Cascais Day Trip: Quick Facts
Get a bird’s-eye view of your trip with these essential details. Perfect for planning on the fly!
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Lisbon | ~30 km / 19 miles |
| Travel Time | 35-40 minutes by train |
| Best Way to Get There | Train from Cais do Sodré station |
| Estimated Cost (per person) | €30-€60 (transport, food, minimal activities) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Spring (April-May) & Autumn (Sept-Oct) on a weekday. |
How to Get to Cascais from Lisbon: All Your Options
Getting to this coastal paradise is part of the adventure! While there are a few ways to get there, one option stands out as the clear winner for its cost, convenience, and breathtaking views. We strongly recommend the train.
By Train (The Best Way)
The train journey from Lisbon to Cascais is not just transport; it’s a scenic experience in itself. It’s cheap, efficient, and drops you right in the heart of the town. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to Cais do Sodré Station: Located on Lisbon’s waterfront and easily accessible via the green metro line, this is your starting point.
- Buy Your Ticket: You have two main options. For the best value, use the rechargeable Viva Viagem card and its ‘Zapping’ feature. A one-way trip costs about €1.95. Alternatively, you can buy a standard single ticket for around €2.30.
- Board the Train: Don’t worry about getting on the wrong one! All trains departing from the main platform are on the “Linha de Cascais” and have Cascais as their final destination. They run frequently, usually every 12-20 minutes.
- Enjoy the Scenic Ride: The journey takes about 35-40 minutes. For the best views, try to grab a seat on the left side of the train. After the Algés stop, the tracks hug the coastline, offering stunning vistas of the Tagus Estuary and the Atlantic Ocean.
By Car
Driving is an option, but we generally advise against it, especially during the peak summer months. You can take the faster A5 motorway (which has tolls) or the slower, more scenic N6 “Avenida Marginal” coastal road. The main drawback? Parking in Cascais is extremely difficult and expensive. You could spend a significant portion of your day just looking for a spot, so save yourself the headache and take the train.
By Ride-Sharing (Uber/Bolt)
For small groups or those with a bit more budget, ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt are convenient. A one-way trip will cost approximately €25-€40, depending heavily on traffic and demand. While it offers door-to-door service, it’s significantly more expensive than the train for solo travelers or couples.
Transportation Comparison Table
| Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | €1.95 – €2.30 | 35-40 mins | Cheap, scenic, frequent, avoids traffic | Can be crowded on weekends |
| Car | €5-€10 (fuel/tolls) | 30-45 mins | Flexibility | Terrible parking, traffic, stress |
| Uber/Bolt | €25 – €40 | 30-45 mins | Convenient, door-to-door | Expensive, subject to traffic |
| Guided Tour | €60+ | Half/Full Day | Hassle-free, includes guide | Less freedom, more expensive |
Top 7 Things to Do on Your Cascais Day Trip
From dramatic cliffs to charming streets, Cascais packs a lot of beauty into a small package. Here are the must-see spots for a perfect day out.
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Get Lost in the Charming Old Town
Step off the train and wander into the heart of Cascais. The historic centre is a beautiful maze of black-and-white mosaic cobblestone streets, lined with traditional Portuguese houses adorned with colourful tiles and blooming bougainvillea. Explore the boutique shops, find a quaint café in the main square (Praça 5 de Outubro), and soak in the sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Duck into the smaller side streets away from the main square to discover quieter corners and more authentic local shops.
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Witness the Power of the Atlantic at Boca do Inferno
A pleasant 15-20 minute walk from the town centre will bring you to the “Mouth of Hell.” This dramatic cliff formation is where the relentless power of the Atlantic has carved a sea arch and grotto into the rock. On stormy days, you can hear the waves roar as they crash inside the chasm. It’s a spectacular display of nature’s force.
Insider Tip: For the most dramatic photos and a truly magical experience, visit at sunset when the sky lights up, or at high tide to see the waves at their most powerful.
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Relax on the Golden Beaches
You can’t visit a coastal town without dipping your toes in the sand! Cascais has several lovely beaches right in town. Praia da Rainha (“Queen’s Beach”) is a small, picturesque cove nestled between cliffs, while Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa are larger, adjoining beaches with more space and facilities, perfect for sunbathing and a refreshing swim.
Insider Tip: Praia da Rainha is stunning but gets crowded quickly. Head there early in the morning to enjoy it in peace.
4. Visit the Santa Marta Lighthouse and Museum
This iconic blue-and-white striped lighthouse is a postcard-perfect symbol of Cascais. For a small fee of around €5, you can visit the accompanying museum which details the history of Portuguese lighthouses and the life of their keepers. The highlight is climbing the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast.
5. Explore the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães
Nestled within a tranquil park, this fairytale-like mansion is a sight to behold. It was once the private residence of an Irish aristocrat and now serves as a museum showcasing his unique collection of art, furniture, and artifacts. The whimsical architecture, complete with a castle-like tower, makes it one of the most unique buildings in Cascais.
6. Stroll Through Parque Marechal Carmona
Right next to the museum and marina lies this lush, green oasis. It’s the perfect place to escape the midday sun. Wander through shady paths, spot the resident peacocks and chickens roaming freely, and enjoy a moment of peace by the duck ponds. It’s a favorite spot for locals and a lovely, relaxing break from sightseeing.
7. Indulge in World-Famous Gelato at Santini’s
No trip to Cascais is complete without a stop at Santini’s. This is not just any ice cream shop; it’s a Portuguese institution, famous since 1949 for its incredible, fresh gelato. With a huge variety of fruit and classic flavors, it’s the perfect sweet treat to enjoy while strolling along the waterfront.
Sample Itinerary: The Perfect Day in Cascais
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Follow this simple plan to make the most of your day trip without feeling rushed.
- Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Take an early train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré. Upon arrival, explore the charming Old Town at your own pace. Afterwards, take the scenic 20-minute coastal walk to the dramatic Boca do Inferno.
- Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM): Head back towards the marina and find a restaurant with a view. Indulge in fresh grilled fish or a seafood cataplana. We recommend Mar do Inferno for a classic experience.
- Afternoon (2:30 PM – 6:00 PM): Time to relax! Find a spot on Praia da Conceição to sunbathe or take a swim. If you prefer culture, visit the Santa Marta Lighthouse and the adjacent museum. Don’t forget to grab a scoop (or two) from Santini’s.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Enjoy a final glass of crisp Portuguese wine at a waterfront bar, watching the fishing boats come in. Head back to the station and catch the train back to Lisbon as the sun sets.
Can You Do a Day Trip From Lisbon to Cascais and Sintra?
This is a very common question, and our honest advice is: please don’t. While it’s logistically possible, we strongly advise against trying to see both of these incredible places in a single day. Both Sintra, with its numerous palaces and vast parks, and Cascais, with its coastal charm, deserve at least a full day each. Trying to cram them together will result in a rushed, stressful experience where you only scratch the surface of both.
If you are absolutely determined and short on time, the route would be: Lisbon → Sintra (train) → Sintra → Cascais (Bus 403) → Cascais → Lisbon (train). Be prepared to only see one major sight in each location.
Where to Eat in Cascais
From budget-friendly bites to Michelin-starred dining, Cascais has something for every palate.
- Budget-Friendly Bites (€): For delicious and healthy vegetarian food with a fantastic rooftop view, check out House of Wonders. For traditional, no-frills seafood where the locals eat, try Pescadores.
- Mid-Range Meals (€€): Mar do Inferno offers classic seafood dishes with an unbeatable view of the cliffs. For a more modern take, Hífen serves creative and delicious Portuguese tapas perfect for sharing.
- A Sweet Treat (€): It has to be Santini’s! A must-visit for the best gelato in Portugal.
Planning Your 2025 Visit: Insider Tips
Make your trip flawless with these local tips and tricks!
- Wear comfortable shoes. The charming cobblestone streets are beautiful but can be tough on your feet.
- Sit on the left! When taking the train from Lisbon, the best coastal views are on the left-hand side of the carriage.
- Bring a light jacket. Even on a sunny day, the Atlantic breeze can be cool and windy, especially near Boca do Inferno.
- Use the ‘Zapping’ method. The Viva Viagem card is the cheapest and easiest way to pay for the train.
- Visit on a weekday. Weekends get very crowded with Lisbon locals heading to the coast. A Tuesday or Wednesday will be much more relaxed.
- Rent a “biCas” bike. These free bicycles (ID required) are perfect for exploring the coastal path that leads towards the famous surfing spot, Guincho Beach.
What to Pack for Your Cascais Day Trip
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist:
- ✅ Sunscreen, Sunglasses & Hat
- ✅ Comfortable Walking Shoes
- ✅ Swimsuit & Towel (in summer)
- ✅ A Light Jacket or Scarf
- ✅ Reusable Water Bottle
- ✅ Portable Charger for your phone
- ✅ Camera to capture the memories!
Estimated Budget Breakdown for Cascais
A day trip to Cascais can be very affordable. Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend.
| Item | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Return Train Fare | ~€4.00 | ~€4.00 |
| Lunch | €12 – €18 | €25 – €40 |
| Activities/Museums | €0 – €5 | €5 – €10 |
| Coffee/Gelato | €4 | €8 |
| TOTAL (per person) | ~€30 | ~€62 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Cascais a good day trip from Lisbon?
Yes, absolutely! It’s one of the easiest, most affordable, and most rewarding day trips from Lisbon. It offers a perfect escape from the city with a fantastic mix of beautiful beaches, dramatic coastal scenery, charming history, and great food, all just a short and scenic train ride away.
How long is the train from Lisbon to Cascais?
The train journey from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station to Cascais is very quick and pleasant, taking between 35 and 40 minutes from start to finish.
How much is an Uber from Lisbon to Cascais?
An Uber or Bolt from Lisbon to Cascais typically costs between €25 and €40 each way. The final price can vary significantly depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and rider demand.
Is Sintra or Cascais better?
They are both incredible but offer very different experiences. It depends on what you’re looking for!
- Choose Sintra if you love fairytale palaces, mystical forests, and deep dives into Portuguese royal history.
- Choose Cascais if you want a relaxing coastal day with beautiful beaches, scenic seaside walks, fresh seafood, and a chic resort town atmosphere.
For a laid-back, sun-soaked escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, Cascais is hard to beat.
TLDR: Your Quick Guide to a Cascais Day Trip
No time to read it all? Here are the absolute must-knows:
- How to Go: Take the 40-minute train from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon. It’s cheap, easy, and scenic. Don’t drive.
- Top 3 Things to Do: Walk through the Old Town, see the cliffs at Boca do Inferno, and relax on Praia da Rainha.
- Must-Eat: Fresh seafood for lunch and a gelato from Santini’s.
- Best Time: A weekday in Spring or Autumn to avoid crowds.
- One Key Tip: Sit on the left side of the train from Lisbon for the best ocean views!
