Nestled along the stunning coastline of Portugal lies Cascais, a gem of a town with a unique blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication. Cascais, a former fishing village turned glamorous seaside resort, is a place where the Atlantic Ocean meets Portuguese culture and history.
Located near Lisbon, Cascais Portugal is a very popular choice for many foreigners who find the city highly attractive to live in. From the quaint cobbled streets of the old town to the pristine beaches, Cascais offers a variety of amenities for everyone who is visiting or living in Portugal. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, this affluent picturesque town will capture your heart and leave you longing for more. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through the beauty and wonder of Cascais, Portugal.
Where is Cascais Portugal?
Cascais is located in the central region of Portugal, approximately 20 miles west of Lisbon. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, Cascais is part of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area and has a population of around 210,000 people.
The town is surrounded by several major cities, including Lisbon to the east, Sintra to the north, and Estoril to the south. Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is only a short drive away and can be reached in less than 30 minutes by car.
Cascais is known for its beautiful natural landmarks, including the stunning Guincho Beach and the breathtaking Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Guincho Beach is one of the most popular surf spots in Europe, while the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from lush forests and rocky cliffs to sandy beaches and pristine lakes. Its natural amenities make Cascais a top destination for affluent expats who want to retire in Portugal.
What is Cascais like?
Cascais has a varied relief, with its terrain characterized by a combination of coastal plains, rolling hills, and rocky cliffs. The town is situated on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Tagus River estuary.
To the north of Cascais lies the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a mountainous region characterized by steep hills and lush vegetation. The park is home to the Serra de Sintra mountain range, which includes the highest point in the area, the Cruz Alta peak at 528 meters above sea level.
In contrast, the southern region of Cascais is flatter and more open, with long stretches of sandy beaches that attract visitors from all over the world. The town itself is built on a gently sloping hillside that leads down to the sea, with narrow streets winding their way through the historic center.
Overall, Cascais offers a diverse and picturesque relief that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and water sports.
What’s the weather like in Cascais?
Cascais enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild temperatures and sunny days throughout most of the year. The summers are warm and dry, while the winters are mild and relatively wet.
During the summer months of June to August, temperatures in Cascais typically range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures higher. These months also tend to be the driest, with very little precipitation and plenty of sunshine.
In the autumn months of September to November, temperatures start to cool down slightly, with average highs ranging from 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F). This season can also see some rainfall, although it usually doesn’t last for long and is interspersed with plenty of sunny days.
The winter months of December to February are the coolest and wettest period in Cascais, with average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F). Rainfall is common during this season, with occasional storms bringing heavy downpours. However, even in winter, there are still many sunny days to enjoy.
Finally, in the spring months of March to May, temperatures begin to rise again, with average highs ranging from 16°C to 21°C (61°F to 70°F). This season can also see some rainfall, but as with autumn, it is usually short-lived and interspersed with sunny days.
Overall, Cascais enjoys a mild and pleasant climate throughout most of the year, with plenty of sunny days and relatively low levels of precipitation.
How to get to Cascais, Portugal
Cascais is easily accessible by car, train, and plane.
By car: To get to Cascais by car from Lisbon, take the A5 motorway towards Cascais and continue until you reach the exit for Cascais. From there, follow the signs to the town center. It is about a 30-minute drive from Lisbon to Cascais, depending on traffic.
By train: The most popular way to get to Cascais by train is to take the Cascais line from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station. The train runs every 20 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. The train station in Cascais is located in the town center, making it easy to access the main attractions.
By plane: The nearest airport to Cascais is Lisbon Portela Airport, which is approximately 22 miles away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or take public transportation to get to Cascais. The most convenient way is to take a taxi or a private transfer, which will take around 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a metro or a bus from the airport to Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon and then take the train to Cascais.
There are several convenient ways to get to Cascais, whether you prefer to drive, take public transportation, or fly into Lisbon and transfer to the town.
Education in Cascais, Portugal
Cascais is home to several reputable educational institutions, including universities and international schools, which provide a diverse range of educational opportunities for students.
One of the most prominent universities in the area is the Nova School of Business and Economics, which is located in nearby Carcavelos. The university is internationally recognized for its high-quality programs in business, economics, and management, and attracts students from all over the world.
In addition to the university, Cascais is also home to several international schools, catering to the expatriate community and local students seeking an international education. These include the Carlucci American International School of Lisbon, which offers an American-style curriculum for students from kindergarten through to grade 12, and the St. Julian’s School, which offers the International Baccalaureate program for students aged 3-18.
Other educational institutions in the area include public schools, vocational schools, and language schools, providing a range of educational opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds.
Cost of living in Cascais, Portugal
The cost of living in Cascais is higher than the national average for Portugal, but lower than many other major European cities. It is on average, also 38% lower than in the United States. As of 2023, the cost of living index for Cascais is 66, compared to a national average of 55.
Housing costs in Cascais Portugal are among the highest in the country, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing around €920 per month, and an average price of €3,614 per square meter to buy an apartment in the city center. However, other expenses such as groceries, transportation, and dining out are relatively affordable, with prices similar to or slightly higher than the national average.
While the cost of living in Cascais is higher than the national average for Portugal, it is still relatively affordable compared to other major European cities. The high standard of living, excellent quality of life, and beautiful natural surroundings make Cascais a popular destination for both locals and expats alike.
Real estate in Cascais, Portugal
The real estate market in Cascais is highly sought after, with prices generally reflecting the town’s affluence and popularity. Among Portugal largest cities, house prices in Cascais are the second most expensive in the country after Lisbon. Real estate prices in Cascais Portugal are around €4,500 per square meter or $450 per square foot, on average, varying depending on the location and type of property.
The town has seen a surge in demand for luxury properties in recent years, with buyers from all over the world seeking out properties in the area. As a consequence, house prices in Cascais have been appreciating at a fast pace, with the average price of a 2,000 square foot home approaching one million dollars.
While the cost of real estate in Cascais may be higher than in other areas in Portugal, the town’s unique charm and quality of life, as well as its proximity to Lisbon, make it a highly desirable location to invest in property.
Things to do in Cascais
Cascais offers plenty of entertainment options for visitors and residents alike. To fully enjoy and emerse yourself in the spirit of Cascais, book guided tours. Here are some of the top things to do:
- Explore the historic landmarks: Cascais is home to several historic landmarks, such as the 16th-century Fortaleza da Cidadela and the 19th-century Palácio da Cidadela. These sites offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history.
- Hit the beach: Cascais has several beautiful beaches, including Praia do Guincho and Praia da Ribeira. Visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, or try their hand at surfing.
- Attend Festas do Mar: This annual festival takes place in August and features live music, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean.
- Visit the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães: This museum is housed in a 19th-century palace and showcases an impressive collection of art and artefacts.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Cascais is known for its fresh seafood, such as grilled sardines, as well as its famous pastry, the pastel de nata.
Lesser known facts about Cascais
One of the most interesting facts about Cascais is that it was once a fishing village that transformed into a popular resort town in the 19th century. The town’s rich history can be explored at the Museu do Mar (Museum of the Sea), which showcases the town’s maritime heritage.
Another hidden gem in Cascais is the Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth), a dramatic cliff formation that has been carved by the Atlantic Ocean over the centuries. Visitors can walk along the cliff path and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean.
Food is an essential part of Portuguese culture, and Cascais has its own culinary specialties. The town is known for its fresh seafood, particularly sardines, which are a staple of Portuguese cuisine. Visitors can try grilled sardines at one of the many beachside restaurants in Cascais.
In terms of traditions, Cascais has a unique festival known as Festas do Mar (Sea Festivals). The festival takes place in August and features live music, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean.
Cascais is full of surprises and hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, there is something for everyone in this beautiful coastal town.
Why move to Cascais?
Cascais is an ideal place to move to for several reasons. Firstly, it has a warm climate with plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as surfing and hiking. Additionally, it is a very safe and welcoming town with a strong sense of community, which is perfect for those looking to settle down. The town is also surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Sintra Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Finally, Cascais is well-connected to other major cities in Portugal, including Lisbon, which is just a short train ride away.
The downsides of living in Cascais
While Cascais is a beautiful and welcoming town, it is important to consider both the positive and negative aspects of living there before deciding to relocate. While there are many reasons to move to Cascais, there are also some downsides to living in this coastal town, including:
- Cost of living: Cascais is known to be an affluent town, and the cost of living can be higher than in other areas in Portugal, particularly for housing and dining out.
- Traffic congestion: During peak tourist seasons, the town can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially around the popular beaches and landmarks.
- Limited job opportunities: While there are job opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industries, there may be limited options for those seeking employment in other fields. As such, it may not be an ideal location for those looking for specific job opportunities.
Catch the Cascais craze
Cascais is a hidden gem on the Atlantic coast of Portugal that offers something for everyone whether you are a young professional, a digital nomad, a family or a retiree. From the stunning beaches and natural landscapes to the rich history and delicious food, Cascais has it all. While there are some potential downsides to living in the town, the benefits of living in this charming town far outweigh any negatives. So why not join the Cascais community? It’s time to pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in this seaside paradise.
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