Casino Estoril

Casino Estoril holds the remarkable distinction of being the largest casino in Europe by square footage, a status earned through decade upon decade of expansion since its 1916 opening. The casino occupies a spectacular position facing the Atlantic Ocean in the resort town of Estoril on the Lisbon Riviera — the so-called "Portuguese Riviera" beloved by Europe's aristocracy and the wealthy elite who flocked here during the Second World War.

It was during World War II that Estoril became legendary beyond the gaming tables: the town was a neutral haven swarming with spies, exiled royals, and intelligence officers from every belligerent nation. Ian Fleming, then a British Naval Intelligence officer, visited and drew direct inspiration for James Bond's Casino Royale from the atmosphere and characters he encountered here.

The modern casino complex has evolved well beyond its glamorous origins: today it encompasses the largest gaming floor in Europe with over 1,000 slot machines and 26 table games, alongside a congress centre, a hotel, multiple restaurants, and Portugal's most prestigious nightclub. The stunning formal gardens remain one of the casino's most photographed features.