Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Historic center · Cascais, Lisboa
Baía de Cascais e centro histórico
The bay where fishing boats share space with the village's beaches, surrounded by the center's stone streets, the Câmara Municipal with tiled panels, and Praia da Rainha.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Baía de Cascais e centro histórico
Cascais began as a fishing village around the bay. At the end of the 19th century, King D. Luís I chose the Cidadela to spend the summers, and the aristocracy began building summer houses in the town.
The bay still hosts fishing boats, and the lota (the market where fish is auctioned) is next to the sand. Beside it are the beaches Praia da Ribeira, Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição, with calmer water, protected by the bay.
The historic center has Portuguese pavement streets with wave patterns, shops and restaurants. The Câmara Municipal, in a building with tiled panels on the façade, faces the bay.
Praia da Rainha, small and nestled among rocks, owes its name to Queen D. Amélia, who used to frequent it. From the bay, a seaside promenade continues east to Estoril.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
In the morning, with the boats arriving, or in the late afternoon. In the European summer, the bay's beaches get crowded.
How to get there
It is a few steps from Cascais train station.
Tip
Try the grilled fish at the town's restaurants. Taste the ice cream (sorvete) from one of the traditional gelaterias in the center.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Baía de Cascais e centro histórico
Which beaches are in central Cascais?
Praia da Ribeira, Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição, all in the bay, with calmer waters.
Why is it called Praia da Rainha?
Because it was frequented by Queen D. Amélia.
Is the bay close to the station?
Yes, just a few steps from the train station.