Planning a trip in January and wondering if it is reasonable to go to Belem and Cascais on the same day trip, since they are accessible via the same train line. Any thoughts? Thanks!
I wouldn’t! There’s lots to see in Belém that requires a lot of walking.
I actually think that half a day in Belem is probably enough (unless you are a thorough museum-goer), but I also think that Cascais in January is not particularly interesting / worthwhile. I would focus on Belem at that time of the year.
Don’t try to do both in the same day. In Belem, the monastery, discoveries monument and maybe the tower will take up quite a bit of time. The coach museum is also quite nice. And, of course, you have to visit Pastéis de Belém. But, don’t stand in the line for take away - Go back into the rooms with tables for your natas.
Cascais would be worth it IMO (but I’m a bit biased) if it’s a sunny day. The nice days in winter are glorious and possibly warm enough to eat outside with a water view.
We spent about 3/4 of a day in Belem. Visited the monastery, took the elevator to the top of the Discoveries Monument, took our time taking photos, had lunch by the water (although not sure this is possible in January), and we visited the Coach Museum which is well worth a visit. Don't rush through Belem.
Caiscais is a beach resort outside of Lisbon and is adjacent to another beach town, Estorial. I would not bother with either of them in January. .
Belem is part of Lisbon ,wonderful, and offers so much to see and do,, do not miss it.. It is where the explorers left from, down the river to explore the world. The Monasterio de Jeronimos is beautiful with it’s detailed Manuline architecture. The Coach Museum was very worthwhile too.