Table Of Contents

1. Don't Take a Taxi From the Airport
2. Instead take the Train
3. Skip the Bloemenmarkt
4. Visit the Keukenhof instead!
5. Skip the Damrak
6. Instead, Wander the Jordaan Neighbourhood
7. Don't Rent A Bicycle Solo
8. Instead, Go on a Bike Tour
9. Don't Think you ONLY have to Eat Cheese & Herring
10. Instead, Try Indonesian Food!
11. Don't Take Recreational Drugs Lightly
12. Instead, Listen to Your Coffeeshop concierge
13. Skip the Hop-On Hop-Off
14. Instead, Go on a Canal Tour
15. Skip the Heineken Experience
16. Instead, check out Brouwerij de Prael
17. Skip the Beer Bikes
18. Instead, check out a "Brown Café"
19. Skip the tourist A'DAM Lookout
20. Instead, Go to The Central Library Rooftop Terrace
21. Skip Rembrandtplein and Dam Square
22. Instead, head over to Noordermarkt
23. Don't Be Dissapointed if you Miss the Anne Frank House
24. Instead, visit the Verzetsmuseum
25. Don't Underestimate the Weather
26. Instead, come prepared!
27. Don't Gawk at the Red Light District Workers
28. Instead, explore the Real 'De Wallen'
29. Forget Drinks in Leidseplein
30. Instead, head over to NDSM
31. Skip Vondel Park
32. Instead, Try Visiting Wertheimpark

Don’t Take a Taxi From the Airport

From the minute you arrive in Amsterdam, you’ll have your first chance to break away from the traditional transit route. Even with large bags in tow, don’t bother with expensive taxi rides. An Amsterdam airport taxi will charge you a fixed price of 39 Euros from the airport to the Amsterdam city center. For that price, you can pay for your public transit for the entire trip plus a few lovely meals to boot!

Instead take the Train

Unlike some cities where the trip from the airport to the centre city is either expensive, time-consuming or both, Amsterdam is home to one of the best public transport systems. The train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station is the fastest and cheapest way to get to the center of town. The train runs 24 hours a day, so it doesn’t matter when you arrive in town. Plus trains from the airport to the city run every 10-15 minutes during the day. Even if you come during off-hours, you’ll still be able to get a train within the hour. The 14km journey costs only €4.60 and takes just 20 minutes.

To save even more money, be sure to purchase a three-day travel card. For just €28 this will get you unlimited transport on trains, trams and buses. Including your airport transfer! To use the card, just tap on and off at the designated stations to register your rides.

Skip the Bloemenmarkt

Founded in 1862, the Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only floating flower market. When you hear the words “Floating Flower Market,” you’ll be just like me and imagine rows and rows of flower vendors floating beside the iconic gable houses along the canal. Bouquet of tulips in baskets and bundles being sold by the dozen. But when you arrive, the scene is markedly different. Today, the Bloemenmarkt is nothing more than souvenir stalls taking advantage of the prime historic location. The only real “flowers” on sale are tulip bulbs. So long as your country will allow them to be carried through customs you can bring home these Dutch flowers to plant in your own garden. At one point, the flower market was just that, an actual flower market. But sadly the vendors have moved out of the city center and over to larger warehouses out of town.

Visit the Keukenhof instead!

If seeing the famous Dutch Tulip is what you’re looking for, then you should instead make your way to the Keukenhof flower gardens! The gardens are open from March into Mid-May when the flowers are in bloom. The Keukenhof has over 4.5 million blooming tulips spread over the 32 hectares of green space inside. They create what can only be described as a blanket of fantastical aromas and ethereal colours. Since the Keukenhof is located just outside the city it’s also a great opportunity to see a bit of the Dutch countryside.

Aalsmeer Flower Auction

If you missed out on the Keukenhof open dates, another alternative to the Bloemenmarkt is the Aalsmeer Flower Auction. This is the largest flower auction in the world! It is located in the fourth largest building by footprint in the world, covering 518,000 square metres. All filled with flowers! Ticket prices to enter the market are €9 per person. Plus you can download the audio guide for free to get a personal guided tour of the market and learn all about the history of the market, the flowers, individual sellers.

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Skip the Damrak

The Damrak is the main street that runs between Amsterdam Centraal towards Dam Square. Since it is such a busy thoroughfare, this street has transformed from a quaint little alley into a raging tourist trap. Although it still seems to make the top of the ‘Where to go in Amsterdam,’ lists, I would definitely find ways to get around it. There is little more to see here than the crowds, American restaurants and cheesy, overpriced souvenir shops. Lots of people come here to visit the Damrak Waterfront but truly, you can find better and more beautiful canal houses outside of this area. Don’t assume this is the only place to get that iconic shot of Amsterdam’s Dancing Houses.

Instead, Wander the Jordaan Neighbourhood

If you’re looking for a more local, quiet street to explore that still gives you those iconic Amsterdam canal houses you should check out the Jordaan neighbourhood. The Jordaan is a neighbourhood bordered by the stunning Singel canal and upper-class Prinsengracht canals. The narrow canals here were initially home to the working classes of Amsterdam, but it is now one of the most vibrant and upscale neighbourhoods. Home to some of the most charming, lovingly created houses. The flower-lined canals are brimming with art galleries, chic boutiques and some of the best restaurants and cafes.

Don’t Rent A Bicycle Solo

Amsterdam locals have been riding bicycles since birth. The city is home to over 880,00 bikes. That’s about 1.9 bikes per person! But despite this, Amsterdam is not the cycling paradise you might think it would be. It actually has a long way to go in terms of biking infrastructure. Despite the staggering numbers of people who use the bike lanes and cycle to work every day it’s far from being at the top of safety rankings. This means that although renting a bike is one of the top things to do in the city, you shouldn’t go into it thinking you’ll have an easy go of it. Bikers in Amsterdam are confident, chaotic and cocky. They have known the rules of the road for ages, and you’ll be trying to slowly adjust to the speed of things.

Instead, Go on a Bike Tour

My advice for anyone wanting to ride a bike in Amsterdam is to book a bike tour. Bikes tours are great since they will give you a primer lesson on the rules of the road and any local tips for keeping yourself safe. Riding in a pack with your tour group is also a huge plus. You don’t have to worry about the directions, just follow the leader. It’s a beautiful way to slowly ease into the flow of riding. And as a bonus, you get to learn more about the city along your way!

Don’t Think you ONLY have to Eat Cheese & Herring

I’m prone to pushing myself while visiting a new city to solely dine on traditional local cuisine. And yet the real locals, who live in Amsterdam, aren’t eating just cheese and herring every day. That would be like me as a Canadian just eating poutine, maple syrup, butter tarts, and bacon all day. While you never want to travel to a new city and NOT experience unique traditional items, that shouldn’t be the ONLY thing you eat. After a week of eating only traditional Dutch food, I can tell you I was almost dying to eat a salad (something you’d otherwise never hear me say!)

Instead, Try Indonesian Food!

In Amsterdam, as in much of Holland, Indonesian food is one of the most popular forms of cuisine for locals to enjoy. The East Indies was a Dutch colony consisting of what is now Indonesia. When immigrants from the colonies came to Holland they brought with them spices and food from their home country. And even to this day, the locals love Indonesian food. The most popular kind of cuisine is called rijsttafel which means “rice table.” A rijsttafel meal consists of dozens and dozens of small plates filled with different traditional Indonesian dishes. It’s the perfect way to try a myriad of different varieties of food to see which is your favourite.

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Don’t Take Recreational Drugs Lightly

30 years ago, visiting Amsterdam to imbibe in the green leaf was something of a novelty you could only experience “legally” in the Netherlands. Today, states and provinces in North America have slowly started to change their laws around the legalization of marijuana. So Amsterdam isn’t the hub of pot-smoking hippies it once was. That being said, if you are interested in altering your state of mind, there are still dozens of “coffeeshops” where you can indulge. But never ever buy drugs on the street. Not only is this very dangerous as scammers are aplenty, but you run the risk of your joint being laced with something far more nefarious than weed. Even when visiting the real deal coffeeshops don’t go in guns blazing if you’ve never sampled marijuana before. A bad trip is a sure-fire way to ruin your vacation.

Instead, Listen to Your Coffeeshop concierge

There are so many well-priced and chic coffee shops that there’s no need to resort to street drugs. Always consult with the “cannabis concierge” across the counter. They will be able to best advise you on what strength or variety you should try. They know their stuff, so always listen to what they have to say. Start with a slow dose and then level up to your preference.

But NEVER feel pressured to try cannabis just because you’re in Amsterdam. The “when in Rome” trope really doesn’t apply here. Drugs aren’t for everyone and there are so many ways to enjoy your trip to the Netherlands outside of smoking up. Thankfully, so many of the coffeeshop in Amsterdam cater to non-smokers as well. And their menus consist of everything from smoothies to croquettes. So you can still enjoy your time inside these establishments without feeling the need to partake if that’s your choice!

Skip the Hop-On Hop-Off

Personally think travel influencers over-demonize Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours. Are Hop–On Hop–Off tours uber-touristy? Yes. But, for many people with disabilities or mobility issues, they are hugely helpful. Hop-On Hop-Off tours are almost always wheelchair accessible as they are a worldwide industry with high service standards. And wheelchair-using customers don’t pay extra for the service. Independent and private wheelchair-accessible tours are enormously expensive. So these buses are a fantastic service and people need to stop obsessively hating on them. But, in some cities, they just don’t make sense. And Amsterdam is one of those places. The Hop On Hop Off buses cannot enter the city center, so you’ll miss out on so many key historical sites along the canals.

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Instead, Go on a Canal Tour

The many canals of Amsterdam are what make this city so unique. And seeing the town from the water is the most authentic way of exploring it. There are dozens of companies to choose from. But if you can afford to book a canal tour with a local private guide that is really the way to go! These local guides can tell you all about the various buildings you’ll float on past and even little stories on the history of the city. The more generic boat tours are also great options and usually at least have a recording you can listen to which will give you some insight on the sights passing by.

Skip the Heineken Experience

Heineken is known as the “Beer of Amsterdam,” as it was developed here in the city in 1864. But the brewery that the Heineken family bought had been producing beer since 1592! So suffice to say, Heineken beer has been a big part of Amsterdam for hundreds of years. But, the Heineken Experience is expensive and overhyped. Plus, their beer tasting only offers you, Heineken, when the Netherlands has hundreds of amazing breweries. All of which are worth giving a try!

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Instead, check out Brouwerij de Prael

Brouwerij de Prael is a microbrewery located in the historic Red Light District. It is a beautiful local brewpub with over 3,000 different labels as well as its own microbrews. Here you can enjoy a tasting of 4 beers for €10,00 per person in the most enjoyable atmosphere! Far better than just heading to the touristy Heineken center.

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Skip the Beer Bikes

Speaking of beers, please, oh please, skip the Beer Bikes! If you’ve been to Amsterdam, you’ll have HEARD these raucous bikes travelling around the city. In fact, you’ll hear them far before you actually see them. They are extremely popular with frat boys or stag night groups. These travellers aren’t interested in the nuances of local beers and more focused on getting extremely drunk while driving the rest of the city crazy. They might look like a fun little novelty but are super overpriced for the mediocre experience. The bikes are so hard to control and often the locals find themselves flying into fits of rage trying to weave around these moving barf-mobiles.

Instead, check out a “Brown Café“

A “brown café” is a kind of like the Dutch version of a classic British pub. The nickname caught on, but no one really knows where it started. To be deemed a “brown cafe,” you must indeed have a dark brown interior. Dark wood is prevalent as is dim lighting. Vintage decor and bottles of liquor older than you are also a vital part of the experience. These places are an excellent spot to find locals and ask for recommendations and try something you’ve never even heard of before. So before you book your buddies on a hugely expensive beer bike tour, consider a “Brown Cafe Crawl” instead!

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Skip the tourist A’DAM Lookout

A new trend for visitors to Amsterdam is to head up to the A’DAM Lookout. The A’DAM LOOKOUT is an observation deck with an “unrivalled” panoramic view of Amsterdam. I would argue against that point but let’s carry on… In addition to the lookout, there is a small gallery and Audio guide about Amsterdam to enjoy for your €14.50! But what most people seem to be interested in is the ‘Over The Edge‘ swing that dangles a pair of daredevils 100 meters over the edge of the building for an extra €10. The whole experience is super touristy and overall not worth the considerable wait to get inside or the price.

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Instead, Go to The Central Library Rooftop Terrace

If you’re looking for a rooftop view for free, then you must check out the Central Library Rooftop Terrace. The library is located right beside central station so it’s easy to get to. The OBA Oosterdok, or Central Library, was built in the early 2000s and is one of the most impressive modern libraries in Europe. The building is spread out over ten floors. In addition to millions of books, the library includes an auditorium, an exhibition room, a museum, and 2000 parking spaces just for bicycles!

But the best place to visit for tourists is La Place Cafe. This is the library’s own rooftop restaurant terrace located on the 7th floor. From up here, you have a magnificent view of the whole of Amsterdam. To me, this is the best panoramic view in the city! And best of all, so many people don’t even know it’s even up here! As it caters to many students who come here to study, the restaurant is reasonably priced. And even serves alcohol to boot! It’s the ideal place to grab a spot of lunch and enjoy a Dutch beer in the sunshine while looking out over the city.

Skip Rembrandtplein and Dam Square

When I visited Amsterdam, I read a lot about their grand public courtyards and headed right to Dam Square. What I found were hoards of tourists all crammed into a relatively boring centre. Even when I tried again later in the day and earlier in the morning, when these places were quieter, I still was unimpressed. While the building surrounding the square were apparently historic they had been transformed into tourist monstrosities. Even the dreaded Madame Tussauds had her headquarters right here in the square! These large public squares really lacked that magic I found in other cities around Europe. They were pretty plain and didn’t have the sparkle that places like St. Marks or St. Wenceslas have where it makes the heavy tourist load worth it. There are so many other amazing places to visit in Amsterdam, these squares just aren’t worth the time.

Instead, head over to Noordermarkt

Yes, that’s right, we’re headed back to the Jordaan Neighbourhood for this next alternative activity! Despite being so close to the city centre, the Jordaan neighbourhood the perfect escape from the crowds. One such delight to be found here is the Noordermarkt. On Mondays, a large outdoor market is held where you can buy organic food, textiles, crats and yes, actual bouquet of flowers!

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And don’t think you’re missing out on any history by choosing to visit this square over the ones in the city centre. The Noordermarkt dates back to 1616! It was initially named Prinsenmarkt, after the Prinsengracht canal, which the square borders. And the Noorderkerk church that dominates the square was built in 1623! During World War II, it was here in this square that protesters arrived to oppose the deportation of Jews by the Nazis. One of the most famous scenes of resistance from the people of the Netherlands.

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Don’t Be Dissapointed if you Miss the Anne Frank House

Ok, now I know I’m going to cause quite the stir on this point! You might say, “But one of the main reasons I’m planning to go to Amsterdam is to see the Anne Frank Museum!” Well, if you have had your heart set on it for ages, obviously you should make your way there. But the museum is subject to huge lines even with advance tickets. And if you plan your trip something spur of the moment, you’ll often be disappointed to find you can’t get a spot. Tickets are known to book up months in advance and even though the afternoon is dedicated to walk-up admission the line often wraps around the canal. And many people find themselves to be almost inconsolable disappointed to miss it.

The story of Anne Frank is a harrowing tale for the ages, and something almost every schoolchild reads in their adolescence. And while visiting the house where Anne wrote her book and hid from the Nazis is a powerful experience there are actually other places in Amsterdam to learn more about the war and the experience of Dutch people during the occupation of the Netherlands. If you can nab a ticket to the Anne Frank House that’s great, but if you miss out on booking it in advance check out my recommendations for amazing alternatives!

Instead, visit the Verzetsmuseum

The Verzetsmuseum or “The Dutch Resistance Museum” was chosen as the best historical museum in the Netherlands! Here, you literally walk through history as the exhibition tells the story of the Dutch people in World War II. From May 14th, 1940 to May 5th, 1945, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany. Inside the museum, you step back in time and get to experience what life actually looked like in Amsterdam in the forties.

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There are “streets” you walk along, and the walls are full of photos and decor that help evoke the climate of the war years. You can read actual copies of the underground newspapers, discover escape routes and see how people went into hiding (just like Anne Frank). There are moving personal documents which tell the story of people who were confronted with life or death choices by the German forces. This museum makes you feel like you have lived through what Anne and her family had to live through in a more in-depth way. The Verzetsmuseum is a fantastic alternative to the Anne Frank house and one which immerses you into the atmosphere of life in Amsterdam during the war.

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Don’t Underestimate the Weather

When you think of Amsterdam, your first thought might not be of rain. You think of tulips and wooden clogs and maybe even rounds of cheese. But let me tell you, you should be thinking RAIN and WIND! The city is called the “San Francisco” of the Netherlands. The Netherlands has a temperate, oceanic climate with over 200 wet days a year! This results in an average annual rainfall of about 760mm!! But don’t let this rain on your parade! Rain just requires a little bit of advanced planning.

Instead, come prepared!

Bring a sturdy umbrella and always keep a lightweight raincoat in your backpack for those unexpected downpours. You can find lots of compressible raincoats that fold up to find into your pocket so you always have one on hand. I always tell people to keep a list of “rainy day places” where they can escape to. Since the city is packed full of museums, this is an excellent opportunity to head inside. Enjoy the safety and warmth of the Dutch masters arms and peruse some beautiful artworks while you await the sunshine.

Don’t Gawk at the Red Light District Workers

Amsterdam’s Red Light District is famous the world over. It consists of a network of alleys containing approximately three hundred, one-room suits. These rooms can be rented by the hour where sex workers offer their sexual services to paying customers. They advertise themselves from behind glass windows or doors, typically illuminated with red lights, hence the name. The area where the Red Light District is located was historically a large port where sailors would come into dock. Sailors on leave were prime customers for sex workers and the area slowly became a hub for this kind of activity.

Many tourists make the mistake of coming here thinking the working women are themselves sideshow. They whip out their cameras or phones and snap photos as they pass. This is tantamount to being illegal in the area, and some sex workers are known to have a cup of pee on hand to throw in the face of tourists who take their photos. These women are not a tourist attraction. They are just trying to make a living. And it’s sad to see so many tourists come down here to make a mockery of their lifestyle. And if you come down here just to gawk at the girls in the windows, you’ll miss out on the treasure hidden behind the red lights.

Instead, explore the Real ‘De Wallen‘

The Red Light District is located in the famous De Wallen neighbourhood. And surprisingly, this area just happens to be one of the most exciting and historic parts of town! If you know what you’re looking for. Local guides can take you through the deep history of the neighbourhood, along the narrow alleys, into “Chinatown,”, past the famous “Weigh House,” and of course give you some interesting information on the reality of the red and blue lights and the women who work there. It’s a fantastic opportunity to really learn about the area and not just see it for it’s superficial exterior.

Forget Drinks in Leidseplein

Leidseplein has become THE spot for tourists to grab a beer. But most locals look at this square as a giant crowded tourist trap. Leidseplein used to serve as a parking lot for horse-drawn traffic in the 19th century, but today is a large public square packed with loud restaurants and rowdy nightclubs. Personally, I have a sore spot about the place because it was where I was almost hit by a tram, but that’s a story for another time… Sure it’s central and popular but there are so many better places to get a drink in the city.

Instead, head over to NDSM

NDSM (Nederlandse Droogdok en Scheepsbouw Maatschappij) is located about 15 minutes away from the city centre. And the trendy area is only accessible by a free ferry which departs from the Central Station. The former shipyard, abandoned in recent years, has been transformed into a vibrant artist community. Here you’ll find incredible outdoor works of art that are constantly changing. The area started to drawn in so many tourists and local visitors that fabulous bars and restaurants started to move into the neighbourhood. Here you can dine and drink while immersed inside the most vibrant atmosphere. Sitting here enjoying a cafe or pint of beer is such a better experience than out in loud and touristy Leidseplein.

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Skip Vondel Park

Vondel Park is the Central Park of Holland. But with being so popular, you garner a lot of visitors, both locals and tourists alike. The park opened in 1895 and is spread out over 47 hectares of land! But amidst these 47 hectares are loud kids seemingly constantly screaming, lots of trash left behind by rude tourists and a seemingly never-ending stream of people. Overall, I found it felt too vast and unmanicured to feel overly cozy and relaxing.

Instead, Try Visiting Wertheimpark

Wertheimpark is the oldest park in Amsterdam. It opened to the public in 1812! The park really has an air about it that feels more local. Parents bring picnics to enjoy, old ladies stroll around with their friends and student comes to study under the shade of the trees. The park also comes packed with lots of history. It was named after Jewish banker and philanthropist, A.C. Wertheim, who died in 1897. Today, there is an Auschwitz monument here called ‘Nooit meer Auschwitz’ (Auschwitz never again) created by Jan Wolkers. Wertheimpark is also home to Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, which is definitely worth checking out if you’re into plants. With so much to see and do, in addition to just lounging around, this is definitely the park I think you should check out.

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Hopefully, this tour gave you some insight into what you might want to skip or alternatives to the big-ticket items in Amsterdam. The city is such a treasure, and there are so many secrets to discover around even the canal. Let me know in the comments what your favourite hidden gem is or any other bit of advice you want to share with new explorers!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post 11 Things NOT to do in Amsterdam, and What Amazing Things to do Instead first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. DIY Tour
3. How to get to Cascais
4. By car
5. by Train
6. Getting Around in Cascais
7. Car
8. Walking & Bike Rental
9. Tourist Bus (a word of caution)
10. Public Bus
11. Uber
12. What time of year to go?
13. Self Guided Tour
14. Stop #3: Boca do Inferno
15. Stop#12: Rue Frederico Arouca

History

Cascais, pronounced “cash-ky”, is a word developed from the Portuguese “cascas” which means “shells” since the town was located so close to the waters where thousands of shells would wash ashore. The town’s proximity to the seas made it a hub for fishing and the money it brought in from those exports gained it the privilege of self-government in 1370 as decreed by King Fernando. Cascais rose to prominence with the title, and it became the first place Portuguese navigators would see when they returned from voyages around the world.

Lighthouses, military operations and forts were all built to support the town as a great lookout point for the country’s capital, Lisbon. Over the years, as the naval wars began to dwindle, its use as defensive maritime fortresses waned. But it’s elegant architecture, and charming city structure meant that people continued to flock to its shores and it was transformed into a luxury beach town for the aristocracy of Portugal. Years later, Cascais is most famous as being the writing haunt of famed author Ian Fleming, who wrote the classic James Bond novels in a hotel in Cascais. He had visited the town when he fought in World War II and came back here to write after the war was over. Many of the seaside settings throughout his novels all have some inspiration drawn from his experiences in Cascais.

DIY Tour

When we were planning our trip to Cascais and Cabo da Roca, we couldn’t understand why we couldn’t find much information online about a do-it-yourself tour. A lot of people visit Cascais and Cabo da Roca as a part of a day trip, sometimes also paired with a visit to Sintra. After visiting both Sintra and Cascais (along with Cabo da Roca) I genuinely do not know how they do it all in one short day. I suppose it’s more of a drive by viewing rather than a chance to really explore and understand each one of these incredible places. There is simply too much to see!

I think with this guide you can easily explore the wonders of Cascais and Cabo da Roca on at your own pace and save a ton of money too. It might require a little extra planning and effort on your part but if you’re up for it than I think it will pay you back in dividends.

How to get to Cascais

By car

If you have a vehicle getting to Cascais is a breeze, it’s just 35 minutes outside the centre of Lisbon. Parking can be found easily across Cascais and the surrounding countryside. On very busy days parking can be tough at the beach but there is usually places to park along the roadside where you can then walk over to the beach. Be sure to have coins for the tolls.

by Train

If you don’t have a car, not to fear. There is a train which leaves from Cais do Sodré station in Lisbon which services Cascais in just under an hour. The train journey costs just 2.20€. Be sure to have your metro zapping card with you since it makes jumping on and off the train easier than buying individual tickets.

Getting Around in Cascais

Car

If you have a rental car you can just drive from point to point from each of the destinations listed in this guide. Of all the methods of transports it’s the least complicated but does require the investment of the rental car. If you haven’t already rented one for the rest of your trip I don’t advise that you need to rent one just for this day-trip, it’s easily manageable without.

Walking & Bike Rental

The town of Cascais is relatively small, so walking around the sites in town is super easy on foot. If you just want to explore the beaches along the coast, there are bike rentals all over the place and bike paths too which makes getting to and from those areas a breeze! You can walk to most of the beaches but renting a bike is just that much more fun! While biking or hiking all the way up to the furthest point on our tour isn’t for the faint of heart it would be an absolutely beautiful hike/bike for those who are up for the challenge.

Tourist Bus (a word of caution)

To get out to all the destinations in this guide without a car, you’ll need to take the Scotturb buses. We opted for the tourist hop-on-hop-off bus, but honestly, we weren’t that impressed. When I got home I saw just how abysmal the reviews were and with good reason. When we told the driver we wanted to get off at Praia do Guincho, he seemed shocked that we actually wanted to “hop off” on a hop-on-hop-off bus! And even after asking he didn’t remember to stop. I ran up to the front and reminded him and only then did he, grumpily may I add, pull over and let us out. Our experiences certainly don’t look out of the norm based on the 1-star rating, and I’m surprised they still have this service up and running.

Advice on the Bus

If you have the money to spend and don’t mind waiting on late drivers and being firm about telling them where you want to get off and making sure they do indeed stop, then go ahead with the sightseeing bus but just be sure to read the reviews before you do! The upside to this bus is that you can “easily” get to all the destinations without having to figure out the public bus routes. Hopefully they’ll be improving this service, let me know if you decide to venture out on it and how your experience rates. The sightseeing Cascais buses run every 45 minutes from around 10 am to 5 pm but be sure to get the updated schedule from the main loading dock at the Cascais train terminal. A ticket costs €20 (€10 children under 12) + 0.50 card, and is valid for 24 hours.

Public Bus

The public transport system to and from different destinations in Cascais is a bit complicated. I understand how they get tourists suckered into only using the “sightseeing buses”. That being said, you can absolutely do this tour using the local buses. I’ve made sure to mark all the stops down on the map at the bottom of the post. I’ve also detailed each step out for you in this guide since most people are likely using public transport to get around. Fares on the bus cost €1.15 per journey and you’ll only need to ride them 4 times so the savings compared to the sightseeing bus are very significant. The three bus routes you’ll need are the 403, 414, and 415. (I’ve linked each of their schedules here as well as within the post.)

Uber

Another option is taking Ubers to and from each location. Depending on how many people you’re with, you could actually save some money here compared to the sightseeing bus. Uber’s cost around €12-17 from Cascais to Cabo da Roca. €9-13 from Cabo da Roca to Guincho Beach. And €5-8 from Guincho Beach to Boca de Inferno. The highest estimated cost is €38, which is actually cheaper than two people taking the tourist bus! The only risk you might consider is that there wouldn’t be any Ubers driving around that day. If so, you can easily find the nearest public transport option and hop on that.

What time of year to go?

The cooler weather during the winter and late fall makes Cascais a little less appealing to visit. Lying out on the hot sand and soaking in the surf and the sun is all part of the coastal experience. But if you do choose to visit during “off-season” you’ll be rewarded with less crowded attractions. The buses run on a slightly modified schedule during the winter so be aware of that as well if you choose to come down in the winter.

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit. Even on a hot day, the winds off the water, bring the temperature down a lot compared to in the city. And if you’re too hot, you can always just jump into the water to cool down! Try your best to come during the week since the weekends and holidays mean the beaches are packed.

Self Guided Tour

Stop #1: Cabo da Roca

After arriving at the Cascais train station, the first stop on your journey should be Cabo da Roca. Cabo da Roca is the furthest point on our tour from the Cascais terminal. It’s good to get it done first thing in the morning as it’s also the most popular sight on tour. Around midday, it can get extremely crowded so early mornings really pay off. I’d recommend leaving Lisbon just after 8 am to arrive in Cascais bright and early. Grab a few pastries and a cup of coffee for the train ride and enjoy the scenery as you go!

If you’re driving, you can simply head up the road and leave your car in the National Park’s parking lot. For the bus, catch #403 from the Cascais bus terminal. If you choose to take the sightseeing tourist bus, you can catch this outside of Cascais Train station as well. Either way, you go, you should reach the peaks of Cabo da Roca in around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

The ride up to Cabo da Roca was actually one of my favourite parts of the trip. It seemed as we climbed up the cliffside, the environment around us kept changing. At one point we were driving along coastal beaches and sand dunes, in another minute we were surrounded by lush rainforest-like trees, and finally, after coming through the forest, we reached the top of the mountains, and there seemed to be nothing but rocks, cliffs,green grass and a never ending expanse of ocean.

TIP: Even on warm days Cabo da Roca is exceptionally windy, and it’s higher altitude makes it pretty chilly! Be sure to bring a sweater or jacket with you.

Cabo da Roca

Arriving at Cabo da Roca, you’ll first notice the red-topped lighthouse and terracotta roofs of the building of the National Park office. But the real draw of Cabo da Roca doesn’t open itself up to you until you step off the bus or car, and walk down to the cliff’s edge. And then wow! What a sight! Cabo da Roca is famously the westernmost point of mainland Europe.

Looking out across cliffs you’ll see nothing but a vast expanse of sparkling blue waters belonging to the Atlantic Ocean. To the left, you’ll have the most spectacular view of the Serra de Sintra coastline as well. While Cabo da Roca is now a big tourist attraction, in the 17th century it’s purpose was mainly defensive. From this vantage point, guards could see any incoming ships which would be approaching Lisbon’s harbour. A considerable advantage in their maritime strategy, especially during the Peninsular Wars.

Lighthouse

The iconic lighthouse which sits on the top of the cliffs is not only a beautiful sight to see but an essential part of Portugal’s history as it is the oldest lighthouse in the country. It was built in 1772 and once was the guiding light for sailors on their way back home. Today you can find a quaint souvenir shop inside, with an overpriced “certificate” of your visit to the westernmost part of Europe, but it mostly just adds to the scenery of the entire location.

Be sure to take a walk down the entire cliffside, the view changes as you continue walking and the landscape towards the northeastern part of the park is absolutely stunning. It looked so much like the green fields of Scotland or Ireland and not like something in the middle of the Mediterranean.

Stop #2: Praia do Guincho

Our next stop is Praia do Guincho, one of the most famous and magnificent beaches on this coastline. To get here if you’re driving, it’s an absolute breeze, just a few minutes drives from Cabo da Roca. If you have a tourist bus ticket, you can get on the next bus returning to Cascais but BE SURE to not only tell your driver you want to get off at Praia do Guincho but also you sit near the driver and make sure to remind him as you approach (you shouldn’t have to do this but since he missed out stop altogether its better to be safe than sorry).

If you’re using public transport hop onto the Scotturb bus #403 and get off at Malveira da Serra, which is the first stop on the bus after getting on at Cabo da Roca. From Malveira da Serra stop change onto the bus #414 and jump off at the Charneca stop. The Charneca bus stop is located about a 25 minutes walk from the beach, and while the walk might not be “ideal”, it’s the easiest and quickest way (not to mention cheapest) when using public transport. Plus, the walk from Charneca is actually delightful since you get to see all the different houses and rural landscape of the suburbs of Cascais along the way. I’ve included a map of the walking route from the bus stop to the beach here so you can follow along.

Arrival at the Beach

Once you get to the beach, you can just relax! This beach is famous the world over for surfing. Since it is one of the windiest beaches in Portugal you’ll see hundreds of surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers here no matter the weather! It’s immensely entertaining to watch them out in the water! The beach is located on the edge of the Serra de Sintra National Park, which means that it’s natural beauty has been, and continues to be, preserved and protected. Due to the high winds, the beach is covered in sculptural sand dunes giving it that dynamic appearance. Grass grows through the sand and creates a strong contrast against the white sands and crystal blue waters.

Cresmina Beach

The beach is the perfect spot to grab some lunch with a view. While there are several Michelin star restaurants along the beach, these are enormously expensive (I was SHOCKED), and while they’re highly rated, most of us won’t have that kind of money to spend. But the real shock was the little beach we found at Cresmina Beach (located just on the other side of the dunes from Praia do Guincho). We thought this small shop would have nothing but chips and soda but were pleasantly surprised to find that they served hot pizza, salads, sandwiches and more! And best of all they were well priced and really delicious. Washed down with a freshly made sangria as you sit and enjoy the sound of waves crashing on the sand what more can you ask for?

I would recommend spending a few hours here. Have a leisurely lunch, walk along the beach, if the waves aren’t too intense you can even jump in the water for a swim! Cresmina Beach is a little calmer, and you’ll find more people swimming here while Praia do Guincho is THE place to be for surfing. We sat and watched the surfers for hours, it was pleasantly mesmerizing. We visited in May and despite the warm weather the beach wasn’t overcrowded and there still was a lovely peaceful atmosphere to the whole place.

Stop #3: Boca do Inferno

Next up on the itinerary is Boca de Inferno. To get here, if you have a car or are Ubering it’s located just 9 minutes down the road. The hop-on-hop-off tourist bus will also drop you off there (the stop after Guincho Beach) or if you want to take public transport, you can get on bus #415 which picks you up right from Guincho beach. Get off at the stop Bairro do Rosário and walk the 17 minutes towards the cliffs. Map of the walking route is located below.

“Boca do Inferno” in Portuguese means “Hell’s Mouth”. It sounds a lot scarier than it really is. It’s actually quite stunning. Over the years, this rocky outcrop’s proximity to the strong waves created a cave, which then collapsed, leaving a natural arch as a window into the water filled chasm. There is something truly magical about watching the waves as they splash and crash inside the dark cave. They swirl and spin, changing colours as they move and swell.

Aleister Crowley

One of the strangest parts of this place’s history is its involvement in the “death” of famed magician and astrologer Aleister Crowley. The occultist came here to fake his death in 1930 with the help of poet Fernando Pessoa. It was meant as a publicist stunt to promote the opening of an exhibition of Crowley’s work at a gallery in Berlin, where he “magically” reappeared when the doors were opened. Perhaps one of the first “social media” stunts of the 20th century.

Stop #4: the Santa Marta Lighthouse

From the Boca de Inferno, we will walk the rest of the way back into town. You can also drive back into Cascais, but the walk along the coast is a short and beautiful one with a few small things to see along the way. The Santa Marta Lighthouse is a very Portuguese looking lighthouse, covered with a striped pattern of white and blue tiles. The lighthouse was built on the site of a 17th-century fort in 1868. Although it has long been put out of use, it now maintains itself as a little museum and lovely piece of traditional decoration along the coast. The manor house it sits behind is a coast paradise and duo, along with scenic palm trees is a picture perfect photo.

Along the cobblestone pedestrian walkway back into town, you’ll pass dozen of the enormous estates and gorgeous houses. Some of these mansions were built back in the 17th century by the rich and famous of Lisbon’s high society. One of these famous mansions is the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães. This manor house is now a small museum housing paintings, ancient artefacts & old books collected by the owner, now open to the public.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Stop #5: Citadel of Cascais

Continuing along the road you’ll see the large, rocky walls of the Citadel of Cascais start to emerge as you creep closer to the city. These fortifications were built in the 15th and 17th centuries to defend the Cascais coastline. There are three different buildings which make up the entire complex; the tower of Santo António de Cascais, the Fortress of Our Lady of Light and the former Royal Palace. You might be surprised to learn that the Royal Palace was restored and converted into a hotel in the 21st century. It’s incredible private chapel is now used to host some of the most amazing weddings which bring people from all over the world to Cascais.

Stop #6: Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção

One of the most amazing churches in Cascais is the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption or “Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção“. The church dates all the way back to the 16th century, and because Cascais was left virtually untouched by war or modernization, the church maintains its historic design. Inside you’ll find golden niches surrounded in stunning blue an white 18th-century traditional Portuguese tile work.

Stop #7: Ribeira Beach Cascais

Turning along the Avenue Dom Carlos, you’ll come upon Ribeira Beach in the town Cascais. Imagine having a beach this beautiful just steps away from the centre of town! You could even come down here on your lunch break! The beach is full of brightly coloured umbrellas, laughing children playing in the sand and there is ALWAYS a team of volleyball players battling it out on the small court.

Behind the beach is a classic Portuguese square with those iconic black and white cobblestones in a wave pattern. You’ll see this same pattern used all over Portugal but set right next to the ocean it feels even more appropriate. Also in the square is a beautiful bronze statue of a woman whose leg’s form the shape of a wave, her body wrapped in a ship’s rope. She looks out towards the ocean, perhaps eternally waiting for sailor to return home.

Stop #8: Palacete Seixas

Standing on the beach, you can see a castle-like structure in the distance, this is the Palacete Seixas. This old military fort was transformed in the 19th century into a grand mansion for a wealthy aristocrat to live in. When he died, he left the structure to the Portuguese Marines in his last will and testimony. Today it’s used as a meeting office for Marine officials but also creates a wonderful backdrop for beachgoers.

Stop #10: Cascais Town Hall

Opposite the beach is the great Town Hall, distinguishable by its ornate facade covered in azulejos (Portuguese tiles) depicting various Catholics Saints across the facade.

In the centre of the Town Hall square is the statue of King Peter the 1st. King Peter was the one who declared Cascais a township and gave them independence from Sintra in 1364. Before this, Cascais was seen as Sintra’s little brother. A community simply put in place to support the people of Sintra, but over the years it’s fishing industry swelled beyond anyone’s expectations, and it began bringing in more money for Portugal than Sintra ever could. It felt strongly that it deserved this designation, but it wasn’t until King Peter that Cascais was finally able to become its own independent city and therefore King Peter is greatly respected amongst the people of Cascais.

Stop#11: Largo Luís de Camões

Just down from the Town Hall is Largo Luís de Camões, a pedestrian-only street which is where you’ll find dozens of lively bars and restaurants. So many of the roads which connect to Largo Luís de Camões are also worth exploring, they are littered in pretty pastel houses replete with flowers pouring off their rooftops. Around each corner, see if you can spot the incredible tiled street signs which make even the most simple alley look like a royal lane.

Stop#12: Rue Frederico Arouca

A little way up from the Largo Luís de Camões, turn right and continue down Rue Frederico Arouca, another street dedicated to pedestrians only. This street is filled with eclectic shops, souvenir stores and gorgeous old architecture full of character. This is a great place to shop for some items for friends and family back home as its relaxed atmosphere is one of the best places to leisurely find some hidden gems.

Stop#13: Jardim Visconde da Luz

At the top of the main street is the Jardim Visconde da Luz, a beautiful park where locals come to play with their kids and get away from the heat of the sun under the shade of these green trees. In the centre of this adorable square is one of the most beautiful carousels I’ve ever seen! Only children can ride it since it’s so small, but each of the animals on the carousel is so charmingly sculpted and full of life! Unlike some carousels which are more fantastical, this one is filled with farm animals which look like they’ve been plucked straight from a nursery rhyme.

Stop#14: Moules and Gin

Across from the park is a little restaurant serving up one of Cascais’ specialities; seafood – specifically, mussels! Moules and Gin is a low key, off the tourist track, restaurant popular with locals due to its low prices and straightforward menu which only aims to highlight the incredible taste of fresh seafood right from the ocean!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Stop#15: Gelados Santini

For dessert, just follow the line up around the block surrounding Gelados Santini. Beach towns really do manage to have the best ice cream and gelato, the perfect combination for a day out in the sand and sun. The handmade gelato is fresh, and if there are any seasonal flavours, those are a must-have! The strawberry flavour feels like licking the berries right off the vine!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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With the last lick of gelato comes the end of our day in Cascais. To return back to Lisbon just hop back on the same train which brought you here or head back to the city in your car. Having dinner and dessert in Cascais means you’ll miss the end-of-day rush of both locals and tourists heading back into the city. Hopeful you’ll be swayed into coming over to Cascais on your own and skip the bus tours.

There is just so much to see here, and those organized tours are much too rushed for the rich history which Cascais offers up. With a little effort and organization, you can absolutely see all there is to see here on your own. If you have any questions about Cascais, let me know in the comments! I can’t wait to return and perhaps even spend the night to see this fantastic city when the sun sets, and there’s nothing but the sound of the ocean crashing on the shore to lull me to sleep

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Discover the Beauty of Portugal’s Coastline: A Complete Guide to Cascais and Cabo Da Roca first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.