Cascais Day Trip: Top Things to See from São Martinho do Porto

Cascais by the sea

Cascais day trip from São Martinho do Porto.....

Just 45 minutes from Villa 6 in São Martinho do Porto, the coastal town of Cascais offers the perfect blend of sun, style, and seaside charm. Once a sleepy fishing village, Cascais has blossomed into one of Portugal’s most elegant and vibrant destinations. With its palm-lined promenades, historic mansions, buzzing food scene, and laid-back beach culture, it’s a day trip that delivers far more than just pretty views.

🏖️ A Stroll to Remember

On our latest visit, we stepped out of the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel just as the sun began its golden descent. The light shimmered over the ocean, the breeze was warm, and the town pulsed with life. As we wandered along the waterfront past Casa Santa Maria, the magic of Cascais began to unfold.

That evening, the town was electric—Sporting CP had just won the Portuguese football championship. Horns blared, flags flew, and locals cheered with a contagious energy that swept us right into the celebration.

🍣 My Blade Runner Birthday at Izakaya

Then came dinner at IZAKAYA—a birthday gift and an unforgettable culinary journey. With only 18 seats at the bar, this tiny, neon-lit gem feels like a secret club, straight out of Blade Runner (my all-time favourite film, by the way).

The vibe? Vibrant and edgy. The music? On point. The food? Next level.

Behind the bar, Rose, a Dutch cocktail virtuoso from Zaltbommel, worked her magic. Every drink was a performance. Plate after plate arrived—each one more delicious than the last YUM YUM YUM, with sake flowing, Cool music, a Fab vibe and conversation bubbly with the neighbour on the set next and waiters.

At 10:30, we gave up our spots to the next lucky diners and wandered back to our hotel—satiated, smiling, and slightly tipsy on joy (and sake).

Tip: It's open for Lunch and Dinner, but it's only got 18 seats around the bar.

🌊 But There’s So Much More to Cascais…

Cascais isn’t just about food—it’s a complete experience. Here are just a few reasons why it’s one of Portugal’s most beloved coastal destinations:

The Beaches

• Praia da Rainha – a postcard-perfect cove right in the town centre.

• Guincho Beach – a wild, wind-swept stretch of sand, ideal for surfers and sunset seekers.

The Marina & Museums

• Cascais Marina – a sleek spot for a stroll, with yachts, cafes, and Atlantic views.

• Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães – a fairy-tale mansion filled with art and history, perched on the cliff’s edge.

• Paula Rego House of Stories – a modern museum dedicated to one of Portugal’s greatest contemporary artists.

The Historic Centre

The cobbled streets are lined with boutiques, ice cream parlours, and colourful azulejo tiles. It’s the kind of place where you can just wander and find something beautiful at every turn.

Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth)

A dramatic cliff formation just outside town, where the waves crash into the rocks with theatrical force. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Great Food, Always

From Michelin-starred restaurants to family-run seafood joints, Cascais delivers on taste. Try the grilled sardines, octopus salad, or a simple espresso at a streetside café—you can’t go wrong.

💡 Top Tip for Villa 6 Guests:

Leave Villa 6 around 9:00 AM, and you’ll have time for:

• A beachfront brunch

• A museum or market visit

• A long lunch (or early dinner) at IZAKAYA, don't forget to book.

• And maybe a cheeky gelato on the way back

  
  

You’ll be home in time for a sunset glass of wine on the terrace. Cascais is just close enough for comfort, and just far enough to feel like a mini-holiday inside your holiday.

Izakaya: One of the Best Restaurants in Cascais

Cascais is a coastal treasure on Portugal’s Estoril Coast, just a short trip west of Lisbon. Known for its golden beaches, marina, and cobbled streets, this seaside town is also gaining a reputation for its thriving food scene. If you’re searching for one of the best restaurants in Cascais, look no further than Izakaya Mura, a Japanese-inspired dining spot that combines authentic flavors with modern flair.

A Tokyo Vibe on the Portuguese Coast

Step into Izakaya Mura and you’ll feel transported straight to Tokyo. Neon kanji characters glow overhead, Polaroid photos cover the ceiling, and bottles of sake line the bar, setting the mood for a vibrant evening. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a full experience that blends Japanese izakaya culture with the coastal charm of Cascais restaurants.

Japanese Food in Cascais That You’ll Remember

The menu at Izakaya Mura is designed for sharing, with dishes that are both visually stunning and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect spot for anyone craving Japanese food in Cascais. Highlights include:

• Okonomiyaki – A savory Japanese pancake layered with cabbage, seafood, and pork, topped with dancing bonito flakes and creamy sauces.

• Ebi Tempura – Light, crispy prawns fried to golden perfection.

• Tuna Tataki – Seared tuna dressed with sesame and soy, fresh and melt-in-your-mouth.

• Kaisen Don – A rice bowl topped with salmon roe, tuna tartare, and a silky egg yolk—comforting yet luxurious.

• Desserts – Sweet creations like chocolate layered with shards of white chocolate that melt under the warm glow of the restaurant’s lights.

Every dish is made for both the eye and the palate, making Izakaya Mura stand out among top restaurants in Cascais.

Pair It with Sake

The restaurant also offers an impressive sake selection, from crisp Dassai to bold Yamamoto Pure Black. Whether you’re a sake beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, the team will guide you to the perfect pairing, enhancing your meal and making the experience unforgettable.

Things to Do in Cascais (and Why Dinner Here Should Be One of Them)

A day in Cascais can be as relaxing or adventurous as you like—wander the beaches of Cascais, explore boutique shops, visit the marina, and then settle in for dinner at Izakaya Mura. Among all the Estoril Coast restaurants, this is one that truly leaves a mark.

For guests staying at Villa 6 Silver Coast, a day trip to Cascais is simple and worthwhile. End your seaside adventure with an evening here, and you’ll return home with more than just photos—you’ll have flavors and memories that linger long after.

✨ Villa 6 Travel Tip: Reserve your table in advance. Izakaya Mura is quickly becoming one of the must-visit restaurants in Cascais, and seats fill up fast!

Ready to discover Cascais? Book your stay at Villa 6 Silver Coast, your perfect home base for exploring Portugal’s hidden gems.