Things To Do
in Cacém

Cacém is a charming town located in the Lisbon District of Portugal, known for its vibrant community and proximity to the capital. Often considered a suburban area, it offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional Portuguese culture. The town features various parks, shops, and local markets, making it ideal for both residents and visitors.

With easy access to Lisbon, Cacém is an attractive option for those seeking a quieter experience while still being close to urban attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Cacém
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional pastries like Pastéis de Nata. Afterward, visit the Parque da Liberdade for a relaxing stroll.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market, Mercado de Cacém, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and sample fresh produce. Explore nearby shops for unique Portuguese souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant such as O Pescador for fresh seafood, and finish the night at a cozy wine bar for a taste of Portuguese wines.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Lisbon
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Lisbon in the morning and visit the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery for a dose of history.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic Alfama district, known for its narrow streets and local shops, and have lunch at a traditional Fado restaurant.

evening
:

Return to Cacém and enjoy dinner at a local pizzeria, followed by a walk around town to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$1.50
🍕Pizza$8.00
🥖Baguette$1.00
🍷Glass of Wine$3.00
🚇Metro Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Lisbon for day trips.
  • Rich local culture and cuisine.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Some areas may feel more suburban and less vibrant.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Cacém

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque da Liberdade

A beautifully landscaped park perfect for capturing nature shots or enjoying a picnic.

Mercado de Cacém

The bustling market provides a colorful backdrop with lively scenes of local life.

Cacém Church

The local church features stunning architecture and offers a picturesque view of the town.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cacém

Cacém is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of local delicacies that showcase the rich Portuguese culinary heritage.

Cacém Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bacalhau à Brás

A traditional dish made with shredded codfish, potatoes, and eggs, flavored with olives and parsley.

Must-Try!

Caldo Verde

A comforting green soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo, often served as a starter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Cacém

A vibrant market where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, and where you can find street food vendors offering local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cacém enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is moderate, with most precipitation occurring in the winter months. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and clear skies.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, with a friendly 'Olá' (Hello) to start.

Dining Etiquette

If invited to a local's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as wine or dessert.

Personal Space

People in Portugal may stand close when speaking, but it's important to respect individual comfort levels.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cacém is generally a safe town, but like any place, it's wise to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so keep your belongings secure. Always be cautious when walking alone at night and avoid poorly lit areas.

Tipping in Cacém

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summers can be hot, drawing locals and tourists to nearby beaches. Plan for beach trips and late-night activities.

Autumn

Fall brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. It's an excellent time for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild but can be rainy. This is a quieter season, perfect for indoor activities and enjoying cozy local cafés.

Nightlife Guide

Cacém at Night

Cacém's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to Lisbon, offering a selection of bars and a few nightclubs. Local bars often feature live music, especially Fado, creating a cozy atmosphere for socializing. For those looking for more vibrant nightlife, a short trip to Lisbon offers an array of clubs and late-night venues.

Hiking in Cacém

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

A short drive from Cacém, this park offers stunning trails through lush forests and along beautiful coastlines.

Mafra National Palace Trails

Explore scenic trails around the historic Mafra Palace, showcasing both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Airports

How to reach Cacém by plane.

Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport)

Located about 25 km from Cacém, this is the main international airport serving the Lisbon area, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cacém is quite walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance. The town features sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some parts may require a short bus or train ride to access more distant attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Cacém has a significant population of families who appreciate the suburban lifestyle, access to parks, and good schools.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Lisbon, many young professionals choose to live in Cacém for a more affordable cost of living while still having access to urban job opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Portugal, and local clubs often have passionate followings.

Basketball

Basketball is gaining popularity, with local teams and youth leagues promoting the sport in schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cacém can be moderate, especially during rush hours when commuters travel to Lisbon. Public transportation options include trains and buses that connect Cacém with Lisbon and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cacém.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants in Cacém offer vegetarian options, and traditional dishes can often be modified to suit dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but it's advisable to ask restaurant staff for alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cacém is accessible with several clinics and pharmacies available throughout the town. The public healthcare system is generally reliable, and emergency services can be reached quickly. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers international medical expenses.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide