Cascais, is often hailed as one of the most desirable places to live in Europe, and for good reason. This coastal town, located just 30 kilometres west of Lisbon, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical beauty, and modern conveniences. Once a quaint fishing village, Cascais has transformed into a haven for expats, retirees, and families seeking a higher quality of life. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly community, Cascais has all the ingredients for a perfect life by the sea.
This guide explores everything you need to know about moving to and living in Cascais.
One of Cascais’ greatest advantages is its diversity of experiences. For those who love the outdoors, the town offers a wide array of activities, from surfing the powerful waves at Praia do Guincho to hiking in the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. If history and culture are more your style, Cascais is brimming with museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks, such as the iconic Cascais Citadel. For food lovers, the town’s culinary scene combines the best of Portuguese traditions with international influences, offering everything from fresh seafood to innovative gourmet cuisine.
Cascais is also known for its welcoming atmosphere. The locals, known as “Cascaienses,” are famously warm and hospitable. The town is home to a growing expat community, making it easy for newcomers to integrate and feel at home. While Portuguese is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in shops, restaurants, and by younger residents. For those who choose to embrace Cascais as their new home, the rewards are plentiful: a slower pace of life, a close-knit community, and a chance to live in one of the most beautiful corners of Europe.
Moving to Cascais
If you’re a citizen of the European Union, moving to Cascais is relatively straightforward. EU citizens have the right to live and work in Portugal without requiring a visa. However, it’s necessary to register with local authorities and apply for a Certificate of Registration (Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia) after 90 days of residence. Non-EU citizens, on the other hand, will need to apply for a visa or residence permit. Portugal’s D7 visa is a popular choice for retirees and remote workers, as it allows individuals with passive income or remote employment to live in the country.
For those with the means to invest, Portugal’s Golden Visa programme is another attractive option. By investing €500,000 or more in Portuguese property, you can gain residency rights, allowing you to live in Cascais while also enjoying visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area.
This programme has made Cascais a magnet for high-net-worth individuals seeking both lifestyle benefits and financial opportunities.
Housing Market in Cascais
The housing market in Cascais is dynamic, with options ranging from luxury villas in prestigious neighbourhoods like Quinta da Marinha to more affordable apartments in suburban areas. For those seeking a traditional Portuguese home, the historic centre of Cascais offers charming properties with tiled facades and wrought-iron balconies. Modern developments, often featuring amenities like pools and gyms, are also available for those seeking contemporary comfort.
Renting is a popular option for expats who want to get a feel for the area before committing to a property purchase. Monthly rents for a one-bedroom flat in the town centre typically range from €1,200 to €2,000, while larger properties or homes with sea views can cost upwards of €3,000.
Buying property in Cascais is a sound investment, given its popularity as both a residential and holiday destination. Prices start at around €4,000 per square metre for apartments and can exceed €6,000 per square metre for prime locations.
Living the Cascais Lifestyle
Life in Cascais is beautifully balanced. A typical day might start with a morning jog along the scenic coastal promenade, followed by a visit to the local market to pick up fresh produce and seafood.
Afternoons could be spent lounging on one of Cascais’ sandy beaches or exploring its cultural landmarks, like the Paula Rego Museum or the Cascais Citadel Art District. Evenings often involve dining al fresco at one of the town’s excellent restaurants, where you can savour dishes like grilled sardines or cataplana, a traditional seafood stew.
Weekends in Cascais offer endless possibilities. Outdoor enthusiasts can cycle along the Estrada do Guincho, a picturesque coastal road, or hike through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where dense forests and hidden trails await discovery. For those who enjoy a touch of glamour, the nearby Estoril Casino – the inspiration for Ian Fleming’s James Bond novel Casino Royale – provides an elegant evening out.
Social Life and Community
Cascais has a thriving social scene, with plenty of opportunities to meet people and make friends. The expat community is particularly active, organising events like language exchanges, book clubs, and social dinners. Locals are also friendly and often welcome newcomers with open arms.
Whether you’re at a community festival, a yoga class by the beach, or simply enjoying a drink at a neighbourhood café, you’ll find it easy to connect with others.
For families, Cascais is exceptionally child-friendly. The town has excellent parks and playgrounds, as well as a wide range of extracurricular activities for children, from surfing lessons to art workshops. Schools, both local and international, foster a sense of community among parents and provide opportunities for networking and socialising.
Education in Cascais
Cascais is home to some of the best international schools in Portugal, making it an attractive option for expat families. These schools offer curricula in English, French, and other languages, ensuring that children can transition smoothly, regardless of their educational background. St. Julian’s School, located in nearby Carcavelos, follows the British curriculum and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence. St. Dominic’s International School, situated in Outeiro de Polima, offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, making it ideal for families planning to move frequently.
For those who prefer a more local experience, Cascais’ public schools are another option. While instruction is primarily in Portuguese, the government provides support for non-Portuguese-speaking children to help them adapt.
Public schools in Portugal are free, and their quality is generally high, though class sizes can be larger than in private institutions.
Cascais’ Thriving Food Scene
The town is a paradise for seafood lovers, with dishes like bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with onions, eggs, and potatoes) and grilled octopus being local favourites. Freshly caught fish is a staple in most restaurants, often paired with Portugal’s famous green wine, vinho verde. For a more refined dining experience, Cascais boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Fortaleza do Guincho, which offers spectacular ocean views and gourmet French-Portuguese cuisine.
Cascais also caters to international tastes, with plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions. From sushi bars to Italian trattorias, you’ll find something to suit every palate. Food markets, like the Mercado da Vila, are also worth exploring. Here, you can sample local specialities, buy artisanal products, and enjoy live music on weekends.
With its stunning natural surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and modern amenities, it’s no wonder this charming town has become one of Portugal’s most sought-after places to live. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of sunny beaches, a tight-knit community, or the chance to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture, Cascais delivers on every front. For those looking to start a new chapter in a place that combines tradition, luxury, and opportunity, Cascais is the perfect choice.
If you’re serious about making the move to Portugal and want to ensure a smooth transition, we highly recommend checking out this comprehensive guide: The Ultimate Guide Moving To Portugal. This resource covers everything from visas and residency requirements to finding the perfect home and settling into your new life in Portugal. Make your dream of living in Cascais a reality with expert tips and step-by-step guidance!