Estoril: Casino, Promenade and Beaches

Estoril, on the coast just east of Cascais, is a classic seaside resort with a famous casino, palm-lined gardens and a long seafront promenade. It was a haven for exiled royals and spies during the Second World War, and it’s still an elegant, relaxed place to stay near Lisbon.

Quick answer: Estoril is about 35 minutes from Lisbon on the Cascais train line. Stroll the seafront promenade to Cascais (about 30 minutes’ walk), swim at Praia do Tamariz with its seawater pool, see the Casino Estoril and its gardens, and enjoy a calmer base than Lisbon. See places to stay in Estoril.

Things to do

• The promenade: a flat seafront walk linking Estoril and Cascais, past beaches and cafés.
• Praia do Tamariz: a sandy beach below the casino gardens, with an ocean pool.
• Casino Estoril: one of Europe’s largest casinos, with shows and restaurants.
• History: during the Second World War, neutral Estoril was full of exiles, refugees and spies. It’s said to have inspired Ian Fleming.
• Golf: courses nearby.

Estoril or Cascais?

Estoril is quieter and more residential, while Cascais has more restaurants and atmosphere. They’re linked by the promenade, so you can enjoy both. See where to stay in Cascais and Cascais vs Lisbon.

More: the best beaches near Cascais, the best hotels in Cascais and things to do in Cascais.

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