Can you swim in Lisbon? Discover Lisbon's beaches...

When you think of a holiday in Lisbon, you don't immediately think of strolling along the seafront. The first thing that comes to mind is strolling through the bustling streets, admiring the azulejos decorating the buildings, taking the legendary tram and discovering the different districts. From the Alfama to the Bairro Alto, you can imagine yourself sitting on a terrace listening to Fado or tasting Pastéis de nata in Sintra. But the city of 7 hills is also a destination of choice for those who like to relax. Surrounded by the Tagus and the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal's capital also shines for its aquatic attractions. Swimming, surfing or lounging, the choice is yours. Here are the best spots for lounging on Lisbon's beaches.

Setubal Beach

Setubal beach in the Lisbon region

- © Samuel Borges Photography / Shutterstock

1 - Carcavelos, the largest

This is definitely the beach that ticks all the boxes. It's perfect for families, groups of friends who want to play on the beach and surfers looking for a wave. Carcavelos beach stands out not only for the building that dominates it, the fortress of São Julião da Barra, but also for its vastness. Stretching over more than 1 km, it can accommodate both tourists and locals from Lisbon.

Situated between Lisbon and Cascais, Carcavelos is also the venue for sporting events, surfing competitions and even festivals, and takes around 20 minutes to get there from Lisbon.

Practical information

🚌 Getting there: from Lisbon, you can take the train, which will cost between €1 and €2 for a 25-minute journey. The beach is 15 minutes from Lisbon by car.

📍 Location: it's here

Carcavelos beach in Lisbon

Carcavelos beach in Lisbon

- © Alexandre Rotenberg / Shutterstock

2 - Praia da Rainha in Cascaïs, a haven of peace

Just 45 minutes from Lisbon is the small town of Cascais. This seaside town has several beaches along the Estoril coast. Some are very popular with families, particularly as they are sheltered from the wind. One of the most popular is Praia da Raihna.

This little haven of peace surrounded by rocks is accessible from the centre of Cascais. A staircase leads up to the cove, its clear waters and fine sand from the main street, but get there early as the stretch of sand is not unlimited on the coast! To cool off after a swim, there's a lively bar both during the day and in the evening. What more could you ask for?

🚌 Getting there: you can take bus 3710

📍 Location: it's here

 The Queen's beach in Cascais

The Queen's beach in Cascais

- © trabantos / Shutterstock

3 - Costa da Caparica, surfing and lounging

The Costa de Caparica is THE place to be in summer, with a total of 10km of beaches dotted along the coast, each offering a different setting. A little Californian air floats through the air as you get closer to the surf schools and spots, but also in some of the restaurants where the decor and dishes based on avocado toast and vegan bowls make you want to turn surfing into a way of life. Head to Surfin Coffee & Bowls after your session!

There are beaches along the coast that are better for swimming and family activities, so don't hesitate to explore them on foot or by tram!

Practical information

🚌 Getting there: take line 3710 from Praça do Areeiro to Costa Caparica bus station. By car, take the famous 25 April bridge (the one that looks like San Francisco's Golden Gates) and exit Lisbon over the Tagus, allow around 25 minutes' drive.

📍 Location: it's here

Costa da Caparica near Lisbon

Costa da Caparica near Lisbon

- © Samuel Borges Photography / Shutterstock
by Faustine PEREZ
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