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Lisbon! Our Brief Guide for Visiting Cascais and Belém in a Day

  • Charles Jordan
  • May 24
  • 3 min read
Large stone wall in foreground, colorful pink and yellow buildings behind. Two people near yellow barricades, cloudy sky above.
Cascais Citadel and Village

Our Brief Visitors Guide – Cascais and Belém Portugal in a Day

  • Cascais 

    • Coastal charm

    • Dining and Shopping at the Marina

    • Fun beaches

    • Historical fortifications – Citadel Palace

    • Boca do Inferno – Dramatic coastal rock formations and scenic ocean vistas.

  • Belém

    • Jerónimos Monastery

    • Belém Tower – Historic fortification protecting Lisbon

    • Monument to the Discoveries – Celebrating Henry the Navigator

    • Pastéis de Belém – Famous custard tarts with a secret monastery recipe since 1837.

    • MAAT Museum – Art, architecture, and technology with breathtaking river views.

  • Train Travel Tips

    • Efficient train system

    • Lisbon Card perks

  • Dining in Bairro Alto – Vibrant food scene with petiscos, seafood, and local drinks.


A Perfect Day Exploring Cascais & Belém

Fitting both Cascais and Belém into one day was ambitious, but doable with careful planning. We started with an 8:40 AM train from Cais do Sodré to Cascais, using the Comboios de Portugal app to check train times. The station signage wasn’t great for non-Portuguese speakers, but knowing “Comboios” means “trains” helped.



Upon arriving in Cascais at 9:30 AM, we Headed to the marina for breakfast. This took us on a scenic stroll past the Citadel. Later we toured the Citadel Palace, learning that guided tours must be reserved in advance via WhatsApp. The informative tour was well worth the wait. A bonus? A Neo modern art exhibit, reminiscent of Picasso’s social commentary, helped pass the time before the tour.


Cascais Coastline

Due to timing, we skipped the Museo Condes de Castro Guimarães and instead walked along the coastline to Boca do Inferno, a rugged rock formation. There we found stunning views of waves crashing dramatically against the rocky shore. Before heading to Belém, we walked past Praia da Rainha, a cove once favored by Queen Amélia on our way to Mercado da Vila for petiscos (Portuguese tapas) at Páteo do Petisco.



Belém: History, Architecture & Iconic Treats

Arriving in Belém at 4:36 PM, we rushed to Jerónimos Monastery, scanning our Lisboa Card for fast entry. First, we explored the Church, where the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões are found, then entered the Monastery, marveling at its vast cloisters with intricately carved maritime motifs.



Next, we photographed Belém Tower, though restoration prevented entry. Its Moorish-inspired balconies and watchtowers still made for a stunning sight. The Monument to the Discoveries was equally impressive, with Henry the Navigator leading 32 historical figures toward the horizon. We took the elevator up six floors, then climbed 41 steps to reach a panoramic observation deck, with views of Cristo Rei, Jerónimos Monastery, and Belém Tower.


We couldn’t leave Belém without visiting Pastéis de Belém, where warm custard tarts awaited. The line moved swiftly, and while sugar and cinnamon packets were provided, the tarts were sweet enough without extra sugar. If we hadn’t devoured them immediately, we might’ve added cinnamon.


Back to Lisbon & Bairro Alto Dining

After picking up a bottle of Mariquinhas Licor de Ginja, we validated our Lisboa Card at the train platform and took the Cascais Line back to Cais do Sodré at 6:36 PM.


Grilled octopus on a white plate with roasted potatoes, lemon wedge, and broccoli, drizzled with sauce and garnished with herbs.
Grilled Octopus at Restaurante Volta dos Sabores in Lisbon

Dinner was an adventure. My original plan was Antonia Petiscos, but the small restaurant was packed. Before finding their sister location, I stumbled upon Restaurante Volta dos Sabores, where I enjoyed draft beer, a mixed salad, and grilled octopus with roasted vegetables, finishing with a sip of Ginja before heading back to the hotel.


Our journey through Cascais and Belém was an exciting mix of seaside charm, rich history, and incredible flavors. Cascais enchanted us with its quiet coves and impressive citadel, while Belém showcased Portugal’s architectural grandeur and maritime legacy. A warm Pastel de Belém, scenic train rides, and a satisfying dinner in Bairro Alto rounded out the experience. Whether following this itinerary or making it your own, these destinations are essential stops for anyone exploring Lisbon.


There's so much more to see and do in Cascais and Belém. You really could do a day in each place or more!


Have you visited Cascais or Belém? What was your most memorable experience?

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