Happy TravellerWelcome to Estoril, a town located in the Municipality of Cascais, Portugal, on the Portuguese Riviera. With its luxurious hotels, beaches, and the famous Casino Estoril, Estoril has become a top tourist destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and fun. Its history is rich with remnants of Phoenician, Roman, and Arab communities, making it a cultural treasure trove. The name Estoril may derive from the Old Portuguese estorga (heather) or astor (Northern goshawk), but its beauty is undeniable. Estoril is also home to many royal families and celebrities and has hosted high-profile events such as the Estoril Open and the Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival.
Estoril is one of the most expensive places to live in Portugal and the Iberian Peninsula, and it’s easy to see why with its luxury restaurants, hotels, and entertainment. Cascais, the municipality in which Estoril is located, is consistently ranked as one of the most livable places in Portugal.
Estoril is roughly 15 kilometers (9.3 mi) from Lisbon and extends to the beach of Guincho, sometimes referred to colloquially as the Costa de Estoril-Sintra or Costa de Lisboa. Along the coastline, you’ll find smaller boroughs and localities such as São Pedro do Estoril, São João do Estoril, Santo António do Estoril (or simply Estoril), and Monte Estoril.
The Casino Estoril is a major attraction and is widely regarded as Europe’s largest casino. Visitors can enjoy a night of gambling, dining, and entertainment in a luxurious setting. The Museum of Portuguese Music- Casa Verdades de Faria is another cultural highlight, hosting an important collection of musical instruments related to popular music, assembled by Michel Giacometti.
For sports enthusiasts, the Grupo Desportivo Estoril Praia is the major local sports club, and the Estoril Circuit is a popular destination for motorsports events. The circuit used to host Formula One and MotoGP, among other lower formula events.
Education opportunities in and near Estoril are plentiful, including private schools for expats. The German community hosts a kindergarten and elementary school campus of the German School of Lisbon. There are also schools for tennis, art, and intensive academic training from age 5 through college.
Estoril has a rich and diverse history, with connections to the Portuguese Age of Discovery, the monarchy, and even the Second World War, when it served as a center for spies and diplomatic secrecy. Today, it remains a cosmopolitan destination with sophistication and charm. Come and experience the beauty and excitement of Estoril for yourself!
