Discovering Alfama and Cascais: Portugal’s Perfect Pairing of Tradition and Coastal Charm

Lisbon has been on my list of travel destinations for 2024, and I saw this as the perfect opportunity to combine it with Cascais, just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon’s central station.

I decided to start with three days in Lisbon, knowing there would be plenty of walking given the city’s famously hilly landscape. Then, I planned to spend five days in Cascais. With its relaxed coastal charm, Cascais seemed like the perfect antidote to the city.

Alfama: A Step Back in Time

My stay began in the Alfama district, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods. Alfama is a maze of narrow streets and colorful houses, many adorned with tiled facades. Known as the birthplace of fado (traditional Portuguese music), the area has a soulful, nostalgic feel.

Top Sights in Alfama

São Jorge Castle: A hilltop castle overlooking the city and the Tagus River.
Miradouros (Viewpoints): Alfama is famous for its scenic observation points, such as Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol. These are perfect spots to relax and catch the beautiful sunsets.
Sé Cathedral: Lisbon’s oldest church, featuring Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Exploring Alfama’s winding streets is an experience in itself; you’ll stumble upon hidden gems, street art, and charming restaurants. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbled streets can be a bit unstable underfoot!

Fado: The Sound of Alfama

Experiencing a fado performance is a must. I was fortunate that the hotel I stayed in hosted a performance on my first night. The fadista (singer) was accompanied by a guitarist, and the music—melancholic and haunting—spoke of love, betrayal, and hardship. Even without understanding the language, I could feel the story behind each song.

Lisbon is a walkable city, and it doesn’t take long to stroll from Alfama to the port or central shopping area.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way serving a variety of cuisines. Near Cais do Sodré train station, which offers direct trains to Cascais, you’ll find the Time Out Market—a fantastic food market with a wide range of dining options.

Cascais: A Coastal Retreat

After a busy few days in Lisbon, Cascais provided a refreshing change of pace. This coastal town is ideal for anyone looking to relax by the sea while still enjoying cultural attractions.

Top Things to Do in Cascais

Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Rainha: Popular sandy beaches in the center of Cascais.
Guincho Beach: Ideal for surfing, with powerful Atlantic waves, golden sands, and rugged cliffs—a scenic escape for those seeking adventure.
Boca do Inferno: A dramatic seaside cliff formation with ocean-carved caves and striking views.
Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães: A beautiful villa-turned-museum with Portuguese art, antiquities, and stunning ocean views.
Cascais Marina: A picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll, offering views of yachts, fishing boats, and nearby shops and restaurants.

Exploring Cascais

I also recommend the Cascais–Estoril coastal walk, where you’ll come across lovely beaches and plenty of places to eat and drink along the way. In the town centre, you’ll find boutique shops, souvenir stores, and a variety of international restaurants.

Day Trips and Tours

From Lisbon: I highly recommend a day tour to Fátima, Óbidos, and Nazaré, which allowed me to see more of Portugal’s unique towns and landmarks.
From Cascais: Sintra is a 20-minute taxi ride from Cascais. From Sintra’s centre, it’s about an hour’s walk up to Pena Palace. The walk is steep and can be challenging, but the scenic route is well worth it. Alternatively, there are other transportation options available for reaching the palace.

I can thoroughly recommend Lisbon and Cascais as a combined trip. The blend of Lisbon’s vibrant culture with the relaxing coastal charm of Cascais makes for a truly memorable experience. If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!