Discover Caxias

Caxias offers different perspectives on a stay: Praia de Caxias is all about the beach and water, while Forte de São Bruno, Paço Real de Caxias and Quinta da Cartuxa bring architecture and gardens to the fore. A named cycling connection is also one of the area’s features. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Caxias, you can start by asking which of these themes you would like to shape your trip.

Beach and cycle path

Praia de Caxias is on Estrada Marginal, directly opposite Caxias railway station. It comprises three sandy areas; the two smaller ones are separated by Forte de São Bruno. The beach is sheltered from the wind and usually has calm water.

Another activity option is the Ciclovia do Passeio Marítimo, a cycle path between Caxias and Cruz Quebrada. This gives you a choice between a specific beach landscape and a named cycling connection when planning your trip. If you would like to consider both, you can weigh these interests separately rather than combining them into a single route.

Fort and historic gardens

Forte de São Bruno is located in Caxias, by the Ribeira de Barcarena. Its polygonal, star-shaped layout, two bastions and square central courtyard distinguish its architecture through several clearly identifiable features. Both the star-shaped design and the bastions and courtyard are characteristic when viewing the building.

Paço Real de Caxias was built in the mid-18th century on the initiative of Infante D. Francisco, the son of D. Pedro II. Its geometric gardens show French influence and are based on the style of gardens à Le Nôtre. A cascade also reflects the imitation of nature typical of the second half of the 18th century. The gardens therefore combine geometric design with this nature-inspired motif.

Quinta da Cartuxa is considered a significant heritage site of historical, architectural, cultural, landscape and symbolic value. It is located near Palácio da Quinta Real de Caxias in Caxias and includes a former 17th-century monastery with a church, cloister and outbuildings. The quinta adds another historic ensemble to the architectural history of Paço Real; its significance encompasses landscape and culture as well as architecture.

A municipal use agreement from 2021 provided for the Quinta da Cartuxa ensemble to be included in the publicly accessible area that includes the gardens of Quinta Real de Caxias. Check the current access arrangements separately before visiting.

Choosing the right focus for your trip

When looking for a holiday apartment in Caxias, it helps to compare your interests: Praia is characterised by its distinct sandy areas and usually calm water, while the Ciclovia is a cycling connection between two places. Forte, Paço Real and Quinta da Cartuxa, by contrast, offer historical and architectural themes, complemented by the garden design.

Discover more destinations: Queijas, Algés, Oeiras, Cruz Quebrada, Carnaxide, Porto Salvo.

Back to the main travel overview: Oeiras.