Things To Do
in Estoril
Estoril is a elegant coastal town just west of Lisbon, known for its long sandy beaches, palm-lined promenade, and the iconic Estoril Casino. It blends postcard-worthy shorelines with a relaxed, refined atmosphere that appeals to sun-seekers, culture lovers, and day-trippers from Lisbon. The town sits along the Estoril coast, offering easy access to Cascais, Sintra, and the capital’s historic charms.
With mild winters and warm summers, Estoril is a year-round gateway to the Lisbon Riviera.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring a pastéis de nata alongside a strong Portuguese coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Estoril, taking in the stunning architecture of the historic buildings. Don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful Igreja de São João, where you can appreciate its intricate tile work and peaceful atmosphere.
For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau à brás, a delicious codfish dish. Post-lunch, explore the Estoril Casino, one of the largest in Europe, and marvel at its stunning design and rich history. You can also take a short walk to the nearby Tamariz Beach, where you can relax by the sea or take a dip in the refreshing waters.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic stroll along the coastline, watching the waves crash against the shore. For dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast at a beachside restaurant, where you can try fresh catch of the day. End your evening with a visit to a local bar, indulging in some live Fado music that encapsulates the soul of Portuguese culture.
Start your day by diving into the vibrant atmosphere at Tamariz Beach, where the sun and surf beckon you. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, fueling yourself for a day of adventure. After breakfast, rent a paddleboard or kayak and glide across the calm waters, taking in the stunning coastal views.
For lunch, pack a picnic or grab a bite from a beach kiosk, and find a perfect spot on the sand. Spend the afternoon trying out thrilling water sports like jet skiing or windsurfing, ensuring an adrenaline-filled experience. If you prefer something more relaxed, laze on the beach with a good book and soak up the sun.
As the day winds down, stroll along the promenade to enjoy the evening breeze and watch the sunset over the ocean. For dinner, treat yourself to a beachfront seafood restaurant, choosing from a variety of local delicacies. Cap off your day with a leisurely walk along the shore, feeling the sand between your toes and listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥪Lunch for two in a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $60-150 |
| 🚇Public transportation 1-month pass | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Lisbon, Cascais, and Sintra via quick rail connections
- Beautiful coastline, beaches, and scenic hikes nearby
- Mild climate allows outdoor enjoyment most of the year
- Can be touristy in peak summer months
- Some areas near the coast can get pricey, especially during holidays
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica a estação?" - Where is the station?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Estoril
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour shots along the sandy shore with the Estoril coastline and promenades framing the scene.
Cliffside sea spray and dramatic rock formations ideal for expansive seascapes and moody weather photos.
Colorful boats, reflections in the water, and the adjacent fortifications provide maritime photography opportunities.
Lush gardens, pathways, and views over the Cascais coastline for nature and lifestyle photography.
Wild coastlines with expansive skies, perfect for dramatic landscapes and wind-swept portraits.
Food in Estoril
Estoril Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic shredded cod with potatoes, eggs, onions, and olives; widely available in coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled sardines, often served with boiled potatoes and a fresh salad, especially popular in the summer months.
A fish stew with layered fish, potatoes, tomatoes, and herbs; a comforting coastal dish.
Seafood rice cooked with shellfish and tomato, a hearty choice for sharing.
Portuguese custard tarts, perfect with coffee after a meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market area where fresh seafood, fruit, and regional products are sold; great for tasting ingredients and picking up snacks.
Coastal stalls along the promenade offer quick bites like grilled seafood, fritters, and pastel de nata, ideal for a casual lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; introductions are often warm. Personal questions about family are typical in conversations.
Smart casual is common for nicer restaurants; beachwear is appropriate only on the beach. Quiet, respectful behavior in public spaces is valued.
Wait to be seated; keep voices moderate in restaurants; try local wine and seafood when offered.
Safety
Tipping in Estoril
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in restaurants if service is not included. It’s common to round up bills in casual spots.
Most places accept cards (Visa, Mastercard) and cash; some smaller venues may prefer cash. For larger meals, check if a service charge is included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with sunny skies, peak beach crowds, and lively outdoor dining. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated; evenings stay mild.
Pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds and a splash of color in the cliffs and gardens. Sea breezes can be cool in the evenings.
Mild but wetter and windier; coastal walks are still enjoyable with layers. Rain can limit some outdoor activities.
Blooming gardens and mild days, ideal for hiking around Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and coastal photography.
Estoril at Night
Hiking in Estoril
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal path with sea views, cliffs, and wind-swept landscapes suitable for a half-day hike.
Forest and hill trails with viewpoints toward the coast and Sintra hills; various levels of difficulty.
Short drive from Sintra with a rocky lookout and sweeping views of the coastline and sea.
Airports
How to reach Estoril by plane.
Main international gateway to the region; frequent trains, buses, and taxis connect to Estoril and Cascais from Lisbon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, retirees, and professionals living along the coast; a mix of Portuguese and international residents.
Day-trippers from Lisbon and Cascais, with a significant number of international visitors during the summer months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Guincho Beach and nearby shores host strong surf culture with surf schools and rental shops.
Multiple courses in the Cascais area, including greens with ocean views.
Cascais and surrounding clubs offer public and private tennis facilities.
Popular among locals; informal games often played in community spaces and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Estoril.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetable-forward plates and salads. Look for grilled vegetable dishes, arroz de legumes (vegetable rice), and egg- or cheese-based plates. When in doubt, ask for a plant-based option or garlic-oil roasted vegetables as a main.