South Bank Lisbon's South Bank Guide: beaches, Arrábida, Sesimbra and complete itinerary
The other side of the Tagus river hides endless beaches, spectacular cliffs, fresh seafood and the best sunsets in Lisbon — all less than 30 minutes from the capital.
The South Bank (Margem Sul) is Lisbon's worst kept secret. While tourists crowd Belém and Chiado, across the Tagus river await miles of beaches, the dramatic Arrábida mountain range, authentic fishing villages and some of the country's best seafood — all accessible by train, ferry or car.
The side tourists don't know.
The South Bank stretches from Almada (facing Lisbon) to the Setúbal Peninsula, passing through Costa da Caparica, the Arrábida Mountains and villages like Sesimbra. It's a territory of contrasts: white sandy beaches, vertiginous cliffs, nature reserves and a gastronomic culture centered on fish and seafood.
Every season has its charm.
Summer (June–September) is perfect for the beaches of Caparica and Arrábida. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking in the mountains and eating seafood without the crowds. Even in winter, the restaurants in Sesimbra and Setúbal make the South Bank an excellent gastronomic getaway.
10 places you can't miss.
1. Cristo Rei
The iconic 110-meter monument in Almada. The viewpoint at the top offers the most complete view of Lisbon, the Tagus and the 25 de Abril Bridge. Arrive early to avoid queues.
Almada · 1–2h · 8€2. Costa da Caparica
15 km of continuous beaches. From the urban beaches in the center (great for surfing) to the wilder ones in the south (Fonte da Telha). Beach clubs and surf schools abound.
Caparica · Half a day · FreeThe perfect base for exploring.
Choosing where to stay depends on whether you prefer the beach, the mountains or city access.
Costa da Caparica
Perfect for those who want to wake up and walk to the beach. Great for families and surfers. Less charming in winter.
Search hotels →Sesimbra
A picturesque village set in a bay. Incredible restaurants and an excellent base for exploring the Arrábida Natural Park.
Search hotels →Almada / Cacilhas
Ideal if you want to visit Lisbon easily (by ferry) but pay less for accommodation. The riverside has great restaurants.
Search hotels →Car is king for exploring.
While Almada and Caparica are well served by public transport from Lisbon, Arrábida and Sesimbra require a car for true freedom.
- To Almada: Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas. It's cheap, fast and offers a beautiful view of Lisbon.
- To Caparica: Buses (Carris Metropolitana) depart from Lisbon (Areeiro or Marquês de Pombal) directly to Caparica.
- To Arrábida: You absolutely need a car. Note that in summer (July-August) the main road through the beaches is closed to private cars, requiring a shuttle bus from Setúbal or Figueirinha.
Mistakes to avoid
- Crossing the bridge at rush hour: Avoid the 25 de Abril Bridge towards Lisbon between 7:30 and 9:30 AM, and towards the South Bank between 5:30 and 7:30 PM.
- Eating fish in tourist traps: Go to Cacilhas (Ponto Final or Atira-te ao Rio for views) or Sesimbra for the freshest catch. Follow the locals.
- Driving to Galapinhos beach in August: The road is closed to private cars. Park in Setúbal and take the shuttle bus, or go in September.