Cascais is a beautiful coastal town in Portugal, known for its luxurious beaches, rich history, and magnificent architecture. If you have two days to explore it, here is a sample itinerary that will help you get the most out of your trip.
Day 1: Historical and Cultural Cascais
Morning:
- Breakfast at a local café: Start your day with Portuguese pastries and coffee at one of the local bakeries.
- Cascais Center and Market: Take a walk through the historic part of the town, visit the central market (Mercado da Vila) to experience the local life atmosphere, and maybe buy some fresh fruits or souvenirs.
- Conde de Castro Guimaraes Museum: Explore this beautiful museum located in an ancient mansion, which offers an interesting collection of art and antiques.
Day:
- Citadel Art District and Cascais Fortress: Visit the art district with exhibitions of local and international artists. You can also visit the Cascais Fortress to enjoy the historical atmosphere and magnificent views of the ocean.
- Lunch at a fishing tavern: Try dishes made from fresh seafood at one of the local taverns overlooking the sea.
Evening:
- Ribeira Beach and Promenade: Spend the evening at Ribeira Beach, take a stroll on the promenade, and enjoy the sunset.
- Outdoor dinner: Try traditional Portuguese dishes at one of the restaurants on the promenade.
Day 2: Nature and Surroundings
Morning:
- Breakfast and trip to Boca do Inferno: Start the day with breakfast at a café, and then head to Boca do Inferno – a natural formation known for its dramatic views and the lullaby sounds of waves.
- Walk along nature trails: Take a hike along the coastal trails, enjoying the beauty of the Atlantic coast.
Day:
- Trip to Sintra: If time allows, take a short trip to Sintra to see the famous Pena Palace and other palaces.
- Lunch at a local restaurant: Try traditional regional dishes such as cod or pork skewers.
Evening:
- Cascais Marina: Spend the evening at the marina, enjoying the views of the yacht harbor and the sea breeze.
- Farewell dinner: Choose a restaurant with an ocean view for a farewell dinner. Try grilled sea bass or octopus.
After two days in Cascais, you will have the opportunity to enjoy both the historical heritage and the natural beauty of this region.
