Discover the Majestic Castelo de Sesimbra

Explore the historic Castelo de Sesimbra, a medieval fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Portugal's rich heritage.

4.6

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
Portugal
Cascais
Castelo de Sesimbra

Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque town of Sesimbra, the Castelo de Sesimbra is a stunning medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and coastline. This historical site is a must-visit for any tourist exploring Portugal's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Castelo de Sesimbra

R. Nossa Sra. do Castelo 11, PT
+351212680746
Visit website

Monday 10 am-8 pm
Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
Thursday 10 am-8 pm
Friday 10 am-8 pm
Saturday 10 am-8 pm
Sunday 10 am-8 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes as the castle grounds involve some walking on uneven surfaces.
Check the local event calendar for festivals or reenactments taking place at the castle.
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the castle grounds, with the spectacular views as your backdrop.

Getting There

Train

From Cascais, walk to the Cascais train station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the town center. Once at the station, purchase a ticket to Sesimbra. Board the train heading towards Lisbon and get off at the last stop, which is the Lisbon (Cais do Sodré) station. From there, you will need to take a bus or another train to Sesimbra. The bus to Sesimbra leaves from the bus terminal next to the train station, and it takes around 30 minutes to reach Sesimbra. Once you arrive in Sesimbra, it's a short 10-minute walk to R. Nossa Sra. do Castelo 11, where Castelo de Sesimbra is located.
Bus

From Cascais, head to the main bus station located on Av. Dom Carlos I. Look for the bus that goes to Sesimbra, which typically departs every 30 minutes. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes. Once you arrive in Sesimbra, disembark at the main bus station. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to Castelo de Sesimbra. Head southeast on R. 1º de Maio, then turn left onto R. Nossa Sra. do Castelo, and you will find the castle at number 11.
Taxi

If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from anywhere in Cascais to Castelo de Sesimbra. Taxis can be hailed at designated taxi stands or requested through a ride-hailing app. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic, and the driver will take you directly to R. Nossa Sra. do Castelo 11.
Walking

If you are already in Sesimbra, you can walk to Castelo de Sesimbra from the town center. Start by heading north on R. da Liberdade, continue straight until you reach R. 1º de Maio, then turn left. Follow this road until you see R. Nossa Sra. do Castelo on your right. The castle will be located at number 11. This walk takes about 20 minutes.

Discover more about Castelo de Sesimbra

The Castelo de Sesimbra is a remarkable fortress that dates back to the 12th century, strategically perched atop a hill that provides panoramic views of the beautiful Sesimbra coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. As you approach the castle, the ancient stone walls and towers invite you to step back in time, offering a glimpse into Portugal's storied past. Walking through the castle's grounds, you can explore the remnants of its ancient structures, including the keep and various defensive walls, which have withstood the test of time and numerous battles. The castle not only serves as a historical monument but also as a vantage point for stunning photos, especially at sunset when the skies turn hues of orange and pink. The surrounding area is equally enchanting, with charming cobblestone streets leading down to the vibrant town of Sesimbra, known for its seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, sampling local delicacies and soaking up the lively atmosphere. The castle is also a part of various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively hub of activity for both locals and tourists. For those interested in history, the castle features informative displays that narrate its significance and the role it played in defending the region. Whether you're an avid history buff or simply looking for a scenic spot to relax, the Castelo de Sesimbra offers an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views and the unique architecture that this iconic castle has to offer.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Parque Natural da Arrábida

4.1 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems of Parque Natural da Arrábida, a natural paradise on Portugal's southern coast.

Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel

10.1 km

Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel, a stunning coastal sanctuary in Portugal.

Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida

10.2 km

Discover tranquility and history at the Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida, a serene retreat in São Lourenço surrounded by breathtaking nature.

Casa-Museu José Maria Da Fonseca

10.8 km

Experience the legacy of Portuguese wine-making at Casa-Museu José Maria Da Fonseca, a historic winery perfect for cultural explorers and wine lovers.

Chafariz dos Pasmados

10.8 km

Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Chafariz dos Pasmados, a captivating landmark in São Lourenço that enchants every visitor.

Forte de Santa Maria da Arrábida

11.1 km

Discover the maritime history of Portugal at Forte de Santa Maria da Arrábida, set in the stunning Arrábida Natural Park with breathtaking views and rich exhibits.

Bacalhôa - Vinhos de Portugal

11.2 km

Explore Bacalhôa Winery in São Lourenço, Portugal—an exquisite destination for wine lovers and cultural enthusiasts in the heart of the country's wine region.

Praia do Portinho da Arrábida

11.6 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, a serene beach surrounded by lush hills and crystal-clear waters in Portugal.

Associação 'A Voz do Alentejo'

12.8 km

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Alentejo at Associação 'A Voz do Alentejo' - a community center celebrating local traditions and artistry.

Quinta de Alcube

14.2 km

Experience the beauty of Quinta de Alcube, a serene winery in Setúbal, offering exquisite wines and breathtaking vineyard views.

Albarquel

17.9 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Albarquel Beach in Portugal, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for a perfect day of relaxation and exploration.

Quinta dos Moinhos

18.0 km

Discover the charm of Quinta dos Moinhos in Setúbal, Portugal, a serene serviced accommodation perfect for relaxing getaways and cultural exploration.

Forte de Albarquel

18.0 km

Explore the historic Forte de Albarquel in Setúbal, a stunning fortress with breathtaking views and rich Portuguese heritage.

Há Mar ao Luar

18.2 km

Experience tranquility and comfort at Hà Mar ao Luar in Setúbal, where relaxation meets the beauty of Portugal's stunning coastline.

Parque Urbano de Albarquel

18.5 km

Explore Parque Urbano de Albarquel, Setúbal's premier urban park for nature lovers, offering lush landscapes and stunning views of the beautiful coastline.

Unmissable attractions to see

Church of Santa Maria

0.2 km

Explore the Church of Santa Maria, a stunning Catholic church in Portugal, where history, architecture, and spirituality converge.

Museu Arqueológico de Sesimbra- Centro de Documentação Rafael Monteiro

0.2 km

Explore ancient artifacts and the rich history of Sesimbra at the Museu Arqueológico de Sesimbra, a fascinating destination for curious travelers.

Museu Arqueológico de Sesimbra- Centro de Documentação Rafael Monteiro

Igreja de São Tiago - Igreja Matriz de Sesimbra

1.0 km

Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of Igreja de São Tiago in the heart of beautiful Sesimbra.

Igreja de São Tiago - Igreja Matriz de Sesimbra

Baloiço Panorâmico de Sesimbra

1.0 km

Experience stunning vistas and thrilling swings at Baloiço Panorâmico de Sesimbra, a breathtaking panoramic attraction in Setúbal.

Sesimbra

1.1 km

Discover the enchanting coastal village of Sesimbra, where breathtaking beaches meet rich history and delightful cuisine in Portugal's stunning landscape.

Museu de Arte Sacra - Capela do Espírito Santo dos Mareantes

1.1 km

Explore the beauty of sacred art at Museu de Arte Sacra in Sesimbra, where history and culture intertwine in a serene setting.

Museu de Arte Sacra - Capela do Espírito Santo dos Mareantes

Praia do Ouro

1.1 km

Discover the stunning Praia do Ouro, a golden sandy beach in Sesimbra, Portugal, perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst breathtaking coastal views.

Public Garden Sesimbra

1.1 km

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant blooms at Public Garden Sesimbra, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Portugal's coastal beauty.

Sesimbra Beach

1.2 km

Experience the enchanting beauty of Sesimbra Beach, a serene coastal paradise in Portugal, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and delicious seafood.

Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra

1.2 km

Explore the historical Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra, where rich heritage meets stunning coastal views and exquisite Portuguese cuisine.

Painel de Sesimbra

1.2 km

Experience the stunning vistas and rich history at Painel de Sesimbra, a must-visit attraction in the heart of Portugal's beautiful coastal town.

Lovely sunset

1.4 km

Experience the unforgettable sunsets of Sesimbra, where the sky lights up with captivating colors over the Atlantic Ocean, creating magical memories for every visitor.

Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino

1.4 km

Experience the awe-inspiring geological wonders of Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino, a national park in Castelo, Portugal, rich in fossil history and breathtaking landscapes.

Pegadas de Dinossauros

1.4 km

Explore the ancient world of dinosaurs at Pegadas de Dinossauros, a unique museum showcasing remarkable fossilized footprints in Castelo.

Farol de Sesimbra

1.6 km

Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of the Farol de Sesimbra, a stunning lighthouse on Portugal's scenic coastline.

Essential places to dine

O Zagaia

1.1 km

Discover O Zagaia in Sesimbra for an authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine amidst charming coastal views.

Aukanaii Beach Bar

1.1 km

Experience delightful cuisine and stunning ocean views at Aukanaii Beach Bar in beautiful Sesimbra.

Portofino

1.2 km

Experience exquisite seafood and local flavors at Portofino in Sesimbra – a culinary gem by the sea.

Casa Mateus

1.2 km

Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Casa Mateus in Sesimbra - where culinary tradition meets coastal charm.

O Velho e o Mar

1.3 km

Discover exceptional seafood dining at O Velho e o Mar in Sesimbra, where culinary tradition meets stunning ocean views.

Restaurante Cantinho da Regina

1.5 km

Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Cantinho da Regina – a must-visit culinary destination in Sesimbra.

Restaurante Retiro do Campo

3.5 km

Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Retiro do Campo in scenic Sesimbra, offering fresh ingredients and delightful flavors.

Cervejaria Mafalda

10.8 km

Discover family-friendly dining at Cervejaria Mafalda in São Lourenço—where delicious meals meet vibrant sports entertainment!

D'uportinho

11.0 km

Experience the flavors of Portugal at D'uportinho—where fresh seafood meets breathtaking coastal views in Portinho da Arrábida.

O Farol

11.0 km

Discover O Farol: A seaside restaurant in São Lourenço serving fresh local seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes with breathtaking views.

O Zeca

11.4 km

Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at O Zeca in São Lourenço – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Anicha-Bar

11.7 km

Experience seaside dining at Anicha-Bar on Praia do Portinho da Arrabábida – where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

Ondagalapos

13.0 km

Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Ondagalapos while enjoying breathtaking views of Praia de Galapos in Serra da Arrábida.

Beira Mar

15.4 km

Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Beira Mar in Costa da Caparica – where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

A Vela Branca

18.3 km

Experience exquisite local cuisine with stunning views at A Vela Branca in Setúbal's picturesque Parque Urbano de Albarquel.

Experience the best of local pastries and breakfast delights at Liansini, a must-visit destination for food lovers in the heart of Portugal.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Contraste - Social Beach Club in Sesimbra, where refreshing drinks and stunning views await you.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Castelo de Sesimbra with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Discover the Majestic Castelo de Sesimbra

A brief summary to Castelo de Sesimbra

Local tips

Getting There

Train

Bus

Taxi

Walking

Unlock the Best of Castelo de Sesimbra

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Castelo de Sesimbra

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Parque Natural da Arrábida

Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel

Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida

Casa-Museu José Maria Da Fonseca

Chafariz dos Pasmados

Forte de Santa Maria da Arrábida

Bacalhôa - Vinhos de Portugal

Praia do Portinho da Arrábida

Associação 'A Voz do Alentejo'

Quinta de Alcube

Albarquel

Quinta dos Moinhos

Forte de Albarquel

Há Mar ao Luar

Parque Urbano de Albarquel

Unmissable attractions to see

Church of Santa Maria

Museu Arqueológico de Sesimbra- Centro de Documentação Rafael Monteiro

Igreja de São Tiago - Igreja Matriz de Sesimbra

Baloiço Panorâmico de Sesimbra

Sesimbra

Museu de Arte Sacra - Capela do Espírito Santo dos Mareantes

Praia do Ouro

Public Garden Sesimbra

Sesimbra Beach

Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra

Painel de Sesimbra

Lovely sunset

Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino

Pegadas de Dinossauros

Farol de Sesimbra

Essential places to dine

O Zagaia

Aukanaii Beach Bar

Portofino

Casa Mateus

O Velho e o Mar

Restaurante Cantinho da Regina

Restaurante Retiro do Campo

Cervejaria Mafalda

D'uportinho

O Farol

O Zeca

Anicha-Bar

Ondagalapos

Beira Mar

A Vela Branca

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Galp

Zimbralar-comérc. De Têxteis Lda.

Gazzel Concept Store - Sesimbra II

Inêsquecível Boutique

Mira Serra Supermarket

Safari Surf

Ilumina-Te || Boticário • Quem Disse, Berenice? || Cátia Guerra

Universal Papelaria Tabacaria

ASSUCENA

Casa do Campo Pastelaria

Decathlon Connect Sesimbra

Cor de Lavanda

Gi for you

Papelaria Letras & Doces

Liansini

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar Inglês

Sereia