The Portuguese Riviera: The Definitive Guide
January 2024
There’s no such thing as a bad Riviera.
Some, however, are a bit more well-known than others. That means crowds.
Sometimes, that works for us, and sometimes we just need to escape.
That’s when we turn to our ace-in-the-hole, the Portuguese Riviera.
Pristine beaches, European charm, world-class auto racing, outstanding golf, and of course, fine dining and five-star hotels.
Welcome to the Definitive Guide to Europe’s luxe-less-known gem, the Portuguese Riviera.
Table of Contents
Is The Portuguese Riviera Worth Visiting?
The Portuguese Riviera is a must-visit for the smart traveler who values style, sophisitcation, and luxury.
Situated along the Estoril Coast just west of Lisbon, the Portuguese Riviera is a treasure trove of coastal elegance and cultural richness.
While often overshadowed by its Mediterranean counterparts (such as the French Riviera, The Ligurian Riviera, the Spanish Riviera), this hidden gem offers a unique blend of beautiful beaches, historic towns, and upscale amenities.
What Towns & Cities Make Up the Portuguese Riviera?
The Riviera begins in the the northern city of Cascias, and runs down the coast of Portugal to the southernmost town on the Riviera, Estoril.
The most visited cities when traveling the Riviera are:
- Cascias
- Lisbon
- Oeiras
- Carcavelos
- Parede
- Estoril
Portuguese Riviera Fact Sheet
Climate & Best Times to Visit:
● The Portuguese Riviera enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
● Winters are typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from 8 to 15°C (46 to 59°F), making it a pleasant off-season destination.
● Summer temperatures range from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F), creating an ideal environment for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
● The region experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, with the wettest months occurring during the winter season.
Getting There:
● By Air – The main international gateway to the Portuguese Riviera is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), which is well-connected to major cities worldwide.
● From the airport, visitors can easily reach the coastal towns by taxi, shuttle services, or public transportation.
● By Land – Lisbon is well-connected by road networks, and visitors can reach the Portuguese Riviera by car or bus. The A5 highway connects Lisbon to Cascais, providing a scenic route along the coastline.
Getting Around:
● Public Transportation – From North to South, he Portuguese Riviera boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation system.
● In all of the major cities on the Riviera, metro, buses, and trams provide convenient access to various points of interest.
● Trains connect Lisbon to Cascais and Estoril, offering a scenic coastal journey.
● Renting a car is a reasonable travle option that provides flexibility to explore the region independently. Rental agencies are readily available at Lisbon Airport and in the city center.
● Walking and Biking – The Riviera is generally pedestrian-friendly. Many areas along the Portuguese Riviera are also bike-friendly. Bike rentals are available for those looking to explore at a leisurely pace.
What Are the Top Things To Do On The Portuguese Riviera?
The Portuguese Riviera has so many incredible experiences to be had we’re constantly amazed that it’s neither overcrowded or over-commercialized.
Below are our recommendations for the Riviera’s most amazing experiences.
Visit the Region’s World-Class Beaches
You can’t have an iconic Riviera without great beaches. No worries, Portugal’s got this covered.
The Portuguese Riviera is blessed with pristine sandy beaches, most notably Cascais Beach and Tamariz Beach.
Known for their expansive sandy stretches, these beaches are perfect for both relaxation and recreation. These shores provide an ideal setting for sunbathing, water sports, walks, and light hikes.
Explore the Coast’s Historic Towns
A Riviera needs to sport old world charm. Portugal’s got this covered too.
Cascais and Estoril, the two historic towns at the heart of the Portuguese Riviera, offer the perfect blend of sun splashed history and sophistication.
Take a day and explore Cascias’ transformation from a fishing village to a sophisticated resort town with cobbled streets and upscale boutiques.
For detailed travel information, visit the Cascais Tourism Board: Visit Cascais
Meanwhile, Estoril, known for its historic casino (more on that in a moment) and vibrant cultural scene, combines old world charm with modern glamour.
Discover more at: Estoril Tourism Office
Try Your Luck at the Casino Estoril
Every great Riviera needs a great Casino. Portugal’s is Casino Estoril.
Casino Estoril, one of Europe’s largest casinos, is steeped in history and glamour.
Beyond gaming, it played a significant role during World War II as a hub for espionage.
It’s a great opportunity to imagine yourself as an Allied spy immersed in drama and international intrigue. And to win some money.
Today, it plays host not only the excitement of gaming but also to concerts, entertainment, a contemporary art gallery and a vibrant nightlife.
The casino also frequently hosts sporting events including boxing and official Wako Sanctioned professional Kickboxing.
Plan Your Visit at: Casino Estoril
Visit Marina de Cascais
Yachts? Yes, the Portuguese Riviera’s got those too, and they’re quite impressive.
The Marina de Cascais serves as a hub for yachting and sailing enthusiasts.
Fishing charters, sunset cruises, and sailboats are all available for rental in Cascais, and all are highly recommended.
Plan Your Maritime Experience: Cascais Marina
Take a Scenic Coastal Drive Along the Portuguese Riviera
When you’re ready to book that classic convertible, here’s the route to wind it out on.
The route from Cascais to Guincho is renowned for its cliffs and ocean panoramas.
Whether you’re in search of great photos, classic sunsets, or just the chance to unwind on a stretch of paradise, this is your destination.
Explore the Route: Estoril Coast
Explore the Riviera’s Cultural Heritage
Part of the joy of Riviera life is escaping into the past. Portugal’s Rivieria is rich with history and old-world charm.
Delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Portuguese Riviera by visiting historic forts, palaces, and natural wonders.
Top sites include:
Citadel of Cascais
Originally a fortress, it now houses the Museum of the Sea, offering a fascinating view into Portugal’s world-changing maritime history.
Plan Your Visit at: 360 Cascais
Pena Palace – Sintra
Don’t miss the chance to explore this colorful and eclectic palace set on a hilltop in Sintra, which uniquely blends various architectural styles from Portugal’s storied past.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Romanticism in architecture, block out two to three hours to fully explore the palace.
Learn More: Pena Palace
Castelo de São Jorge – Lisbon
This Moorish castle overlooking Lisbon with a history dating back to the 2nd century BC offers panoramic views of the city, and is not to be missed for history-lovers.
Plan Your Visit at: São Jorge Castle
Boca do Inferno – Cascais
This dramatic cliff formation and sea cave is one of the Portuguese Riviera’s most visitied and photographed attractions and for good reason.
Fun Fact: Boca do Inferno translates to “Hell’s Mouth” in Portuguese. Fear not, though, as long as you’re not an ancient mariner, it’s quite beautiful.
Learn More at: Boca do Inferno
Experience the Circuito do Estoril
To be truly chic, a Riviera must have an auto race. Start your engines…
The Circuito do Estoril is a must-visit destination.
This race track, with a history dating back to 1972, has hosted Formula One and MotoGP events.
The circuit is set against a backdrop of lush landscapes, providing a thrilling experience for both spectators and participants.
Plan Your Visit with here: Circuito do Estoril Calendar
What Are the Portuguese Riviera’s Best Golf Courses?
Rivieras and golf go together like, well, Rivieras and golf.
The Portuguese Riviera boasts world-class golf courses that seamlessly blend with the coastal landscape.
Enjoy superb ocean views as you perfect your swing in this unique and sophisticated golfing destination.
Some of the most notable include:
Oitavos Dunes – Cascais
Designed by Arthur Hills, this course offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is consistently ranked among the top courses in Europe.
Fun Fact: Oitavos Dunes is the first golf course in Europe to be recognized as a Certified Signature Sanctuary.
Explore the Course here: Oitavos Dunes
Penha Longa Resort – Sintra
Nestled in the Sintra mountains, this course offers a challenging layout with historical ruins and beautiful landscapes.
Fun Fact: The resort includes a luxurious hotel set within a 14th-century monastery.
Tee Off Here: https://www.penhalonga.com/
Palácio Estoril – Estoril
A classic course with a rich history dating back to 1929, offering a charming setting surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees.
Fun Fact: Estoril Golf has hosted various international tournaments over the years.
Explore the Course here: Estoril Golf
Quinta da Marinha Golf – Cascais
Situated within a natural park, this course provides a challenging yet picturesque experience with views of the Atlantic and the Sintra mountains.
Fun Fact: The course was designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones.
Discover More at: Quinta da Marinha Golf
Should I Plan My Trip Around Seasonal Events?
A Riviera must host events that draw in-the-know crowds. Does Portugal’s Riviera have those? It sure does.
The Portuguese Riviera hosts a variety of globally acclaimed cultural events that are worth planning a trip around, particularly.
Music events take front and center, with multiple world-class summer festivals.
Attend the Cascais CoolJazz Music Festival
Guests at the Cascais CoolJazz Music Festival enjoy diverse musical talents in a spectacular setting by the sea.
The festival features an excellent mix of genres, ranging from classical to contemporary.
Recent and upcoming performances include artists as diverse as Norah Jones, Air, Diana Krall, Van Morrison, Ben Harper and Lionel Richie.
Official site: Cascais Cool Jazz
Visit the Festas Do Mar
The Festas Do Mar in late August and early September are free music festivals that attract big crowds and marquee artists.
Each year the show is closed with a grand finale by the Cascais Symphony Orchestra, a performance that’s not to be missed.
Offical site: Festas Do Mar
Attend the Lisboa & Estoril Film Festival
For cinephiles, and we here at Page 28 certainly fit that bill, The Lisboa & Estoril Film Festival attracts film enthusiasts from around the world.
Each November, the Lisboa & Estoril festival showcases a diverse range of international films, drawing attention from cinephiles worldwide.
Official site: Leffest
What Are the Best Luxury Hotels on the Portuguese Riviera?
Hotels are the pillars of a great Riviera, and there are many here on Portugal’s coast.
The luxury hotels and resorts along the Portuguese Riviera offer not just a stay but an experience.
With stunning ocean views and a commitment to comfort and elegance, these accommodations cater to high-end travelers, ensuring bespoke amenities and spas, and luxurious, unforgettable experiences.
Some of our favorites include:
The Oitavos Hotel – Cascais
A 5-star hotel in Portugal noted for its fine dining, spa and golf.
Official site: The Oitavos
Conrad Algarve – Almancil
A luxury 5-star resort on the Algarve coast.
Official site: Conrad Algarve
EPIC SANA – Algarve, Albufeira
A chic beachfront 5-star hotel with multiple pools and restaurants.
Official site: Epic Sana
The Vine Hotel – Cascais
A 5-star boutique hotel with a superb rooftop bar and spa offering luxury accommodations in Cascais.
Official site: The Vine
Tivoli Carvoeiro – Carvoeiro
A glamorous 5-star property with stunning ocean views.
Official Site: Tivoli Carvoeiro
Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa – Porches
A dazzling five-star clifftop resort spread along Portugal’s Algarve coast.
Official Site: Vila Vita
Anantara Vilamoura – Vilamoura
Part of the superb Anantara hotel brand, located along the Ria Formosa nature preserve.
Official Site: Anantara Vilamoura
Pestana Vila Sol Golf & Resort – Vilamoura
An exclusive 5-star hotel with old world charm and first-class amenities.
Official Site: Pestana Vila Sol
