Besides the beaches (which can become very overcrowded in summer) Estoril is not short of things to do while on holiday. It is particularly well equipped for golfers, and therefore draws plenty of same, who enjoy the old, established championship golf course. Tennis has also put Estoril on the map, its annual Tennis Open in April having ensured that the local tennis club offers plenty of state of the art courts, which guests can enjoy. There is a music museum to browse through in the town, and boat excursions on offer. When Estoril's attractions start to pall, visitors can enjoy a walk along the esplanade to Cascais to see what is happening in this lively neighbouring resort.

Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood.

Portugal is a member of the European Union and its official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. There are numerous banks, bureaux de change and ATMs available in main cities and tourist destinations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and automatic currency exchange machines. Banking hours are generally 8.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Major credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques.

Estoril is a sedate seaside destination, not suited to children or young party animals.

The main drawcard after dark in Estoril is the famed casino, which not only caters for gamblers and slot machine addicts, but also offers a flashy cabaret show. When it comes to clubs and pubs, the options are better in nearby Cascais.

The Estoril resort has a modest selection of restaurants serving both local dishes and international fare, but most tend to be rather upmarket and expensive. There are some laid-back cafes around the casino, and casual eateries along the promenade. For a superb dining experience one cannot beat the Four Seasons in the Palácio Hotel, Rua do Parque, where the gourmet menu extends from sole meneure to wild boar cutlets. An excellent fish restaurant, next to the casino, is the Costa do Estoril, a good place to indulge in the Portuguese favourite codfish. Inevitavel Steak Lounge is popular with expats.

Shopping is limited in Estoril, mainly confined to mini-market grocers serving the locals with a few craft shops and vendors along the beachfront. Souvenirs are available but for a real shopping spree while on holiday, visitors have to head for the large Cascais Shopping Centre a few miles away.

Local time is GMT (GMT +1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).