The best things to do in Cascais this autumn

The leaves start to fall, and the tree canopies turn shades of brown – there’s no better way to embrace autumn than by visiting one of Cascais’ parks or gardens. Parque Marechal Carmona is the first that springs to mind, but there are many others scattered across the region, from Parque de Palmela to the Outeiro de Polima Urban Park, the charming Parque Morais in Parede, or the unmissable Quinta do Pisão. Perfect for romantic strolls, picnics with friends, runs to stay fit, or peaceful walks to clear your mind. The choice is yours.

Beaches aren’t just for summer. While many enjoy the winter sun, autumn’s warmth can be even more delightful (who knows, it might even allow for that last swim of the year!). For leisurely strolls without the sweltering heat, there are plenty of paths and cycle lanes with the sea as your backdrop: from the promenade connecting Cascais to São João, to the cycle lane stretching from the Marina to Guinho, and the boardwalk along Carcavelos Beach. So, get moving!

Stylista market has become an unmissable destination for anyone who enjoys a good shopping spree. The Fall Market Stylista is set for the weekend of 5th and 6th October, returning as always to FIARTIL - Estoril Craft Fair, with entry priced at €3. There will be over 100 brands in attendance, mainly from Portugal. Discover the new autumn collections, but also take advantage of summer sales and stock clearance from previous collections. In addition to clothing and accessories, there will be food and drinks, plus a dedicated space for kids to play freely. Entry is free for children up to 12 years old.

We’ve already mentioned that autumn is one of the best times of the year to immerse yourself in museums. But there’s more art and culture to explore in the town. Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to visit the galleries and artists' studios that fill the town's Art District in the Citadel. Alongside paintings, sculptures, and illustrations, you’ll also find bookstores and tasty snacks to enjoy.

If you’ve spent the winter, spring, and summer training, the time has come. The Ironman is the biggest sporting event of the year in Cascais, taking place from Praia da Ribeira on 19th October, where 4,600 athletes from around the globe will swim, run, and cycle in this demanding triathlon. For those seeking a lighter (yet still challenging) alternative, there will also be a 70.3 competition, featuring half the distances for each discipline. If you prefer to take it easy, why not come along and be inspired?

As temperatures drop and rain begins to make an appearance, autumn is the perfect season to refresh your wardrobe. Check out the best shops in Cascais to find the jacket or boots you’ll fall in love with this year.

Concerts, musicals, theatre plays, and dance performances are always a great choice. However, during the summer, the schedule cools down, only to heat up again in the autumn. For a cosy evening out, take your pick—there are bound to be fantastic options at the Casino Estoril, the concert hall at SMUP, or the auditoriums of the Estoril Academy of Arts, Teatro Mirita Casimiro, and Teatro Gil Vicente, among other artistic hubs in the area.

Have you ever seen a six-wheeled Formula 1 car? The iconic Tyrrell P34 was the only one ever used in competition during the 1970s, and it will be on display at Estoril Classics. This event, celebrating cars that have made their mark in motorsport history, takes over the Estoril Autodrome from 4th to 6th October—one of the standout highlights this autumn in the Cascais region.

Surfboards may seem more suited to summer, but the truth is that autumn brings bigger, more consistent waves—making it arguably the best time of year to catch some surf, even if the water is a bit chillier. Put on your wetsuit, dive into the sea, and say you were pushed in (or sign up for a lesson with one of the many local schools). This autumn, the Clube Naval de Cascais is also offering windsurfing and sailing courses.