said, the distance between the two is around 30 kilometers (19 miles).
The short distance and availability of several forms of transportation make Cascais an effortless day trip. You can enjoy a full day of exploring this stunning coastal town without worrying about a tiring trip back to Lisbon.
Is a Day Trip to Cascais Worth it?
Yes! A day trip to Cascais is worth it as you’ll be in a charming location with a stunning seaside, historical center, delicious food options, and plenty of things to explore. The town is only 30-40 minutes away from Lisbon, so it is a simple trip.
The Boca do Inferno is one sight that cannot be missed on a trip to Portugal. Cascais is also full of beautiful beaches you can relax or stroll on at any time of the year as the country experiences warmer weather year-round compared to other European countries.
Not to mention the town is also full of admirable architecture, such as the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum, Casa das Histórias Paula Rego Museum, and Casa de Santa Maria. These artistically-fascinating buildings are a sight to see!
That being said, everything from its relaxed atmosphere to the picturesque scenery and architecture makes Cascais the ideal destination for a day trip from Lisbon.
What to do in Cascais
Cascais offers a nice variety of things to do during your visit. Whether you want to relax on the beach and coastline, eat delicious food, or explore historical landmarks, there is something for anyone to enjoy. Next, we’ll look at what you can do during your trip.
✔️Visit the Boca do Inferno
The Boca do Inferno is one of the most popular things to do in Cascais. With an English translation of “Hell’s Mouth,” this site is a stunning archway and cliff formation resulting from millions of years of erosion from the intense waves, hence where its name derives from.
Once a sea cave, the eventual collapse caused the jaw-dropping arch you can see today. When you see the view from the cliffs, it’ll be no surprise why this destination has become one of the top tourist sites in Cascais.
Visitors can get a closer view by walking downstairs to a platform near the crashing waves. Mar do Inferno is a delicious seafood restaurant located by the attraction.
Ensure you catch the sunset here, as it is a must-see! The orange and pink hues across the sky reflect on the rock formations, making this an experience you won’t want to miss.
✔️Explore the Old Town
A walk around the Old Town is necessary during your visit to Cascais. This charming and picturesque center is full of shops, colorful buildings, cafes, and museums to entertain you.
Largo Luis de Camões is the main square and one of the busiest areas in Cascais. You’ll find plenty of accommodations, restaurants, or bars to start a great night out here.
Be sure also to visit one of the notable landmarks, such as the fortress that surrounds the Citadel of Cascais, and take in the gorgeous views from the harbor.
✔️Relax on the Stunning Beaches
A trip to Cascais would be incomplete without a trip to the beaches! The beaches are one of the best things to do during your time in Cascais. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, and relaxing at these gorgeous locations while enjoying incredible views.
Some of the most well-liked beaches to visit in Cascais are Praia da Conceição,
Praia da Rainha, and Praia do Guicho. With its picturesque scenery, clear waters, and golden sand, these beaches are ideal for relaxing and enjoying your time in Cascais.
➡️Check out this fantastic Cascais Surfing Experience!
✔️Enjoy a Sunset Boat Tour
One of the best ways to enjoy the golden sunsets in Cascais is by taking a sunset boat tour. Going on a cruise offers a unique perspective to marvel at the coastline while you relax with snacks and drinks and learn more about Cascais from a knowledgeable guide.
➡️This is the Cascais Sunset Boat Tour that I recommend!
How to Get Around Cascais
If you’re wondering how to get around Cascais during your visit, it’s simple and convenient, with a few options available.
A great way you can use to get around Cascais is by renting a bike. While this option is more optimal for the summer months, it’s an excellent mode for those exploring Cascaise leisurely and enjoying a bike ride near the coast.
You can find several bike rental shops around Cascais, typically around 10-15€ daily. This makes it easy to use a bike for a day trip or if you stay in Cascais longer.
Next, if you want a typical transportation mode, taxis are available. However, they are more expensive than the other transportation options.
Another way to get around Cascais is by foot. This is actually how I chose to get around Cascais when I visited. The town is small, pedestrian-friendly, and full of scenery to entertain walks.
Lastly, the local buses are a popular way mainly for getting to areas outside Cascais, with multiple connections throughout the neighboring towns from the Cascais Bus Terminal. These include destinations like Sintra and Cabo da Roca, which you can visit on the 1623 and 1624 buses.
Overall, Cascais is a very simple town to get around, with various options to suit visitors’ preferences.
Where to Stay in Cascais
Regarding the best areas to stay in Cascais, the city center is the best area for first-time visitors. This will provide you will an authentic experience where you’ll be around many shops, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions.
Alternatively, if you wish to stay closer to the coast, Praia do Guincho and Praia da Conceição are also great options.
📍The Albatroz Hotel ($$$)– With an ideal location between the center and Praia da Conceição, this 5-star hotel offers sea-view rooms, a swimming pool, and a bar. Guests will enjoy the elegant interior, delicious restaurant, and excellent service provided by the staff.
📍Cascais City & Beach Hotel ($$)– Located in the center of Cascais, this hotel provides guests with simple yet modern rooms, breakfast, and 24-hour reception. You will enjoy this hotel’s proximity to the beach and entertaining things to do in Cascais’s center.
📍Cascais Bela House ($)– These apartments don’t have all the amenities of a hotel, but it offers everything you need for simple accommodation for your Cascais trip. This homestay is located very close to the center for your convenience.
Is Cascais or Sintra Better?
It’s nearly impossible to say which destination is better, between Cascais and Sintra, as they offer unique experiences.
Cascais is a coastal town with beautiful beaches and cliffs, a lovely center, and a relaxing nature. It’s an ideal destination for those looking for a beach getaway and exploring stunning villas and its historical center.
On the other hand, Sintra is a UNESCO Heritage site known for its fairytale atmosphere. Sintra has picturesque palaces like Palácio da Pena (Pena Palace) and forested backgrounds.
In addition, there are many historical tours and nature sites to explore in the town. Sintra makes for an enchanting visit no matter what time of the year you visit!
Ultimately, this will depend on your personal preferences of what you want from a location.
To Sum Up: Cascais from Lisbon: How to Reach + Activities
To summarize, Cascais is a Portuguese gem well worth visiting from Lisbon. There are plenty of reasons to visit Cascais. It has something for anyone to enjoy between its gorgeous beaches, admirable architecture, and culture.
There are multiple ways for you to reach this can’t-miss town. You can choose public transportation through the train system, have someone else drive you by taxi, private transfer, or Uber, or the option of driving yourself with a rental vehicle.
Due to its proximity to Lisbon, you can enjoy this destination as a day trip or extended stay. I hope that this information assists you during the planning of your Portugal vacation.
