Things To Do
in Estoril

Estoril, located on the stunning southern coast of Portugal, is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant cultural scene. This charming town is often dubbed the 'Portuguese Riviera' and offers a mix of historical landmarks and modern attractions. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque coastline while indulging in world-class gastronomy and nightlife.

With its mild climate, Estoril is an appealing destination year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Estoril
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a stroll along the Estoril promenade, taking in views of the Atlantic Ocean.

afternoon
:

Visit the Casino Estoril, one of the largest casinos in Europe, and explore the surrounding gardens. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in Portuguese seafood.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant to savor fresh fish dishes, and then head to a local bar for a taste of Portuguese wine and live music.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Museu do Fado, where you can learn about the traditional Portuguese music genre. Have brunch at a nearby bakery famous for its pastel de nata.

afternoon
:

Take a short train ride to Cascais, a nearby coastal town, and enjoy its beautiful beaches and vibrant market. Spend time walking around the historic center.

evening
:

Return to Estoril for dinner at a traditional taverna, followed by a nightcap at a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🍺Local beer$3
🌊Beach chair rental$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and scenic views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Vibrant nightlife and excellent dining options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Higher prices compared to other parts of Portugal.
  • Limited public transportation options outside peak hours.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado (a)" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica a praia?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Estoril

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia do Tamariz

A beautiful beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Estoril Casino

The iconic architecture and lush gardens make for stunning photos.

Estoril Promenade

The scenic coastal path offers breathtaking views and great opportunities for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Estoril

Estoril offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine, especially its seafood.

Estoril Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bacalhau à Brás

A popular dish made with shredded cod, onions, and thinly chopped fried potatoes, bound together with scrambled eggs.

Must-Try!

Sardinhas Assadas

Grilled sardines seasoned with sea salt, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Caldo Verde

A traditional Portuguese soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado da Vila

A charming market in Cascais offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

Look out for stalls selling petiscos, Portuguese tapas, and grilled meats during local festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Estoril enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 28°C (82°F) in summer. Rainfall is more common in the winter months, while summers are typically sunny and dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common upon meeting; friends may greet with a kiss on both cheeks.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and avoid discussing business during meals.

Dress Code

Smart casual attire is preferred, especially in restaurants and bars.

Safety Guide

Safety

Estoril is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's good to keep emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Estoril

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants. In bars, rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect warm weather and crowded beaches; it's peak tourist season.

Autumn

The weather remains pleasant, and crowds thin out, perfect for exploring.

Winter

Cooler temperatures with occasional rain; however, it’s quieter and more peaceful.

Nightlife Guide

Estoril at Night

Estoril boasts a lively nightlife scene, particularly in the summer months. The Casino Estoril hosts various shows and events, while local bars offer live music and dancing. Many beach clubs stay open late, providing a vibrant atmosphere for socializing by the ocean.

Hiking in Estoril

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site with numerous trails offering stunning views of the coastline and lush forests.

Praia da Ursa Trail

A scenic trail leading to one of Portugal's most beautiful and secluded beaches, known for its dramatic cliffs.

Airports

How to reach Estoril by plane.

Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)

Located approximately 30 km from Estoril, this is the main international airport serving the region, with connections to numerous global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Estoril is quite walkable, particularly along the coastal promenade, which connects various attractions and beaches. The town has pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some hilly areas may require moderate fitness levels.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

A blend of native Portuguese and expatriates, many of whom are drawn to Estoril for its lifestyle and amenities.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world, particularly from Europe, seeking sun, culture, and relaxation.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is incredibly popular in Portugal, with local clubs and international matches drawing large crowds.

Surfing

The nearby beaches, particularly in Cascais, are known for excellent surfing conditions, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Estoril can be busy during peak tourist seasons, particularly along the coast. Public transportation includes trains to Lisbon and Cascais, along with local buses. The area is well-served by taxi services, and ridesharing apps are also available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Estoril.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but confirm with staff, especially in traditional dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Estoril is of a high standard, with several clinics and hospitals available. The public healthcare system is accessible, and there are also private options for quicker service. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health issues.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide