Cascais vs Lisbon: Where to Stay?

Should you stay in Lisbon or in Cascais, the seaside town 40 minutes away by train? Many visitors base themselves in Cascais for beaches and a slower pace, then day-trip into the city. Others prefer to be in the thick of Lisbon. Here’s how to decide.

Quick answer: stay in Lisbon if it’s your first visit, you want to see the sights, eat out and enjoy nightlife, or you’re there for only 2 or 3 days. Stay in Cascais if you want beaches, a relaxed seaside town, an easier time with kids, or a longer stay. The train from Cais do Sodré runs frequently along the coast.

Side by side

• Sights: Lisbon is full of them. Cascais has a pretty old town, the citadel and the coast.
• Beaches: Cascais has town beaches and wild Guincho nearby. Lisbon’s beaches are a train or bus ride away.
• Atmosphere: Lisbon is a buzzing capital. Cascais is a calm, upmarket resort.
• Hills: Lisbon is steep. Cascais is mostly flat along the seafront.
• Sintra: both are good bases. Cascais is close to Cabo da Roca and Sintra by road.
• Nightlife: Lisbon wins.
• Price: both can be expensive in summer.

The best of both

Split your stay: a few nights in Lisbon, then a few by the sea in Cascais. Or base yourself in Cascais and take the train into Lisbon for sightseeing. See where to stay in Cascais and where to stay in Lisbon.

Hotels

See the best hotels in Cascais and the best hotels in Lisbon.

More: Sintra vs Cascais, things to do in Cascais and the best beaches near Lisbon.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.