An Expat's Guide to Living in Cascais, Portugal

The History of Cascais

Cascais is a coastal town in Portugal known for its sandy beaches, bustling marina, and stunning natural beauty. It's not just a hot tourist destination; it's a place many expats and Portuguese people call home. 

Historically, Cascais was a small fishing village. It has since evolved into a sought-after, even if a bit bougie, location for those looking to combine the calm of seaside living with easy access to Lisbon's urban offerings. 

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A Large Expat Community Awaits

Cascais is home to a vibrant and diverse expat community, drawn to the town's stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and high quality of life. People from all over the world have settled here, creating a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. 

When we first decided to move to Portugal, I dismissed Cascais as being too touristy and too expat-friendly. I feared we would miss out on an authentic Portuguese experience if we lived there. 

Would there be too many Americans and Brits running the streets that it felt un-Portuguese? Would we even feel like we were living in Portugal at all? 

Ultimately, after hours and hours of research, Cascais seemed to have everything we needed and wanted for our new life in Portugal.

Looking for something different in Portugal? There are plenty of great places to live, excellent for both expats and digital nomads.

This thriving expat scene offers newcomers an instant network of friends and contacts, making the transition to life in Portugal much smoother. Various clubs, social groups, and events are specifically designed to welcome expats, providing opportunities to meet others who share similar experiences and challenges. 

Remember when I was worried about there being too many Americans? Well I am happy to report that while there are a lot of foreigners in Cascais, they hail from all over the world. My close group of friends only includes one other American family. The rest are from places like Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Canada, South Africa, England, and of course…Portugal.

In short, Cascais's expat community is welcoming and supportive, and has made us feel at home from the moment we arrived.

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Popular Neighborhoods for Expats in the Cascais Area

Cascais is diverse, with neighborhoods catering to many different tastes and personal preferences.

Whether you're looking for the vibrant energy of the city center, the luxury of Estoril, the natural beauty of Guincho, the family-friendly atmosphere of Bairro do Rosario, the traditional Portuguese vibe of Fontainhas, or the modern comforts of Birre, Cascais has a place for everyone.

By the way, you'll notice the places I recommend you rent to get a feel for each neighborhood are on Vrbo, not Airbnb. Personally, I like Vrbo because you're able to cashback on each stay that you can then use on your next trip. Whereas with Airbnb, there are no rewards for users. But if you still prefer that platform, most rentals are on both Airbnb and Vrbo.

Cascais Historic Center

Cascais Historic Center is, as you may have guessed, the center of town, perfect for those who love being close to shops, restaurants, and the sea. It’s a bit touristy, but if you like being in the heart of the action, this is where you want to be. It’s also the most walkable part of Cascais.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in the Historic Center is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Bright Visconde: Enjoy plenty of natural light and fantastic views of the city center from the 2 balconies.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Apartment Cascais: Recently restored in a building from the 1920s, this apartment is bright, modern, and comfortably sleeps 4.
• Luxury Stay: Gia's Homes Cascais: Located right in the heart of Cascais, you'll be well-positioned to explore all the best parts of town when you stay here.

Guincho

Guincho is a paradise for outdoorsy types, known for its dramatic coastline and superb conditions for surfing and kiteboarding. But that means it can also be super windy.  It's a bit more remote but offers a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty.

It's located on the southern edge of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park so even just outside of Guincho you'll be in close proximity to even more stunning nature to explore.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in Guincho is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Villa Marulha Guincho: Just 900 meters from Guincho Beach, this small house is ideal for those that want to be immersed in nature.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Villa Areia-Guincho: Although just minutes from the Atlantic Coastline, for days you really want to veg, this villa comes with a swimming pool and gardens.
• Luxury Stay: Sea'Ya Villa: Located in the heart of the small village center of Areia, enjoy staying in a modern villa with a private swimming pool and terrace.

Quinta da Marinha

Quinta da Marinha is an exclusive area featuring a golf course, equestrian center, and spa resorts. It caters to those seeking a refined lifestyle amidst lush landscapes and famous neighbors like Cristiano Ronaldo. If you’re looking for country club-style living, this is where you want to be. 

It’s self-sustaining, meaning you have restaurants, an organic grocery store, and everything else you need for daily living inside this area. Personally, this was exactly what we were NOT looking for, but it works for some.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in Quinta da Marinha is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Tropical View Cascais: This house is right on the rugged coastline and within walking distance to a small grocery store and restaurants.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Great House w/ Air Conditioning: Enjoy a large outdoor dining area and community swimming pool at this modern and family-friendly rental.
• Luxury Stay: Vila Bicuda Oasis: Located in a condominium with a community pool, shared gardens, and all the necessary amenities, this villa comfortably sleeps 6.

Bairro do Rosario

Bairro do Rosario is a quiet residential area popular among families and expats for its spacious homes and excellent amenities, including international schools, parks, and shopping centers. It's a great choice for those seeking a suburban feel within walking distance to Cascais center.

This is our ‘hood. While it looks quiet at first glance, there are plenty of hidden gems to be found once you peek behind the curtains. We love being within walking distance to “downtown Cascais” yet secluded from the hustle and bustle of tourist central.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in Bairro do Rosario is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Charming Flat With Amazing View: This apartment is incredibly trendy and offers great views of the Atlantic Ocean and a rooftop pool.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Bright, Spacious Apartment: Stay in a completely renovated apartment that has its own garden and swimming pool right in the heart of Bairro do Rosario.
• Luxury Stay: Fantastic 4 Bedroom Apartment: Moving to Cascais with your family? Get room for 9 and plenty of space to spread out and relax in the outdoor hot tub.

Fontainhas

Known for its traditional Portuguese charm, Fontainhas offers a more authentic living experience. Its narrow streets and local cafes make it perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture and community life.

It’s a cute area that we would definitely consider if we ever decided to move. It has a bit more walkability than other neighborhoods which makes it appealing for easy daily living.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in Fontainhas is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Hospitality Home: No need to break the bank to get space for your whole family with a big patio and great location to get around town.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Villa 800 Meters from Sea: A walk to the sea and to the city center, this home is located in a quiet residential area.
• Luxury Stay: Traditional Villa with Pool: All the comforts of home, but just a whole lot cuter, and walking distance to everything you could need.

Birre

Birre is an up-and-coming neighborhood that strikes a balance between tranquility and accessibility. It has become increasingly popular for its modern villas, beautiful gardens, and easy access to both the center of Cascais and the beaches. It's ideal for anyone seeking comfort and convenience in a less crowded setting.

We drive through Birre on our way to and from our kids' school. It’s a great mix of shops and restaurants and quiet nooks and crannies.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in Birre is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Large Studio Apartment: Be surrounded by green space in the quiet area to fully enjoy a slower pace of life.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Villa Facing Golf: If unique architecture is your thing, you'll love your stay at this villa. It's quirk, it's cute, and right on one of Cascais' golf courses.
• Luxury Stay: Villa with Large Garden: Need a lot more space? This home sleeps 13 and has a fireplace, heated swimming pool, and air conditioning.

Estoril

Technically the next towns over, Estoril and Monte Estoril are admired for their historic casino and high-end properties. A blend of old-world charm and leisurely beach life, they offer luxurious amenities and splendid gardens.

The first house we considered when planning our move was in Monte Estoril, just behind the casino and within a 5-minute walk to the beach. While the house wasn’t exactly what we were looking for, I think we would have been very happy in this area.

📍Before you decide to move to this neighborhood, I suggest you book a hotel or vacation rental for at least a night or two to get a real feel for it at all hours. This will give you the best chance to see if living in Estoril is a good choice for you.

• Budget Stay: Rent4Rest: Get picturesque landscapes right outside the window of this beachfront studio apartment.
• Mid-Tier Stay: Urban Beach Estoril: This 2 bedroom home is located right near the Estoril beaches, shops, restaurants, and Casino Estoril.
• Luxury Stay: Estoril House with Pool: This stunning home has been recently renovated and been given a fantastic design. You'll be located in a quiet residential area but near all the Estoril hotspots.

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House Hunting in Cascais

Finding a place to live in Cascais can be straightforward if you know where to look. Websites and local real estate agents are your best resources. Rent varies by location, but expect to pay a premium for sea views or proximity to the center and/or pristine beaches.

In order to secure our visa we had to provide a 12-month lease before actually moving. It’s a pain, but everyone does it. Having done so, we were excited to get to Cascais and settle in immediately. But things didn’t quite go as planned. 

After renting the house to us, the owner sold it and canceled our lease. Since we had already applied for our visa this gave us the perfect opportunity to house hunt in person when we arrived in Cascais. 

While we were happy to be able to see properties in person so we could really get a feel for how practical they would be for our family, the process was stressful and our timeline was super crunched. We had exactly one month to find a new home.

Not to mention we were trying to get this all done in August, when most of the country is on holiday and the typical unresponsiveness of Portuguese culture is magnified tenfold.

After looking at just about every property on the market that would accommodate our family of four, we lucked out. The property listing was quirky at best and my husband didn’t even want to go so the property. 

Fortunately for us, we didn’t have a choice; we needed to see anything and everything as time was running out.

Turned out, the house was everything we wanted and more and was being rented for a very reasonable price to boot. The owner is a very sweet Portuguese woman and we count our lucky stars that we’ve been able to call this place home for the last three years.

Needless to say, always visit properties in person if you can and use a lawyer to help you understand your rental contract before signing. Pay particular attention to soundproofing, moldy smell, and dampness as these are common issues in Portuguese homes.

House Hunting Websites:

• Idealista
• Immovirtual
• Kyero
• Casa Sapo
• Olx

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Jobs & Business Opportunities in Cascais

For job seekers, building your network is key. The local expat community is a good starting point. I’ve found the expat community to be an excellent resource for gleaning business ideas and support. 

There are fewer job opportunities here than in bigger cities like Lisbon or Porto but that doesn't mean opportunities don't exist (or you can't make your own).

Speaking Portuguese can also be a major advantage, but there are opportunities for English speakers in tourism, hospitality, startups, international companies, and businesses that cater to foreigners. We all miss certain creature comforts from our home countries and sometimes those gaps in the market can make for an amazing business opportunity.

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Is Cascais a Good Place for Digital Nomads?

Cascais is becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its scenic beauty, mild climate, and the introduction of the D8 Digital Nomad Visa. Income from outside Portugal tends to be much higher than Portuguese salaries, and therefore, remote workers can afford more of the luxurious side of Portugal in Cascais.

Its ideal location just a quick train ride away from Lisbon, combined with a laid-back lifestyle and a supportive community of expats and locals, makes it an attractive base for remote workers.

Cascais is a hotbed for those looking to start their own businesses, especially in services catering to the expat community. With its extensive expat population, there's a high demand for services ranging from high-end experiences to relocation assistance and language tutoring to cultural integration and legal advice. 

There are ample opportunities for entrepreneurs to provide innovative business ideas aimed at easing the transition for newcomers.

Coworking Spaces In & Around Cascais

For digital nomads, finding the right place to work is always top of the to-do list. Cascais offers a variety of coworking spaces and cafes that cater to the needs of remote workers, providing not just a desk but a community and network. 

While I prefer to work from the comfort of my own home and sweatpants, if you’re looking for a coworking space there are plenty to choose from.

Here are a few easily accessible coworking spaces in and around Cascais:

Yayem

Located in a small surfing suburb of Cascais—Malveira de Serra—Yayem is more than just a coworking space; it's a community hub where creativity and productivity flourish. 

They serve a group lunch (additional cost), host happy hours, and have a pool, gym, showers, and other amenities that make it a great place to spend your entire day.

Luna House & Cowork

Combining a serene work environment with wellness-focused activities, Luna House is ideal for those who balance hard work with self-care, promoting a holistic approach to the workday.

With a cozy environment and local vibes, this is a great choice for anyone who wants to meet more locals.

LACS Cascais

Offering not just coworking spaces but a creative community, LACS Cascais is the go-to for professionals in the creative industries looking for networking and collaboration opportunities.

The LACS campus is modern and bright and is located just off the exit to Cascais, which makes it a super easy commute.

The Village - Cowork Cascais

Tucked into a tranquil garden setting, The Village is perfect for those who prefer a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great space for focused work, with the added benefit of outdoor areas for relaxation and inspiration.

If you like to work in a place that has a more private feel, this could be a good option.

Lobo Cowork - Estoril

Just a short distance from Cascais, Lobo Cowork in Estoril provides a dynamic and vibrant workspace with a variety of options for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups, fostering a sense of community among its members.

The office is beautifully designed which helps get the creative juices flowing, and it’s only five minutes away from the beach and the train station.

The Living Room Co-working Cascais

Located inside the recently updated Evolution Hotel, The Living Room offers a cozy, home-like atmosphere and is ideal for those who thrive in a comfortable, relaxed setting. 

Set on the Marginal—an oceanfront road that takes you from Cascais to Lisbon—the hotel boasts sea views and is near many amenities like spas, gyms, restaurants, and beaches.

I recently visited the hotel for drinks with friends and to see the upgrades, and they have done an excellent job at defining the different spaces such as the co-working area, bar, restaurant, and lounge-like lobby. 

Cowork Cascais

This space provides a quiet, comfortable setting for focused work, along with the opportunity to mingle with like-minded professionals.

This space feels like home and offers tons of amenities like a pool, open kitchen, garden, and even a padel court, which makes it the perfect place to not only get some work done but also meet others living in Cascais.

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What to Do in Cascais & the Surrounding Area

Cascais is an expat's playground, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and easy day trips. I really have to force myself to buckle down sometimes, because there are so many things to do other than work! 

Here's how you can enjoy the town's vibrant lifestyle:

Hike to Capela de Nossa Senhora da Peninha

This hike ends with incredible views from Lisbon's Ponte 25 de Abril to Cabo da Roca, Europe's westernmost point. It's an ideal activity for nature lovers wanting to capture Cascais's scenic beauty. 

And if you’re in the mood for a post-hike lunch you can head to my favorite scenic restaurant nearby—Moinho Dom Quixote. With views over Guincho Beach and a delicious mix of Brazilian and Portuguese staples as well as faves like caesar salad and sangria, it’s a no-brainer after a long hike.

Surf at Guincho Beach

Known for its excellent surf, Guincho Beach is a favorite among surfers of all levels. With surf schools nearby, it's a great spot to take surfing lessons and catch some waves or simply enjoy the sandy shores. 

There’s also a restaurant that juts right out onto the sand and chairs and umbrellas for rent. It’s one of our favorite places to take the kids for a quick bite and dip in the ocean.

If surfing isn’t your thing, you can visit one of the many popular beaches around Cascais, all beautiful and with their own personality and offerings. Whether you're looking for water sports or sun chairs for rent, there's a beach for you.

Lunch on the Paredão

Enjoy a meal with a view along the Paredão. This oceanfront walkway is dotted with eateries perfect for a leisurely lunch against the backdrop of the Atlantic. 

One of my go-to's is Azimut. Excellent seafood including the Portuguese staple, Polvo á lagareiro, which means sauteed in garlic and olive oil and served with potatoes.

Take the Train to Lisbon

Just 30 minutes away by train, Lisbon's historic charm and cultural buzz are easily accessible. It’s perfect for those looking to spice up their routine with a quick urban escape.

Make a Day of it in Sintra

Just a 20-minute drive from Cascais, Sintra is a must-visit for its enchanting castles and palaces. This UNESCO World Heritage site is steeped in history and fantasy, offering a magical escape with sites like Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. 

A hidden gem among all the castles and palaces is my new favorite, Monserrate Palace. A bit more out of the center of Sintra, but well worth a visit.

Explore the Portuguese Riviera

The coastline between Cascais and Lisbon, known as the Portuguese Riviera, is dotted with charming towns and beautiful beaches, each offering its own unique allure. This stretch is a paradise for those looking to explore the scenic diversity of Portugal's coast.

Here are some highlights:

Carcavelos

Famous for its expansive sandy beach, Carcavelos is a favorite among surfers and sunbathers alike. The town is vibrant, with plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy after a day in the sun. Its lively atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Here you will also find plenty of sport to be had from the newly famous pickleball to foot volley to beach tennis, and more.

Oeiras

Known for its historical sites and beautiful parks, Oeiras offers a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor activities. The town's marina and beachfront promenade are perfect for leisurely walks and dining with a view. Tagus Park is also a tech hub where many startups and tech companies call home.

Estoril

Just a stone's throw from Cascais, Estoril is renowned for its luxury and charm. The town boasts the famous Casino Estoril, beautiful gardens, and Tamariz Beach, making it a glamorous spot for nightlife and relaxation.

Paço de Arcos

A picturesque town with a quaint historic center, Paço de Arcos is ideal for those interested in architecture and history. The town's waterfront and fishing harbor offer a glimpse into the traditional Portuguese way of life.

Algés

With its lively market and riverside parks, Algés is a blend of traditional and modern. It's a great place to enjoy local cuisine and explore the contemporary art scene, making it a cultural hub on the way to Lisbon.

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Boring but Important

Living in Portugal means dealing with bureaucracy. Registering as a resident, understanding tax obligations, and navigating the healthcare system are a few essential steps. 

The good news is that there's plenty of advice available from the expat community and local services.

You'll be happy to know though:

• Private health insurance is extremely affordable and healthcare is high quality
• Bureaucratic tasks can be tedious and take a long time to complete
• While it’s not essential to speak Portuguese, it will come in handy on a daily basis and help you integrate into the local community faster. Mondly is a great app that'll help you get the ball rolling.

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Long-Term Visa Options

Portugal offers various visas for expats, including temporary residence visas for work, study, or entrepreneurship. EU citizens have it easier so non-EU expats should research and prepare their visa applications well in advance.

From what I can tell, these are the most popular visa options for those living in Cascais or Portugal in general.

D7 Passive Income Visa

Ideal for retirees or individuals with consistent passive income, this visa allows you to live in Portugal if you can prove a steady income from pensions, real estate, investments, or intellectual property. 

You first apply for the visa from your home country and then convert it to a 2-year resident permit after you enter Portugal. Renewal for another three years is possible, and you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.

D8 Digital Nomad Visa

Introduced for remote workers and freelancers who can work from anywhere, the D8 digital nomad visa caters to those with a stable income from outside Portugal, allowing them to live and work in the country. 

You can choose a short-term visa for stays up to one year or go for a long-term residence permit that allows stays up to two years and renewal.

Golden Visa

This program offers residency to non-EU investors who make a significant investment in Portugal. It's a fast track to residency with perks like visa-free travel in the Schengen Area. In-country requirements are as little as 7-14 days per year making this visa ideal for those who don't want to spend significant time in the country.

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Quality of Life in Cascais

Expats often praise Cascais as an attractive destination for its quality of life. The combination of friendly locals, beautiful surroundings, welcoming culture, and relaxed lifestyle makes it a wonderful place to live. 

As previously mentioned, we were nervous to move to a place that was sooooo dense with expats, but we have been nothing but happy with our choice!

Cost of Living in Cascais

Living in Cascais can be more affordable than in major cities around the world, but it is one of the most expensive places to live in Portugal. Housing is the biggest expense, followed by food, transportation, and leisure activities. 

Expect to pay a premium for living in such a popular and cosmopolitan area of Portugal.

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Hindsight Insights

• I wish we had known more about the cost of living in Cascais. We thought Portugal equaled cheap, and boy were we wrong. While Portugal is relatively inexpensive compared to the rest of Western Europe, Cascais is one of, if not the, most expensive areas in Portugal. 
• Integrating into the community and understanding local customs can enhance your experience in Cascais and make you feel more at home faster. But buyer beware, the sheer number of foreigners in Cascais will make it more difficult to seek out an authentic Portuguese life.
• I also wish I had known just how residential the town is outside the center. It's not like Lisbon where everywhere you look there are restaurants and cafes and shops. Once you leave the historic center it quickly becomes very private and quiet, which can be good and bad. 
• And lastly, I wish I had started learning Portuguese BEFORE moving to Cascais. Because it is such a popular destination for expats and tourists, many people speak English, making it difficult to practice Portuguese often without discipline. It's just too easy to switch to English. 

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Bonus Tips for Living in Cascais

Public Transport

Cascais is well-connected by train to Lisbon, making it easy to explore the capital. There are also many public buses and Uber and Bolt (Portuguese Uber) are very affordable.

Shopping

Local markets and international stores offer everything you need. From organic markets to the Mercado da Vila and large chain grocery stores, you can find delicious and affordable food in Cascais. In addition, the center offers a plethora of tourist shops, local crafts, and stylish clothing and homeware shops to choose from.

Must-Pack Items

Bring layers for the mild climate, as temps can vary wildly between day and night. You might be sweating and reapplying sunscreen during the day and then shivering at night, so beware.

And don't forget your swimwear! You'll find locals bathing in the frigid sea year-round, and even in winter the sand and sun can beckon.

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Will Cascais Be Your New Home Abroad?

Cascais offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, cultural richness, and a welcoming expat community. Whether you're moving for the lifestyle, the scenery, or the people, Cascais has something special to offer.

With the right preparation to move to Portugal and an open heart, your expat journey in Cascais can be an unforgettable adventure.