Sesimbra – Costa Azul – Portugal
Are you still wondering where to go on holiday this year? The pretty Portuguese town of Sesimbra gets the thumbs up from Click&Go’s Bettina. Read Bettina’s list of 13 Sesimbra facts you should know before you go and click the video below to see the beautiful scenery around the sheltered bay of this Portuguese seaside town.
- It’s situated 40km south of Lisbon, a short 40-minute drive away. Day trips from Sesimbra are really easy – it costs €4 by local bus.
- Local people are called Pexitos because of the abundance of fresh fish.
- Cabo Espichel is the no.1 tourist attraction – a cape lying to the west of Sesimbra with stunning cliff-top views.
- Keep your eyes peeled as you walk around the town – there are quirky nautical-themed murals and paintings decorating doorways and walls.
- Sesimbra highlights include 3 blue flag beaches, lovely traditional architecture, cobblestone streets and little side alleys with great local restaurants.
- Sesimbra is nestled in a sheltered bay, where the water is crystal clear and calm, making it safe for swimming.
- Holidays in Sesimbra are focused on relaxing at the beach, eating out (especially seafood) and activities such as hiking in the Arrabida Natural Park.
- One of the best-known products from Sesimbra – Farinha Torrada is a very sweet, local pastry made of flour. A dry cake that lasts for a long time, it was traditionally loved by fishermen as it provided a great source of energy while they were doing a hard day’s work at sea. ( I even managed to get the recipe – so message me if you’d like it!)
- Sesimbra is a laid-back resort, with 3 hotels, plenty of restaurants, coffee shops and a low-key nightlife, with just a couple of bars.
- Sesimbra is total seafood heaven. I ate in O’Rodinhas (no. 2 on Tripadvisor), where a steaming plate of clams and mussels cost around €8. Black Scabbard is one of the best fish I have ever tasted – try O’Golfinho’s for this local delicacy.
- The first international tourists to Sesimbra were Scandinavians who came to fish Swordfish in the 1950s. I recommend Sesimbra walking tours to get a feel for the place and learn about the town’s fascinating history.
- There’s a tourist information kiosk located in the beachfront Fortress, with information about the nearby Moorish castle, guided walking or mountain biking tours in the Arrabida Natural Park, as well as boat tours.
- The locals are really welcoming – if you’re looking for something authentically Portuguese, this is the best holiday destination for you!
For more information about Sesimbra and the region of Costa Azul, visit our destination page, or leave a comment for our travel expert Bettina below!
