Cascais and Estoril are part of the so-called Lisbon Riviera. Two small towns along the ocean that practically fit into each other. The French Riviera of Lisbon is not a holiday destination in seaside resorts, but a seaside holiday destination. The ocean water, even in the hottest summer, does not exceed 18º C. It is a strange idea to come to Cascais to swim in the sea in summer, but coming to Cascais at any other time of the year just to breathe the air, walk along the ocean, admire the view of the coast and the old villas, is a great way to relax. Cascais can also interest surfers, but you also have to think about the water temperature. After all, being in Lisbon and not seeing the ocean would be stupid.

Cascais does not have world-class attractions. You will not be immediately struck by architectural masterpieces but by houses on the waterfront are very interesting. The most important thing in Cascais is the view of the coast, the amazing colours of the dark blue ocean, the blue sky, the cliffs coastal and yellow sandy beaches leave no one indifferent. Cycling along the coast is also very popular in Cascais. The bicycle will allow you to go there if you want to save your energy but the walk is great!

How to get to Cascais

To get to Cascais, you will have to go to Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station, where you can take any train to Cascais. This is the last station. There are high-speed trains, they make few stops and there are regular stops, they stop at each platform. In any event, the train does not exceed 40 minutes. First it runs along the banks of the Tagus, then along the ocean. The cost of the trip is €2.90 per one-way ticket. You won’t wait more than 10 minutes for the train’s departure, i.e. you don’t have to worry about the schedule – trains often go there. You do not need to check the schedule if you plan to travel early in the morning or late in the evening.

How to rent a bike in Cascais

In Cascais, you can rent a bike for free, but it will be the easiest bike without gear change and owned by the municipality. You will need to present your passport or driver’s license, leave your phone number and hotel address. Free bicycles are marked with the « Bicas » logo. There is only has only three free bike rental stations:

• Near Cascais station (Largo da Estação, Cascais)
• Office de Tourisme de la Praça 5 de Outubro 2750-320 Cascais
• Near the Casa da Guia shopping centre (Av. Nossa Senhora do Cabo, Cascais)

Free Bicas bicycles can be rented:

• In summer (May 1 to September 30): every day from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
• In winter (October 1st – April 30th) – Daily – 9am – 4pm

However, you will need to go to the rental office as soon as possible. Just at the station there is a bike rental shop for a fee. Prices vary but it is around 4€ per hour and 7€ for 4 hours. It only takes 4 hours to see the coast. The total length of the cycle paths is only 16 km. The most popular route runs along Route 247.

Things to see in Cascais and Estoril

The most spectacular natural beauties are located at a certain distance from the city, Boca do Inferno is about 2 km from the station. The mouth of the devil is a picturesque natural formation. Boca do Inferno seems more dramatic during a violent storm, but walking is much more pleasant because of good weather. Nearby, there is an observation terrace and a café.

The Farol da Guia lighthouse, 1.5 km further on, at the Fort of São Jorge de Oitavos, 5 km from the station. That is, you go about 3.5 km in one direction, plus a walk to Cascais. You will have to walk at least 10 km. That’s why many people rent a bike. Bicycle paths are separated from traffic and therefore very secure.

Then I’ll tell you about the centre. Cascais itself is a very small town. It will not be difficult to walk around. Traditional paving Portuguese is presented in Cascais in a wide range. The most common model is the wave model. The black stripes are made of basalt, the white stripes are in sandstone.

In 2006, a monument to the penultimate king of Portugal, Charles I, was erected on the Cascais dike. Cascais owes him his second birth. Carlos decided to organize the royal summer residence in the city. As a result, Cascais was electrified and a railway was built to Lisbon. Behind the king and court of Cascais, there were aristocrats and a rich bourgeoisie who built villas, castles and palaces. The old fishing village has therefore been transformed into a fashionable seaside resort on the Atlantic coast.
You can picnic on the beach of Cascais. Due to the surrounding cliffs, there is almost no wind and the sun gets hot.

In general, I strongly recommend that you allow a full day to visit Roca, Cascais and Estoril. You have to have that. Despite the limited number of classroom activities This part of the Lisbon region is full of charm and absolutely magnificent to discover.

Additional information: Cascais and Estoril

The Estoril coast offers many very different beaches. Guincho Beach is the largest beach that extends along the coast Atlantic. A large number of high quality golf courses are also available for golf enthusiasts. Cascais Bay offers conditions favourable to water sports, sailing and windsurfing, etc. Guincho beach is a favourite place for surfers.

On the Estoril coast, there are also equestrian polo competitions and a race track for the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Food culture in the Portugal is characterized by its culinary diversity. There is a rich selection of dishes on the entire Estoril coast. Food and service are of great importance. class. There are shops here for everyone. Trendy fashion shops with very good prices for traditional crafts (for example in the village of Sintra).

To visit in the surroundings:

• The Castro Guimarães Art Museum and its brilliant collections surrounded by a breathtaking garden
• The church of Cascais is a famous 19th century art building with old tiled paintings
• The village of Sintra with the famous São Pedro market
• The westernmost cape, Cabo da Roca, is also worth a visit
• A magnificent walk along the ocean between Cascais and Estoril