What to see in Cascais by car: must-see places that you just have to visit 

Cascais has everything you need on a few days’ holiday in Portugal. Busy or secluded beaches, spectacular and wild; history, city, or country walks, etc. Just a 30-minute car drive from Lisbon, Cascais is one of the best loved and most often visited towns in Portugal. 

If you arrive in Lisbon by air, renting a car at Lisbon airport will make it easy for you to reach Cascais and to explore the surrounding area at your own pace, whether you are with your partner, friends, or the family. 

Furthermore, you can take advantage of the car rental deals that we have for you at Record go, and if you’d like to find out more, here you have a guide explaining what to see and do in Cascais. Take a look, and we’re sure you’ll want to visit! 

What to see in Cascais: route and guide 

The Local Market in Cascais 

For soaking up the atmosphere and getting a feel for local traditions, there’s nothing better than starting off by taking a relaxing stroll around the streets of the old quarter, and waking up your senses by dropping into this Local Market, where the many stalls selling the freshest fish and seafood stand out. 

Fortress of Nossa Senhora da Luz 

Another of the many fortresses built on Portuguese territory. Construction began at the end of the 16th century, and the characteristic defensive structure of those times is still evident. 

Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum 

Approaching the coast, you can visit another of the architectural features that are so common along the Portuguese coastline: lighthouses.  The Santa Marta Lighthouse was built in the 17th century, and is one of the places that are definitely worth a visit, even if only to have the chance to climb up on high. From here you’ll be able to admire one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Cascais! 

Boca do Inferno 

Another must-see in Cascais is this incredible wonder of nature. An area of steep cliffs that links the wildest beaches in Cascais, it’s where you’ll find those hollows where the waves crash in, making the ‘infernal’ sounds that give the place its name (Boca do Inferno translated into English means ‘the Mouth of Hell’). 

Things to do in Cascais, with the family, with the kids, or with friends 

As well as the essentials that aren’t to be missed that we’ve already mentioned, Cascais is an ideal place to enjoy the beach, go on some wonderful walks and check out places where you can discover the delights of traditional local cuisine. 

Visconde da Luz Gardens 

This park was opened at the end of the 19th century, and is a lovely spot, perfect for a stroll, for relaxing, for enjoying fado performances, and for letting the kids run around, playing and checking out some of the attractions that are usually to be found here in the warmest months of the year. 

The Seafront Promenade in Cascais 

This is one of the most atmospheric spots on the coast, and from here you can access the most popular beaches in the area. For example, Rainha beach is a great place not only for enjoying a refreshing summer swim, but also for taking some great photos of old Cascais with the sea in the background. 

The old quarter of Cascais 

Packed with tiny streets and white houses decorated with typical Portuguese tiles, in the old quarter of Cascais you’ll find all sorts of shops, and a restaurant area with outdoor terraces to enjoy. 

From Cascais you can also visit Sintra, another of the most emblematic locations close to Lisbon. So what are you waiting for? Book your hire car at Lisbon airport, and start planning your Lisbon and Cascais trip.