With the colder weather now upon us, the captivating coastal town of Cascais, Portugal, cradled by the pristine Atlantic coastline, extends a warm invitation to art and culture enthusiasts. A vibrant destination throughout the year, Cascais promises a tapestry of cultural diversity, charming vistas, and sensory delights make it an ideal destination for exploration. Whether you arrive in December, January or February, Cascais is a hub of culture with so much to offer.
The recent ABTA Holiday Habits report shows an emerging trend in all-year round travel, with almost a third (28%) of survey respondents planning a holiday abroad in winter sometime over the next year. As the winter months are considered off-peak in Cascais, this means fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere for soaking in the culture of the destination, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the region’s art exhibitions without the hustle and bustle of the summer months.
What to do in Cascais this Winter
Casa das Histórias Paula Rego – A Hub of Artistic Inspiration
Founded in 2006 by the renowned London-based painter Paula Rego, Casa das Histórias Paula Rego is a testament to Cascais’ commitment to the arts. Designed by the celebrated Eduardo Souto de Moura, this architectural marvel houses a significant collection of the late Paula Rego’s works, providing a remarkable insight into the mind of the best-known Portuguese plastic artist of her generation. Alongside Paula Rego’s masterpieces, visitors can also admire works by her late husband, Victor Willing, a distinguished artist and critic.
What makes Casa das Histórias Paula Rego truly exceptional is its dynamic and ever-evolving collection, offering a continuous source of education and inspiration to the local community. As the collection rotates, every visit promises a fresh perspective on the artistic world of Paula Rego.
Tickets for Casa das Histórias Paula Rego are available to purchase from €5. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Free admission on the first Sunday of every month.
Cascais Cultural Centre – An Artistic Oasis
Located on the grounds of the former Convent of Our Lady of Mercy, the Cascais Cultural Centre is a triumph of restoration by the talented architect Jorge Silva. This cultural hub serves as a platform for some of the most exciting exhibitions and diverse shows in the region.
This winter, the Cascais Cultural Centre promises an array of captivating exhibitions.
Days of Punk Exhibition: Be immersed in the thrilling world of punk rock through the Days of Punk multimedia exhibition. Featuring more than a hundred photographs, this exhibition unveils images of music icons such as Billy Idol, New Order, Talking Heads, Elvis Costello, and more. Photographer and filmmaker Michael Grecco presents these legendary artists without filters or artifice during the height of their fame.
Luz de Cascais: Fernando Sanz Pinto, a seasoned traveller and artist, invites culture vultures to explore his interpretations of the Luz de Cascais – the light that has captivated him throughout his journeys. Through his beautiful artwork, he offers insights into the distinctiveness of the light in Cascais compared to other places he has visited around the world.
One-day tickets for Cascais Cultural Centre are available for purchase from €5. Tickets for the exhibitions are available for purchase from €5. The centre is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Free admission on the first Sunday of every month.
Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum – A Glimpse of Maritime History
Adding to the cultural riches of Cascais, the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum stands as a testament to the town’s nautical heritage. This charming museum, a historic lighthouse keeper’s residence, showcases the rich maritime history of Cascais. Its exhibits provide a captivating journey through the evolution of naval technology and the lives of those who kept the town’s shores safe.
Tickets for Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum are available to purchase from €5 and also include access to Casa del Santa Maria next door. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm. Free admission on the first Sunday of every month.
Museu da Vila – Delve into Cascais’ Past
Museu de Vila in the town centre showcases the history of Cascais and the county, from the Neolithic period to the early twentieth century. The museum exhibits only the most symbolic pieces of the history of Cascais. These pieces help to chart key moments of the region’s past, such as the Arms Banner or the Charter of Cascais, granted by King Manuel I in 1514 and recently restored by the village’s council. The museum can also be visited virtually.
Admission to Museu da Vila is free. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
This winter, take a visit to Cascais, a cultural feast for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and curious minds alike.
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
