Estoril-Cascais Coast

Discover the captivating Estoril-Cascais coastline, spanning over 30 kilometres (18 mi) west of Lisbon, offering an array of attractions for a memorable day trip or extended getaway. This sought-after destination has been enticing visitors for generations, encompassing the charming municipalities of Oeiras, Carcavelos, Estoril, and Cascais.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of pristine beaches dotted along the coastline, complete with excellent amenities, including restaurants, bars, and shops. Take leisurely walks or invigorating jogs along the picturesque seafront promenades that stretch for miles.

Accessing this coastal paradise is convenient, with regular train services operating out of Lisbon's Cais do Sodré station. Additionally, the N6 coastal highway, Avenida Marginal, offers a scenic drive along the coast, while an extensive network of bus routes provides easy access, including direct services from Lisbon airport. Whether for a day trip or a longer excursion, the Estoril-Cascais coastline promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas.

Formerly a suburban enclave to the west of Lisbon, Oeiras has long been a magnet for affluent residents and royalty alike, drawing them to its legendary history and picturesque landscapes. The legacy of the esteemed Marquis de Pombal, whose palace graces the district, adds to its allure, making it a must-visit destination. Here, where the pristine waters of the Tejo (Tagus) River converge with the Atlantic's briny currents, lies a coastal haven of sandy beaches, meticulously maintained and inviting for leisurely strolls. While swimming may not always be advisable because of its proximity to the city centre, the expanses of sand offer serenity and charm. Strewn along the coastline are ancient forts, evoking a medieval ambience and enriching the region's historical tapestry. Explore Oeiras and uncover its captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Paço de Arcos

East of Oeiras is the pleasant district of Paço de Arcos, best known for its sandy beaches. It has its own train station and sits alongside the N6 coastal road making it popular with day-trippers out of Lisbon. There is some history to the area and a few vestiges of a past fishing heritage.

Fornos da Cal
Remains of five lime kilns (Pt: Fornos da Cal), that date from the Middle Ages. The first reference to this set dates back to 1582 when the man in charge of the São Julião works hired brick-layers to make and bake lime in the ovens. For centuries, these ovens were an important economic activity in the area. Four of the kilns were levelled or integrated into surrounding properties, but one was obtained by the municipality in 1989. Archaeological digs began in 1994 and the kiln was opened to the public in September 2004. The kilns are classified as a property of public interest. | FREE
14 Rua dos Fornos, 2770-160, Oeiras, Portugal. | 38° 41' 40.2" N | 09° 17' 34.9" W

Parque dos Poetas (Poets’ Park)
This themed park celebrates the greatest Portuguese speaking literary figures. The wonderful Parque dos Poetas is a tranquil green space that has been tastefully landscaped and a showpiece for urban art from some of Portugal's leading sculptors. A series of gardens pay homage to an individual poet ranging from Renaissance poets such as Gil Vicente (1465–1537) and Luis de Camoes (1524–1580), as well as 20th-century masters Fernando Pessoa (1888–1935) and Miguel Torga (1907–1995). Rua Coro de Santo Amaro de Oeiras, Lisbon, 2780-379. | 38° 41' 59.9" | N 09° 18' 04.6" W

Beaches

Furthest east is the Praia Velha beach (also known as Praia dos Pescadores) is a short yet wide patch of sand leading onto a small marina where fishing boats bob up and down. A fountain just offshore gushes a geyser of water high into the air. | 38° 41' 35.2" | N 09° 17' 29.2" W

Beyond the marina the Praia de Paço de Arcos beach, (sometimes referred to as Praia Nova), starts as does the eastern end of the Passeio Marítimo de Oeiras (Paredão) coastal path. It's on this beach where most of the amenities can be found and most of the action. There's a great little beach café here which affords great views at sunset. | 38° 41' 25.6" N | 09° 17' 49.4" W

Starting at the small Forte de São João das Maias fort the Praia de Santo Amaro de Oeiras runs a kilometre or so west accompanied with the Passeio Marítimo de Oeiras along the way. The sands are well groomed by the local council and the beach is often utilised by players of beach sports. Although the waters are somewhat tame here and not often surfed. On the western end is the Marina de Oeiras and a plethora of amenities and yet another small fort and salt water swimming pools. | 38° 40' 45.5" | N 09° 18' 58.1" W

Palácio do Marquês de Pombal (Marquis of Pombal Palace)

The palatial home of the Marquês de Pombal is a National Monument and makes a great excursion when in Oeiras and the beach is not an option. The house and gardens are being continuously preserved and admired by a growing number of visitors who come here to marvel at this lesser-known attraction. The palace was built following the 1755 earthquake in the baroque and rococo styles that were a-la-mode at the time, under the direction of Carlos Mardel, a prestigious Hungarian architect.

The interior is an expression of the wealth and high status held by the Marquês de Pombal in the guise of its fine architectural style, decoration, paintings, statues, frescoes and azulejo tiles. The surrounding finely landscaped Rococo gardens are equally impressive. The gardens are richly decorated with rustic columns and gravel paving. The grounds include a cascade, a grotto, a pillar and a waterfall with semi-circular bowels.

As part of the estate, there are over 200 hectares of farmland and vineyards, a lasting vestige of the rural economy Oeiras enjoyed before being swallowed up by the outskirts of Lisbon. There is also an olive oil press and a fishing lodge that once brought the Marquis greater wealth.

FREE | Tuesday – Sunday: 10h00 – 18h00, Monday: CLOSED
Largo Marquês de Pombal 2784-540 Oeiras, Portugal. | 38° 41' 31.9" N | 09° 18' 50.9" W

Carcavelos snuggled along the Atlantic coastline, boasts expansive sandy shores where crashing waves beckon surfers and beach enthusiasts alike. A mere 20-minute drive from central Lisbon, it's a favourite haunt for families and day-trippers seeking sun-drenched escapades. Praia de Carcavelos, renowned as one of the longest beaches on the Estoril-Cascais coast, epitomises the town's allure, drawing visitors to its golden sands. While swimming conditions may vary because of strong currents, the picturesque backdrop of Forte de São Julião da Barra Fort adds to its charm. With a vibrant ambiance, Carcavelos buzzes with beachside activities like football, volleyball, and leisurely strolls along the scenic Passeio Marítimo de Oeiras (Paredão) coastal path. Nearby, a weekly market offers a treasure trove of eclectic finds, from bric-a-brac to locally crafted souvenirs, making Carcavelos a delightful destination for sun, sea, and leisurely pursuits. | Thursdays (except holidays): 08:00-14:00