Cascais: With nobility roots, today it’s a vibrant blend of old and new

Situated by the coast on the outskirts of Lisbon, the town of Cascais allows its residents to enjoy the best of both worlds - combining a seaside town with city living. Little wonder it’s a hit for expats.

Known as the ‘Portuguese Riviera’ this hidden gem has emerged as a coveted destination for those seeking the best of what Portugal has to offer, drawing comparisons with other established locations such as Estoril and the Algarve.

A popular seaside location for the Portuguese royal family in the past, Cascais has evolved into a modern resort town, with traces of its humble beginnings as a fishing village only adding to its unique charm.

Now a thriving beach town, street art murals litter the streets enroute to the coast, where water sports and windsurfing have taken over from the fishing industry in this thriving locale.

The area blends the cobbled streets of the Centro Historico and 16th century fortress with grand villas and modern architecture.

Those looking to live in Cascais and invite friends over can expect to pay around €250 a night for a 5-star hotel such as the Senhora da Guia Cascais Boutique Hotel, where Atlantic Ocean views and high-quality service are almost a given.

Hotel alternatives in the area include a host of rental villas and holiday homes within walking distance of the Praia da Rainha beach.

Cascais Properties

For those moving to Cascais, the wide selection of houses and apartments available should provide something for everyone. Depending on the area, a four-bedroom home with a pool will set you back anywhere between€800,000 and €4,000,000.

The Cascais Old Town provides an often-welcome break from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, where you can enjoy breath taking harbour views and the traditional buildings designed with tile works and walled gardens. No wonder the town has become such a popular holiday destination for those living in the nearby city or, as they’re known locally, Lisboetas.

Cascais also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with its aforementioned centro historico playing host to art galleries, museums, and theatres. Art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a host of art museums and enjoy the local talent showcased at various exhibitions and events.

The town's culinary landscape is equally impressive, with a wide range of gourmet restaurants serving up delectable cuisine from around the world. From Michelin-starred establishments such as Cantinho do Avillez toquaint seaside eateries, Cascais offers a wide range of options.

All you need is to secure your Golden Visa, D7 visa, Digital Nomad Visa (D8), or get a place on Portugal’s Non-Habitual Residency (NHR)program.

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- Beyond its luxurious offerings, Cascais prides itself on its pristine natural environment.

The beauty and appeal of Cascais

The town is situated below the main region of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a protected area renowned for its breath-taking landscapes, including rugged cliffs, and lush forests. This makes it a perfect day trip away from the town.

Residents can relish in the beauty of nature while exploring cycling and hiking trails that wind through the park.

On your way back to the main town from the Sintra-Cascais park, head to Cabo da Roca or Praia do Guincho to experience some glorious beaches.

For those looking for green spaces a little closer to the coast, the Parque Marechal Carmona just south-west of the famous town hall, allows you to explore the gardens of the Palace of the Condes of Castro Guimarães Museu and is bordered by the Luis I cultural centre.

The seaside town's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly initiatives such as the implementation of 140 smart waste bins powered by solar energy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a harmonious balance between luxury living and conservation.

In addition to its natural splendour, Cascais boasts excellent infrastructure with its well-connected train station, top-quality healthcare facilities, and a secure environment.

The beach town's proximity to Lisbon, with its upmarket boutiques and vibrant city life, further enhances its allure for expats seeking a seamless blend of tranquillity with a splash of the cosmopolitan.

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