Just 30 minutes outside Lisbon, easily accessible either by car or train, the seaside resorts of Estoril and Cascais are where national and international visitors come every summer to relax on their golden sand beaches and take in the refined ambience – expect glamorous company, elegant accommodation and myriad dining options.   

Known for its seafront promenade, over the years Estoril has grown as an upmarket holiday destination, with fine restaurants, world class golf courses and a range of golden sand beaches. Once the second home of the Spanish, Italian, French, Bulgarian and Romanian royal families, Estoril is known for its 007 connections: the elegant resort is home to Europe's largest casino, reputed to have been Ian Fleming's inspiration for the first James Bond novel 'Casino Royale', while Palácio Hotel served as the set for the James Bond film 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'!

A former fishing village, Cascais has transformed itself into a chic seaside resort, brimming with good food, cultural events and shopping opportunities, all set against the background of a picturesque historic centre. A European royalty favourite for centuries, there are various fine beaches to choose from, as well as a dedicated marina, home to elegant yachts. Cascais can easily be explored on two wheels (bicycles are available to rent for free), while for a sample of its fishing heritage you can visit the popular fish market, which is open every weekday.