If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, then Cascais is the perfect spot.
Although it’s only a short train ride away from the city, Cascais feels like a world away.
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Wondering if Cascais is worth visiting? If you have limited time in Portugal, you might wonder if Cascais is worth visiting.
Is it worth your time? Is it worth the money? Or should you focus on more popular cities instead?
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to decide why Cascais should be (or shouldn’t be) on your Portugal bucket list.
We’ll discuss the pros and cons of visiting Cascais so that you can see if it’s the right destination for you.
The Pros Of Visiting Cascais: Reasons To Visit
There are many reasons why people love Cascais. Here are some main reasons you should visit this pretty town.
The Weather Is Perfect
One of the best things about Cascais is the weather.
The town enjoys stable temperatures throughout the year, with average highs of 25 degrees in the summer and 14 degrees in the winter.
This means that Cascais is the perfect place to visit at any time of year. If you’re looking for a summer getaway, you’ll be able to enjoy the town’s beaches.
And if you’re looking for a winter escape, you can still enjoy the town’s many restaurants and bars.
The Beaches Are Stunning
Cascais is situated on Portugal’s stunning coastline, which means that the town has some incredible beaches.
You’ll be in heaven in Cascais if you’re a beach lover.
The town’s beaches are well-maintained and perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
And if you get tired of the beach, you can always explore the town’s many shops and restaurants.
The Town Is Charming
Cascais is a very charming town. The streets are lined with pretty buildings, and the town has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Cascais is a great spot to consider.
The Food Is Delicious
If you love good food, you’ll be happy to know that Cascais has some great restaurants.
The town is known for its seafood, and you’ll find many restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes.
If you’re not a fan of seafood, don’t worry – there are plenty of other restaurants in Cascais serving a variety of cuisines.
Overall, you’ll find great dishes everywhere in Portugal.
The Scenery Is Unique
One thing that sets Cascais apart is the Boca do Inferno.
Boca do Inferno is a unique geological formation that was created by the erosion of the cliffs.
The Boca do Inferno is definitely worth seeing, and you’ll get some great photos while you’re there.
It’s one of the main reasons why travelers decide to go to Cascais in the first place.
Want To Visit Cascais?
Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Cascais.
Best Hostel: Nice Way Cascais Hostel
Best mid-range hotel: Cascais Casa Lanraja Guesthouse
Best luxury hotel: The Albatroz Hotel
The Cons Of Visiting Cascais: Reasons To Skip It
Now that we’ve looked at the pros of visiting Cascais, let’s consider the cons.
Here are some of the reasons why you might want to skip Cascais and visit another destination instead.
It’s A Touristy Spot
One of the downsides of Cascais is that it’s a very touristy spot. The town is popular with both Portuguese and foreign tourists, which means that it can be quite crowded at times.
While it will be less crowded than Lisbon, it might still be busy. Remember it’s smaller than Lisbon. So, the number of tourists can make a big difference.
If you’re visiting off-season or if you don’t mind the crowds, you could still enjoy your time in Cascais.
It’s Expensive
Now, you may be wondering: is Cascais expensive? It can be.
Another downside of Cascais is that it’s pretty expensive.
Accommodation, food, and drinks are all pricier than in other parts of Portugal.
If you’re on a budget, Cascais might not be the best spot for you. There are other cheaper destinations that offer just as much charm and beauty.
That said, if you visit a big city like Lisbon or Porto, you’ll have more options for budget accommodation and hostels.
If you decide to visit Cascais, we recommend you book your accommodation in advance.
As the town is smaller, there aren’t as many options, so booking last minute could be a problem if you’re backpacking or on a budget.
The Final Verdict: So Is Cascais Worth Visiting?
Is Cascais worth visiting? The answer is, it depends.
If you’re looking for a charming town with beautiful beaches and great food, then Cascais is definitely worth considering.
However, if you’re on a budget or if you prefer less crowded spots, there are other places in Portugal that might be better suited for you.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to visit Cascais comes down to your personal preferences.
But if you do decide to go, you’re sure to enjoy your time in this pretty town.
Do you prefer visiting Cascais on a day trip from Lisbon instead? You can book a tour on GetYourGuide.
Traveling to Portugal soon? Read one of the following guides: