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Moving to Cascais, Portugal | Expat Exchange
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Guincho beach in Cascais, Portugal

Moving to Cascais, Portugal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 06, 2024

Summary: Cascais, Portugal is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and close proximity to Lisbon. The city is known for its mild climate, making it an ideal place to live year-round. Expats are also drawn to Cascais for its low cost of living and its friendly locals. Before moving to Cascais, it is important to be aware of the language barrier. Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, so it is important to have a basic understanding of the language before relocating. Additionally, it is important to research the local customs and culture to ensure a smooth transition. Lastly, it is important to be aware of the cost of living in Cascais, as it can be higher than other parts of Portugal.

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What do I need to know before moving to Cascais?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cascais, they said:

"Cascais is a beautiful coastal town in Portugal, located just outside of Lisbon. It is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. Before moving to Cascais, expats should be aware that the cost of living is higher than in other parts of Portugal, and that the weather can be quite unpredictable. Additionally, expats should research the local healthcare system and make sure they have the necessary documents to obtain a residence permit. Finally, it is important to familiarize oneself with the Portuguese language and culture, as this will make the transition to life in Cascais much smoother," said one expat who made the move to Cascais.

How do I find a place to live in Cascais?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Cascais is a beautiful coastal town in Portugal, and there are many options for finding a place to live. One of the best ways to find a place to live in Cascais is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Cascais. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties in local newspapers and classifieds. Another option is to contact a local real estate agent who can help you find a suitable place to live in Cascais. Finally, you can also ask around in the local community for recommendations on rental properties," remarked one expat who made the move to Cascais.

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AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cascais?

"Expat homes and apartments in Cascais are typically modern and spacious, with plenty of natural light and stunning views of the ocean. Many of the homes and apartments have balconies or terraces, perfect for enjoying the warm Mediterranean climate. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature high-end appliances and amenities. Many of the homes and apartments also have access to communal pools, gardens, and other amenities," said one expat in Cascais.

What is the average cost of housing in Cascais?

If you are thinking about moving to Cascais, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Cascais is generally quite high, with prices ranging from moderately expensive to very expensive. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Cascais is typically around €1,000 per month, while larger apartments and houses can cost significantly more," said one expat in Cascais.

Should I buy or rent a home in Cascais?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Cascais, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Cascais can be a great investment. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Europe, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. Renting a home in Cascais can also be a great option, as it allows you to experience the city without the commitment of buying a home. You can also take advantage of the city's many amenities, such as its excellent restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Cascais depends on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat in Cascais, Portugal.

"I am renting an apartment. It was difficult at first because a number of realtors didn't show an interest in helping me. When I found the right realtor, it went fairly easily. The biggest issue was having to pay for an entire years rent due to having no family in Portugal. There is also a scarcity of rental properties that are long term rentals," said one expat in Cascais.

What should I pack when moving to Cascais?

We asked people living in Cascais to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Cascais, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Pack comfortable clothing for the warm summers and mild winters, as well as a light jacket for cooler evenings. Bring a good pair of walking shoes for exploring the city and its surrounding areas. Don't forget to bring a swimsuit for the beautiful beaches. Sunscreen and a hat are also essential for protecting yourself from the sun. Additionally, bring any necessary medications and toiletries. Finally, make sure to bring a few items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and other personal items," remarked one expat who made the move to Cascais.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Cascais?

We asked people in Cascais if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette when visiting Cascais. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful of local traditions and customs, such as not eating in public during religious holidays. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the environment and to avoid littering," explained one expat living in Cascais, Portugal.

Why do people move to Cascais?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Cascais, they responded:

"Cascais is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, mild climate, and vibrant culture. The city is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby beaches. Cascais is also known for its excellent infrastructure, with excellent public transportation, modern amenities, and a wide range of activities and attractions. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population, with a variety of cultures and languages, making it a great place to meet new people and experience different cultures. Finally, Cascais is known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats looking to live in a beautiful and affordable location," commented one expat who moved to Cascais.

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Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

How are healthcare services Cascais?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cascais, they replied:

"Cascais offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is provided by the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) and is free of charge for all citizens. The public healthcare system includes primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and emergency services. Additionally, there are several private healthcare providers in the area that offer a variety of services, including general practice, specialist care, and hospital care. These private providers often offer more personalized care and shorter wait times than the public system. Cascais also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs," offered one expat living in Cascais.

"Connect with other expats to obtain physician references and sources of private insurance so you can benefit from their research and experience. Bring copies of your medical records with you. Quality of care can be very high in Portugal's major communities. Costs are much lower, by about half, and prescriptions range from a tenth to a half of the costs in the US," wrote one expat living in Cascais.

What are medical services in Cascais like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cascais, they replied:

"Cascais offers a wide range of medical services for its residents and visitors. The city has several public and private hospitals, as well as a number of specialized clinics and medical centers. The public hospitals provide general medical care, while the private hospitals offer more specialized services. Additionally, there are a variety of pharmacies and medical supply stores in the city. Cascais also has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and dentists, who are available to provide medical care," wrote one expat living in Cascais.

"Public care is available to all...it's just slower and more crowded. Easily affordable private care is like 5 star service," commented one expat who moved to Cascais.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Guincho beach in Cascais, Portugal

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