Lisbon in 1 Day for Friends - Meet at Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) in Lisbon
In Collaboration with Meira Pro Center. Updated on February 6, 2026.
Full-day guided kayaking trip from Lisbon to Sesimbra and Ribeiro do Cavalo beach in Arrábida Natural Park. Includes roundtrip transport from Time Out Market, kayak equipment, guided coastal paddling, cave entry, and a picnic on a secluded beach — perfect for a group of friends who love active, social adventures.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Meira Pro Center, inspired by the tour Kayak Adventure in Sesimbra - Explore the Heart of Arrábida Natural Park. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Meet at Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) in Lisbon
- Guided kayak paddle along Arrábida coastline
- Enter Boca do Tamboril cave by kayak
- Picnic lunch and swim at Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo
- Return to Sesimbra Marina and back to Lisbon
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet in Lisbon, transfer to Sesimbra, guided kayak trip with cave visit and picnic, return to Lisbon.
Meet at Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) — south entrance (big clock)
Group meetup in front of the Time Out Market main (south) entrance. Find the guide holding a sign; please arrive 10 minutes early so the van can depart on time.
Tips from local experts:
- Meet at the south entrance under the large clock — that's where the guide will wait with a sign for the group.
- Grab a quick coffee or snack inside Time Out Market if you want to take something to the van (many stalls open early).
- Wear your swimsuit under clothes for a fast change later; lockers are limited so keep the luggage light for the day.
Scenic transfer: Lisbon → Sesimbra (van)
Comfortable group transfer along the Tagus south bank to Sesimbra Marina. Enjoy coastal views as you leave the city and enter Arrábida territory.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side of the van for the best early views of the Tagus and coastal cliffs as you head south.
- Bring a light layer — mornings can be breezy in September even when the day warms up.
- If you get carsick, let the guide know before departure so they can seat you nearer the front.
Arrival & safety briefing at Sesimbra Marina — kayak setup
Meet the local guides, get fitted with life vests and paddles, quick kayaking basics and safety rules before launching from the marina.
Tips from local experts:
- Put sunscreen on before you launch — it's harder to reapply on the water; apply at the marina after gear fitting.
- If you're traveling solo, guides will pair you with another solo paddler — tell the guide your comfort/skill level during briefing.
- Store shoes and non-waterproof items in the van if you don't want them on the kayak — guides provide water-resistant bags for small items.
Picnic lunch at Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo (secluded beach)
Arrive by kayak at Ribeiro do Cavalo for a relaxing picnic: baguette sandwiches (chicken or vegan option), fresh fruit, snacks including Farinha Torrada, bottled water and soft drinks.
Tips from local experts:
- Try the local 'Farinha Torrada' included in the picnic — it's a traditional crunchy snack perfect with fruit.
- Ribeiro do Cavalo is a protected area — keep rubbish in the bags provided and follow the guide's instructions about where to sit to protect vegetation.
- If you want underwater photos, ask for the group's spare snorkeling gear (available on private groups) or use your waterproof case — currents are usually mild near the cove.
Beach time: swim, snorkel, unwind
Free time on the beach to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or explore the rocky headlands (short, easy walks). Great time for group photos and relaxed socializing.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring water shoes if you prefer — the beach has small stones in places; walking barefoot is fine but shoes make entry easier.
- If you plan to snorkel, ask the guide where the calmest snorkeling spots are — visibility is often good in September.
- Keep an eye on tidal changes with the guide — they'll advise the safest water entry and exit points for the group.
Paddle back to Sesimbra Marina — relaxed return paddle
Group paddle back along the coastline to the marina. Use this time to swap favorite shots, chat with new friends, and enjoy late-afternoon coastal light.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want calmer water, paddle with the guide in the center of the group — they’ll position slower pairs appropriately.
- Bring a dry shirt or towel in your waterproof bag so you can be comfortable straight away when you land at the marina.
- Ask the guide about local dive or surf spots you might return to later with friends — they often have local tips for future adventures.
Change, freshen up & short stroll in Sesimbra village
Time to change into dry clothes, store gear, and take a short walk in the waterside village if you wish — perfect for a quick gelato or seaside snack while waiting for the van.
Tips from local experts:
- There are small cafés and gelato shops by the marina — a great place for a post-paddle treat with the group.
- Public showers/jet-wash areas at the marina are basic; bring quick-dry towels and a sanitary wash bag for comfort.
- If you want souvenirs or local fish preserves, the main promenade has small family-run shops — bargaining is uncommon but friendly conversation goes a long way.
Return transfer: Sesimbra → Lisbon (Time Out Market)
Relaxed drive back to Lisbon with drop-off at Time Out Market. Use the van to catch up on photos and swap highlights from the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side for coastal panoramas as you approach Lisbon; it's great for group photo recaps.
- If you'd like to continue hanging out, plan to meet inside Time Out Market for a post-tour drink or late snack — many stalls remain open in the afternoon.
- Ask the guide for restaurant recommendations in Cais do Sodré if you want to extend the group's evening (great tapas and music nearby).
Farewell & optional Time Out Market hangout
Tour ends at Time Out Market. Say goodbye to your guides, exchange contacts with new friends, or grab a post-tour beer/coffee inside the market.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want to keep the group together, head to the market's communal tables — there are many stalls serving tapas-style plates perfect for sharing.
- If you're catching public transport, Cais do Sodré station (trains and metro) is a short walk — check your route before dispersing.
- Collect any items left in the van by contacting Meira Pro Center if needed (they keep lost items for a short time).
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Experience, Meal, Break, Outdoor |
