Qashqai is a city in Portugal. Cascais. Portuguese resort town. Description and photo. Day trip to Cascais from Lisbon

The city of Cascais is a popular resort town Portugal. In summer it is quite lively and crowded, like at any resort. But in February it is very quiet here, the city freezes in anticipation of the next season and only occasionally do you meet local residents, hurrying somewhere about their business.

The first mention of this place dates back to the twelfth century; there was a fishing village here that provided the city of Sintra with fresh fish. Already in 1364, the settlement acquired the status of an independent city.

Cascais owes much of its architecture to the Spaniards, who captured it in 1580. Phillip II of Spain rebuilt most of the buildings in the city in the Renaissance style.

And despite the fact that Cascais was also heavily damaged during the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, its appearance still sets it apart from the general mass of Portuguese cities.

There is nothing special to see here, there are several places that are considered attractions, but more about them later.

I walked around the city, the place is quite pleasant and cozy. In the summer, it must be really nice here.

There are a lot of nice houses in which you want to live.

For many years, the city's economy depended on fishing. This is still relevant; the entire embankment is literally littered with fishing equipment.

In addition to fishing, yachting is also popular here.

The Citadel, or Fort of Our Lady of Luz as it is locally known, was built at the end of the 15th century to protect the city. But he never fulfilled his role, given that the city was captured by the Spaniards a hundred years later, and in the nineteenth century the city was captured by Napoleonic troops.

The fort is closed to the public, but on Portuguese Wikipedia I read about an art museum that opened in March 2014 on the territory of the Citadel. I don't know if it's true or not. Write if you managed to visit inside.

Quite by accident, I ended up at a car exhibition, looked at the exhibits with pleasure and took photographs of the most successful ones, in my opinion.

One of the few attractions of Cascais is the Santa Marta lighthouse. Its height is 20 meters, it shines red. In case of thick fog, the lighthouse has a fog horn. Features: three seconds of audio and seven seconds of silence for ten seconds. Currently, the beacon is actively used to support navigation

Inside the lighthouse there is a small museum dedicated to the five centuries of Portuguese lighthouses, their history and the significance of cultural heritage.

Another attraction that, thanks to its unusual appearance, catches the eye is the Palace of the Counts of Castro Guimarães, also called the Tower of St. Sebastian.

It was built in the nineteenth century by George O'Neill, whose family used the palace as a summer home. It was later sold to Count Castro of Guimarães.

Responsible for the construction were Albrecht Haupt and Luigi Manini (known to us from) This is a Renaissance-style palace located in a small bay. During high tides, the foundations of the building are covered by waves. His style combines romanticism, very fashionable for that time, with elements medieval castle with a tower classic for this style.

Today it is a municipal museum that houses a huge collection of works of art collected by the Count of Guimarães.

Cascais is also very proud of the houses in which celebrities of the past once lived. While in our country a memorial plaque is usually hung on a house, in Portugal it is renamed. True, the sign is also placed nearby.

Here, for example, is the house of Enrique Sommer (don’t ask me who he is - I don’t know)

Church of the Igreja da Assuncao (Assumption of the Virgin Mary)

House-museum of the famous Portuguese artist Maria Paula Rego Figueroa.

The museum was opened in September 2009. The museum's design won an architecture award in 2011.

Theater of Gil Vicente, the founder of the Portuguese national theater, whose work dates back to the first third of the 16th century.

Well, for starters there are a couple more beautiful houses

I have a very favorable impression of Cascais, but this city is more suitable for a quiet resort holiday. It’s worth coming here in the summer, staying in one of these pleasant houses, and from here traveling around all the surrounding areas.

This story is one of a series of stories about my road trip in Portugal in February 2013.

All photos can be viewed in a larger size, just click on any photo and view at your convenience.

Cascais is often called the Portuguese corner of paradise on the Atlantic coast. And this is confirmed by the magnificent natural beaches of Cascais, after relaxing on which you can stroll through the colorful streets of the ancient fishing village.

The best beaches in Cascais:

Praia da Azarujinha - picturesque beach, its shape is similar to a theater stage, which is surrounded by cliffs. The beach is hidden behind the rocks, but on its territory there is everything necessary for a comfortable stay - bars, restaurants, an ambulance station, lifeguards, umbrellas and sun loungers for rent, showers, toilets, as well as everything for access to the beach for people with disabilities abilities. In addition, on the beach you can join in the sport of fishing.

Inna

Praia da Bafureira- a small beach surrounded by a high cliff, favorite place for surfers to relax. The beach can be reached by going down a long and high staircase. The beach has everything for relaxing and surfing.

Praia da Conceição- the beach between the Albtroz and Charlet hotels, which is located near the railway station. In turn, the presence of a transport hub makes the beach very popular among tourists and local residents. The beach is under the supervision of lifeguards and medical staff; it has everything you need for relaxation - toilets, changing cabins, showers, bars and cafes. In addition, on the beach you can go windsurfing, fishing or kayaking and yachting.

Praia da Duquesa- a beach that is located side by side with the aforementioned Praia da Conceição. The beach is excellent for diving (there is a diving school), the water here is very clean and clear, visibility is good. On the beach you can rent a yacht or go windsurfing. All traditional service facilities are present here.

PROJocelyn Erskine-Kellie

Praia da Grota- a miniature sandy beach of Cascais, located between the rocks. Its length does not exceed 50 meters. Nudists relax on this beach.

Praia da Parede- one of best beaches Cascais, where there are cafes and restaurants on open area with sea views. Here you can watch the sunset over a glass of wine and admire beautiful landscapes nature. There are lifeguards on the beach and a range of services for a comfortable stay for tourists.

Praia da Rainha- sandy beach, accessible only by stairs. The beach is located nearby central region Cascais and railway station. Praia da Rainha is one of the favorite beaches of the kings of Portugal.

Praia da Poça- another sandy beach with good outdoor cafes and restaurants overlooking Forte da Cavadeira and Velho. The beach borders the local attractions of Cascais, and there are also casinos and bars nearby. Traditionally, the beach has toilets, showers, changing rooms, bars, umbrellas and sun loungers.

Praia das Avencas- a sandy beach that can only be reached on foot. Car parking is located at a distance. There is a cafe of the same name on the beach. The beach is suitable for diving; in this area you can observe a huge number of marine animals.

Massimo Valiani

Praia das Moitas - The beach is sandy, but swimming in it is made difficult by the presence of sharp stones and ledges in the water. Here you should be careful not to injure your feet. There is a first-aid post and lifeguards on the beach, sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, and there are restaurants and cafes.

Praia de Cacavelos- one of the largest and most popular beaches in Cascais for surfing and windsurfing. The waves on the beach reach excellent heights, thanks to which international competitions are held here. All traditional service facilities are present here. Football and volleyball are also played on the beach.

Praia de Santa Marta- the sandy beach of Cascais, which used to be the private beach of the Count of Guimarães. You can get to the beach through old palace(now a museum). The beach is used only for sightseeing; tourists do not relax here. There are several bars and nightclubs near the beach.

Praia de São Pedro do Estoril- a sandy beach surrounded by a huge cliff, which is used by skilled fishermen for sport fishing. The beach is also suitable for surfers, with high waves. In addition, it is easy to park a car here, there is a railway station nearby, there are two large cafes with beautiful terraces, a windsurfing school, changing rooms, showers, toilets, a camping park, and a first aid station.

Praia do Abano- a sandy beach with a noisy sea and strong winds. The beach has everything you need for relaxation, but there is no parking. Praia do Abano is suitable for surfing and fishing.

Praia do Guincho- a popular surfing and windsurfing beach adjacent to Praia do Abano. It is located in the dune area and has a strong wind. North wind. But this beach is dangerous for those who are bad swimmers. Tourists here can sunbathe and then relax in the luxurious restaurants and bars located near the 5-star Guncho Hotel.

Praia do Tamariz- another sandy beach adjacent to railway station Cascais and the bus station, but there is no parking here. There are several restaurants and nightclubs nearby, where discos and various events take place. There is a tunnel from the beach to the Estoril Casino gardens, there are many tourist shops and a free saltwater pool.

Cascais is small beach town in Portugal, near the coast of Estoril, in the Lisbon region. In addition, it is the former residence of the royal family and thanks to which Cascais became a pioneer of tourism in Portugal.

It is dominated by the bay and the impressive port of Cidadela, so historical Center filled with architectural treasures of a religious, military and civil nature. Here you will find some worth visiting attractions: the museum, the house of stories of Paula Rego and the city museum “Conde de Castro”.

How to get there

From Lisbon, Cascais is easily accessible by car or train (40 minutes), from the Cais do Sodre station. A return ticket, which can be purchased through a special terminal, will cost about 10 € (June 2014). Please keep your tickets as the conductor will check and collect them.

The yellow Kerris Airbus, which departs every 20 minutes, flies from Cais to Sodre to Lisbon Airport. Price - €3.50 one way (June 2014). “Caish Sodre” is the final stop.

The journey by car from Lisbon International Airport to Cascais is between 30 minutes and 1:30 (during rush hour).

Cascais is a pleasant city that suits sophisticated tastes. Once considered a sailors' haven, it is now the gateway to exploring the beautiful golden sands of Guinche Beach.

Traffic in the city

The city is so small that you can get around it on foot. If you go up to the city center, you will see many cobbled streets filled with interesting architecture, plants and animals.

By bike

Cycling is considered one of the first activities on the list of must-dos. You can head up the hill, from the beach to the westernmost point of continental Europe, through the heart of the incredible nature reserves that lie just outside the capital of Lisbon.

Simple bicycles can be rented absolutely free through the council's BiCas system (provided you have an ID and residential address). Bicycles are available at several points throughout the city. Additional information can be obtained from tourism departments. Bicycles are often used by locals, students and budget tourists, so some are not available or are not in very good condition.

It's better to look at other Lisbon companies that are easily accessible by train, rent a bike and take it back to Cascais, or have a bike delivered to your hotel.

One of the companies cooperating with Lisbon is “Iberia” (phone: +351 96 963 0369). It was founded in 1999, located in the business center of Lisbon, next to the Sodre train station (end of the Cascais railway line), at Largo Copro Santo, 5. The company is open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:30, offering guests cycling tours, personal travel, leisure for families and groups of tourists. Offers on- and off-road trips, city and rural tours. “Iberia” has a wide selection of bicycles: children’s, city and touring.

You can also contact Bicycle Rental (phone: +351 92 213 4857). They offer independent or group routes, on and off-road, for people of different fitness levels. The company provides a wide range of bikes (racing, touring, mountain, motor), access to local or remote rides, and can also be delivered to your hotel or accommodation.

On a scooter, moped or motorcycle

Another way to get around is to ride a scooter, as this is one of the most convenient ways to get around the whole of Cascais, or Cabo da Roca. Also, a scooter is the only way to cross the Lisbon Bridge.

Quality scooters can be rented at affordable prices (you must be at least 18 years old and have your passport and driver's license with you). Riding a scooter is quite safe, easy and fun.

One of the companies cooperating with Lisbon is “Scooter Lisbon” (phone: +351 96 963 0369). It is located in the center of Lisbon, at the Cais Sodre railway station, on Largo Corpo Santo, 5. It is open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:30 and offers quality scooters 125CC, with automatic transmission. Try them out on a tour or rent them for a few hours or the whole day. Remember that one day rental means that the scooter must be returned on the same day (before 18:30), or rented for a day. Check the scooter carefully upon receipt or you will end up paying for wear and tear caused by other customers.

By bus

The Bus Circular Bus Line (BusCas) serves the city and its surrounding areas. To travel long distances, there are buses that operate from the bus station to shopping center, located opposite the railway station. You can also take a taxi to get to the city center.

Attractions

• Cascais is a haven for the international Lisbon working community and young workers who enjoy a diverse and sophisticated nightlife cities. One of these places is the beach and casino in Estoril.
• One of the outstanding palaces is the Palacio de Conde de Castro Guimarães, which is open to visitors and has its own collection of more than 25,000 books, as well as such rarities as an illustrated book by Duarte Galvão (1455-1517). In addition, prehistoric finds from Grutas de Alapraia are kept here. This is a series underground caves, which were discovered only at the end of the 19th century.
• Grutus do Poco Velho is located in the city center and dates back to the Neolithic period.
• More modest in scale is the Museo do Mar, which contains props that represent the history of Cascais and fishing.
• Outside the city there is the famous Boca do Inferno cliff, where during a storm the waves crash against the rocks with such force that they create an impressive noise, similar to the growl of a wild animal. This is where the name of the cliff comes from, which translates as “the mouth of the devil.”
• Cascais now boasts a new marina that attracts many tourists.
• Palmela Park, which was created by the Duques de Palmela, is maintained by the city hall and currently hosts concerts under open air.
• In the immediate vicinity of Cascais is the famous Guinche beach, which with its high waves, the best in all of Europe, attracts windsurfers from all over the world.
• In the east of Cascais is the resort town of Estoril, famous for its casinos. You can walk to it from Cascais, along the coastline, passing beach bars and restaurants.
• To the north of Caiscais lies the romantic and fascinating town made famous by Lord Byron.

Things to do

It seems that the coast of Estoril is a magnet for those who want to engage in any kind of sport and have a good time. In addition to excellent conditions, professional staff and the necessary equipment, the region can boast of its nature: clean air, moderate climate all year round and close proximity to the sea and mountains.

1. Avenida Rei Humberto II de Italia, just outside the city, is the start of a bike path and a 5 km trail that leads to the beaches of Guinche. This road is located next to the sea and is ideal for morning and evening walks. The constant sea breeze from the North Atlantic Ocean keeps the air fresh, especially during the hot summer months. Along the way you'll see Boca Do Inferno, the famous Devil's Mouth cliff, home to a snack bar, seafood restaurant and tourist gift vendors.
2. On the territory of the marina, life is in full swing. For sailing enthusiasts, sailing schools are open on weekends, while competitive and recreational boats sail regularly around the Bay of Cascais. Some beaches make it very easy to rent boats and go water skiing.
3. Both in the south and in west coast, big waves and strong winds create ideal conditions for surfing and windsurfing. World championships in these sports are regularly held on the beaches of Guinche, Grande and Ribeira Dilhas in the north of Ericeira.
4. For golfers there is a great amount courses that are concentrated in a small area, most of which are designed by the world's best architects. You can choose from a wide range of courses on offer, catering for players of all ages and abilities, up to the highest international standards. The mild and pleasant climate creates excellent conditions for golf throughout the year. Numerous golf courses are located in the areas:
5. Country Club“Belash” - 18 holes 6380 meters in length, nom. 72. Tel.; (00 351) 219 62 66, fax: (00 351) 219 62 66 41, www.belasgolf.com, email: [email protected]. Alameda do Aqueduto, Belash Club de Campo, 2605-193 Belash.
6. Club “Estoril” - 18 holes 5262 meters in length, no. 69. Tel.: (00 351) 214 68 01, fax: 76 (00 351) 214 68 27 96, www.palacioestorilhotel.com, email: [email protected]. Av. da República 2765 Estoril.
7. Sports club “ ” - 18 holes 5278 meters in length, nom. 69. Services: trolleys, rental of clubs and caddies, golf academies, golf club, restaurant, bar, sauna, children's game room, babysitting services. Phone: (00 351) 214 31 00, fax: 77. (00 351) 214 31 24 82, email: [email protected]. Casal da Carregueira, Belas, 2745 Queluz.
8. Penha Longa Golf Resort: Atlantic direction - 18 holes 6290 meters long, par 72, Monastic direction - 9 holes 2588 meters long, no. 35.Tel.: (00 351) 219 24 90, fax: 11. (00 351) 219 24 90 24, www.penhalonga.com, email: [email protected]. Estrada da Lagoa Azul, Linho, 2714-511 Sintra.
9. Quinta da Marinha - 18 holes 5845 meters long, nom. 71. Services: 3 restaurants, “Cosi Fan Tutti” (club) and Monte Mar (on Estrada do Guinche), bars with outdoor terraces, 6 tennis courts, 3 outdoor swimming pools, treadmill, fitness center, bicycle rental, children's club. Tel: (00 351) 214 86 01, fax 80. (00 351) 214 86 90 32, www.quintadamarinha.com, email: [email protected]. Hotel “Quinta Da Marinha”, st. Casa 36, ​​Quinta da Marinha, 2750-715 Cascais.
10. Golf course “Oitavos” - 18 holes, 5845 meters long, number 71. Tel.: (00 351) 214 86 06 00, fax: (00 351) 214 86 06 09, email: [email protected], www.quintadamarinha-oitavosgolfe.pt. Quinta da Marinha, Casa da Quinta count. 25, 2750 Cascais.
11. Monastery “Penha Longa” - 9 holes 2588 meters in length, number 35. Facilities: paved green, jagged lawn with 2 hills, buggies, carts (manual and electric). Tel.: (00 351) 219 24 90, fax: 11. (00 351) 219 24 90 24, email: [email protected], www.penhalonga.com. Estrada da Lagoa Azul, Linho, 2714-511.
12. The famous Estoril circuit hosts many of the most important automobile and cycling competitions, one of them for the GP motorcycle racing champions. It can be organized for individuals to experience the thrill themselves.
13. Racetrack, Fernanda Pires da Silva, Tel: 214 609 500.

The variety of forest paths and excellent opportunities of the region are the main attractions for those who love horse riding. Here you will find a good choice riding schools, where you can borrow a horse and learn to ride.

Every year there is a sporting event called the World Tournament of Champions in Portugal. At the Manuel Possolo racecourse in Cascais, all lovers of horse shows and professional racers gather. If you admire horse racing, visit the Quinta da Marinha and Cascais Equestrian Centers.

• Riding center on the coast of Estoril, Charneca, Cascais. Tel.: (00 351) 214 87 20 64.
• Equestrian Center Quinta da Marinha, Cascais. Tel.: (00 351) 214 86 94 33.
• Country Club I D. Carlos, Quinta da Marinha, Cascais. Tel.: (00 351) 214 87 14 03.
• Equestrian Center Manuel Possolo, Cascais. Tel.: (00 351) 214 82 27 50.

Food

On the coast of Estoril, if you know good places, you will find an excellent selection of food and drinks. Cod, sea bass, squid and other most popular seafood dishes can be enjoyed in good establishments. In the city center it is very difficult to find good value for money products. It's worth spending time searching for authentic Portuguese food, but the most delicious and original dishes are served in places hidden from the eyes of tourists, where locals usually dine.

• If you want to try the best food in the city, then don't go to Indian, Italian or English restaurants, but go to the city center or to the coast. These restaurants serve fresh fish with beautiful sea views.
• Bacalhau tops the list of culinary riches. You can choose from 100 different recipes! And if you want to try the characteristic meat dish region, we offer Leitão de Negre or Mercês pork.
• Find a restaurant that takes dessert seriously and end your meal with one of the local sweet dishes: Travesseiros, the famous Queijadas de Sintra, Fofos de Belas, Areias de Cascais Cascais) or Trouxas de Malveira.
• You can't help but try the Verde wine ("green wine") - refreshing, slightly sparkling, it is an excellent complement to Portuguese dishes. Portuguese red wines are on par with wines from France, Italy and Spain. Production is located in Douro, Dao and Alentejo. The Estoril coast produces a small number of its own wines. Trying these wines is considered a rare pleasure.
• “Baía-Gril” (Hotel “Baia Cascais”, tel.: (+351) 214 83 10 33, [email protected]) is a valuable restaurant, as evidenced by the well-deserved gastronomy award issued by the Estoril Tourist Office. Formalities are left aside and all attention is paid to preparation. The restaurant offers a large selection of traditional Portuguese and international cuisine, fresh fish and seafood dishes. A good wine list, friendly and welcoming staff and a fantastic terrace overlooking the bay are a recipe for success.
• “Panorama” (Estrada do Guincho 2750-642, tel.: 21487 9458).
• “O Pescador” (Rua das flores, 10. tel.: 00351-21 483 20 54) - this traditional, beloved restaurant has been serving seafood since 1964, and the unusual interior and marine-themed items will attract your attention.
• “Sole” is considered a special place, where you can try dried cod, pastries with cream, port wine or onions.
• Pop Sandwich is a small sandwich bar that serves fresh baguettes, sandwiches and mini pizzas, along with the usual selection of coffee and cold drinks. It is located on the main shopping street, and due to its bright green interior, it is very easy to find. It's run by an elderly Portuguese couple, so the food is consistently fresh, delicious and incredibly cheap. Great for snacking before heading to the beach. A large sandwich and a cup of coffee will cost approximately 2 €.
• “Pizza Itália” (Rua Poço Novo 1, tel.: +351214830151) - very good Italian restaurant. Weather permitting, you can relax on the terrace overlooking the Bay of Cascais.
• “Lucullus” (Rua da Palmeira street, 6A.) - Italian and Japanese restaurant (with two separate kitchens). Try any of the pizzas or pastas, sushi (€14) with good champagne and cucumber sangria.
• Deli Portugal (www.deliportugal.com) - specializes in certified and award-winning dishes for Portuguese gourmets. They offer cheeses, smoked sausages, hams, wines, liqueurs, olive oil, canned goods, condiments, sweets, baked goods and tea. All products from renowned producers and from regions representing the best products from Portugal. All offered products are accompanied by historical information, and the selection criteria depend on the taste of the wines.

Night life

“Blue Baia” (Av. Marginal 2754-509, tel.: +351 214831033, 18:00-24:00) - the top floor of the sunny terrace of the “Blue Bar” is famous for its parties in summer time. A wide selection of cocktails and light lunches is offered, but only in a privileged area, with best view to the blue sky, pool and ocean. This is a modern, sophisticated establishment that is... ideal place for fashionable summer parties, where music combined with soft LED lighting creates a special atmosphere.

What to see in the area

The Scotturb 403 bus operates regularly to Sintra, stopping in Cabo da Roca.

There are also flights to:

1. Mafra
2. Queluz
3. Costa da Caparica
4. Palmela
5. Sesimbra
6. Troy.

The charming fishing town of Cascais is located on the western side of Lisbon's stunning coastline. It is a historic and prosperous city with stately buildings, carefully maintained parks and many interesting free museums.

Above the city, from which it is a stone's throw to luxurious sandy beaches There is a lively atmosphere that encourages communication. Cascais is a fantastic holiday destination and makes for a fun day trip from Lisbon. This guide will introduce you to the wonderful resort town Cascais, which is located in central Portugal.

"Highlights" Cascais, Portugal

The wild beaches of Guincho, north of Cascais, with frequent strong winds, are ideal for surfers.

The attractive historical center of Cascais, replete with private family restaurants, open-air cafes and stylish bars, perfect place to relax on a hot summer day or chat with friends late in the evening.

Walk along the promenade connecting Cascais and Estoril..

A pleasant walk through a picturesque area

Castro Guimarães Museum and impressive 19th century architecture.

Why Cascais?

It is unlikely that you will be able to find a more suitable and the best place for a holiday than in Cascais. Here you will find first-class hotels, Portuguese hospitality and unique attractions. The beaches of Cascais are truly fantastic and varied; Guincho Beach is an unrivaled beach for surfers, while the more intimate Carcavelos Beach is ideal for family vacation.

Those not keen on spending time on the beach can visit bustling Lisbon, picturesque Sintra, which are just a short drive from Cascais, or take an adventurous walk through the Serra de Sintra National Park. To get an idea of ​​what there is to see and do in Cascais, please visit check this out a guidebook in which you will find a detailed recommended program for a week's stay in Cascais.

Day trip to Cascais from Lisbon

An excursion to Cascais from Lisbon is one of the most interesting and popular, as you will be introduced to the diversity historical monuments, majestic buildings and interesting museums. In the heart of Cascais lies the beautiful " Old city", preserving the traditional Portuguese spirit and historical heritage, which overlooks the fishing harbour. Away from the town and beaches, scenic coastal paths lead along the cliffs to Cabo Roca or Estoril. A beautiful city Cascais has a lot to offer; to get an idea of ​​its main attractions, please.

Casino Estoril near Cascais

There are regular train connections between Lisbon and Cascais, making the city easily accessible for anyone wishing to visit. A huge selection of excellent restaurants and bars on the beach can satisfy the needs of the most sophisticated visitors. An excursion to Cascais is one of the most popular among tourists who come to relax in Lisbon for more than 4 days. We recommend the following order of day trips from Lisbon: Sintra (2 days), Cascais, Obidos, Sesimbra (Serra da Arrábida) and Mafra.

Holidays in Cascais in summer 2019

Portugal is currently undergoing a process of unprecedented renewal; New enterprises are opening, hotels are being refurbished and modernized. All this instills a sense of confidence and optimism in the future of the Lisbon region. After a real tourism boom in the summer of 2018, Cascais is counting on an even greater influx of tourists next season.

This means booking your flights and hotel rooms well in advance if you want a cheaper trip. Fortunately, many hotels that can be booked through major websites do not require a deposit to reserve a room, saving you from paying a cancellation fee. reserved room in case your plans change. If you really intend to visit Cascais, we recommend that you book your hotel now, as the best ones sell out very quickly.

The map below shows the location of hotels and room rentals in Cascais; when you change the date of your vacation, current prices appear on the map

Why is Cascais called the city of kings and fishermen?

Unlike many other Mediterranean resorts, which appeared like mushrooms after the rain due to rapid development mass tourism, Cascais has become popular place recreation back in the early 19th century. Originally a small fishing port, the city's fortunes changed radically when King Fernando II (1816-1885) declared Cascais his summer residence.

The move of the Portuguese nobility from Lisbon to Cascais for the summer period led to the fact that representatives of the high society of 19th century Europe also began to flock to Cascais for vacation. This influx of money, politicians and nobles made it possible to finance the construction of grandiose residences, luxurious entertainment venues and beautiful parks.

Cascais received the nickname "City of Kings and Fishermen" due to the two diametrically opposed segments of the population that lived in it. The trend, which began in the 19th century, continues to this day. Many of Lisbon's rich and famous residents live in close proximity to Cascais, giving the region an air of prosperity and sophistication.

Are there any great beaches in Cascais?

Cascais is surrounded by two completely opposite in structure coastlines: extend to the north wild beaches, blown by the wind, ideal for surfers, while cozy beaches, as if specially created for family holidays, stretch far to the east. Guincho Beach, located among the picturesque National Park Serra de Sintra is rightfully considered one of the best surfing beaches in Portugal.

Beaches of Cascais

The coast east of Cascais is full of stunning beaches, including Carcavelos Beach and Sao Pedro Beach. These beaches are especially popular among Lisbon residents, who fill them during the hot summer months. Getting to the coast from Cascais is very easy and convenient thanks to the regional railway, connecting Lisbon and Cascais.

From Lisbon (and airport) to Cascais

There are regular and inexpensive train services between Lisbon and Cascais. The train departs from railway station Cais do Sodré (metro green line); The duration of the trip is 30-40 minutes. The cost of a round-trip ticket is 4.30 euros. Full information about train services on the Lisbon-Cascais route can be found here. You can get from Lisbon Airport to Cascais by metro and train. It will take you approximately 1.5 hours. To find out how to get to Cascais from Lisbon airport, click.

When is the best time to visit Cascais?

Cascais and the Lisbon region will delight you with long and hot summers, pleasant and comfortable autumn-spring periods and mild but possibly wet winters. The weather in central Portugal allows you to spend time on the beach from mid-May to the end of September. The water temperature off the coast of Cascais, even in summer, barely reaches 18C.

Average weather in Cascais, Portugal

In the first two weeks of June, holidays are held in Portugal in honor of the most revered saints. On the festively decorated streets of Cascais and Lisbon you can see crowds of people having fun and dancing traditional dances, and the aroma of grilling and barbecue is in the air. It is best to come to Cascais in the spring or at the very beginning of summer, when the weather is comfortably warm and there are not many tourists. Cascais is a major center of tourism, so hotels, cafes and restaurants are open all year round, even in winter, when the weather can be quite nasty with an equal number of sunny and cloudy, rainy days.

Portugal relatively inexpensive country. Prices for food, accommodation and transport here are much lower than in most of the most popular tourist places, and especially compared to Greece or the Balearic Islands.

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Cascais located on the coast Atlantic Ocean, 25 km from the capital Portugal– Lisbon and very close to. It is part of the municipality of the same name and is part of the Greater Lisbon agglomeration.

Peculiarities

Cascais is small but extremely beautiful city has a reputation for being noisy tourist center, where millions of tourists, including hundreds of thousands of young people, come every year to full program have fun in local nightclubs, and at the same time enjoy swimming in the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, invariably, everyone finds something to their liking. Some “saddle” the wave, others perform exciting excursion routes, someone comprehends the secrets local cuisine, while others indulge in the joys of shopping.

general information

The territory of the resort city covers an area of ​​99 square meters. km. The population is about 35,000 people. Local time lags behind Moscow by 2 hours in summer and 3 hours in winter. Time zone UTC+0, summer UTC+1. Official website of Cascais www.cm-cascais.pt.

A brief excursion into history

In the 12th century, on the site of the present popular resort With developed infrastructure, there was a tiny fishing village, the purpose of which was reduced to a banal supply of fish to the capital Lisbon. Along the way, the settlement played the role intermediate port for ships traveling in the direction of the main city. In 1488 it was erected here fortification, which fell under the onslaught of Spanish troops 92 years later. A little later, during the time of Philip II of Spain, the fortress was rebuilt in the spirit of the Renaissance. At the beginning of the 19th century, the French invaded Portugal, and after the defeat of Napoleon, the city plunged into the abyss of timelessness until it attracted the attention of representatives of the Portuguese crown, who made Cascais their summer residence. This is how the first benefits of civilization appeared here, and in 1896, in the premises of the Qashqai fortress, King Carlos I opened the first oceanographic laboratory in Portugal. The city acquired resort status in the second half of the last century.

Climate

The region is dominated by a temperate maritime climate. In winter, as almost everywhere else in the country, the air temperature almost never drops below +10 degrees. In summer, the thermometer fluctuates between +26 and +30 degrees, although it is often higher. The high season is considered to be the period from June to September, when clear sunny weather reigns and the water in the ocean does not drop below +20 degrees. In September-October, the resort's attendance remains high, but the water is already colder.

How to get there

Closest to Cascais international Airport is located in Lisbon, and from there you can reach your destination by bus, train or car. The service is regular and public means of transport run between cities several times a day.

Transport

The most convenient and economical way to travel within the city limits, as well as to neighboring Estoril, is by bicycle. It is this type of transport in this area that enjoys the greatest respect among citizens. At the same time, there are special free rental points. In order to take a bicycle, you just need to have your passport with you. For locals, of course, an internal passport, for tourists - a foreign one. The only trouble is that in high season There are always very few free bikes, and they usually look pretty shabby. However, for 8 euros per day you can rent a good bicycle at a paid rental office. It is better to travel long distances by car or by bus, especially since there are no problems with either of them in the city.

Beaches

The resort's magnificent beaches, along with its historical and cultural attractions, are the main advantage of Cascais. Central Beach, Guinho, is considered a real Mecca for lovers of surfing and other disciplines related to riding a board on the waves. Fans of a more peaceful holiday prefer the beaches of Torre and Riberia, where you can calmly lie on the sand, letting the sun's rays solve the problem of a beautiful tan. All beaches are equipped in accordance with the most high standards and have all the necessary attributes, including changing cabins, showers, toilets, rental points water transport and technical equipment for classes aquatic species sports, cafes and bars. Rescue teams monitor safety.

Attractions

Among the most interesting architectural sites of Cascais, the exquisite Palacio de Conde de Castro Guimaraes, the Igreja da Assuncao church, which managed to survive the terrible earthquake of 1755, and the unique museum-library, with a collection of 25,000 books related to different times. Worth a visit also Maritime Museum, with an impressive number of rare marine species and plants. The resort also has many natural attractions. One of them, the Grutus do Poco Velho grottoes, is located in the central part of the city and dates back to the Neolithic era. At some distance from the city limits, right on the coast, there is the legendary “mouth of hell”, which is the mouth of a cave formed over millions of years, against which ocean waves crash with a roar. In the vicinity of the city there are also interesting parks and rocky hills, from which fabulous views of the ocean open.

Entertainment

A wide selection of nightclubs, bars and discos has long been an integral part of Cascais and its distinctive logo. Music and dance lovers have the opportunity to spend all night long on the dance floors, and those who have little freedom can look into neighboring Estoril, where the choice of entertainment venues is no less.

Kitchen

In addition to beach pleasures on the ocean and night dancing in discos, in Cascais it is worth paying special attention to the variety and flavor of the local cuisine, especially since it is represented here by multinational dishes and drinks that are fully consistent with the colorful and vibrant atmosphere of the resort.

Shopping

Excellent conditions for good shopping ensure that shopping lovers do not leave here with empty luggage. Valuable souvenirs, expensive jewelry, clothing, shoes and other goods are always presented in abundance in the local shops and stores.

Cascais fully lives up to its status as a popular and well-promoted resort. It has a lot of advantages and invariably gives vivid impressions from staying on its shores to millions of tourists who choose to relax in these picturesque places.