Traditionally a small fishing port, Cascais has changed during the last 100 years to become one of the favourite tourist destinations in Portugal. It exudes a cosmopolitan atmosphere without losing its local flavour. In Cascais, the bay is the main attraction. It is worthwhile walking around the pathways that surrounds the bay taking note of the contrast between the vivid colours of the small fishing boats and the sober ones of the yachts and sail boats at the yacht club. After admiring the bay you may wish to go to the fortress, to The Museum of the Sea and on to the fascinating Museum of Conde Castro Guimarães, with its small private beach. Here you can listen to some of the best classical concerts that take place in Cascais.
If you take pleasure in walking in parks, there is one next to the museum where you can relax beneath the shade its foliage provides during the hotter hours of the day. On your way back towards the bay you can walk through some of the typical narrow streets of the town and see the traditional white houses, patterned pavements, wrought iron and old tiled fronts.
Wondering through the centre of town is very pleasant and you will discover charming houses, picturesque corners dotted with small cosy restaurants, cafes and shops, where you can rest until you feel like going on again. In other parts of the town you will find old palaces and luxurious villas with magnificent architecture which is worthwhile examining in detail. The Forte de S. Jorge (St. George Fort), re-opened in December 2000, was once one of the coasts most important defensive structures and is now a military museum. The main facade was rebuilt based on documents from 1796 and some divisions were used to portray scenes on what would be a normal day in the fortress.
In order to get to know a town or city very well there is nothing better than being driven by your imagination, allowing yourself the freedom to get lost among its streets until you feel like finding your way again.