Explore Belem and Cascais with a Local

Take a tram from the city centre to the district of Belém, a historic area which is packed with monuments and architecture from the 16th century Age of Discovery - you'll see the Torre de Belém, an ornate fortress which was built in 1551 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the imposing Padrão dos Descobrimentos, or Monument to the Discoveries. Of course, no trip to Belém would be complete without the pilgrimage to the bakery where the iconic Pastéis de Belém are still made using a secret and ancient recipe! Indulge in these sweet treats and taste the unique, cinnamon flavour that only the Belém pastry has in its custard tarts. 

Next, take the train to Cascais, which was once a sleepy fishing village and is now the favourite spot for Lisboetas who want to escape the city and enjoy the beautiful beaches and amazing surf. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the beach front restaurants, where you'll find exquisite, fresh seafood cooked in the traditional ways, and cool down with some local sangria, beer or soft drinks.

Before you relax on the beach or head up to the cliffs for views over the wild Atlantic, explore the village and visit the Casa das Histórias which is dedicated to the artist Paula Rego (the Museum of Stories), and 17th-century St. Sebastian Chapel Museum where you'll find an eclectic collection of beautiful Portuguese tiles, delicate china and sculptures.