12 Great Things to do in Sesimbra Portugal

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THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SESIMBRA – PORTUGAL’S FAVOURITE SEASIDE HAVEN

Basking quietly on Portugal’s coast lies Sesimbra town, a picturesque seaside fishing village just 40 kilometres from Lisbon. We discovered this ‘fishy’ town when we were motorhoming through Portugal.

If you’re planning a trip to Sesimbra, we’ve got you covered with an exciting list of the best things to do in Sesimbra. Whether you love beach relaxation, street art, historical landmarks, or adventure, this seaside village offers something special.

The town exudes a relaxed seaside vibe and is also surrounded by the inviting Arrabida National Park to the east and the wild coast of Cabo Espichel to the west.

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THINGS TO DO IN SESIMBRA MAP

Expand the map by clicking on the box in the top right-hand corner and using the key on the left to find Sesimbra things to do that we’ve mentioned in this article.

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12 TOP THINGS TO DO IN SESIMBRA

What to do in Sesimbra?

From exploring the ancient walls of Sesimbra Castle to strolling through Sesimbra Old Town. Vibrant streets are adorned with mesmerizing street art, and every corner of Sesimbra exudes a unique sense of authenticity.

These 12 things to do in Sesimbra embrace the essence of Portugal’s beloved fishing village and will help you create fond memories of your time here.

 

1. RELAX AT PRAIA DE CALIFORNIA

Unwind and soak up the sun at the beautiful Praia de California (California Beach) – a sandy stretch right in the heart of town.

During the summer, the beach comes alive with locals and tourists, making it the perfect spot to experience the essence of Sesimbra’s seaside charm.

Though the beach may look deserted in our photo — we visited Sesimbra in March — during the summer months, the beach comes alive. Locals flock to soak up the sun along with Sesimbra’s seaside charm.

Sesimbra beach beside long promenade
Praia de California in Sesimbra 

2.  SESIMBRA STREET ART

Stroll the streets of Sesimbra, and it won’t take you long to notice the ‘fishy’ connections of the town. You’ll find detailed murals all over town depicting typical Portuguese fishing life. 

Sesimbra street art with mural of black and white boat on coloured swirls
Sesimbra Street Art

In 2014, the Sesimbra City Council asked artists to decorate the doors and windows of  Sesimbra’s old town, using the local tradition of fishing as inspiration.

Now, the art, including several wall murals, has become another drawcard for tourists and colourfully enhances the long-standing fishing traditions of Sesimbra.

Check out some of the brilliant Sesimbra street art in our video below.

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Sesimbra Street Art, Portugal
Street art in Sesimbra

3.  WANDER THE STREETS OF SESIMBRA

Discover the magic of this traditional fishing village on foot. Wander through narrow passageways and hilly pathways that weave along the cliffside and delve into Sesimbra’s rich history and local culture.

While exploring, you’ll find several charming cafes and restaurants, each with its own unique character and culinary delights. Take a break from your wanderings and indulge in some authentic Portuguese dishes while savouring panoramic views of the sea.

Sesimbra pretty side street
Sesimbra pretty side street
Sesimbra Portuguese styled old home
Sesimbra Portuguese-styled old home
Sesimbra street art
Street Art in Sesimbra depicting traditional fishing village life

As the sun sets over the horizon, the town’s magical ambience comes to life, casting a golden glow over the streets. The gentle sea breeze carries the scent of salt and freshly caught fish, making an evening stroll even more memorable.

Whether you’re an avid photographer capturing the essence of Sesimbra through your lens or a leisurely wanderer immersing yourself in the town’s history and culture, exploring Sesimbra’s streets is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

4. VISIT SESIMBRA CASTLE (CASTELO DE SESIMBRA)

Sesimbra Castle stands high on the hill overlooking the town and was classified as a National Monument in 1910. 

The views from the top are stunning, giving you a 360-degree view of the area, but be aware that there is a steep 230m climb up to this medieval castle.

You can see this magnificent view on this 360 photo link.

How to use the photo link: Once you have looked at the castle, there will be a small circle with a finger pushing a button – this takes you to the next 360 views of the castle and surroundings.

Explore the tiny Igreja Santa Maria do Castelo church inside the castle adorned with classic blue and white azulejo tiles.

There is also a small cafe by the castle – so you can refresh from the steep climb.

Sesimbra Castle is open from 7 am to 8 pm in the summer and  7 am to 7 pm in winter and entry is free.

Sesimbra castle walls at the of of a hill
Sesimbra Castle

 5. EXPLORE THE FORT OF SANTIAGO (FORTALEZA DE SANTIAGO )

The Fort of Santiago, a 17th-century Fortress, is set right on the beach in Sesimbra. It now houses the town’s Maritime Museum, which exhibits items and information related to the town’s seafaring traditions.

The local community and fishermen contributed many of the items.

You can see the old fortress walls best from the beach.

Fortaleza de Santiago, Sesimbra
The Maritime Museum is now housed in the remains of Santiago Fortress (Fortaleza de Santiago) in Sesimbra

6. CHILL AT THE SESIMBRA MARINA

Walk the Praia de California west, then join the footpath and follow this around to the Sesimbra Marina.

Here, you see traditional multi-coloured small, wooden fishing boats, seagulls arguing over the scraps left on the quay and fishermen tending their nets.

At the Sesimbra marina, the pace of life is methodical and unhurried. 

seagull by the coloured boats of Sesimbra
Life at Sesimbra Marina
Sesimbra's bright coloured fishing boats beached at the harbour
Sesimbra’s brightly-coloured fishing boats 

7. WATCH XÁVEGA ART

If you are visiting Sesimbra between July and September, then on a Thursday evening from 7 pm,  you can watch this traditional fishing art.

This millennial fishing method is carried out with the support of an aiola, a typical rowing boat in Sesimbra.

A beach fishing net is fixed to the shore at one end and cast in a semicircular movement to bring the other end of the line back to shore. The net is then brought ashore by fishermen pulling both ends of the line, and fish are caught in the sweep. 

Paragliding onto Praia de California, Sesimbra
Sesimbra Beach

8. ENJOY SEAFOOD AT SESIMBRA’S RESTAURANTS

All that sightseeing works up a good appetite and if you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in luck because Sesimbra is renowned for its fresh fishy platters.

The local fishermen supply local restaurants with a variety of seafood, so you can be sure you’re eating the day’s fresh catch.

A popular local dish served in a clay pot is Arroz de Marisco, a fantastic fish stew consisting of crabs, shellfish and rice.

Arroz de Marisco - Sesimbra dish
Arroz de Marisco

The following restaurants are highly rated and are in the heart of Sesimbra (see the above map for locations):

Casa Mateus: serves traditional Portuguese, and although hidden in the back streets, this restaurant serves authentically cooked food.

Taberna Isaias: serves lunch and dinner with local cuisine of seafood, Mediterranean, and Portuguese, including gluten-free options.

Sesimbra has its own local traditional sweet, Farinha Torrada, a traditional dessert made for the fishermen to take to sea. It’s like an energy bar made of flour, chocolate, lemon and cinnamon.

9. Take a trip to Parque Natural Da Arrábida

Just to the northeast of Sesimbra and southwest of the city of Setúbal, you’ll find the Arrabida Nature Reserve. The Reserve has indigenous vegetation, magnificent tall, white cliffs, fine sandy beaches and sparkling blue seas.

The Serra da Arrábida mountains separate Sesimbra from the Setubal district, and it is only a 30-minute drive from Sesimbra to the main beach of Porto do Portinho da Arrábida. 

Sesimbra to Parque Natural da Arrábida
Sesimbra to the beach of Portinho da Arrabida

10. Visit the Wild Cabo Espichel

Driving a mere 15 kilometres west of Sesimbra brings you to the doorstep of Cabo Espichel and its wild beauty on the tip of the Setubal Peninsula. Cabo Espichel is a landscape of ancient buildings, rolling hills, majestic cliffs, pounding seas and gusting winds.

If you love the wildness of nature, then this is the place for you.

Parking is not a problem, with a vast area right by the Nossa Senhora pilgrimage church and within easy walking distance of the other sights at Cabo Espichel.

Take time to explore the church and the nearby tiny chapel, the Ermida da Memoria, as well as the dramatic coastal landscape where, if you look carefully, you’ll see the remains of dinosaur footprints.

Cabo Espichel
Cliff on Cabo Espichel

11. Take a Boat Tour

If you enjoy taking to the seas, you may consider a boat tour that visits the beaches and caves along the coastline. You may even spot dolphins as you go.

The tour leaves from Sesimbra, and its first stop is the stunning calm waters of Ribeiro do Calvalo Beach. Not easily reached by land, a slippery and steep walk down only for the very agile, this is the perfect way to visit this secluded bay.

You can snorkel here before heading to more beaches and learning about the history of Whaling Bay in Arrabida Natural Park. While enjoying a tipple of the local region, you will then view the wild coast of Cabo Espichel from the ocean before heading back to Sesimbra.

>>> See More Details for the Arrábida Natural Park Beaches and Caves Boat Tour Here

12. ENJOY A SESIMBRA DAY TRIP EXPERIENCE

If you are still wondering what to do in Sesimbra, Portugal, many guided tours and day trips depart from the town.

You may fancy dolphin watching, an adventurous coasteering adventure, a wine tasting tour in the surrounding countryside, scuba diving or a 4×4 jeep tour.

Browse some options by clicking the Things to Do in Sesimbra link below.

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Visiting Sesimbra in Summer

Portugal Tourism has put together this video to give you an idea of what Sesimbra is like in the summer months.

Sesimbra - Portugal HD

Getting from Lisbon to Sesimbra

The easiest way to get from Lisbon to Sesimbra is by car, and it takes around 35 minutes to travel the 40km.

HIRE CAR

If you are looking to hire a car, it is easier to hire one from Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon.

🚘 If you want to hire a car, we recommend DiscoverCars. They find the best deal around and also have a price match guarantee.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT – BUS

To get from Lisbon to Sesimbra by bus, you can catch the TST Express bus no. 3721 from Lisboa (Sete Rios) to Sesimbra (Terminal).

Download the timetable here.

ACCOMMODATION IN SESIMBRA

We were in the campervan and parked in the carpark at Sesimbra for one night.

However, if you are travelling by car, you may like to check out the following options available on booking.com.

Sesimbra Budget Option

Apartment My Home:  Located just a minute’s walk from the beach. The apartment offers pet-friendly accommodation in Sesimbra and has very good reviews.

*Click Here for budget deals.

Mid-Range Option

Casa Vista Azul: Situated in the best-rated area in Sesimbra, this property has an excellent location score of 9.9

*Click Here for this Midrange Option

Luxury Option

Sesimbra Hotel and Spa: This beachfront hotel offers luxurious rooms with Atlantic Ocean views. Facilities include an outdoor infinity pool and a spa.

*Click Here for this luxury option

FAQs on Things to do in Sesimbra

1. How far is Sesimbra from Lisbon, and what is the best way to travel between the two places?

Sesimbra is located approximately 40 kilometres from Lisbon. The easiest and most convenient way to travel between the two destinations is by car, which takes around 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the TST Express bus no. 3721 from Lisboa (Sete Rios) to Sesimbra (Terminal) if you prefer public transport.

2. What are the top attractions in Sesimbra that shouldn’t be missed?

Sesimbra offers a plethora of must-visit attractions. Some highlights include Praia de California, a beautiful sandy beach in the heart of town; Sesimbra Castle, perched on a hill with stunning panoramic views; the Fort of Santiago, home to the town’s Maritime Museum; and the colourful Sesimbra street art, depicting the town’s fishing traditions.

Are there any adventure activities available in Sesimbra?

Yes, adventure seekers will find exciting activities in Sesimbra. Consider taking a boat tour along the coastline, exploring hidden caves and secluded bays, with the possibility of spotting dolphins. Additionally, you can indulge in coasteering adventures, scuba diving, or embark on a 4×4 jeep tour to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where can I find the best seafood restaurants in Sesimbra?

Sesimbra is renowned for its delectable seafood offerings. You can savour fresh fishy platters, including the traditional Portuguese dish “Arroz de Marisco,” at several highly-rated restaurants. Some recommended options in the heart of Sesimbra include Casa Mateus, serving authentic Portuguese cuisine, and Taberna Isaias, offering a mix of seafood, Mediterranean, and Portuguese dishes.

THINGS TO DO IN SESIMBRA, PORTUGAL … THAT’S A WRAP

We thoroughly enjoyed our two-day adventure in Sesimbra and Cabo Espichel.

If you’re pressed for time, a brief visit to each location will still offer a delightful glimpse into their natural beauty and charm. There’s a wealth of things to do in Sesimbra, Portugal, and a short visit will only whet your appetite for each spot.

For a deeper dive into what Portugal has to offer, feel free to explore our Explore Portugal page here.

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For a more thorough list visit our Travel Resources page here.

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Lars

Lars, grew up in the Australian countryside and discovered his love for nature early on. Leaving Australia at 20, he began a life of travel and exploration. As a co-owner of Lifejourney4two with Shelley, Lars captures their journeys through his photography. Join him here and see the world through his lens.

4 thoughts on “12 Great Things to do in Sesimbra Portugal”

  1. I believe you did enjoy your travel in Portugal and yes the photos are amazing. We hope to see you soon back in Portugal!

    Reply
  2. These were super pics. Thank you for sharing. Please help me remember the purpose of the Geocaches and who puts them about??

    Reply
    • Thanks Gwen. Geocaching is like a ‘treasure hunt’ – People hide them in various locations (there are millions all over the world) and you get the approximate location and sometimes clues to help you solve where the ‘geocache’ is. There is a little log book in the cach and you sign it to show you have been there. There is also an app and you log it as found. We really enjoy it because the caches are often placed in really lovely locations that sometimes only the locals know about. Therefore we get to see a lot of ‘off the beaten track’ places.

      Reply

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