Cascais Lisbon, Portugal Travel Guide
Local Bus System (MobiCascais / BusCas): Municipal bus services operate within the Cascais municipality. They come in handy for reaching various neighborhoods, specific beaches further from the center (like Guincho), and connections to neighboring towns like Sintra via certain routes.
Train Line (Linha de Cascais): This commuter train connects Cascais directly to central Lisbon (Cais do Sodré station). It stands as an efficient and scenic way to travel between the two destinations and visit points along the coast.
Train operates approx. 5:30 AM - 1:30 AM daily, every 10-20 mins. Buses generally run from early morning (6 AM) to late evening (9-10 PM), frequency varies.
Newer trains and buses offer better accessibility. Not all older stations are fully accessible with ramps or elevators.
Get a Viva Viagem card. Use Google Maps or CP apps for real-time info. Plan bus routes in advance. Trains are crowded during rush hours.
Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, etc.) at LIS and in Cascais. Valid license, IDP (recommended), credit card.
Available for local exploration. Valid motorcycle license (regular license for scooters up to 125cc depending on origin). Helmets are mandatory.
Private shops offer daily/hourly city, mountain, electric bikes (€10-€30+ per day). Excellent for Paredão coastal promenade.
Tuk-tuks for guided tours. Segways along the coastal promenade. Offers fun, unique ways to see sights.
Walking and cycling are highly recommended ways to experience Cascais, allowing you to absorb the atmosphere and discover hidden spots.
Hop-on-hop-off services (e.g., Yellow Bus Tours) operate in Cascais, stopping at main attractions and extending to Estoril.
Private boat tours and yacht charters are available from Cascais Marina for coastal excursions or sunset cruises.
Cascais does not have cable cars or funiculars. Its terrain is relatively flat along the coast.
Cascais has a diverse selection of lodging, allowing every traveler to find a suitable stay.
Charming, bustling, largely pedestrian-friendly. Close to beaches, shops, train station. Lively atmosphere, some noise, difficult parking.
Modern, upscale, tranquil. Views of yachts, close to Citadel. Good restaurants. Slightly further walk to core historic town.
Sophisticated, elegant. Grand homes, gardens, Casino Estoril. Good transport links to Cascais/Lisbon. Can be pricier.
Book 3-6 months in advance. Highest demand and prices. Popular options sell out quickly.
Book 1-3 months in advance. Good availability and moderate prices. Ideal balance of weather, crowds, cost.
Book a few weeks to a month in advance. Best prices, good availability (except Christmas/New Year).
Booking.com, Expedia.com, Airbnb.com. Consider direct bookings for better rates/perks. Review deposit and cancellation policies carefully.
Here are some examples of accommodation types and price points. Specific availability and prices will vary, so research current options.
Choose based on your priorities: historic charm, beach access, golf, or tranquility.
Consider proximity to train for Lisbon trips.
Decide if a pool, spa, or on-site dining are important for your stay.
Self-catering options reduce dining costs.
Hostels suit solo or social travelers. Villas suit families or groups. Boutique hotels present unique character.
Match accommodation to your travel style for an optimal experience.
Cascais's pedestrian-friendly core and coastal promenade are best explored on foot or by bicycle. This grants a true sense of the town's charm and scenery.
For destinations further afield, the efficient public transport and rental options make exploration straightforward.
