Cascais Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Essentials

Navigation & Transport Apps

Google Maps/Apple Maps
Download offline maps for Cascais and Lisbon for navigation without an internet connection.
Google Translate
Download the Portuguese offline language pack for instant translations.
Uber/Bolt
Convenient ride-sharing services for getting around Cascais and Lisbon.
CP (Comboios de Portugal)
Official app for Portugal's national train operator, useful for schedules and tickets.
MUV (Mobilidade Urbana Viva)
An app for Lisbon's public transport system (Metro, Carris buses, trams).

Accommodation & Local Finds Apps

Booking.com/Airbnb
For managing your accommodation reservations and exploring last-minute options.
HappyCow
A useful app for finding vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes.
Visit Portugal
The official tourism website for Portugal (visitportugal.com).
Câmara Municipal de Cascais
The official municipal website for Cascais (cascais.pt).
Lisboa Card
The official website (lisboacard.org) provides information on benefits and prices.

Print & Cultural Immersion

Guidebooks

Explore practical advice from guidebooks like Rick Steves Portugal, DK Eyewitness Portugal, or Lonely Planet Portugal for detailed insights.

Rick Steves Portugal

Maps

A detailed physical map of Cascais and the Lisbon region helps with bearings and exploring smaller streets or hiking routes.

Local Literature & Media

Reading about Portugal's history or local fiction, like Fernando Pessoa's 'The Book of Disquiet,' enriches your visit.

Essential Contacts

Emergency & Medical

Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance throughout Portugal).
Hospital de Cascais Dr. José de Almeida (Av. Conde de Castro, Alcabideche).
Lost Document Procedures: Report to local police immediately for a police report.
Natural Disaster Protocols: Stay informed about local news and weather warnings.

Consular Services

U.S. Embassy in Lisbon: Av. Das Forças Armadas. Phone: +351 21 727 3300.
UK Embassy in Lisbon: Rua de São Bernardo 33. Phone: +351 21 392 4000.
Canadian Embassy in Lisbon: Av. Da Liberdade 198-200. Phone: +351 21 316 4300.
Keep your travel insurance policy details accessible and separate from your wallet.

Exploration

Films & Documentaries

Explore films on Portuguese history or Fado music.
Look for films set in Lisbon or coastal Portugal.
Gaining visual context and cultural insight.
Dive into the rich history of the Carnation Revolution.

Auditory & Visual Arts

Listen to traditional Fado music, like Amália Rodrigues.
Learn about the history of Portuguese azulejo tiles.
Visit the National Azulejo Museum in Lisbon.
Experience the soulful genre of Fado.

Connect & Learn

Join online travel forums for Portugal or Cascais.
Connect with other travelers or locals.
Learn basic Portuguese phrases for interactions.
Use language apps like Babbel.

Emergency Information

Important Contacts

Immediate Help

Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
Hospital de Cascais: Av. Conde de Castro, Alcabideche
Lost Document Reporting: Local Police (PSP or GNR)
Keep emergency numbers and embassy contacts handy.

Consular Assistance

U.S. Embassy Lisbon: +351 21 727 3300
UK Embassy Lisbon: +351 21 392 4000
Canadian Embassy Lisbon: +351 21 316 4300
Contact your embassy for passport or legal issues.

Safety Measures

Stay informed about local news and weather warnings.
Follow instructions from local authorities.
Keep travel insurance policy details separate from wallet.
Report stolen items to police for insurance claims.

Health & Safety Reminders

Personal Care

Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
Practice good hand hygiene.
Drink bottled or filtered water if unsure of tap quality.

Environmental Awareness

Use sunscreen and wear a hat, especially at the beach.
Apply insect repellent if spending time outdoors.
Be mindful of uneven cobblestone streets; wear comfortable shoes.

Transport Considerations

Public Transport

Keep your Viva Viagem card loaded for seamless travel.
Plan your routes in advance, specifically for peak hours.
Validate your ticket or card upon boarding.

Driving & Taxis

If renting a car, understand local driving laws.
GPS is useful, but be prepared for narrow, historic streets.
Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber/Bolt.

Smart Planning Insights

Packing Essentials

Pack layers for varying temperatures.
Include comfortable walking shoes for city exploration.
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce waste.
Don't forget power adapters and portable chargers.
A small umbrella or light rain jacket is useful.

On-the-Go Efficiency

Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.
Carry a small daypack for daily excursions.
Familiarize yourself with local currency (Euro).
Learn basic Portuguese phrases for daily interactions.
Stay flexible with your itinerary to embrace discoveries.

Local Lifestyle Tips

Dining Etiquette

Embrace the local dining scene; typically, bread and appetizers placed on the table are charged if consumed.

Shopping Hours

Many smaller shops may close for a mid-day break (siesta), especially outside major centers.

Local Interactions

A warm smile and a few Portuguese words are often appreciated by locals.

Critical Safety Note

Always be vigilant against pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas, especially on public transport and at major attractions in Lisbon. Keep bags zipped and valuables out of sight.

Maximizing Your Experience

Cultural Delights

Arts & Heritage

Fado Music
Experience the soulful genre. Artists like Amália Rodrigues or Marisa Monte offer good entry points.
Azulejo Art
Learn about the history and artistry of Portuguese azulejo tiles.
Local Literature

Authentic Experiences

Local Markets
Visit Mercado da Vila Cascais for fresh produce and local events.
Fresh Seafood
Indulge in the region's specialty; many restaurants offer daily catches.
Natural Park Exploration
Discover the diverse landscapes of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

Digital Travel Tools

Offline Maps

Download maps from Google Maps or Apple Maps to navigate without an internet connection.

Translation Apps

Google Translate with the Portuguese offline pack assists in language barriers.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Bolt are popular options for convenient local transport.

Preparation Essentials

Document Checklist

Verify passport validity (3 months beyond Schengen departure).
Research any visa requirements (e.g., ETIAS for mid-2025 onwards).
Print or download copies of all essential travel documents.
Keep travel insurance policy details accessible.

Financial & Health

Inform your bank and credit card providers of your travel plans.
Plan for initial local currency withdrawal upon arrival.
Consult your doctor for vaccinations and health advice.
Pack sufficient prescription medications in original packaging.

Departure Checklist

Final Steps

Reconfirm your flight details and departure gate.
Pack carefully, adhering to luggage and liquid regulations.
Double-check your accommodation for any forgotten items.
Leave rental properties tidy, as per agreements.

Airport Protocol

Allow ample time for transfer to Lisbon Portela Airport.
Arrive at LIS at least 3 hours before non-Schengen flights.
Arrive at LIS at least 2 hours before Schengen flights.
Complete any VAT refund procedures at the airport.

Final Review

Before leaving, conduct a final review of your documents and reservations. This mitigates potential issues.

Cascais Travel Resources