5th of October Square

The basics

Filled with bars and restaurants and across the street from the beach, the 5th of October Square is the departure point for many Cascais walking tours. A monument at its center is dedicated to Dom Pedro I, the founder and first ruler of the Empire of Brazil. Another smaller monument pays homage to King Luiz I, who died in 1889. The square is home to Cascais’ old Town Hall, adorned with azulejos (traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles).

Things to know before you go

• Many of the square’s cafés and restaurants have outdoor seating perfect for people-watching.

• Visitors with mobility issues may find the square’s cobblestones tricky to navigate.

• A design store inside the old Town Hall sells items by Portuguese brands.

How to get there

The 5th of October Square is located in the center of the town, less than a 10-minute walk from the Cascais train station. Most of Cascais’ main attractions are within a 10-minute walk, including the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães and Praia da Rainha beach. Trains run frequently between Lisbon and Cascais, offering a scenic route along the coast.

When to get there

The 5th of October Square and Cascais are attractive destinations at any time of day or year. However, spring and fall are typically the best times to visit to enjoy warm weather while avoiding the large crowds and intense heat of summer.

Azulejos

If your visit piques your interest in seeing more examples of Portugal’s beautiful azulejos, head for Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, where tiles cover the courtyard, garden fountain, and chapel. Built by the same family, the Casa de Santa Maria is also home to some beautiful tilework.