Cascais
Beach Coastal BeachesCascais is a picturesque coastal town located in the Lisbon District of Portugal, situated along the Atlantic coast approximately 30 kilometers west of Lisbon. The town has evolved from a small fishing village into a sophisticated seaside destination while maintaining much of its historic charm and character. Cascais features a beautiful waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, alongside a well-preserved old town with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional Portuguese architecture. The town is known for its stunning natural landscape, including dramatic rocky cliffs, secluded coves, and sandy beaches that attract both locals and tourists throughout the year. The area has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and cultural events, and serves as a gateway to the scenic Sintra-Cascais National Park. Cascais is well-connected to Lisbon via train and road, making it an attractive destination for day-trippers and those seeking a more relaxed coastal lifestyle while maintaining easy access to the capital's amenities and employment opportunities.
Podcasts
Episode 7: Diogo Capela, Internationally Recognized Immigration Lawyer in Portugal
Episode 3: On the Coast in Cascais, Portugal
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Visa & Residency
Portugal has a range of options that make it an attractive destination for expats looking to live and work in the country. The D7 Visa, often called the Passive Income Visa, is ideal for retirees and individuals with stable, passive income from sources such as pensions, rental properties, or investments. The D8 Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in 2022, caters specifically to remote workers who earn income from clients or employers outside Portugal. This visa offers both a Temporary Stay Visa (valid for up to one year) and a residency Visa (which can be renewed and lead to permanent residency).
For entrepreneurs and investors, the Golden Visa provides a pathway to residency through real estate investment or other qualifying investments in the Portuguese economy. Additionally, professionals seeking employment in Portugal can apply for the D1 Work Visa, while highly skilled workers may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. With its welcoming policies, Portugal continues to attract a diverse range of expats looking for new opportunities.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Cascais is high, particularly for accommodation, which reflects its status as a desirable coastal destination and residential area for affluent Portuguese and international residents. Property prices and rental costs have increased significantly in recent years due to demand from both tourists and those relocating from Lisbon. While dining and entertainment can be expensive in tourist-oriented areas, local markets and smaller establishments offer more moderate pricing options.
Weather
Cascais enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers, with average temperatures ranging from 8-9°C in winter to 20-22°C in summer, and relatively moderate rainfall distributed throughout the year.
Healthcare in Cascais
Cascais has access to quality healthcare facilities including Hospital da Luz Cascais, a private hospital offering comprehensive medical services. The area is well-served by both private and public healthcare options, with proximity to Lisbon's major medical centers for specialized treatments. Emergency and routine care services are readily available and meet European standards.
Schools in Cascais
Cascais hosts several international schools, including the International Preparatory School (IPS) which offers a British curriculum for children aged 3 to 11, and St. Julian's School, which provides an international education to students from more than 40 nationalities and offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.
The International School of Cascais is bilingual and offers a curriculum in both English and Portuguese, catering to both international and local students. Another example is the Salesianos de Estoril, which, while not exclusively bilingual, offers a strong English language program within its curriculum.
Restaurants in Cascais
Living in Cascais
