Easy Day Trip From Lisbon to Cascais Itinerary + Map

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Are you planning a day trip from Lisbon to Cascais? I’ve just come back from this beautiful beach town and have all the best spots lined up for you.

I’ve created a simple, step-by-step itinerary that includes places like the dramatic “Hell’s Mouth” and ends with dining at a top Portuguese restaurant in the heart of the old town.

You won’t have to worry about planning anything — I’ve got it all sorted out for you. And don’t forget to download the pre-pinned Google Map at the end of this post!

Why Choose Cascais for a Day Trip?

The number #1 reason I chose Cascais for a day trip from Lisbon was because it was so easy to get to!

I mean a beach town just 40 minutes away by train from Cais do Sodré Station in Lisbon, sign me up!

Cascais is one of the most idyllic coastal towns in Portugal and sits just 21 miles (34 kilometers) west of Lisbon.

The journey time takes under an hour from Lisbon no matter where you start from.

If you are at the Cais do Sodré train station it is a quick 40 minutes directly to the center of town.

A quaint, curving cobblestone street lined with colorful pastel houses with traditional architecture, under a grey sky. The street features decorative, wave-patterned stone work and a vintage street lamp. — Charming old town streets in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Scenic view of Cascais coastline with rugged rocks and a small sandy beach, contrasting with the urban backdrop featuring traditional and modern buildings under a cloudy sky, showcasing the town's natural and architectural beauty. — A view of the beach in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Driving time is less if you can find a time when there is no traffic.

Cascais’s vibes are chill compared to the bustling streets of Lisbon, which I needed a break from.

The beautiful beaches and historical sites drew me in, and the proximity to Lisbon sealed the deal for me.

Preparing for Your Day Trip to Cascais

Depending on the season you are going to visit this seaside town you will want to prepare a few things.

In the summer months, you will want to have the obvious, sunscreen, hat, and towel for the beach. But something you might not think to get is a restaurant reservation.

The summertime is a popular time to go to Cascais for obvious reasons, and many people forget to make a reservation for the restaurant of their choice.

Oh, and travel apps! Make any day trip around Portugal easier with these helpful apps!

A waterfront scene with a view across a marina, filled with boats and surrounded by various buildings. A tall sailboat mast dominates the foreground, while in the background, a Ferris wheel and coastal town buildings create a dynamic skyline. — Marnia in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

A bronze statue of a man in a uniform, presumably a notable figure, stands within a circular area bordered by cobblestones. In the background, there's a view of European-style buildings, one with distinct balconies. The statue occupies a prominent space, suggesting it's a place of some significance or remembrance. — Statue in Cascais city center: ©asolowomantraveling

Now if you are visiting in the off-season, November to March, you can likely get away without making a reservation, but I would just in case.

Visiting Cascais in the winter you might need an umbrella and warmer clothes.

Even though the ideal time to visit Cascais is the summer, I wouldn’t skip it just because the weather is less than ideal.

Visiting this coastal town is one of the best things I did on my trip, it had me seriously considering moving there.

Transportation: All the Ways Getting to Cascais from Lisbon

I’m sure you have guessed you can get to Cascais by train, bus, and car, but you can also go by bike or guided tour.

Let’s look at all your options!

Train

I love a train trip, and this train ride is so easy, I highly recommend it. First, get yourself to the Cais do Sodre station and buy your ticket for 2.30€ from the machines in the main hall.

Tickets are not available online, nor can you get a seat reservation.

The façade of the Cascais train station presents a beautiful blend of traditional Portuguese architecture and modern functionality. The building, adorned with ornate azulejo tiles and an elegant arched entrance, sits under a soft sky, while the Portuguese flag flutters proudly above. The foreground features the distinctive calçada Portuguesa, a traditional-style cobblestone pavement creating a captivating geometric pattern. — Exterior of **Cais do Sodre station**: ©asolowomantraveling

A commuter train adorned with vibrant graffiti stands idle on the tracks at a station, framed by the station's modern, clean architecture and the overhead lines that power its journey. The image captures a moment of stillness in the everyday hustle of city transit. — Train at the station in Lisbon: ©asolowomantraveling

Pro Tip: If you have the Lisbon Card you don’t need to get additional train tickets.

The machines have an option for English. I have experienced that some machines expect you to have a train card to reload.

If you find yourself at that machine, just go to the next one.

There is usually an employee around to help as these machines can be a little confusing to use.

Buy a ticket to Cascais and purchase your return in the same transaction.

Trains leave every 10 minutes or 20 minutes, so you don’t have to prepare that far in advance to get there.

Can I reserve seats on the train to Cascais?

There is no way to reserve seats on the way to Cascais. You will likely get a seat unless you are traveling during peak season. If there are no seats you can just stand like any other subway train.

Car

Going to Cascais by car is a scenic drive and is pretty straightforward. Assuming you have a rental car, which comes in handy if you are doing multiple-day trips from Lisbon.

Take the A5 motorway which is the most direct route and scenic way to get there.

Depending on traffic you could get there is about 30 minutes. Parking is always an issue in small European cities.

This map I created has the parking lots in Cascias already pre-pinned for your convenience.

Bike

I will admit I have not ridden a bike from Lisbon to Cascais, but I met other travelers who have!

Cycling to Cascais from Lisbon takes approximately 2 to 4 hours covering around 30 kilometers (19 miles) on the coastal route.

It sounds quite enjoyable in the summer but can take up a lot of your time.

Guided Day Tours

If you rather leave all the details up to someone else the best way would be to join a tour leaving from Lisbon that goes to Cascais.

A serene waterfront view in Cascais, Portugal, with a picturesque Ferris wheel towering over the beach and town. The clear blue sky is reflected in the tranquil waters, and the wooden deck in the foreground adds a warm, inviting touch to the scenic coastal panorama. — View of the Ferris Wheel in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

A charming street in Cascais lined with palm trees and traditional Portuguese architecture. The clear sky and leisurely parked cars complement the relaxed atmosphere, capturing the essence of a laid-back, sunny day in this coastal town. — Downtown Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Joining a tour is also a great way to meet people if you are alone in Lisbon and a way to see more than just Cascais. Often the tour options include a stop in Sintra.

If your goal is to spend a lot of time in Cascais, then I would skip this option.

Cascais Day Trip Itinerary Total Time & Distance

Your day’s estimated walking time in Cascais is approximately 63 minutes. This equates to a total walking distance of about 3.15 miles.

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Morning in Cascais: Start at the Sea

Breakfast at Joyeux

Get to Cascais in time to have breakfast at one of the highest-rated cafes, Joyeux.

When you visit Joyeux, you support their mission of including people with intellectual disabilities through meaningful work and encounters.

Experience the warmth and quality of a family-run establishment while contributing to the development of a more inclusive community.

Here you can enjoy a full brunch with eggs any day of the week or opt for the famous Pastel da nata.

A charming café exterior is painted in bright yellow and white stripes, with a bold blue sign reading "JOYEUX" above the entrance, implying a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere. The terrace has several tables with patterned tablecloths, and the ground is traditional cobblestone. A simplistic line drawing of a smiling face adorns the wall beside the café's name, enhancing the joyful vibe of the establishment. — Joyeux Cafe at Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

A close-up of a cafe table with a black and white geometric pattern. On it is a traditional Portuguese pastel de nata on a small plate, a croissant, and a glass of iced coffee. Below the coffee is a paper placemat with the text "SABE MELHOR SERVIDO COM CORAÇÃO" (Tastes better served with heart), reflecting the cafe's ethos, and there is a card indicating that orders are placed at the counter. — Breakfast at Joyeux Cafe: ©asolowomantraveling

From the Cascais Train Station, it is a five-minute walk to the cafe in the Historic Centre of Cascais.

After breakfast make your way on a 15-minute walk to the Lighthouse Museum of Santa Marta.

A table with a blurred background emphasizes the items in the foreground: a glass of iced coffee, a pastel de nata on a plate, and a fresh croissant. The focus on the delicious snacks and the use of a narrow depth of field suggest a casual, enjoyable moment, likely part of a leisurely café experience. — Coffee and Croissant: ©asolowomantraveling

Inside a café with a warm and inviting ambiance. The interior is brightly lit with natural light. The yellow walls are adorned with a simple, playful drawing of a man enjoying coffee and a dessert, accompanied by the café's slogan "SERVIDO COM CORAÇÃO" (Served with heart). Wooden tables with yellow and black chairs are neatly arranged, and the counter area displays an assortment of goods. — Interior of Joyeux Cafe: ©asolowomantraveling

Visit Santa Marta Lighthouse & Casa de Santa Maria

The beautiful Santa Marta Lighthouse, built in 1868 is hard to miss. It is an iconic lighthouse often featured in any photo of Cascais.

Perched on the Tejo estuary, this lighthouse is a symbol of Portugal’s picturesque charm and one of my favorite spots in Cascais.

For 5€ you can gain access to the Santa Marta lighthouse museum where you can get the most incredible panoramic views from the top.

A picturesque view of Cascais's rocky coastline with a lighthouse and classic European architecture in the background, under a dramatic overcast sky, portraying a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. — View of the Lighthousein Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

A woman in a long brown coat and white sneakers walks past a tall lighthouse with distinctive blue and white tiles, under a moody grey sky, highlighting the coastal heritage of Cascais — Me at the Lighthouse in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Your ticket also grants you access to the Casa de Santa Maria just across the way.

This house has a rich history and is considered to be an example of what you could expect from a Portuguese home.

Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum

After you are done at Casa de Santa Maria I urge you to visit the Condes de Castro for a 5€ entrance fee.

This hidden gem in Cascais, famous for its stunning azulejos, is worth a short visit at the very least.

A whimsical yellow and white building with a stone tower and ornate features, reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle, set against a cloudy sky in Cascais, Portugal, conveying a sense of romantic history. — Condes de Castrois: ©asolowomantraveling

View of a historical yellow building with traditional Portuguese architecture, featuring azulejos (blue and white ceramic tiles) and a statue in the foreground garden, under a cloudy sky, capturing the essence of Cascais' cultural landscape. — Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum: ©asolowomantraveling

It is like stepping into a fairytale, with its castle-like Gothic style design, but with unique Portuguese vibes.

Don’t miss a peak of the views of the small town from the top floor. It’s the perfect place to get incredible photos.

Elegant courtyard inside a historical building with a two-tiered fountain at its center, surrounded by archways and Moorish-style columns, under an overcast sky, reflecting Portuguese architecture. — Interior hall: ©asolowomantraveling

Vintage interior scene featuring a gothic-style arched ceiling, a prominent fireplace with ornate details and a religious figurine above, conveying a sense of historical grandeur. — Interior of Condes de Castro: ©asolowomantraveling

Hell’s Mouth (Boca do Inferno)

Speaking of getting amazing pictures, next move it along the 11-minute walk to a place known as Hell’s Mouth! This impressive chasm is located on the west side of town.

A breathtaking view of the natural rock formation known as Hell's Mouth (Boca do Inferno) in Cascais, with a rugged cliff face overlooking a serene sea. The image captures the beauty of the cavernous area where the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean surge with a tranquil force — Rugged cliffs at Hell’s Mouth: ©asolowomantraveling

Here you will you’ll encounter dramatic rugged cliffs along the beautiful coastline, where powerful waves relentlessly crash against the rock formations.

Unless the weather is unbearable, you definitely want to check this place out.

Casa das Historias Paula Rego

After you visit the Boca do Inferno, next take a 12-minute walk to the Cas das Historias Paula Rego.

Dropping by the Casa das Historias Paula Rego in Cascais lets you dive into the world of Paula Rego, one of Portugal’s coolest artists.

A serene pathway lined with tilted trees leaning in the direction of the wind leads to a vibrant red building with a geometric, somewhat triangular architecture. The gray paving stones of the pathway contrast with the lush green grass on either side, and the building stands out against a sky with clouds hinting at the possibility of changeable weather. — View of Casa das Historias Paula Rego: ©asolowomantraveling

A quaint and quiet cobblestone path meanders through a tranquil park setting, flanked by tall pine trees. A few chickens are seen roaming freely on the path, and there is a colorful globe-shaped sculpture visible in the background on the right, adding an artistic touch to the natural surroundings. — Walk within in a park in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

This place, with its eye-catching red pyramids, is packed with Rego’s art that tells stories you won’t forget – from fairy tales to real-life stuff, all with a twist.

The building itself, dreamt up by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, is pretty awesome and sets the stage for diving into Rego’s powerful images.

It doesn’t matter if you’re super into art or just browsing around; Casa das Historias Paula Rego is a spot that’s sure to grab your attention and make you think.

Midday in Cascias: Culture and Nature

Parque Marechal Carmona

After the museum take a stroll through Parque Marechal Carmona. This park is a little oasis in Cascais.

I loved getting photos of various plants and wildlife, it made every corner worth exploring.

A tranquil garden setting with a decorative tiled fountain wall reading 'ANNO MCMXXV' and a woman in contemplative stance, exuding a sense of peaceful reflection amidst nature and history. — Me at Parque Marechal Carmona: ©asolowomantraveling

This image captures a classical garden scene featuring a green pond with a fountain, surrounded by trees, flowers, and a classical statue, contributing to an air of elegance and tranquility. The overcast sky suggests a peaceful, contemplative environment, ideal for a leisurely stroll. — View of the fountain little in Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

It’s the perfect spot to chill, with plenty of quiet spots to sit back and soak in the peaceful vibes.

Downtown Cascais

After you’ve recharged in the park, head over to Cascais’ colorful downtown. You will find lots of artisan shops, eateries, and incredible architecture.

A historical bronze statue of a robed figure, presumably a significant local figure, on a stone pedestal, with an intricate mosaic pavement below. The statue is in a public square flanked by buildings with traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles and flags — View of the statue in downtown Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

View of a historic square in Cascais with traditional Portuguese pavement design and a row of buildings adorned with azulejo tiles, under a cloudy sky, evoking the charming European coastal town atmosphere. — Cascais’ colorful downtown: ©asolowomantraveling

It’s where you can pick up unique handmade gifts and then treat yourself to some delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Wandering through the downtown of Cascais won’t take you too long. And when you are ready it’s time to eat at one of the best restaurants, and my personal favorite, Taberna Clandestina Cascais!

Lunch at Taberna Clandestina Cascais

The BEST local restaurant for tapas in Cascais is Taberna Clandestina Cascais, and they take reservations which is key!

Exterior of Taberna Clandestina, with a yellow facade and black trim around the entrance, featuring rustic wood and metal furniture on cobblestone sprinkled with fallen yellow leaves, welcoming diners in Cascais. — Taberna Clandestina Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Artfully presented cod bruschetta on a rustic slice of bread, topped with diced vegetables and herbs, served on a paper with 'Taberna Clandestina Cascais' branding, indicating a fresh and local dish. — Lunch at Taberna Clandestina Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

You can book online which is super convenient. Here they have a variety of tapas with options for vegetarians and vegans.

Prices range from €5 – €14, so for any budget, I think it’s doable.

Cozy interior of Taberna Clandestina with a warm, rustic charm, wooden tables set for dining, a blackboard menu, and decorative elements creating a welcoming, casual dining atmosphere. — Interior of
Taberna Clandestina Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Close-up of crispy fried ravioli in a takeout box served with tomato sauce, next to a half-empty glass of white wine, on a wooden table with a branded napkin saying 'Clandestina Cascais — Lunch at
Taberna Clandestina Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Coffee Break at Niccolo

After a fulfilling lunch of creative and authentic Portuguese food, stop for coffee at Niccolò!

Not only is the coffee fantastic, but the chocolate is literally to die for! With the purchase of a coffee drink, you get to sample a piece of this wild chocolate!

A person's hand holding a Niccolò café iced latte in a clear plastic cup with a paper straw, symbolizing the café's commitment to sustainable practices. The drink is captured against the backdrop of a serene indoor plant and tasteful decor, suggesting a moment of refreshing relaxation. — Coffee Break at Niccolo: ©asolowomantraveling

The interior of Niccolò café showcases a selection of fine chocolate bars neatly presented in a glass display case, with warm lighting and a stylish neon sign reflecting in the mirror, creating a cozy and upscale atmosphere for chocolate enthusiasts. — Wild Chocolates Options: ©asolowomantraveling

This unique offer not only showcases Niccolò’s commitment to sharing the joy of their chocolate with every customer but also highlights the distinctiveness of their brand.

Each piece of chocolate is a testament to their dedication to quality, sustainability, and the art of chocolate making, setting Niccolò apart as a true artisan in a world of mass-produced sweets.

An inviting exterior view of Niccolò café, featuring a calm and minimalist setup with two round wooden tables, perfect for enjoying a quiet moment. The café's sign is elegantly displayed beside the entrance, complementing the charming, rustic stone wall. — Niccolo Cafe at Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

A quaint corner inside Niccolò café, radiating a serene ambiance with a single wooden table and a woven chair. A hanging plant and a warm pendant light above create a cozy, intimate space for savoring coffee and chocolates in peace. — Interior of Niccolo Cafe: ©asolowomantraveling

Afternoon At The Beaches & Fortress

Let’s assume the weather is perfect for some beach time after lunch.

Cascais’ coastline is dotted with some of the best beaches, each just a short walk from the old town itself.

My favorite for a little bit of tranquility is Praia da Rainha (Queen’s Beach). You’ll find this one nestled in a scenic cove with its crystal-clear waters.

Guincho Beach is most known for water sports lovers. It is renowned for its optimal wind conditions ideal for surfing and windsurfing.

But to get to Guincho Beach you will need to drive or take the train as it’s outside the center of Cascais.

Cidadela de Cascais

Exploring the Cidadela de Cascais is one of the coolest medieval fortresses I have ever visited.

It is surely one of the main attractions in the heart of Cascais. Here you will also find the Citadel Arts District, where history meets modernity head-on.

An old stone fortification with a sentry box protruding over a high wall, surrounded by greenery, under a cloudy sky. There's a spacious open area in the foreground with a gently sloping ramp and cobblestone pavement. — Cidadela de Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

Three abstract sculptures stand in a public space, each with a distinct twisted form, possibly representing figures or movements. The sculptures are set against the background of classic European architecture and a cobblestone square, suggesting an area rich in history and culture. — Statues at Cidadela de Cascais: ©asolowomantraveling

As you wander through, you’ll encounter an eclectic mix of art galleries and studios housed within ancient walls, showcasing works from both local and international artists.

The Cidadela’s mix of old architecture and modern art showcases Cascais’ rich culture, making it a unique place to visit on your day trip from Lisbon.

An abstract outdoor sculpture featuring a tree-like metal structure with branches, adorned with mirrored, multi-angled panels reflecting various hues of blue and purple under an overcast sky, set against a backdrop of a white modern building with square windows. — Citadel Arts District: ©asolowomantraveling

A rust-colored sculpture of a figure atop a tall steel pillar is placed before a modern building with a grid facade. The sculpture appears contemplative or in mourning, adding a touch of emotion to the otherwise urban and architectural environment. — Statue at Citadel Arts District: ©asolowomantraveling

Evening Sunset in Cascais

When it comes to picking a place to watch the sunset in Cascais you really can’t go wrong with anywhere along Boca do Inferno.

If you happen to have a rental car then I highly recommend going to Cabo da Roca which is located about a 30 min drive away.

Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe and provides a stunning backdrop for sunset views. The vast ocean and rugged landscape make for a dramatic scene as the sun dips below the horizon.

Dinner at Furnas Do Guincho

For a truly exceptional meal, with spectacular views, make a reservation at Furnas do Guincho.

Located an 8-minute drive from the city center it is worth taking a taxi if you don’t have a car.

The fresh seafood here is going to be a little more expensive than a local restaurant in town, but if you are on vacation, so why not splurge? Reservations can be made online easily here.

If you would rather have something more casual in the town of Cascais, I suggest, Baía do Peixe – Cascais.

Interactive Map of Cascais

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FAQs – Cascais Day Trip

How long does it take to travel from Lisbon to Cascais, and when is the best time to depart?

The journey from Lisbon to Cascais typically takes about 40 minutes by train. For a day trip, it’s best to depart early in the morning to make the most of your day. Trains run frequently, but aiming to leave Lisbon by 9 AM gets you to Cascais with plenty of daylight ahead for exploring.

Can I extend my trip to include Sintra or other nearby places?

Absolutely! Many visitors choose to combine their Cascais visit with a trip to Sintra, another gem just a train ride away. It’s a bit tight to squeeze both into one day, but if you start early and plan your itinerary carefully, it’s doable. Alternatively, consider staying overnight in either location to enjoy both towns without rushing.

What should I budget for a day trip to Cascais?

Your spending for the day can vary, but here are some pointers:
Transport: A round-trip train ticket from Lisbon to Cascais costs around €5-€6.
Food: Budget for around €15-€30 for meals, depending on whether you prefer casual dining or sit-down restaurants.
Attractions: Many sights in Cascais are free, but some, like museums or historical sites, may charge entrance fees ranging from €3 to €6.
Money-Saving Tips: To save money, consider packing a lunch, using public transport, and focusing on free attractions like beaches, parks, and free walking tours.

Alternative Day Trips From Lisbon

Are you staying in Lisbon longer and looking for additional day trip ideas? I recently visited Porto for 1 day!

I found that if you can start early and stick to a schedule of activities, you can see a lot. However, you’ll wish you had more time.

Visiting the small town of Faro could also be a great day from Lisbon! If you rent a car you will have the ability to create an Algarve itinerary easily.

Then there is Ericeira, located only an hour from Lisbon! It is the perfect place to visit for the day if you want to learn how to surf or try local seafood!