setubal portugal visit

Visit Setubal Portugal: An Ultimate Guide [2024]

I moved to Setubal Portugal, in 2021, sight unseen, and thank goodness I did . This city is a gem, and I pat myself on the back daily that I somehow discovered it. It seems like there are never enough hours in the day for all that I want to do here.

Want to visit Setubal Portugal?

The best Setubal tour is this Arrábida, Setúbal, Palmela, Sesimbra Private Tour with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊

From new restaurants and bars popping up to festivals all throughout the summer. If I went on every hike and laid on every Setubal beach, I’d never do anything else. Setubal is absolutely worth a visit if you want to experience an authentic Portuguese city located just 50 km from Lisbon.

Why Should You Visit Setubal Portugal?

Setubal is a gorgeous city on the River Sado. It’s home to some of the freshest fish. Big choco (cuttlefish) comes in each morning on the fishing boats and is cooked into the local delicacy of choco frito —  fried cuttlefish. 

The days are sunny, the beer is cheap, and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are in the region. There are many wineries and a load of great dining options across the very walkable downtown. 

VISIT SETUBAL PORTUGAL

Where is setubal in portugal.

Setúbal is located in the southern part of Portugal, around 50km (31 mi) south of Lisbon. It is both a city and a district. Setubal serves as the administrative center of the Setúbal District.

The Setubal district Portugal encompasses a vast area that includes various towns and landscapes. Setubal is situated along the coast, offering a blend of picturesque beaches, natural parks, and historical sites.

For a more detailed view, here is a Setubal map Portugal, which provides an overview of its location and neighboring regions:

How To Get To Setubal Portugal

Setubal has a great transportation network — there are bus and train routes that can get you around the region and into the city with ease. 

How to get from Lisbon to Setubal?

Setubal is just over 50 km (31 mi) from Lisbon by road. If you have a car, the drive will take about 45 minutes. If you don’t have your own car, Uber is an option, but the price can fluctuate greatly from about €35 at the lowest all the way up to €60 depending on demand and time of day.

There are bus connections from Gare do Oriente and Sete Rios, which bring you straight into the newly constructed Setubal bus and train station. The ride on the express buses takes about 45 – 50 minutes. 

The train is, in my opinion, more comfortable, but it does stop more often, though ultimately, the timing is about the same as the bus. The train has two stops in Lisbon: Campolide and Sete Rios. The train is also convenient if you visit other places in the Setubal district, such as Palmela or Pinhal Novo.

You can buy bus and train tickets from machines or manned station kiosks. You can also purchase bus tickets on board, but train tickets must be bought before getting on.

Best Tours to Setubal

If you visit the region without the hassle of driving to take public transportation, why not take a tour? A tour to explore Setúbal and its surrounding areas is a great idea and, here are a couple of good options:

➤ From Lisbon: Private Setúbal Portugal Wine Tour with Setúbal & Arrábida takes you on a captivating journey through the Setúbal Peninsula. Dive into the heart of Palmela and Setúbal’s esteemed wine regions. Revel in the charm of Sesimbra with its historic castle and tranquil bay. Savor the local delicacy, Farinha Torrada, and immerse yourself in the Livramento Market. The highlight? An exclusive wine and cheese tasting at the serene Mourisca Tide Mill. Round-trip transportation is provided. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY .

➤ Setubal & Comporta Trip with Horseback Riding from Lisbon takes you on an untouched journey to Portugal’s hidden gems. Dive deep into the pristine Comporta and Setubal beaches Portugal, often missed by many. Join a cozy group limited to just 12 explorers, ensuring a personal touch. Experience Portugal’s vibrant food culture and embrace the serene landscapes enveloped by the ocean. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY.

➤ Arrábida, Setúbal, Palmela, Sesimbra Private Tour invites you on a tailor-made journey beyond the familiar streets of Lisbon. Enjoy personalized pick-up from your chosen location and embark on a customizable tour. Whether you’re keen on picturesque parks, prestigious wineries, ancient castles, or serene nature reserves, let your desires guide the day or trust in your expert guide’s recommendations. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY.

Best Time to Visit

Setubal has consistently good weather. Though there are some rainy days in winter, you can almost always count on at least some period of sun every day of the year. Setubal has similar Portugal weather to Lisbon.

Setubal remains a fairly quiet destination, so even on the busiest days of summer, there are no huge crowds of tourists in the city. However, the Setubal Portugal beaches get packed, especially in August when temperatures can soar to 25-30°C (77-86°F) and humidity levels peak.

June and September are my favorite months here. The weather Setubal Portugal, is beautiful, and the scorching summer days are ahead of or behind us. During these months, you can expect temperatures to stay between 20-25°C (68-77°F) , providing a comfortable balance between warmth and coolness.

How about Setubal weather in the winter? Average temperatures during cooler months (Nov-Feb) range from 10-15°C (50-59°F).

What to Pack

There are a couple of things that you should definitely pack when you come to Setubal. These include: 

• Good walking shoes: Setubal is a very walkable city. But, the cobblestone streets can sometimes be slippery or uneven. Good walking shoes are a must to get you through your visit. I recommend Teva , Birkenstocks , or Merrel hiking shoes .
• Your beach gear: even if you only plan to stay in the city, you might end up on the Setúbal Portugal beaches. So what should you bring? Sunglasses , strong sunscreen , a hat , a quick-drying towel , and a beach lockbox for extra security.
• Travel safety gear: Pickpocketing is a potential risk in big cities like Setubal, so I always recommend travelers bring a travel safety purse or travel backpack . My favorite?  Travelon .
• Cash: there are ATMs in the city, though not a huge number of them. So either come with cash or grab some when you do spot an ATM. Of course, many places take cards, but smaller restaurants and cafes are still cash only.

If you are looking for a general Portugal packing list, read ➤ Portugal Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring.

12 Things to Do in Setubal

Looking for Setubal Portugal things to do? From markets to restaurants to beautiful viewpoints, here is a list of what to do in Setubal.

1. Mercado do Livramento 

The main market in Setúbal, Mercado do Livramento , is a must-visit. It’s a beautiful building with azulejo (blue tile) mosaics lining the walls. Every morning except for Mondays, the space is absolutely abuzz with locals doing their shopping. 

Here, you’ll find fresh bread, pastries, cheeses, pastas, and cured meats. The entire back section is full of seafood. From swordfish to oysters, there is little you won’t be able to get. Along the walls, you’ll find butchers, and through the middle are fresh fruit and vegetables. 

There’s a cafe in the front and a few small shops selling wine. You can also bring home a bunch of fresh-cut flowers or herbs to grow in the garden .

2. Praça Do Bocage

Setubal does not have a saint, as many other places in Portugal do. But the city has Bocage. Bocage was a neoclassical poet who lived and wrote in the late 18th century. He is the man depicted in the statue in the center of the square and its namesake. 

Bocage was particularly known for his erotic poetry . It is said that the quill that the statue holds was purposefully poised to be quite low so that when viewed from a certain angle, it would look less like a quill and more like an additional part of Bocage’s body. 

The square has several lovely cafes around its edges. You may find buskers in the middle or concerts set up by the city on holidays. 

3. Reserva Natural do Estuário do Sado | Sado Estuary

The Sado River Estuary Nature Reserve sits east of Setubal City, along the Sado River. It is home to a huge variety of local birds. Depending on the time of year and day, you might be able to spot ibis, owls, Black-winged Kite, Caspian Tern, or Bluethroat, as well as many other land and water birds. 

There are several walking tours around the area , and you can book a trip on a boat to go through the waters of the estuary and birdwatch. There’s also a lovely cafe at the old Mourisca Water Mill. 

4. Eat Choco Frito 

Choco frito, or fried cuttlefish, is the local dish of Setubal. And if you’re a fish eater, it’s a must-try. The dish is simple but delicious. The choco is fried, and the texture is a touch chewy and rubbery but just to the point of perfection — making it the perfect seafood dish.

Usually, choco is served with french fries and a few lemon slices. Be careful; you’ll notice that most menus offer a full or half dose. The names are misleading because a full dose is usually more than enough for two people. My favorite place for choco in Setubal is Baluarte do Sado.

5. Try Moscatel 

Another local specialty, Moscatel, is a rich, sweet wine. It’s often enjoyed after meals, though some Portuguese will debate that and prefer to have it before. I find it to be a very suitable dessert replacement. 

Moscatel will be served at most bars and restaurants around town. And most wineries in the area make their own bottles. There’s a type of Moscatel called Moscatel Roxo, or purple Moscatel. The drink isn’t purple but rather comes from a specific type of grape, which produces a richer flavor. This is definitely the best type to try.

6. Take the Ferry to Troia 

From anywhere along the river in Setubal, you can see the towers of Troia across the water. While you can drive around to get there, the drive is over an hour long. The boat across, on the other hand, is just 30 minutes. 

Troia has a casino and a high-end hotel, but the best thing about it is its stunning beaches. On the south side of the island, you’ll find a vast expanse of sand and gorgeous blue waters to swim in. 

🎫 The catamaran ticket costs €8.80 per person and is technically just one-way, but the ride back to Setubal is free. If you want to take your car on the ferry, the cost of the 🎫 starts at 19,60€ .

The catamaran — which takes only people (no cars) — goes to the point of the peninsula while the ferry docks farther up the coast. You can check timetables on the Atlantic Ocean Ferries website .

7. Explore Parque Natural da Arrábida

To Setubal’s west is Serra de Arrábida Natural Park . The park is more than 176 km2 or nearly 68 square miles. It is a stunning area, and there are a few ways to experience it. You can head out on a drive — there are two main routes, one along the coast and a second higher up (N379-1), with spectacular views. 

Or you can go for a hike . Trails crisscross the park, but one of my favorites is up to Alto do Formosinho. It’s a full-day hike and is quite challenging, with some rock scrambles, but the views from the peak — which look out across the sea, the river, Troia, and as far as Lisbon on a clear day — are absolutely worth the effort. 

⚠️ The roads around Arrábida can be tricky to maneuver. First, there are a lot of twists and turns and steep drops on the N379-1, which can make drivers uneasy. Another issue is road closures . The main road along the coast is often closed during the summertime ( from June 3 to Sept 17) .

8. Check out the Views from ​​Forte de São Filipe

Forte de São Filipe is a  16th century and 17th-century fortress on the Sado River, overseeing the city. It is also the perfect spot for a drink. The views from the small cafe are insanely gorgeous.

You have Setubal’s port to one side and the city stretching out beneath you. You can watch the green ferries cross the river, and you can see both sides of the Troia peninsula. Beyond that, you can see the light blue and beige swirls of sandbars stretching out into the ocean.

The cafe serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and small bites to eat. There is a small chapel at the fort with beautiful decorations, and you can wander around the rooftop. From time to time, there will be small art exhibitions.

9. Go for a Beach Day

The Setubal region is full of amazing beaches. Immediately in the city is Praia de Albarquel. If you’re short on time, this is a great option. Wander all the way to the end for a quieter spot. 

Beyond that, there is beach after beach after beach. Praia da Figueirinha is nice but very popular as it’s the first real ocean beach, so it’s easy to get to and, therefore, quite crowded. 

Galapinhos Beach requires a short hike down the hill, but it’s quieter and still just as beautiful. A nice restaurant spot is Portinho da Arrábida , but with the rocky shore, it’s not the best beach for swimming. However, you can rent a SUP here. 

⭐️ Travel tip: The road to the beaches is closed to cars in the summer season, and you have to take the bus to get to them. 

10. Meet the Local Dolphins on the River

There is much lore about the local dolphins, and as you can tell from the many dolphin statues around town, they are a point of pride. It’s said that there are about 30 dolphins in the local pod, and they’re not too difficult to spot. I once spotted them from the ferry across to Troia.

The dolphin watching tours are pretty reliable at getting you a sighting, whether going down the river or farther out to sea. The boats all talk to each other and report sightings, ensuring everyone has a chance. 

11. Try the Local Wines

Moscatel is not the only wine in Setubal that is worth trying. There are several wineries in the region, and all of them produce a wine that is somewhat young in its complexity but still quite impressively robust. Red is generally more widely produced and to a higher level than whites. 

Easily accessed from the city, you’ll find José Maria da Fonseca and Quinta de Alcube in Azeitao and Quinta do Piloto in Palmela. They all offer tours and tastings, and you can also usually book small plates of cheese or other snacks. 

12. Visit Palmela Castle

Palmela Castle is visible from most spots in Setubal, and it’s only a short drive or bus ride to the village of Palmela ( you also stop here on a Setubal tour ).

From there, you can easily walk up to the castle. If you’re going by car, there are accessible ramps at the castle, but otherwise the village is quite steep. The castle is free to enter, and it is nice to wander around.

The views are also incredible, reaching both towards Setubal and Troia as well as all the way to Lisbon. You can stop for lunch at the restaurant there, but it is a good idea to book a table in advance. 

Food and Drinks

Considering Setubal’s size, the city has an unreal number of restaurants and bars. There are many fish restaurants and regular debates about which is best. But there are also vegetarian options, great steak houses, and lots of sushi choices. 

Breakfast // Lunch

• Botequim du Bocage – Praça de Bocage 128, 2900-276 Setúbal – for a coffee and a pastry in a perfect setting.
• Bloomy Market – Av. Luísa Todi 163, 2900-444 Setúbal – if you get hungry while shopping and for veggie breakfast choices.
• Turquesa – Av. Luisa Todi 260, 2900-452 Setúbal – great sweet breakfast options on the menu.
• Yoshiki Sushi – R. Dr. António Joaquim Granjo 22, 2900-232 Setúbal – all-you-can-eat lunch options for a great price.
• Baluarte do Sado – what I consider to be the best place for choco.
• Miami – Praça Machado dos Santos 43, 2900-178 Setúbal – a tried and true local favorite for all the classic fish dishes.
• Sem Horas – Largo da Misericórdia 56, 2900-052 Setúbal – For slightly upscale tapas and meat plates.
• Xtoria – R. Guilherme Gomes Fernandes 17, 2900-558 Setúbal – Upscale, has been in Michelin-guide (not starred) and plays around with local flavors.
• Italia no Prato – R. dos Almocreves 74, 2900-213 Setúbal – if you need a break from Portuguese food, this is Italian run, and the pasta is superb.
• Lano’s – Av. Luísa Todi 34, 2900-450 Setúbal – the best place in town for a nicely done steak.

Drinks & Party

• Machadas – Largo do Dr. Francisco Soveral n5 e 3, 2900-349 Setúbal – the local watering hole that attracts everyone on a weeknight.
• La Boheme – Šv. Ignoto g. 4, 01144 Vilnius, Lithuania – Smoky, vibey, dim lighting, the owner is friendly and will remember you if you come in a second time. Local lore says they once turned Johnny Depp away at the door.
• Bar Absurdo – Av. José Mourinho nº 24, 2900-633 Setúbal – probably the only club anyone over 30 would want to hang out at.
• Twelve – R. Guilherme Gomes Fernandes 7, 2900-558 Setúbal – one of the most popular clubs for younger adults. 

Downtown Setubal has quite a few lovely little boutiques. There are a lot of clothing shops and local artists with small storefronts. Make sure to check out:

• Pardal Ceramica – R. de Augusto Cardoso 77, 2900-256 Setúbal – a local woman who makes pottery and sells it in small quantities. 
• Maria Pó – R. de Arronches Junqueiro 79, 2900-248 Setúbal – If you make it to Bonfim Park you’ll see the lifesize replicas of the locally-inspired statues this artist produces.
• Setúbal in Art – R. de Augusto Cardoso nº 47, 2900-256, 2900-667 Setúbal – a collection of local artisan’s goods, from jewelry to homewares.

Hotels in Setubal portugal

Regarding Setubal hotels, there aren’t many options available in the city, especially if you are looking for luxury Portugal hotels. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t hotels Setubal Portugal options, regardless of your budget:

➤ Hotel Ibis Setúbal (💲) – Located 7km from downtown Setúbal, this hotel offers travelers a reliable and cozy retreat. With its signature comfortable beds, a welcoming bar area, and a delightful breakfast spread, guests are ensured a pleasant stay. The serene natural landscapes nearby add to the allure of the Hotel Ibis Setubal Setubal Portugal. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY .

➤ Luna Esperança Centro Hotel (💲💲) – Nestled in Setubal’s vibrant center, this hotel provides a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Guests can indulge in its spacious rooms, view panoramic city views, and savor gourmet dishes at its renowned restaurant. Its prime location ensures easy access to local attractions and the bustling waterfront. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY.

➤ Hotel Bocage Setubal Portugal (💲💲) – Nestled in Setúbal’s vibrant center, this quaint hotel captures the essence of local charm. Its minimalist design, paired with essential amenities, ensures a comfortable stay for visitors. A stone’s throw away from popular landmarks and eateries, it offers an authentic Setúbal experience. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY .

➤ Rio Art Hotel Setubal Portugal (💲💲💲) – Immersed in Setúbal’s artistic district, this boutique hotel is a fusion of culture and comfort. Each room is thoughtfully designed with unique art pieces, ensuring a memorable stay. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, relax in the chic lounge, and taste gourmet dishes inspired by Portuguese flavors. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY .

➤ Melia Setubal (💲💲💲) – Located in the heart of Setubal, this hotel offers guests a blend of comfort and luxury. Amenities include a rejuvenating spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an exquisite in-house restaurant serving local delicacies. ➥ CHECK AVAILABILITY.

What Is Life Like in Setubal?

Setubal is a very laid-back city. It’s actually in the top ten largest cities in Portugal Portugal, but with a population of just under 120,000, it feels more like a big town than any sort of metropolis.

Day-to-day living expenses here are much more affordable than in a bigger city like Lisbon, but housing prices are gradually increasing. You’re will spend about €600 for a small studio and closer to €1,000 for a two-bedroom. Regarding Setubal real estate, sale prices for the same spaces are around €175,000 – €200,000 for a two-bedroom.

Living in Setubal portugal: Things to Consider

Setubal is largely a very safe city. Because it is more like a big town, it feels like everyone knows each other, so crime rates stay low. That being said, the part of town east of the railroad tracks, closer to Bella Vista, is what is called a social neighborhood. That area sees higher rates of crime, including some instances of knife violence and drug use. 

Walking around Setubal is easy. I can make it from one end of town to the other in about an hour (but I am a fast walker). That being said, the cobblestones can prove hazardous. They are not always well maintained. Sometimes, stones are loose, missing, or uneven.

When it rains, they turn very slippery, and though Setubal is quite flat, any hills can turn treacherous. The sidewalks are also quite narrow, and at times, two people cannot even pass each other without one stepping out into the road. — for wheelchair users or strollers, this is a real issue.

Overall, life in Portugal Setubal is taken at a slow pace. You’ll see people out for beers and coffee at all hours of the day. Lunch is a joyous hour full of fish and wine, and the stretch along the river toward the beaches fills with walkers every Sunday afternoon.

Setubal Portugal: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Setúbal Portugal known for?

Setubal is known for its local delicacies, choco frito and Moscatel , and the local wineries that produce it. The district is also known for having some of the most spectacular beaches in Portugal.

Is Setubal worth it?

Yes — Setubal is absolutely worth a visit. Considering its proximity to Lisbon and how easy it is to access by public transport, a day trip to Setubal is a day very well spent. 

Is Setúbal safe?

Yes — Setúbal is generally considered safe for tourists. The city boasts a low crime rate, especially when compared to larger urban areas worldwide.

While the residents are known for their warmth and hospitality, as in any destination, visitors should always exercise standard precautions. This includes not flaunting valuables and being vigilant, especially during nighttime. It’s always a good practice to stay informed about local advisories to ensure a pleasant visit.

Does Setubal have a beach?

Yes — Setúbal boasts a beautiful main beach called Praia de Albarquel. Located just a short walk from the city center, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Beyond Praia de Albarquel, the surrounding areas offer a plethora of stunning beaches. For instance, the pristine Praia dos Galápos , Praia da Figueirinha, and Praia dos Coelhos are nearby and are renowned for their clear waters and natural beauty.

These beaches are nestled within the Arrábida Natural Park, only about a 15-minute drive from Setúbal, making it easy for visitors to explore multiple coastal gems in one trip.

Can you swim in Setubal?

Yes — you can swim in the city. The city boasts Praia de Albarquel, the closest beach to the city center, offering calm waters suitable for swimming.

It is not advisable to swim at the beach at Rockalot Praia, but many do. However, if you walk past Parque Urbano de Albarquel, the water becomes much safer and cleaner for swimming. 

Is Setubal walkable?

Yes — Setubal is a very walkable city, especially its historic center, which is compact and offers various charming streets, squares, and waterfront promenades.

Many of the city’s attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. Furthermore, the flat terrain of the city center makes it easy for residents and tourists to explore on foot.

However, if you wish to visit some of the beaches or natural areas outside the city, a vehicle or public transport might be more convenient.

Should I stay in Lisbon or Setúbal?

You should plan to stay in Lisbon and make Setubal a day trip. There is accommodation in Setubal, but there are not that many choices. You can see most of the attractions in Setubal in one day.

Is Setúbal cheaper than Lisbon?

Yes — Setubal is much cheaper than Lisbon. A glass of wine or a meal out will be noticeably cheaper in Setubal than in Lisbon.

Is Setubal Portugal a good place to retire?

Setubal is a perfect place to retire. The pace of life is slow and laidback. There is a great community of retirees in Setubal, and the cost of living is fairly low, allowing retirees to live on savings or pensions.

Final Thoughts: Visit Setubal Portugal

In this travel guide, we’ve explored the allure of the Setubal municipality Portugal. Known for its narrow streets, gorgeous beaches, delicious food, and scenic views of the adjacent mountain range, Setúbal captures the heart of every visitor.

The region’s favorable weather makes it a haven for sun-seekers, while its strategic location close to Setubal to Lisbon offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility.

Whether you’re considering Portugal real estate (Setubal Portugal real estate) or simply seeking a new adventure, hopefully, this blog article can give you a great look into Setúbal and its many offerings.

Happy traveling 🧭🧳

My name is Caitlin. I am from Vermont, USA. I have lived in Setúbal, Portugal since 2021. I work as a writer and editor as well as a teacher. Outside of work I love horseback riding, hiking, and exploring new places around the globe. I write about my travels at The Country Jumper.

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Thanks for the article. I’m planning a visit to Portugal in March 2025 and checking out Setubal for retirement. Possibilities…..

I also have an article about the best places to retire, you can find it here: https://nowinportugal.com/best-places-to-retire-in-portugal . If you have any other questions, please let me know.

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Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 15 Best Things to Do in Setúbal (Portugal)

15 Best Things to Do in Setúbal (Portugal)

On a scenic bay at the mouth of the Sado River, Setúbal is a working city that built its fortune on the fishing industry in the 20th century.

Tourism has since taken over, and although the city receives a lot of Portuguese visitors not many overseas tourists make it here.

This may soon change when you see what Setúbal has to offer at its Manueline monastery, churches, acclaimed market and museums.

And in the immediate area things get even better at untouched beaches in the Arrábida Nature Park or the almost-tropical Praia de Tróia across the bay.

In a fishing town you can bet the seafood is delectable, and there’s also a pod of dolphins in the estuary that you can meet on special cruises.

Lets explore the best things to do in Setúbal :

1. Monastery of Jesus

This breathtaking building from the turn of the 16th century was designed by Diogo de Boitaca.

He was the architect who ushered in Portugal’s Manueline style, and the Monastery of Jesus is the earliest example of this architecture.

You can survey the building from the square in front, noting the buttresses adorned with gargoyles and difference in outline between the nave and the apse.

The feature you need to see inside is the exquisite ribbed vaulting in the choir.

Also lovely are the azulejos; in the apse these have a geometric pattern while in the nave they show scenes from the life of Mary.

2. Arrábida Natural Park

Starting on the western edge of the town, this enormous space protects the Serra da Arrábida mountain range, with one of the only maquis ecosystems in Portugal.

It incorporates the entirety of the coastline down to the village of Sesimbra, 30 kilometres to the southwest.

So every beach along here has a peaceful, natural feel with no intrusive holiday complexes.

And as many of the beaches, like the remote Praia do Creiro, are southward facing they avoid the brunt of the Atlantic.

Seasoned hikers can lace up their boots to for an expedition to the Serra do Risco, the highest cliff on mainland Portugal, 380 metres above the Atlantic and with scenery worth every step.

3. Quinta da Bacalhoa

This estate is held as one of the most beautiful early-16th-century properties surviving in Portugal.

It is on the northwestern cusp of the Arrábida Natural Park and since the middle of the 20th century has been the centre of a productive  wine estate.

So there’s a dual allure; you can drop by for a guided tour of the quinta and its domes, loggia and splendid waterside pavilion, with an arcade and Spanish geometric tiles from the 15th and 16th centuries.

And you could visit the winery/museum and follow this up with a tasting session in this wonderful spot.

4. Mercado do Livramento

A few streets up from the harbour is the divine Art Deco market hall, which opened in 1930. The Mercado do Livramento has appeared on lists of the best fish markets in the world (as signs in the market proudly claim). And like the best markets it feels like a bit of a madhouse on busier days, with noisy but friendly vendors who are happy to help you get the best out of the food you buy.

Come shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, cheese and cured ham.

But above all, be here for the fish and seafood, which is as diverse as you’ll ever see, and piled high on the counters.

5. Praia de Tróia

Your trip to Setúbal just won’t be complete if you don’t catch the ferry over to this paradisiacal beach on the tip of the Tróia Peninsula.

Screened from the ocean currents , there is calm, transparent water lapping soft white sands.

It’s a scene you’d expect in the Caribbean, and the only reminder you’re in Europe is the water temperature, which is always a little chilly! There’s a hotel and casino complex behind the beach, but because of the remote location (it would take 90 minutes to drive here from Setúbal), the resort is never overrun with tourists.

6. Igreja de São Julião

Setúbal’s main church is rooted in  the 1200s, but all the architecture here now is from the 16th and 18th centuries.

There was a big rebuild in the Manueline style up to the 1520s.

At this time the side portal was crafted, with its trifoil arches, foliate motifs and carved rope motifs.

Inside a lot of the design was changed after the famous earthquake that devastated much of the Lisbon area.

At this time the choir was given its extravagant gilded woodwork, which is a hallmark of the mid-18th century.

In the nave there are also 18th-century blue and white azulejos portraying the life of St Julian.

7. Avenida Luísa Todi

You can get into the rhythm of daily life in Setúbal at the city’s central avenue, which encompasses the Mercado do Livramento and many of the big sights.

It has two chaotic lanes of traffic, cushioned by a pedestrian walkway with lawns, benches and plenty of foliage.

Lining the roads are bars, restaurants and bakeries if you’re feeling peckish.

Something to jot in your diary is the antiques fair, held on the first and third Saturdays of the month.

8. Praia de Albarquel

The closest beach to the town is beneath the pine-clad foothills of the Arrábida Natural Park and begins just below the fort.

It’s a tranquil place where the River Sado meets the ocean; there’s a long strip of golden sand, and this is traced by a big park, which was landscaped in 2008. So even in winter you could come for a walk to stop by the cafe, bring little ones to the playground and soak up the views of Tróia and the natural park.

9. Casa da Baía

This fine 18th-century mansion on Avenida Luísa Todi was converted into Setúbal’s tourist office in 2011. Not only that, but it’s also a promotion centre for regional goodies like wine, sweets and cheese.

There’s a wine shop with a cellar representing the region’s 36 producers and a gourmet store for Queijo de Azeitão and other delicacies.

In the mansion the old cloister is covered and serves as a winter garden, while outside there are glass floor panels that let you see some archaeological remains discovered during the conversion.

And to top it off you’ll get a free glass of Setúbal moscatel when you come.

10. Castelo de Palmela

Barely 15 minutes north of Setúbal is this majestic castle lodged high in the Arrábida to protect the land between the Tagus and Sado estuaries.

There has been a settlement or fort atop this crag since before the Romans, and almost its entire history has been marked by conflict.

Throughout the 12th century it saw some fierce battles between the Christians and Moors, and it wasn’t until 1212 that it definitively came under Portuguese yoke.

Changes were made to the castle until the 1600s, and it’s interesting that the further out you go the more recent the defences, with bastions and revelins on the outer line to ward off artillery attacks.

11. Estrada de Escarpa

On the N379-1 you can delve into the natural beauty of the Serra da Arrábida without leaving your car.

Well, actually you’ll want to get out occasionally because the road has a few magnificent viewpoints.

It’s a 15-kilometre route that will feel a lot longer because of its twisting course, and will take around an hour to complete.

It traces the highest ridge of the range and has views Pico do Formosinho, which peaks at over 500 metres.

Tiny white chapels are dotted along the way, and you’ll pass the 16th-century Arrábida Convent, roosting above the beaches of Portinho and Alpertuche.

12. Museu de Arqueologia e Etnografia

This is very much a local museum but will open your eyes to traditional modes of life around Setúbal until the 20th century.

There are detailed exhibits dealing with old industries like cork extraction, cattle farming  salt-farming and fishing, with tools to back them up.

You can also view presentations of local needlework and costumes, and the old trades of lacework, wool-spinning and weaving.

Rounding the museum off is a small collection of artefacts from prehistory to Roman times, with Celtic and Roman ceramics excavated from ancient Cetóbriga which became Setúbal.

13. Forte de São Filipe

Guarding the left bank of the Sado Estuary is an artillery fort that was raised in 1582 to defend the city against raiding Barbary Pirates.

The fort has an irregular star-shaped plan, with protruding domed sentry posts and a tunnel that can be reached via the Portão de Armas.

On top of the exhilarating views of Setúbal and the Tróia Peninsula from the walls, you have to  see the chapel , which has a barrel vault and is covered entirely with azulejos.

Up to 2014 the fort was open to the public but contained a Pousada.

Since then it has been closed for renovation, so it’s worth enquiring at Setúbal’s tourist office when you arrive.

14. Dolphin Watching

At the marina you can set sail with a catamaran to find pods of dolphins in the Sado Estuary.

The skipper will be experienced so there’s a great chance of spotting something.

Often you’ll hardly need to pass the Tróia Peninsula before their fins come into view.

It’s also heartening to know that these companies work according to strict rules that govern how much time you spend tracking these creatures.

You’ll get expert advice on distinguishing the different species, and the dolphins will be in playful mood, leaping from the water.

15. Local Gastronomy

As much as any Portuguese city, Setúbal’s cuisine is anchored in the Atlantic Ocean.

Fish is served roasted, grilled, fried, in stews, you name it.

The Portuguese trademark, grilled sardines is big here too and goes with a simple lettuce salad, potatoes and white wine.

Atlantic horse mackerel, bass, and red mullet, which is served in a fish liver sauce, are all wonderful.

Most traditional restaurants will also do choc frito, which is deep-fried cuttlefish with French fries, lemon and mayonnaise.

Finally, Bulhão Pato is clams with olive oil, garlic, coriander and occasionally a dash of white wine.

15 Best Things to Do in Setúbal (Portugal):

• Monastery of Jesus
• Arrábida Natural Park
• Quinta da Bacalhoa
• Mercado do Livramento
• Praia de Tróia
• Igreja de São Julião
• Avenida Luísa Todi
• Praia de Albarquel
• Casa da Baía
• Castelo de Palmela
• Estrada de Escarpa
• Museu de Arqueologia e Etnografia
• Forte de São Filipe
• Dolphin Watching
• Local Gastronomy

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25 Beautiful and best things to do in Setúbal Portugal

A hidden gem near Lisbon!

If you are looking for beautiful coastal towns near Lisbon , I highly recommend visiting Setúbal! You reach the city in an hour by car, and there is a train connection from the capital. There are many sights in Setúbal , but the surrounding area is also fantastic. In this travel guide, I will highlight all the things to do in Setúbal, Portugal and then look at the many options nearby. The Setúbal Peninsula is one of my favourite places near the Atlantic Ocean, and staying a few nights is the best to get the most out of your trip. Let’s dive in!

Overview of what to see and do in Setúbal Portugal

• What to see? Setúbal has a rich history, and you can discover sights such as the city hall, Fort de São Filipe, the market Mercado do Livramento and some churches. It’s the perfect day trip from Lisbon! If you stay for a few nights, you can also visit Arrábida Natural Park, the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, and Tróia Peninsula.
• Where? The Setúbal Peninsula is located one hour south of Lisbon. It is still part of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, and there is public transport to Setúbal.
• Is Setúbal worth visiting? Setúbal is a fantastic city, and you can easily spend a few days here. The atmosphere is fantastic and less rushed than the capital. It is also less touristy than Cascais. So, if you love coastal towns with plenty of sights near some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, Setúbal should be on your itinerary! The Setúbal region is also known for some of the best food in the country!

Map of Setúbal Portugal, including the highlights

Things to do in Setúbal

I visited Setúbal several times because I love the nature nearby , and the city centre is so easy to reach from Lisbon . I will happily share the places I visited, and I compiled a fun list of 25 things to do in Setúbal, Portugal. This way, you can pick and choose what sparks your interest and enjoy a day trip to the Setubal region yourself!

1. Praça de Bocage

Let’s start in the heart of Setúbal. Praça de Bocage is the main plaza in the city . You will find several lovely cafes, restaurants , and some of the first sights here. If you want to stay a night, there are many hotels in this area too. From Praça de Bocage, you can start exploring the rest of the city!

Where most Portuguese cities have a patron saint, Setúbal has Bocage . But who was Bocage? Manuel Maria Barbosa l’Hedois du Bocage was a Portuguese Neoclassical poet in the 18th century and was born in Setúbal. He wrote under the pen name Elmano Sadino and was mainly known for his erotic poetry . In the middle of the square, you’ll find his statue. 

2. Câmara Municipal de Setúbal

One of the most beautiful buildings on the square is the city hall of the Municipality of Setúbal. The colourful building is a real eye-catcher, and you can see the coat of arms in the cobblestones in front of the building.

The city hall has been here for centuries, and even the earthquake in 1755 didn’t fully destroy it. However, a fire in 1910 left nothing but the facade, and it became the modern town hall we see today. The renovations were finished in 1939. 

3. Igreja de São Julião

The other stunning building on the square is Igreja de São Julião. St. Julian’s Church is the main church in the city, built in the 18th century. The original Church of São Julião was built in the 13th century and used as a private chapel in the 15th century.

The medieval church received a makeover by King Manuel I between 1513 and 1520 with Manueline motives. The earthquake in 1755 destroyed the original church and was rebuilt in the baroque style in the 18th century. When looking closely, you can still see some of the Manueline details, too! 

4. Casa do Turismo Setúbal

You will see a blue building from Bocage Square with a black cat on the roof. Hard to miss this one! The Tourism House is the perfect place to learn more about the wines and gastronomy in Setúbal. They have a seating area, too, where you can enjoy a glass of local wine .

Right behind Casa do Turismo, you can visit Casa da Cultura , which hosts many events . However, most, if not all, are in Portuguese. 

5. Igreja do Convento de Jesus

The Church of the Convent of Jesus was built between 1490 and 1510. Igreja do Convento de Jesus is near the main square, one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. It is an important building in Portuguese history, as it is the first Manueline-styled building ever built! 

Here, you can see the beginnings of the Manueline style (also known as Portuguese late Gothic ), which became a significant architectural style in Portugal . You can enter Igreja de Jesus from the side entrance and admire the beautiful façade, nave, and many azulejo tiles. 

Igreja de Jesus is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM . It is open from 3 PM to 7 PM on Sundays, and the Church of the former Monastery of Jesus is closed on Mondays. The museum next door has the same opening time, apart from Sunday. Museu de Setúbal is then open from 2 PM to 6 PM.

6. Casa da Baía

The tourism office Casa da Baía is on Avenida Luísa Todi. This is the place to go if you want more information about the city and the peninsula. You can learn more about local events, tours, gastronomic tourism , and cultural sights. 

7. Mercado do Livramento

One of the liveliest places in Setúbal Portugal is the Livramento Market! When you visit Setúbal, you should not miss this place! Livramento Market is the best place to buy fresh produce such as cheese, charcuterie, flowers, fish, meat, fruits and vegetables.

The indoor market was even once considered one of the best fish markets in the world ! Other regional products include honey, herbs, olive oils, and wines. Mercado do Livramento is free to visit and is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 7:30 AM to 2 PM.

8. Shopping in Setúbal

Besides the colourful market, you can find many more local shops in Setúbal . The old town is a maze of tiny streets , and exploring each one at a time is fun. You can find most shops on Rua Dr Paula Borba, Rua Álvaro Castelões, Largo da Misericórdia , and Rua Antão Girão.

You won’t find the main high street stores here, so it’s fun to see if you can find some local treasures! Discover clothes, Portugal souvenirs or unique pieces made by local artists . If you are looking for high street stores and large supermarkets in Setúbal, Portugal, you can visit the Alegro Mall on the edge of town . 

9. Miradouro de São Sebastiao

You can visit Miradouro de São Sebastiao on the city’s eastern side for an amazing view over Setúbal. The viewpoint is similar to Miradouro de Santa Luzia in Lisbon, thanks to its pergola and azulejo tiles. The biggest difference is that there are not many people here! It is a prime location to take some pictures , as you overlook the port in the city and can see the Troia Peninsula across the river!

Next to the viewpoint, you can also visit the Michel Giacometti Museum . The Museum of Labour is located in an old “Perienes” canning factory. The Michel Giacometti Work Museum has permanent exhibitions, including an ethnographic collection .

10. Forte de São Filipe

The most spectacular views over Setúbal are at the fort of São Filipe. Forte de São Filipe is located in the western part of the city centre, and it’s easiest to reach by taxi if you don’t have a car. A bus stops nearby , too, but it is a short climb up to the entrance.

Saint Philip’s Fort was built as a defensive bastion in the 16th century on the orders of the Spanish monarch Filipe II. The fortification protected Setúbal and the mouth of the river.

Forte de São Filipe is built as a six-pointed star with high walls. You can enter the fort for free , and before reaching the top, you will see a small chapel. 

You will enjoy the best views of the Troia Peninsula and the city from the roof. There is also a terrace and indoor cafe where you can buy drinks and snacks. Highly recommended!

12. Dolphin watching Setúbal

It’s time to meet the locals! The Sado is home to a very special breed of dolphins. Setúbal Bay is home to a group of bottlenose dolphins that are regularly sighted. You can meet them, too, when joining a boat tour from the harbour. The local dolphins live in the Sado Estuary, which is unique to Portugal and Europe (it is one of three!).

Marine biologists study and monitor about three dozen dolphins. Because they are wild animals, seeing the Sado dolphins is not 100% guaranteed . But the boat tour on the river Sado and along the Costa da Serra da Arrábida is well worth it!

13. The neighbourhood of Troino

To see the most typical neighbourhood in Setúbal , you should visit Troino. You might even hear “charroco” on the streets, the local language! It originated from the fishing areas of Setúbal and was influenced by immigrants . Have a stroll around and enjoy the atmosphere. 

14. Mercearia Confiança de Troino

One of the highlights in Troino is the Mercearia Confiança de Troino. This grocery store opened its doors in 1926, and when you enter, you  walk straight back in time ! You’ll see commercial utensils and machines, and you can buy local products or enjoy a coffee. 

15. Eating in Setúbal

Setúbal has s ome very delicious food and local wines on the menu! One of the most famous dishes is the choco frito or deep-fried cuttlefish . Many restaurants serve it, but some of my favourite spots to eat choco frito are Casa Santiago—O Rei Do Choco Frito (the king of choco frito) and Adega Leo do Petisco .

Being so near the sea, you can expect many other fish dishes on the menu besides fried cuttlefish, such as sea bass, sardines, and monkfish. Portugal also has fantastic pork dishes . Some restaurants have vegetarian options , and we enjoyed the vegetarian options at Botânica Tapas & Petiscos and tapas at Sem Horas .

If you like wine, you should try a Moscatel . You can even try a typical one called Moscatel Roxo or Purple Moscatel . It is a sweet wine made 100% from Moscatel grapes, but don’t worry, it is not purple. The fermentation time is short, but the wine is placed in stainless steel vats and later aged in whiskey barrels for up to 10 years !

Things to do in and near the Setúbal region

These are the highlights in the centre of Setúbal, but there is a lot more to see! You can explore some of the most beautiful beaches and nature reserves from town. If you are staying a night or making a day trip by car from Lisbon, be sure to add some of the following places to your itinerary , too!

16. Arrábida Natural Park

On the western side of Setúbal, you will discover the mountains of Serra da Arrábida . Parque Natural da Arrábida is a fantastic spot for hiking and adventures! You can join a kayaking tour to visit the caves along the coastline. Or come snorkelling and discover the beautiful underwater world. Adventurers can book a Coasteering experience or go scuba diving. 

You can visit Portinho da Arrábida for lunch if you prefer things slower. O Farol, Galeão, and D’uportinho offer great food and stunning views! Portinho da Arrábida is also where you can visit a hidden shrine in a cave! Add Lapa de Santa Margarida to your GPS to locate this unique spot! Or discover the Maritime Museum inside Forte de Santa Maria da Arrábida.

When you have a car, drive the stunning N-379-1 road crossing the national park. The views are spectacular, and you can even stop at the Convento Velho da Arrábida. Please note that the old convent is only open by appointment . 

17. Sesimbra

West of Setúbal is Sesimbra, another  beautiful coastal city  perfect for a day at the beach. From the beach, you can see the  old fortress Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra  and the lighthouse . There are also some fantastic restaurants in Sesimbra.

One of the highlights is located just outside the centre. Castelo de Sesimbra offers incredible views over the Atlantic Ocean, and the medieval castle is free to visit . In summer, Sesimbra Castle is open from 7 AM until 7 PM daily. 

18. Cabo Espichel

Further west, you can check out the rugged coast of Cabo Espichel . At the cape, you can find a lighthouse and a monastery ! Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel is no longer used, but you can see the church inside.

Cabo Espichel is a beautiful spot for a coastal hike . If you look carefully, you can even find dinosaur footprints ! There are two spots: Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua and Monumento Natural dos Lagosteiros.

19. Beaches near Setúbal

Setúbal is also the perfect destination for a beach holiday in Portugal, and some of the most incredible beaches are a stone’s throw away! The nearest beach is Praia da Saúde, and you can walk here from town. A little further away, and next to Forte de Albarquel , you can find Praia de Albarquel and Praia da Comenda.

The most loved beaches are reachable by car, bus, or taxi. These are Praia da Figueirinha, Praia de Galápos, Praia dos Coelhos, and Praia do Creiro . These beaches are known for their natural beauty, and the azure blue waters are crystal clear—the perfect sport for sun seekers!

20. Palmela Castle

For a stunning sunset over the region, you can visit Palmela Castle. The castle was built high on a hill overlooking the whole area! The castle is free to visit , and you can climb the tower from an even higher vantage point. Can’t get enough of these panoramic views? Book a room at the beautiful 4-star Pousada Castelo Palmela for a night!

21. Wine tasting in Azeitão

Do you love wine? Then I recommend a trip to Azeitão! It’s THE town where you can enjoy a Moscatel wine tasting, and there are several wineries to visit. Examples are Casa-Museu José Maria Da Fonseca and Quinta da Bacalhôa. You can try some of the best wines from the region!

22. Sado River Estuary

Nature lovers will also love the estuary around the river. One of the best spots to start for tourists is the Mourisca Tide Mill. You can visit a small museum and book boat tours through the Sado River Estuary to see the many birds up close. Especially in winter, there are many species to find! You can see flamingos at Reserva Natural do Estuário do Sado throughout the year. 

The Tróia Peninsula is like paradise on earth and is super easy to reach by ferry or catamaran . The peninsula’s northern part has stunning hotels, long beaches, and golf courses. The beach is actually a whopping 18 kilometres long ! There are also beautiful cycling trails along the coast, and the area is also perfect for windsurfing and sailing. 

The dolphins often swim where the Sado meets the Atlantic Ocean , so keep your eyes open! At the Sado Estuary side, you can also find Roman ruins. These archaeological remains date back to the 1st Century. If you love a relaxing holiday in nature, the Tróia Peninsula is a top tip!

24. Comporta

South of the peninsula, you can find Comporta, another natural paradise . One of the best things to do in Comporta is horse riding on the beach . Even better when the sun goes down! You can also cycle through the rice paddies and discover more flamingos. Or try to ride the waves on a surfboard .

25. Alcácer do Sal

Alcácer do Sal is a picturesque town on the shores of the Sado River. It’s one of the oldest cities in Europe , and its history dates back to 1000 B.C. Visit the archaeological museum Cripta Arqueológica do Castelo and enjoy the views from Torre do Relógio. 

How to get to Setúbal from Lisbon?

Setúbal is located 50 kilometres south of Lisbon , and it is easy to reach by car and public transportation. The nearest airport to Setúbal is Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon.

From Lisbon, it takes less than an hour to reach Setúbal . You can cross the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge or the Vasco da Gama Bridge. Both routes take 40 to 50 minutes without traffic. Please be aware there are toll roads in between the two cities. 

We always book with DiscoverCars , which allows you to easily compare prices and book with trustworthy companies . Click below to check the prices for your Portugal trip!

With public transportation

The easiest way to get to Setúbal by public transport is by train. Fertagus trains stop at several stations in Lisbon. Sete Rios has the most accessible connection for us, but it also stops at Campolide before crossing the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. 

You can also take a ferry from Terreiro do Paço to Barreiro , followed by a train from Barreiro to Setúbal . The journey takes 1,5 to 2 hours, and one or the other route can be faster depending on the time. From the train station in Setúbal, it’s only a short walk to the city centre. 

Rede Expressos operates a bus service between Lisbon and Setúbal , and the journey takes around 45 minutes to 1,5 hours . The bus departs from the Sete Rios bus station and arrives in Setúbal near the train station.

The Tróia Peninsula is located on the south bank of the Sado. When travelling from the Algarve , you can take the ferry to Setúbal to save time and to enjoy the coastal drive through Alentejo. If you drive around the Sado Estuary , it will take some time. So, the easiest way to get there is by taking the ferry from the Troia Peninsula.

There is a pedestrian catamaran , but you can bring your car or bike to the ferry service! The ferry terminal is at Avenida Jaime Rebelo, and the boats are operated by Atlantic Ferries. The ferry takes 25 minutes to reach Troia, and the catamaran takes 15 minutes . You can check times, prices, and the exact routes on the Atlantic Ferries website . 

With a guided tour

If you want to avoid driving, the best way to enjoy the Setubal region is by  joining a group excursion  or booking a private tour! These tours are fantastic, and you’ll visit many of the places mentioned in this blog post!

You most likely see a mix of places like Cabo Espichel, Sesimbra, Arrábida Nature Park, and Setúbal. Not many tours stop in Setúbal, so book in time! Some guided tours also stop in Azeitão for a wine tasting !

Hotels in Setúbal

With so many things to do in Setúbal, it is no surprise that staying overnight is well worth it ! In a day you can see most of the sights in the centre, but visitors who want to see the nearby natural beauty should stay longer. You can use the map below to find hotels in the region, but I have also highlighted some beautiful hotels in the city.

📍 Best affordable stay: Hotel Cristal Setúbal is just a short walk from the old harbour. The hotel has a fitness centre, and you can park your car there for free. A delicious breakfast is also included. 

📍 Mid-range option: Rio Art Hotel is ideally located in the heart of town with all the major sights within walking distance. The fun interior instantly makes you feel at home, and a tasty breakfast is included. 

📍 Luxury hotel option in Setúbal: Hotel Casa Palmela is perfect for a luxury stay in the region’s rural landscape. The 5-star hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and stunning garden. Breakfast is included, and you can rent bikes at the hotel.

📍 Quirky stay in nature: For those looking for a unique place to stay, Rêves Étoilés is perfect! The luxury pods are air-conditioned, and there is an outdoor fireplace. You are surrounded by nature, and it’s a great relaxing spot. The private bathroom has a hot tub and there is a shared saltwater pool. Sounds like heaven, right?

Setúbal, Portugal, is an amazing day trip from Lisbon, and the town is well worth a visit. It’s not super touristy and perfect if you want to mingle with the locals. There are some stunning sights, you can enjoy amazing food, and there are some beautiful beaches nearby.

Setúbal is a very flat city and easy to navigate by foot. When walking distances are too long, you can take a local bus or order an Uber or Bolt taxi. Most sights are near each other and you can easily discover the city by walking.

Setúbal is located in Portugal, about one hour south of Lisbon’s capital.

You can see most sights in just 1 day, but staying overnight offers many more options. This way, you can discover the rest of this region in Portugal, which is known for its wines and beautiful landscapes.

Setúbal is primarily famous for some of its food. Trying the fried cuttlefish and the Moscatel wine is a must! But it is also renowned for the many nature spots around. Discover the Arrábida mountains or the Sado Estuary, for example. Another reason is that poet Manuel Maria Barbosa l’Hedois du Bocage was born here.

Because it is so close to Lisbon, Setúbal is a very attractive place to live. However, in recent years, the prices of rental homes and bought property have risen in Lisbon and Setúbal. So, although it is still cheaper, prices have certainly risen, and properties might no longer be affordable for locals.

Portugal is a very safe country, and there is no major crime in Setúbal. You should always be careful, but there won’t be any reason to be concerned overall.

Locals and tourists love visiting Setúbal , Portugal! The centre has many sights, you can enjoy some of the best food in the region, and there are many places to visit nearby. It is a lovely spot for a day trip from Lisbon , but when you stay overnight, you can see many places described in this post. We love visiting Setúbal from time to time, especially in summer when the beaches are like paradise on earth.

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Hi! I'm the founder and writer behind Discover Portugal. After travelling the world for over 25 years, I settled in Portugal in 2021. I work as a professional photographer and writer with over 10 years of experience. I write local guides about Lisbon (where I'm based) and the rest of Portugal to inspire you for your Portugal vacation.

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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Setúbal

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 24, 2023

Tourists to Setúbal shrug off its image as a busy industrial port as soon as they begin exploring this vibrant and energetic city. Set on the north bank of the River Sado, near the mouth of the estuary, Setúbal's affinity with the sea is immediately apparent. From the castle high above the harbor, the vast Atlantic Ocean rolls out towards a steel-blue horizon.

In the old town, churches are dressed in pleated stone, designed to resemble twisted rope. Along the quay, restaurants serve emblematic dishes like choco frito — deep-fried cuttlefish seasoned with garlic and lemon juice. The estuary itself is a protected nature reserve, a favorite destination for spirited dolphins and wintering wildlife.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the beautifully stark Serra, west of the city, and discover hidden chapels and medieval strongholds set amid emerald forests and blankets of flowers. Over the bay, a stylish resort is the gateway to a secluded peninsula fringed by golden beaches and shallow lagoons. Here, they farm and fish as the Romans did, and village life is far removed from the city back across the water.

For more ideas of places to visit, see our list of the top attractions and things to do in Setúbal.

Castelo de São Filipe

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Dominating the skyline high above Setúbal is the town's castle. The fort was built in 1595 on the orders of Philip II of Spain and follows a star-shaped design originally drawn up by Italian military engineer Filippo Terzi. Architect Leonardo Torriana, also from Italy, made sure everything fitted into place.

Constructed during the period of Spanish rule, the defensive stronghold kept enterprising pirates and English invaders at bay. After Portuguese Reconquest, heavier more robust walls were added, as was a stone tunnel that lead to the interior.

Today, it is tourists that besiege the castle, either to clamber playfully over the weathered bastions, or to stay at the pousada , an upscale inn that's made good use of the 16th-century blueprints.

A small chapel lined with wonderfully detailed tiles is worth admiring. But the real draw is the inspiring panorama that takes in Setúbal, the sparkling Sado estuary, and the distant Tróia peninsula .

Ornithologists flock to the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve. The 23-hectare wildlife park is home to an astonishing variety of bird species; around 220 have so far been recorded in areas of open water, the shallow lagoons, reed-beds, and across the mud flats.

The estuary is an important wintering ground for razorbill, marsh harrier, flamingo, purple heron, and black-winged stilt, among many others. (Serious birders need to be here from October to February for the best photography opportunities.)

Mammals such as fox, badger, mongoose, and the elusive genet roam the countryside. But it's the resident bottlenose dolphin population that captures the imagination of most visitors. The estuary is their location of choice, as it offers both food and shelter. This is good news for those who want to get up close and personal with these graceful and intelligent creatures, with several sightseeing cruise operations based out of Setúbal and Sesimbra, including the Dolphin Watch Tour in Sesimbra.

Address: Porto de Abrigo de Sesimbra, Avenida dos Náufragos, Sesimbra

This modest museum is big on archaeology, and is also noted for its spirited collection of ethnography. The permanent exhibition reaches far back into prehistory, with simple stone tools from the Paleolithic period among the earliest items on show. More discernible are the Bronze Age pots and Roman coins. A number of amphorae are on display, while the mosaic panels, also the result of Roman handiwork, remain one of the museum's highlights.

Visitors should also note the unusual 19th-century devotional paintings on wood depicting holy visions and miracles. Local and regional arts, crafts, and industries make up the majority of the quirky display of ethnography — the traditional costumes are delightful, and the assortment of ships and watercraft are the envy of any scale model boat enthusiast.

Address: Avenida Luisa Todi 162, Setúbal

Admirers of Manueline architecture will be smitten by the filigree masonry that decorates this church. The monastery, which stands forlornly to the north of the old town, is one of the first buildings in Portugal built in the Manueline style — the Portuguese version of Late Gothic that flourished in the 16th century during the reign of Manuel I.

Designed by the architect Diogo Boitac in 1494, the church stands as a suitable monument to the burgeoning tendency to use maritime motifs in architecture, such as plaited colonnettes to resemble twisted rope inspired by Portugal's Age of Discovery. Use your imagination, and the interior columns resemble giant sticks of candy, the intricate ribbed vaulting decorating the ceiling like a giant spider's web.

The adjacent convent has been turned into a museum that includes a noted collection of Portuguese and Flemish paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries. The highlight is the 14-panel depiction of the life of Christ by Jorge Afonso.

Location: Praça Miguel Bombarda, Setúbal

The Moors defended it with frightening ferocity before Christian forces eventually conquered it, and the castle at Palmela is still in remarkably good shape since hostilities ended in the 12th century. Strategically positioned over this quaint hill town, the fortress underwent a facelift in 1423, when King João I expanded and strengthened the walls and then transformed much of the building into a monastery.

Today, this is a stunningly attractive pousada , a hotel of cultural significance. The castle's formidable ramparts can still be explored, and visitors can climb the 14th-century keep to capture envy-inducing views of the surrounding Serra da Arrábida : on a clear day even distant Lisbon is brought into focus. For the best images of the castle, wait until dusk, when floodlight bathes the walls in a copper wash.

Palmela itself is fairly unremarkable, although any walk should include a visit to the church of São Pedro , where some fine 18th-century azulejo (tile) panels adorn the interior.

The wild and undulating Serra da Arrábida Natural Park melds a verdant swathe of beautiful countryside with a dramatic Atlantic Ocean coastline. One of the great natural attractions of the area, the spectacular scenery comprises a pristine landscape rich in cork wood, pine, and eucalyptus forests, thickets, meadows, and blankets of aromatic shrubs.

Hikers will have a field day following the marked footpaths. Cyclists, too, will enjoy the empty lanes and secluded nature trails. Precipitous limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and half-moon coves help define Arrábida's coastal character. Pockets of golden sand attract sun-seekers, and a crystal-clear sea lures scuba divers and snorkelers and other water sports enthusiasts.

A popular destination is Portinho da Arrábida , reached by vehicle down a steep narrow road. Its pocket-sized beach overlooks the rocky outcrop of Pedra da Anixa. Nestling above the hamlet is the Museu Oceanográfico , a fascinating Sea Museum and Marine Biology Center housed in the 17th-century Fortaleza de Santa Maria .

The park's rugged and untamed environment deserves thorough exploration and this is best achieved by joining an organized tour of Arrabida National Park.

Address: Museu Oceanográfico, Fortaleza de Santa Maria, Portinho da Arrábida

Scenic Sesimbra sits in a sheltered south-facing bay under the slopes of the Parque Natural da Arrábida, about a 40-minute drive from Setúbal. Combining fishing village character with a lively, seasonal resort vibe, the town boasts an attractive old center — a warren of cobbled lanes radiating from the 17th-century Fortaleza de Santiago , once the seaside residence for the Portuguese monarchs. The fort's handsome terrace is open to the public during the day.

Fronting a wide sandy beach, the esplanade is lined with a plethora of cafés, and one or two excellent seafood restaurants, and makes for a pleasant walk. Exemplifying Sesimbra's vibrant personality is the fleet of fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, the Porto do Abrigo .

One of the other rewarding things to do in Sesimbra is the trek up to the restored Moorish castle , set high above the town. The fabulous panoramic views from the sturdy battlements are worth the steep, huff 'n' puff hike, and there's a café to relax in afterwards.

Enjoying the most idyllic setting of any sightseeing attraction in the area, this 16th-century monastery is half-hidden among the trees of the Serra da Arrábida .

Founded in 1542, the whitewashed cluster of buildings replete with terra-cotta roofs in fact surround two monasteries. The ruins of the old convent sit on the uppermost part of the hillside and are in sad decline; the later building — in much better shape — occupies land farther down the slope.

The newer Franciscan retreat overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and the spectacular views are reason enough to venture out to this secluded destination. A tour of the premises, however, will reveal the four chapels and a series of tower-like shrines, probably used for meditation, that lie within the grounds. A number of cells, hewn out of the limestone rocks, can also be visited.

The monastery's interior is, for the most part, unremarkable save for the gilded woodwork and azulejo (tile) panels that embellish the walls.

Address: Serra da Arrábida, Azeitão

Official site: http://www.foriente.pt/137/history.htm

Opposite Setúbal is the long, thin Tróia peninsula, actually in the Alentejo region. Easily accessible by car or passenger ferry, this inviting destination has the best beaches in the vicinity: the swathes of golden sand on the western edge stretch the entire length of the spit.

Sitting at the northern tip is Tróia itself, an exclusive resort made up of hotels, apartments, a marina, and a nearby golf course. Stylish cafés and bistros line the boardwalk.

The peninsula's eastern flank is dotted with traditional fishing villages and overlooks the warm, shallow waters of the protected Reserva Natural do Estuário do Sado , a haven for birdlife and schools of friendly bottlenose dolphins, which can be observed during specialized sightseeing cruises that pick up passengers at the Tróia pontoon.

Rice paddies are everywhere, cultivated next to reed-beds and marshland. The Romans felt at home here and founded Cetóbriga to farm fish. Farther south at the heel of the peninsula is picturesque Comporta , known for its nesting white storks and one of the top beaches in Portugal where a collection of wood-decked restaurants specialize in grilled fish and seafood.

The Romans founded Cetóbriga in the late 3rd century AD in order to establish a fish-salting business, and the town flourished. Traces of the stone tanks used in the process are still clearly visible, as are foundations of the many houses and commercial premises that sprung up in and around the town center. The ruins of baths, several villas, and a number of tombs are also evident, as is patchy mosaic and marble lining.

Cetóbriga was a busy port, and while the factories used for making condiments have disappeared, vestiges of the columns that would have supported the roofs are discernible.

Information panels in Portuguese and English enhance the sightseeing experience by explaining the town's history and the industry that generated its wealth.

Elaborate artist's impressions illustrate how the complex would have looked and help recreate what was undoubtedly a bustling and enterprising community.

You can visit independently or as part of a pre-booked guided tour.

Around a 60-minute drive southeast of Setúbal, the Alentejo's stunning regional capital is one of Portugal's most historic and appealing cities. Culturally rich and blessed with a noble heritage, Évora's old center comprises a fascinating assortment of monuments and museums, a treasure trove of visitor attractions embraced by medieval walls and thousands of years of history.

Standing at its very heart is the graceful Roman Temple , a suitable place to begin exploring. The handsome Palácio dos Duques de Cadaval , impressive Sé or cathedral, and the highly regarded Museu de Évora are all within easy walking distance.

Located 48 kilometers southeast of Lisbon, Setúbal is a leisurely 40-minute run along the A2 tolled motorway. The route takes you over the landmark 25 de Abril Bridge.

There are excellent public transport links between Lisbon and Setubal. CP trains operate a direct service out of Santa Apolónia railway station, with trains running every hour or so.

Several bus companies out of Lisbon serve the destination. Transportes Sul do Tejo express buses depart daily from Lisbon's Praça da Espanha and Gare do Oriente stations. Rede express buses depart Lisbon's Sete Rios terminal several times a day.

Praia do Ouro : The "Golden Beach" lives up to its name as one of the area's finest stretches of sand. Fronting the seaside resort town of Sesimbra, the beach, generous in dimensions, gently slopes towards shallow, clear water. Praia do Ouro is noted for its ease of access for people with reduced mobility.

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo : With its picture-perfect looks and relative seclusion, this beach is a delight to discover. Set in a cove and hemmed in by sheer cliffs, Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo is not easy to reach. In fact, most people arrive here as part of a coastal Serra da Arrábida hike, or by boat from Sesimbra. You can also kayak out of Setúbal to paddle along an extraordinary coastline line pocked with caves and grottos.

Praia da Comporta : Another beach of note is Praia da Comporta — but you'll need to cross the Sado estuary by ferry to the Tróia Peninsula to reach it.

The peninsula, a narrow spit of sand that is actually part of the Alentejo, is fringed on the Atlantic side by a seemingly endless beach. The farther south you travel, the quieter the sands. And Comporta is magnificent, an enormous swathe of soft sands served by a scattering of seasonal beach café-restaurants.

Tróia Golf : Located on the Tróia Peninsula, the championship course is a spectacular links design, and one of the most beguiling golf challenges in Portugal.

Acclaimed American golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr selected hole 3 of Tróia's golf course as one of the best he had ever designed. No wonder this 18-hole par 72 layout is regularly voted one of the best golf courses in the world.

Set in the idyllic surroundings of a natural reserve, Quinta da Comporta Wellness Boutique Resort features villas, suites, and rooms all decorated in a chic-rustic fashion to exude an appealing organic and blissfully peaceful atmosphere.

The restaurant offers a menu of seasonal Mediterranean-inspired dishes presented in a contemporary style, with some of the ingredients harvested from an in-house garden.

Guests can take advantage of Quinta da Comporta's wellness retreat, but are also encouraged to explore the immediate vicinity and discover its diverse cultural heritage and inherent charm.

Located on the tranquil Tróia Peninsula, Pestana Tróia Eco-Resort & Residences comprises a collection of wonderfully appointed self-catering villas and apartments, many with their own small private pool.

Guest amenities extend to a small restaurant, public indoor and outdoor pools, multi-sports facilities, and mini spa. The beach is reached on foot in 10 minutes. All in all, a great option for a family vacation.

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Setúbal is an ancient and picturesque town along the southwestern coast of Portugal. Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, the town’s strategic location has made it since Roman times an important trading port and a location famous for harvesting salt and storing food in salting barrels. Now Setúbal not only boasts the country’s third-largest port , after those of Lisbon and Porto , but is also an important tourist center characterized by distinctive neighborhoods and sites of great interest.

The city sits on the Setúbal Peninsula in a scenic bay at the mouth of the Sado River at the foot of the protected area known as Serra de Arrabida, which is a popular area for hikers and bikers . This area of the city’s territory, in fact, is included in the Parque Natural da Arràbida , a protected park that turns out to be the perfect destination for a day trip filled with nature and relaxation.

What to see in Setúbal

From being an old fishing village, Setúbal has now transformed itself into a pretty town on the Portuguese coast that welcomes visitors with its cobblestone streets surrounded by colorful buildings and old churches.

Dominating the town from above is St. Philip’s Castle built in the 16th century, while the waterfront area is perfect for enjoying excellent local cuisine such as grilled fish and the famous choco frito, or breaded fresh squid.

Don’t miss a stroll down the main pedestrian street , Avenida Luisa Todi, where you will also find Setúbal’s municipal market, which is a unique place to admire glimpses of the inhabitants’ daily lives.

San Felipe Castle

San Felipe Castle is a fortress commissioned in the late 16th century by Philip II of Spain, who commissioned the Italian engineer Filippo Terzi to design it. Construction work, however, was later completed by architect Leonardo Torriana. Even today it is still possible to admire this complex, which has a star shape and a double wall for defense. The stronghold was used to defend against attacks by English invaders and pirates, and during the years of Portuguese rule the walls were strengthened and an underground stone tunnel was built for possible escapes.

Inside, the fortress has managed to retain some buildings from its glorious past such as the former governor’s residence and a small chapel. The chapel still holds decorations with 18th-century azulejos depicting scenes from the life of St. Philip. From the castle, it is also possible to admire a beautiful view from above not only of Setúbal but also of the distant Tróia peninsula. Inside the fortress there is currently a luxury inn (pousada) with restaurant where it is possible to stay overnight.

Setúbal Cathedral

The city cathedral also known as the Church of St. Mary of Grace is located in the heart of the medieval village of Setúbal. Its origins seem to date back to the 13th century, and it was around the church that the city later developed. The building we can now admire, however, is a reconstruction that took place in the Renaissance period between 1565 and 1570. On the outside we can admire a Mannerist facade, while inside there are white and blue azulejos made in the 19th century depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin.

Ethnographic and Archaeological Museum

The Ethnographic and Archaeological Museum of Setúbal is a site of great interest that has two different sections: the archaeological and the ethnographic.

The archaeological section includes materials found in the area ranging from the Paleolithic to the time of the ancient Romans. In particular, coins, amphorae and numerous other objects from the Roman era can be admired. In the ethnographic area , on the other hand, the site features materials related to fishing, salt production, agriculture, and local crafts.

Palácio da Bacalhôa

The gardens of Quinta da Bacalhôa are a beautiful example of an Italian Renaissance garden created in Portugal. The gardens were built in the 16th century by Bràs de Albuquerque a great sailor who after visiting Italy had fallen in love with the Renaissance villas and beautiful gardens of the Italian peninsula. So Bràs wanted to replicate the same style in Portugal and therefore commissioned the construction of a villa and garden on a peninsula south of Lisbon.

Inspired by Italian gardens those at Quinta da Bacalhôa are a true masterpiece with green plants, fountains and statues. Since the mid-20th century the property has also housed a productive winery, so it is possible not only to take a tour to discover the gardens and the villa but also the wine estate. Here in addition to discovering the museum you can have tastings of local wines .

Parque Natural da Arrábida

The Arrabida Natural Park is an oasis surrounded by greenery that makes it possible to spend relaxing days in nature. The deep green of the park here joins with the blue of the Atlantic Ocean creating landscapes of wonderful colors. The park can be discovered by walking or biking trails and is characterized by the presence of cork forests, pines, eucalyptus and meadows covered with aromatic shrubs.

Areas of greenery combine with sheer cliffs where caves and coves can be found. There is also no shortage of beaches (such as Praia de Albarquel) that are the ideal place not only for sunbathers and relaxers but also for divers, snorkelers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Igreja do Convento de Jesus

This church was erected in the late 15th century in the Gothic-Manueline style , the Portuguese variant of late Gothic that became widespread in the 16th century during the reign of Manuel I. Designed by architect Diogo Boitac in 1494, when visiting the church one can see the tendency to use maritime motifs in the architecture, such as the intertwined colonnettes that resemble twisted naval ropes. Adjacent to the church is a convent that has been converted into a museum , inside which you can see the collection of Portuguese and Flemish paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries.

In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article.

Where to stay in Setúbal

The center of Setúbal is small and intimate but still boasts a fair number of facilities in which to stay. Prices are lower than in other Portuguese cities because the city is not yet included in the main tourist itineraries to discover the country. For a nature vacation, you can book an accommodation that is located within the Arrabida Natural Park .

Recommended hotels in Setúbal

How to get to setúbal.

Setúbal can be easily reached from Lisbon by car, train or bus. The city is about 50 km from Lisbon and can be reached by car along the A2. Those who want to travel by bus can use the lines of the Transportes Sul do Tejo company, which make it possible to reach Setúbal from Lisbon in less than an hour. The train is also an excellent option since it takes about 50 minutes to reach the city from Lisbon without the need for a change. The nearest airport is Lisbon.

Setúbal Weather

What's the weather at Setúbal? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Setúbal for the next few days.

Where is located Setúbal

Setúbal is located in the Lisbon region, along the west coast of Portugal, in the south-central area. The city is 50 km from Lisbon and 76 km from Sintra .

Location around

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Top things to do in setúbal, a surprisingly creative city.

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For years I had it in my head that Setúbal was a dreary industrial city of little interest. Happily, I was wrong. The research I did before we went revealed little in terms of things to do in Setúbal, apart from dolphin-watching, so it took Mike and I completely by surprise that we liked the city so much.

Top Picks For Things To Do In Setúbal

Search for the Sado dolphin community on a relaxing boat trip. LEARN MORE Take a private wine tasting tour to the Setubal wine region. LEARN MORE Discover Setúbal and other towns on a day trip from Lisbon. LEARN MORE

At less than 40 minutes drive or a 55-minute train ride, Setubal is an easy day trip from Lisbon.   It also makes a great base from which to explore the Sado Estuary, the Troia peninsular and Arrabida Natural Park .

Delight in the colour and creativity of Setúbal’s streets 

Among the first things to fill me with glee were the colourful street decorations in the cobbled shopping streets of Setúbal’s historical centre. I’ve seen some creative use of recycled plastic bottles over the years but this was in another league.

Thinking that they must be for some local festivities, I made enquiries only to discover that the local associations simply take pride and pleasure in producing new and ever-more imaginative decorations every few weeks.

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As well as this dangling decor, a walk through Jardim do Bomfim is enlivened by the presence of gigantic sculptures. The ‘ Pasmadinhos ‘ by Maria Pó are bright, bold and fun representations of local traditions and important figures, such as the monk from the Arrábida Convent , revered local poet, Bocage, and acclaimed singer Luísa Todi. These sculptures are replicas of the smaller original ceramic ones that you can buy from the shop or online.

You’ll see references to Bocage and Todi throughout the city including stands combining poetry with art.

You can see more of these wonderful sculptures-this time more suitable for your living room table or shelf- at the Maria Pó website or from their shop in Setúbal at Rua Arronches Junqueiro nº79.

Then there are the murals. I particularly liked the azulejo-style painting on an abandoned building and the bird boy on the side of the auditorium.

And the sculptures of generously built ladies.

Not to mention the range of tile panels.

Last, but not least, when you get to the fishing harbour, a pod of multicoloured dolphins are there to greet you.

Go dolphin watching in Setubal

What’s the deal with all the dolphins, you may be wondering? Well, there is a pod of around 30 bottle-nosed dolphins living in the Sado Estuary year-round. Although it’s rare to see them from the shore, I did keep my eyes peeled when we took the ferry from Troia,  just in case.

I didn’t spot any.

The best way to see the dolphins in Setubal bay is to go on a boat tour . The experienced crew know where the dolphins like to hang out and are pretty good at finding out where they happen to be on a given day. They can also tell you lots about the dolphins and their lifestyle.

If you want to combine a dolphin watching tour with a scenic drive through Arrabida Natural Park, check out this full day tour from Lisbon.

Visit the Michel Giacometti Museum of Work

Mike comes from an industrial part of the UK and has a fascination with factories so to sweeten the deal of spending time in nature reserves, I found this wonderful museum of work (Museu do Trabalho), which is housed in a former sardine canning factory.

The lower floor is filled with exhibitions that explain the canning process from unloading the fish to tinning it. Through photos, recordings of local workers, equipment and documents you get a deep understanding of the different jobs and skills involved in what was once a vital part of the local economy.

The upper floor has a replica grocery store from the 1900s with typical products and paraphernalia – you can even go behind the counter and play shopkeeper, in your imagination at least.

As well as these highlights, there are other artefacts relating to the world of work collated by Michel Giacometti, a French ethnologist from Corsica. He moved to Portugal in 1959 and spent the next 30 years travelling across Portugal, studying and recording popular oral traditions which were being lost or forgotten.

Practicalities: Largo Defensores da Republica. Opening hours vary depending on the season – 18th May to 15th September: Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm and Saturday 9 am to 8 pm, 16th September to 17th May: Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 6 pm,  Saturday and Sunday 2 to 6 pm.

Go local at Setubal Market

Clean, bright, bustling and full of local colours and flavours, Setúbal’s municipal market is popular and authentic. Catch of the day and locally grown produce abound, as do tile panels and sculptures.

It’s a great place for people watching and learning about local produce.

Get to know the Setúbal  wine region

The Setúbal wine region lies just across the Tagus estuary so it’s a wonderful place to explore and enjoy the local excellent wines, including fortified ones such as the famous Moscatel de Setubal. And because Setubal is well known for its gastronomy it’s an excellent chance to pair these wines with local dishes.

The climate is temperate Mediterranean, with hot dry summers and mild but rainy winters so the landscapes vary from clay or limestone soils to sandy.

You can spend a lovely day stopping at multiple wineries and tasting up to 10 wines on this full-day private tour and wine tasting in Setúbal from Lisbon.

Hang out at Casa da Baia Cultural Centre

Not far from the Mercado do Livramento is Casa da Baia. Originally built as a refuge and sanctuary for poor local women and orphans, the building has been renovated to create a multipurpose cultural space.

You’ll find an indoor café lounge (I was disappointed to smell cigarette smoke as we passed through the café so I hope that smoking has since been banned as it really spoiled what is otherwise a lovely space), restaurant, well-stocked wine shop full of delicious regional wines, archaeological finds and tourist information desk.

Outside, there’s a large outdoor patio dedicated to beautiful bays around the world, Setubal’s Sado Estuary being one of them.

Practicalities: Avenida Luísa Todi 468. Open from 9 am to midnight (or until 8 pm Monday to Friday between 16th September and 31st May).

Visit Convento de Jesus | Museu de Setúbal

I’ve seen a lot of Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) architecture during my time in Portugal but Setubal’s 15th century church and monastery is remarkable.

The stone used for the doorway, pillars and windows comes from the Arrábida mountains and is a conglomerate of various different rocks which I imagine must make it very difficult to work with, let alone create such intricately carved pieces.

Inside the church, there are twisted columns and vaulted ceilings as well as some interesting azulejo panels – look out for the aggressive elephant!

Much of the religious art from the monastery, along with other remarkable pieces such as saucy painting of Bocage and his muses and a beautifully carved Indo-Portuguese chest, are on display in the adjacent museum.

Practicalities:  Rua Acácio Barradas 2. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, Sundays from 2 to 6 pm in summer, 3 to 7 pm in winter.

Relax in Praça do Bocage

Bocage the poet was so popular that Setubal’s main square is named after him. The colourful cobbled paving radiates in patterns from his statue, which is surrounded by 17th and 18th century buildings and an array of cafés and restaurants.

The rather splendid purple building is the City Hall.

Go horseback riding on the beaches

Not only will you get to discover Setúbal, including the fish market and the Convento de Jesus, but upon reaching Comporta you can take to a protected natural reserve on horseback and glide across rice paddies, pine forests, and dunes until you reach the sandy Atlantic Coast. This horseback riding experience starts with a central Lisbon pick-up and lasts for 6 hours.

Take your pick of fish restaurants in Setubal

With its proximity to the water, it’s not surprising that Setubal has plenty of fish restaurants.

There are several reasonably-priced eateries near the fishing harbour but we also found a leafy square that’s lined with simple restaurants and has the grills in the centre of the outdoor seating area. Expect plastic chairs, paper table cloths, metal serving dishes and for your freshly-grilled fish to be served with potatoes and a salad of peppers and lettuce.

This is Praça Machado dos Santos. I’m not even sure which of the restaurants we ate at – I don’t think it really matters.

Other restaurants and cafés in Setubal

I am still kicking myself for not trying the chocos (fried cuttlefish), which is a local speciality. However, Mike was in the mood for meat so we opted for De Pedra e Sal . Obviously very popular, we were lucky to get a table, and one facing the open kitchen so I was able to watch the chefs at work. The house speciality is to serve their steaks on a slab of compacted salt. A thin leaf protects your food from becoming overly salty and both the meat and the sauteed vegetables were tasty. Largo do Dr. Francisco Soveral 2. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Update: I’ve since been back to Setubal and tried the chocos – they are delicious, fried in a light but spicy batter.

We also stumbled upon a wonderful Art Nouveau tea room filled with artwork and fancy furniture. Much of the art on the walls of Pólvora D’Cruz comes from the artist workshop behind the café and there are often exhibitions on the upper floor. We couldn’t resist the cakes on the counter and they were just as good as they looked. Rua Augusto Cardoso 37. Open daily from 9 am to 7 pm.

Another lovely arty café is Rota do s Saberes e Sabores which combines gourmet grocery products with original artwork by local artists and a pleasant café space. The owner is one of the artists represented and is keen to help you appreciate and understand the food and stories contained within his premises. Rua dos Almocreves 80. Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6:30 pm.

Setubal hotels and apartments

If you’re thinking of staying in Setubal check out this perfect Setubal hotels, guesthouses and apartments post .

Otherwise, take a look at these.

RM The Experience is a recent renovation with quality modern furnishings and fittings, contemporary artwork and a degree of flair. Note that the bathrooms don’t have a door, a trend that I can’t get to grips with but may not bother you. See photos and check availability.

Inside the traditional tile-clad exterior of Rio Art Hotel lies a modern hotel with uniquely decorated rooms full of colour and contemporary decorative features. Expect 4-star comfort and helpful service from this friendly guesthouse. The location, right on Avenida Luísa Todi, is very convenient. Check prices and availability.

Setúbal Downtown Studios are also on the main avenue. The three studio apartments are bright and clean and have air conditioning. Simple kitchen facilities enable you to prepare basic meals although there are plenty of restaurants nearby. See photos and prices.

For a more unique style of apartment, try Y. Quebedo Concept Serviced Apartments in the historical centre of Setubal. One has a fun nautical theme and another pays homage to Portuguese drinks including wine, brandy and beer. With an outdoor terrace and a choice of sea or mountain views, these apartments are well equipped and welcoming. Choose your favourite apartment.

See other options for apartments and hotels in Setubal 

See all my Portugal accommodation guides on this page.

How to get to Setubal, Portugal

Driving there is pretty straightforward as there is a motorway and several main roads. See my tips for renting a car in Portugal .

If you prefer to travel by public transport, there are several buses connecting Lisbon and Setubal – see this site for timetables . You can also take the train from Campolide station. Both methods will take around an hour.

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This is great post! I can see how many would overlook it, specially after just arriving and stepping out of the train station. It is so worth venturing into the old town. I was mesmerised and your guide helped me in searching for those gems. I also visited Troia Peninsula. Its a fantastic town!

Thank you Patrycja, I went to Troia on that trip too and I keep meaning to write about the Roman ruins there. Thank you for the reminder.

Very interesting, must check it out!

I am glad to read your take on Setubal. I went there after the Lisbon airport run, and thought it was awful. I didn’t have much time and I feel bad that I missed all this now. Just shows how wrong you can be!

I think that much depends on your frame of mind when you first encounter a new place, and the weather. I recently stopped for a quick look at a town in the Alentejo which has left me less than impressed but I suspect that part of my feelings towards it are due to my tiredness at the time and a slightly stressful parking experience.

thank you for a very interesting article.Another place on my bucket list possibly late summer this year….

You’re welcome – I hope you enjoy it!

Over to you. Please share your thoughts in a comment. Cancel reply

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Setúbal: A Laid-Back Fishing Town So Close to Lisbon

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Life in Portugal , Lifestyle and culture

Table of Contents

• Where’s Setúbal in Portugal?
• What's the weather like in Setúbal Portugal?
• What type of cuisine is typical for Setúbal?
• 


Best restaurants to eat in Setúbal?
• Top things to see and do in Setúbal Portugal
• Best Beaches Near Setúbal
• Hotels in Setúbal
• Is Setúbal Worth Visiting?

What most visitors to Lisbon don’t know is that just south of the Tagus river and across the 25 de Abril Bridge lies Setúbal, a beautiful seaside city famed for its own incredible gastronomy, a sweet and internationally acclaimed moscatel wine and your secret gateway to a hidden, natural paradise! While Setúbal is primarily known as an industrial city, it’s stunning location amongst the Serra da Arrábida and Tróia Peninsula actually makes it the perfect base to see some of Portugal’s best-untouched beaches and most dramatic coastlines. Nature lovers get ready to fall in love as you hike along the Parque Natural da Arrábida , tourists prepare to be amazed at the flock of bottlenose dolphins at the Sado estuary and foodies, you’re in for a gastronomic adventure with amazing seafood dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. Read on and see why you really need to start planning your next trip to Setúbal!

Setúbal is located just 32km south of Lisbon and the best part is that it’s only one train ride away too, with trains departing from Roma-Areeiro station in Lisbon (passing by Entrecampos, Sete Rios and Campolide stations) to Setúbal. The train ride takes just over 1hr and spectacularly crosses the Tagus River through the infamous 25 de Abril Bridge.

Alternatively, you can also catch a bus from Praça Espanha or drive over to Setúbal from Lisbon, which will take you just 45 minutes by car. You can look for more information on Rome2Rio .

What’s the weather like in Setúbal Portugal?

SETÚBAL WEATHER

The weather in Setúbal Portugal is fairly similar to Lisbon, with above average temperatures year-round and just a few rainy days per season. Here you can find the weather averages of each season in Setúbal: • Spring – 19°C with 5 days of rain per month • Summer  – 23°C with 1 day of rain per month • Autumn – 15°C with 9 days of rain per month • Winter – 13°C with 9 days of rain per month The best time to visit Setúbal would definitely be in the summer so you can really enjoy the beautiful beaches, gorgeous sunshine and see the city during its most vibrant season. Although if you plan to come during the other seasons it shouldn’t be a problem either as you’re most likely to get great weather anyway!

Setúbal is a fishing city so naturally, you’re going to find that most of the traditional dishes are indeed, fish based. Food lovers brace yourselves because this city really, really knows how to cook delicious fish and proof of this can be seen in 2011 when the grilled sardine of Setúbal was voted as one of the “7 Wonders of Portuguese Gastronomy!” While you should definitely try the grilled sardines of Setúbal, there’s also a wide variety of other great traditional fish dishes to try and we’d definitely recommend the carapaus manteiga (butter mackerel), linguado (sole), cherne (Atlantic wreckfish or stone bass) and garoupa (grouper) just to name a few. Delicious grilled fish is not all that Setúbal is known for though, it’s also famous for a wide range of seafood dishes such as choco frito (fried cuttlefish), caldeirada or the “stew of the sea”, feijoadas (bean stews), saladas (salads) made with choco (cuttlefish), polvo (octopus) and massadas de peixe (fish stews with pasta). Above all, Setúbal is probably most known for the dishes that feature the local eel, which you can try prepared in stews or simply fried. For meat lovers there’s also a great variety of dishes to sample like cabidela de galinha (chicken stewed in its own blood with rice), arroz de pato (baked duck risotto with sausage), ensopado de borrego (lamb stew), lombinhos de porco com açorda (pork medallions with “bread soup”) and a good cozido à portuguesa (Portuguese stew). Do you like to fish? We’ve written a guide to help you decide what fish you should try in Portugal .

Wondering where you can try all this amazing food? Here are our top picks of restaurants in Setúbal with three price ranges to suit any budget.

Taberna Típica O Pescador II

The Taberna can be found downtown on Travessa Álvaro Anes, 2 and has an average price of just 6 euros per person! Yup you read it right, ONLY €6! Great food and a huge hit with the locals, this is no fuss dining in a home-style Portuguese restaurant.

Tasca da Avenida

This restaurant is also located downtown on Avenida Luísa Todi, 578 and reviews highly favour its friendly staff and superb hospitality. Great food is not the only thing served here, where you can also hear a brief history of the region from the staff with your meals. The average price per person is €15.

A-mar Setúbal

It’s located (yep, you guessed it) in the downtown as well on Avenida Luísa Todi, 73 and offers a modern take on Portuguese cuisine. Treat yourself to amazing dishes all prepared from fresh local Setúbal produce. The average price per person is around €40. Of course, to help you savour all this amazing food there’s also plenty of different wines from the region for all tastes – with red, rosé and white wines all making their way to the restaurant’s wine lists. As for dessert, there’s one wine you simply HAVE to try: the Moscatel de Setúbal is the most famous wine of the region winning multiple international prizes with the oldest gold medal dating as far back as 1855. More details here .

While you can definitely spend more than enough time eating your way through Setúbal, there are still so many charming things to see and do. Here are some of the best locations you must see on your visit: • Arrábida Natural Park –  is located next to the sea, between Setúbal and the fishing town of Sesimbra and has natural beauty you have to see to believe – where the crystal clear waters blend with the stunning greenery of the mountains surrounding it. Figueirinha, Galápos and the Portinho da Arrábida are all found at the park and contribute to its unique, unspoilt beauty. • Monastery of Jesus of Setúbal – is a historical building in the downtown of Setúbal, which served a monastery of Poor Clare nuns. It is one of the first buildings in the Manueline style, the Portuguese version of late Gothic and dates as far back as the 1490s. The azulejos in here are a must see! • Mercado do Livramento – is located in Avenida Luisa Todi and it’s worth the visit just to see the incredible variety of fresh fish and seafood displayed. Built in 1930, its columns are made out of forged iron and features some beautiful original azulejos. • Fortress São Filipe – dates as back as the 14th century and has breathtaking views looking towards the ocean and over the city. It’s located in Estrada do Castelo de São Filipe. • Avenida Luísa Todi – the main avenue of Setúbal and with its multiple bars, restaurants and green spaces, it’s the perfect place to visit on a beautiful sunny day. • Praça de Bocage – is the main square of Setúbal and it’s situated at the heart of the city. It’s a truly historical place and the central statue dates as far back as 1871. Take a seat in the terrace of a local café and enjoy the prime viewing location of watching the life of the city pass by! • Albarquel Urban Park –  is an amazing park by the beach. Ideal for a leisurely walk in the sunshine or just to take a break and enjoy some nature in the city!

Truly one of the best things to see is the area’s stunning beaches. For a little slice of paradise, I’ve listed the top beaches you have to see while visiting Setúbal:

1. Portinho da Arrábida

Considered by many the most beautiful beach in the whole of Portugal. From the crystal clear waters to the picturesque green mountain backdrop, you’ll forget where you are as you’re completely immersed in nature. With basically no man-made structures in sight and no cars allowed in the area, Portinho da Arrábida is the reason why many go to Setúbal in the first place.

2. Galapinhos Beach

Is located near Portinho da Arrábida and was considered the best beach in Europe in 2017 by the website European Best Destinations. If you’re planning to visit, the beach is also located in the no-car zone so you’ll need to trek a little bit to get there – trust me, it’s worth it!

3. Figueirinha Beach

Is the new hotspot in Setúbal as it’s the last beach where you can drive to and extends over a large stretch of sand, which at low tide stretches outwards to form a sandbank and creates a type of cove ideal for windsurfing?

4. Tróia Beach

The Tróia beach is one of the most beautiful coastlines of Portugal, which boasts a 13km stretch of pristine sands, crystal clear waters and pine forested sand dunes.

5. Albarquel Beach

Is the closest beach to the town of Setúbal. A lovely stretch of golden sand with great views across the calm waters of the Sado estuary to the Troia Peninsula. If sunshine holidays are your thing, take some time off and explore the other beaches around Lisbon .

With so much to see and do, it would really be a waste to only spend a day in Setúbal. We’ve got a roundup of the best hotels across different budgets so you can rest easy and enjoy the true beauty of the area at a relaxed pace!

Hotel Casa Palmela

This is a 5-star hotel located just outside Setúbal in Estrada Nacional 10, Km 33.5, Quinta do Esteval and has an amazing outdoor pool. It’s set in a vineyard in the Serra da Arrábida with fantastic views of the mountain. Prices start at €223 per night .

Meliã Setúbal

A 4-star hotel in the centre of Setúbal just a stone’s throw away from the Estádio do Bonfim in Avenida Alexandre Herculano, 58. Book it here . Prices start at €71 per night.

Montado Hotel & Golf Resort

Includes an impressive 18-hole golf course and a restaurant which offers international cuisine, an extensive wine list and incredible views of the resort’s lake. It’s located just east of the downtown in Urbanização do Campo de Golfe do Montado. Find it here. Prices start at €94 per night .

Hotel Ibis Setúbal

A safe bet if you are looking for something a bit cheaper. Still a great place to stay with an outdoor pool (not bad for a 2-star hotel)! Located in Rua Cidade do Porto Seguro and it’s just a 10 min car ride to the centre of town. With Booking , you can cancel it for free. Prices start at €47 .

Seleção Sport Hotel

A 3-star football-themed hotel inspired by the Portuguese football team. It’s a 5-minute drive from the centre of Setúbal in Rua Manteigada, 2 and features a heated outdoor swimming pool! To make your reservation go to booking.com . The prices for a night at this hotel start at €73.

Setúbal has really changed from being just a day trip location off the beaten path to a hotspot visitors are quickly putting at the top of their must-see list. Ideally, if you have the time you should plan to spend at least 3-5 days in Setúbal so you can take time to visit the Arrábida Mountain, spend your days exploring the stunning beaches and enjoy all the amazing food Setúbal has to offer. Make sure that before you leave Setúbal you also find one of these souvenirs you should take home with you:

• Take home some delicious gourmet grocery products from the area by visiting Rota dos Saberes e Sabores where you can also find a great selection of original artwork by local artists.
• Setúbal is famous for its ceramics so you should spend some time browsing the local stores and stalls to find some great new pots or pitchers for your home.
• Last but not least, can you say you visited Setúbal without taking home a bottle of Moscatel de Setúbal? After trying some of the great Moscatel wine of the region, you definitely need to make sure you take home a bottle to enjoy (or even a few if your luggage allows!)

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The best independent guide to Setubal

Setubal Introduction - Setubal as a day trip - Things to do and see - Beaches - Lisbon to Setubal - Troia Peninsula

Setubal, Portugal: an independent tourism guide for 2024

Setúbal is a busy port and industrial city that boasts an extensive history and rich seafaring heritage.

This is a city that is very different from the tourism-focused towns such as Sintra, Cascais or Evora and therefore polarizes tourists' opinions. Some visitors will adore the raw Portuguese character and fascinating sights of Setubal, while others will dislike the gritty industrial appearance and working atmosphere.

At the centre of Setúbal is a delightful maze of pedestrianised shopping streets that lead to the Avenida Luísa Todi, the grand avenue that cuts through the city. The waterfront of the city overlooks the Sado Estuary and is area is a mix of former fishing factories and warehouses. The area is becoming more appealing each year as new businesses fill the once-abandoned buildings, and the parks and open spaces are smartened up.

Setubal has a rich history, which is reflected in the many sights including the heavily Forte de São Filipe and the Igreja de Jesus, the first Manueline-styled building in Portugal. The city is authentically Portuguese, and no place is better to experience this than the lively Mercado do Livramento market, or eating the local speciality of Choco Frito in one of the many excellent seafood restaurants. An activity unique to Setubal is joining one of the dolphin-watching tours, looking for the pod of dolphins that live within the Sado Estuary.

Setubal may have industrial roots, but a region of immense beauty surrounds it. To the east are the stunning hills of Serra da Arrábida and the idyllic beaches of the Portinho da Arrábida, while to the south of the Sado Estuary are the paradise beaches of the Troia Peninsula. Setubal is often only visited as a day trip from Lisbon, but it also makes for a wonderful base from which to explore the region.

This article will provide an independent guide to Setubal and help you get the most from your visit here. Related articles: Serra da Arrabida - Troia Peninsula - Sesimbra guide

Highlights of Setubal

The Forte de São Filipe – The heavily fortified fort was constructed in the 16th century to protect the city from seabound threats during the era when Portugal and Spain were unified. The fort stands atop the highest point of Setubal, and from the star-shaped battlements are stunning views of the entire region.

The Mercado do Livramento – One of the best food and fresh produce markets of Portugal, with a vast array of stalls selling everything from fresh fish to local handicrafts. A lively and chaotic slice of authentic Portugal.

Igreja de Jesus – The low-rise church is the first example of Manueline architecture in Portugal, a richly ornate and decorative late-Gothic style. The church was attached to the Monastery of Jesus, which today has been converted into the city museum.

Choco Frito – The delicious speciality dish of Setubal, pan-fried cuttlefish that has been dusted in flour. The dish originated from Setubal’s bars and restaurants, where off-cuts of fish were sold inexpensively as an accompaniment to drinking and socialising.

The Troia Peninsula – The sandbar peninsula and pristine pine forests are the secluded holiday destination of Europe’s rich and famous. The coastline of Troia comprises beautiful sandy beaches, and it is easy to travel there by the regular ferry from Setubal’s harbour.

Highlights of the Setubal region

If you are planning a longer stay in Setubal, the highlights of the surrounding region include: A drive along the N379 – One of the most scenic roads of Portugal, which follows ancient farming trails through the Serra da Arrábida hills. Palmela Castle – A magnificent castle with wondrous views over the region Praia do Creiro – Arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal; golden sands and turquoise sea waters that are surrounded by the pristine forests of the Serra da Arrábida. Wine tasting at the Palácio da Bacalhôa – Taste some of Setubal’s finest wines in the magnificent setting of the Palácio da Bacalhôa. (Note: this is in the town of Azeitão and bookings are required - www.bacalhoa.pt ) The Lapa de Santa Margarida – A small chapel located in a cave at the base of a cliff – the appeal of the chapel is the difficult walk down and unique setting. Ruínas Romanas de Troia – The ruins of a Roman-aged salting factory surrounded by the paradise beaches of Troia. For a complete guide to the best sights and activities in Setubal please see this guide .

The eastern side of the Troia Peninsula near the Ruínas Romanas de Troia

A day trip to Setubal

Setubal makes for an enjoyable day trip from Lisbon or Sesimbra, but is often overlooked by tourists, who tend to favour Sintra, Cascais, Evora or Obidos. The city offers a range of varied activities and sights while having a much more authentic Portuguese atmosphere than Lisbon.

Setubal is an ideal destination to experience typical Portuguese daily life. There is the lively Mercado do Livramento market (Tues-Sun), the social cafes on the Praça de Bocage or the delicious seafood restaurants close to the fishing harbour. Setubal has the added advantage of not being that famous, so it never gets overrun with coach loads of tourists.

A typical day trip to Setubal would include the market, the historic centre, the waterfront, the fishing harbour and then visit the castle., It is very easy to travel to Setubal for your day trip; there is a direct train from Lisbon or a regular bus service from Sesimbra.

Below is an interactive tour map for a suggested day trip to Setubal. The tour route starts at the train station, and the total tour is 8.7km. Also included in the map is an additional walk to the Albarquel beach ( 10 ), which is marked in grey.

Sights: 1) Santa Maria church 2) Praça de Bocage 3) São Julião church 4) Câmara Municipal (city hall) 5) Casa da Cultura 6) Mosteiro de Jesus 7) Mercado do Livramento 8) Forte de São Filipe 9) Albarquel urban park 10) Albarquel beach 11) Doca de Pesca (Fishing harbour) 12) Jardim Engenheiro Luís (riverside garden) 13) Atlantic Ferries (ferry to Troia) 14) Doca do Comércio (commercial fishing port 15) Miradouro de São Domingos (viewpoint) 16) Museu do Trabalho Michel Giacometti 17) Portal Historico (gateway) Advice: It is a very steep uphill walk to the Forte de São Filipe ( 8 ), and you may wish to take a taxi after visiting the Livramento market ( 7 ). Related articles: Setubal beach guide

The Doca de Pesca and harbourfront of Setubal

The best activities and tours in Setubal

There are many enjoyable activities within Setubal and the surrounding region; some of the best provided by GetYourGuide include: • History of Setúbal and Fish Market Tour (from Lisbon) • A day trip from Lisbon to Setubal and visit the oldest wineries of the region • Go in search of the Sado dolphin community on a relaxing boat trip

The colourful “Golfinho Parade” on the Avenida José Mourinho

A holiday to Setubal

Setubal is not a conventional holiday destination, but if you want somewhere truly unique, Setubal will not disappoint. Setubal should not be mistaken as a pristine beach resort or a manicured tourist destination; this is a hardworking port city full of character and grit.

As a holiday destination, Setubal is better suited for more independent tourists or cultured travellers who are seeking an authentic Portuguese experience. If you are seeking more of a beach and relaxing holiday destination, consider Sesimbra, Cascais or Costa da Caparica.

Setubal does make for an interesting base to explore the region, and there are numerous day trips to easily fill a week-long trip. Often, Setubal is combined as part of a tour of central Portugal or as a second destination (e.g. Lisbon and Setubal or Cascais and Setubal).

Setubal provides an excellent standard of accommodation, which is significantly less expensive than the more famous resort towns or Lisbon. Food, dining out, and nightlife are exceptional values for money, and this is because Setubal is designed for Portuguese and locals. To get the most from the Setubal region, a car is recommended so that you can explore the Arrábida hills and visit the Cabo Espichel headland.

The map below shows the best hotels and accommodations in Setubal; if you adjust the dates to your trip, it will display current prices and availability.

The Praça de Bocage is the main plaza of Setubal

Setubal or Sesimbra?

Setubal and Sesimbra may be geographically close, but they are extremely different in almost every tourism-related aspect.

Setubal is a major city with a heavy focus on its manufacturing and docks, while Sesimbra is a much smaller fishing town that is a popular holiday destination. Sesimbra is where to head for a couple of relaxing beach days, but Setubal has much more to see and do.

If you are seeking a holiday destination that still retains its Portuguese atmosphere, then Sesimbra is ideal. Setubal is much better for a day trip or as part of a tour of Portugal.

Both Sesimbra and Setubal could be combined in a single day trip, but the number of sights in the surrounding region lends to an extended stay.

Lisbon to Setubal

The best way to travel from Lisbon to Setubal is by train.

The train service is operated by Fertagus (the only private train company in Portugal), and the journey takes one hour. An adult ticket costs €5.35 and is charged to the ‘Navegante’ card, which is used for all public transport in Lisbon.

In Lisbon, the train departs from the Roma-Areeiro station and passes through the Entrecampos, Sete-Rios and Campolide stations. There is at least one departure every hour, and the latest timetable can be seen on the Fertagus website: www.fertagus.pt

Advice: Do check the timetable, as not all departures from Lisbon terminate at Setubal. Many services stop at Coina, 15km to the northwest of Setubal.

In Setubal, the train station is to the north of the city ( GPS: 38.53117, -8.88497 ) and is an 18-minute (1.3km) walk to the Praça de Bocage.

There are many bus services connecting Lisbon to Setubal, but the Fertagus train is more convenient. The bus services of the Setubal region are operated by Carris Metropolitana, and there are express services from Lisbon (route 4720 or 4725). Details can be seen on the Carris Metropolitana website: carrismetropolitana.pt

The double decker Fertagus train in Roma-Areeiro

Setubal train station

Setubal to Troia

There are two ferry services from Setubal to Troia: a fast passenger catamaran and a slower ferry for vehicles. Both services are operated by Atlantic Ferries.

The bright green catamaran departs from Cais 3 in Setubal ( GPS: 38.52065, -8.88929 ) and terminates at the marina complex in Troia.

A return journey on the passenger catamaran costs €9.10 – the fare is collected when heading from Setubal to Troia, and the return (Troia to Setubal) is free. The ferry timetable is seasonal, but there is at least one departure per hour, with more services in the summer. For the latest timetable please see the Atlantic Ferries website: www.atlanticferries.pt

The vehicle ferry departs from Setubal docks ( GPS: 38.52168, -8.88544 ) and terminates at ‘Sol Tróia’, which is halfway down the eastern side of the peninsula. The fare for a car and a driver costs €20.40, and two trips (a return) is €36.70. Each additional passenger is €5.40.

The Catamaran to Troia is very popular during the summer, as the whole of the city heads to the beaches of Troia.

The vehicle ferry pulling into Setubal docks

The dolphins of Setubal

The Sado Estuary is the permanent home to a large pod of bottlenose dolphins, which can be frequently seen swimming and playing within the waterway. Currently, there are 28 dolphins in the pod, and they have been in the estuary since 1981 after discovering the bountiful supply of food (sea bass, cuttlefish and mullet) within the marsh fringes of the estuary. A unique activity while in Setubal is to join a dolphin-watching trip, and these tours cost around € 45 for a two-hour tour - further details here .

The Forte de São Filipe

The best tourist attraction in Setubal is the Forte de São Filipe. The fort dates from 1590 and was constructed during the Philippine Dynasty when Spain ruled over Portugal. The fort protected the mouth of the Sado Estuary from pirate raiders and seaward attacks (notably from the English and Dutch) but also demonstrated Spanish power to the population of Setubal, who had resisted Spanish rule.

The first stone was ceremonially laid by King Filipe I in 1582, and the fort is dedicated to Saint Philip, but this was also the name of the king…

The Forte de São Filipe was designed in an irregular star-shaped layout, with solid walls that could withstand heavy cannon bombardment. From the battlements are wonderful views over the Sado Estuary and city, while inside the fort is a beautiful, tiled chapel dedicated to Saint Philip.

The barracks of the fort have been transformed into a luxury hotel – The Pousada de São Filipe

The stunning little chapel dedicated to Saint Philip

The Mercado do Livramento

The Mercado do Livramento is one of the best covered markets in Portugal. The market comprises over 130 stalls selling fresh produce through to local handicrafts, but the main speciality is the large fish market.

The fish market is a chaotic and lively affair, where the fresh catch from Setubal’s fishing fleet is sold by loud fishwives, and savvy chefs come to secure the finest cuts of seafood. The market (Tues-Sun) is open from 7am to 2pm, but most of the fish is sold by 11. The market is closed on Mondays.

On the entrance to the market are beautiful tile paintings depicting the traditional agricultural life of the Setubal region, and are worth a visit even if the market is closed.

Our most popular guides to the Setubal region

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Setubal Guide

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This is the gateway to a world of sensations and emotions. The Touristic Promotion Center – Casa da Baía is the city's main tourism office. Here you will have access to information regarding the touristic offer in the historic area of ​​the city, the beaches, oenological, cultural, and gastronomic tourism, municipal events, local tour operators, and nature reserves. The promotion, dissemination and commercialization of the region's reference products, such as cheese, wines and sweets, are in evidence in this multipurposed space that brings together all the best that Setúbal has to offer.

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 When people hear about Setúbal , they instantly think of the beautiful Setúbal city and its charming historical center and famous beaches. The city, however, is only the capital of the district with the same name, which encompasses 13 municipalities, each with its own historical and touristic treasures.

As such, if you want to get away from the crowded capital and discover some hidden gems in Portugal’s Setúbal district, you’re in the right place! We’ve prepared a comprehensive list of landmarks to visit in some of the most beautiful cities in the region.

Keep reading to learn about 13 places to visit in the district Setúbal. We’re sure you’ll add some of them to your must-see list!

13 Places to Visit in the District of Setúbal

Before diving into details about some of our favorite places in Setúbal district, we must admit that we couldn’t fit them all in this article! We’re sure you’ll stumble upon other landmarks or viewpoints that will make your trip even more memorable.

No matter what and how many places mentioned below you’ll choose to visit, prepare yourself for a much more insightful journey!

1. Mercado do Livramento

Is there a better place to start our journey than Setúbal, the district capital?! The city is, in itself, a gem, and you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the city center, the surrounding beaches, and the community vibe. However, we decided to choose one place that shouldn’t be missing from your list – Mercado do Livramento.

The market has stood for a century and a half, providing locals with fresh food and tourists with an enriching historical and cultural experience.

Since fish dishes are at the heart of Portuguese cuisine, the market is a treasure in this regard! Even if you don’t plan to buy any fish, you’ll be amazed at how many (huge!) fish species you’ll see! In fact, Mercado do Livramento was recognized by USA Today as one of the world’s best fish markets.

However, the fish is only part of the reason why we recommend visiting the market. Its true beauty stands in the walls covered with more than 5000 azulejo tiles installed almost a century ago. They depict the agricultural and fishing activities of the region and are the subject of fascination for thousands of tourists.

2. Fort of São Filipe de Setúbal

Dating back to the 14th century, the Fort of São Filipe de Setúbal is one of the city’s main tourist attractions. The fort has a rich history that takes you back in time, as well as breathtaking viewpoints that overlook the city and the Sado estuary.

One of the most popular spots is the baroque chapel, which is almost completely covered in azulejo tiles that depict the life of Philip the Apostle. The fort’s structures are thought to have been inspired by the medieval Castle Sant’Elmo in Naples.

If you feel like taking a break, sit for a drink at Cafeteria Forte de São Filipe and enjoy it with the spectacular panoramic view!

3. Tróia Peninsula

While you’re in Setúbal, don’t miss out on visiting Tróia Peninsula if you want to enjoy a few less crowded beaches. However, we recommend doing this during the summer or, at least, when the weather is pleasant and the wind is not too strong.

You can reach Tróia by taking the ferry from Setúbal. It takes only around 15 minutes, so it’s definitely worth the journey. You’ll arrive at Marina de Tróia, where visitors can brighten their days by delighting in spectacular sunset views!

Once you arrive, you’ll have to get to the stilted walkways that connect the beaches. The walkways are the embodiment of tranquility and peace, so you’ll be spared of the tiring city busyness.

Did you know that the Tróia Peninsula beach is the longest in Europe, spanning over 65 kilometers? It has very soft and clean sand, and the water is usually crystal clear.

4. Castle of Palmela

The next stop is Palmela, a town close to Setúbal. Its main landmark is the Castle of Palmela, which stands at an altitude of roughly 240 meters above sea level. You’ll have to walk through the city to reach it, but rest assured, you’ll enjoy the walk just as much because the city is quite charming!

The castle is of incredible architectural beauty and historical richness. Besides this, it offers spectacular views and has some exhibitions open to the public. If you’re lucky enough to arrive when there’s a festival, you’ll also enjoy the community vibe.

If you don’t mind crowded places, we recommend visiting Palmela and its castle during the Medieval Festival (usually in September). It is held within the castle territory, making for a truly immersive experience – medieval music, beverages, archery grounds, and even a medieval tournament!!

5. Moinhos Vivos

While you’re in Palmela, make sure to check out the Moinhos Vivos (windmills) that will help you immerse in the history and culture of Portugal. The mills have 250 years of history behind them and are surrounded by a pristine natural park that provides stunning natural views.

Additionally, the region has several archaeological sites for anyone passionate about the subject. Visitors can even interact with the region’s donkeys!

No need to worry if your stomach cries for food! You’ll have the best time experiencing the traditional meals available in the area!

6. Quinta and Palácio da Bacalhôa

Quinta and Palácio da Bacalhôa are a must-visit if you’re in the region. While tracing the roots of the estate’s origins, you’ll travel back in time, arriving in the 15th century.

Today, the estate is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved in the country. Back in the 15th century, it belonged to the Prince of Portugal and son of King João I and was subsequently inherited by his daughter.

Over the years, the territory was sold several times. The owners who bought the palace in 1528 enriched it with exquisite tiles, thus adding to its charm.

In 1936, the estate was once again sold, this time to Orlen Scoville. Years later, it was transformed into one of Portugal’s largest and most notable wine producers. Anyone looking for an authentic wine tour pleasantly blended with art and history should not miss out on Quinta da Bacalhôa!  

7. Azulejos de Azeitão

Portugal is proud to call itself the mother of azulejo tilework. If you’ve ever visited the country or seen pictures of famous azulejo panels, you’re probably already acquainted with people’s appreciation of this traditional, artisanal art. Rightfully so, considering how intricate the process of creating azulejo is!

Well, at Azulejos de Azeitão, you have the opportunity to follow the steps yourself! The factory is among the most renowned in the region and welcomes thousands of tourists who want to learn more about the famous azulejo tilework.

Visitors benefit from tours that illustrate the process of tile creation. Besides this, they can paint their own tiles, thus experiencing bits of Portuguese traditions and cultures first-hand.

8. Arrábida National Park

Do you plan to spend a day of your trip away from the city reconnecting with nature? If so, consider touring Arrábida National Park. You can start from the city of Setúbal and cross the park by car.

On your way up the mountain, you can stop to enjoy the views provided by the stunning beaches of Figueirinha, Galapinhos, and Portinho da Arrábida. What we like the most about them is that they serve as a meeting point for the ocean and the rocky cliffs, blending perfectly into a breathtaking landscape!

Additionally, the route has multiple viewpoints that oversee the ocean, the city, and the Tróia Peninsula. Besides this, it’s an extensive botanical gem! After you’ve enjoyed the ride, you can use one of the available picnicking spots to delight in a lunch or dinner within the heart of nature.

However, there’s a significant downside to visiting Arrábida National Park. Since the region is a tourist hot spot during the summer, the authorities impose car restrictions from June to September. Therefore, we recommend checking out the regulations before planning your trip.

9. Cabo Espichel

We do not recommend leaving Setúbal district without visiting Cabo Espichel and Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel!

The cape is close to Sesimbra and features 100-meter-tall cliffs overseeing the immensity of the ocean. Not only is it a major landscape destination, but it also holds significant historical and paleontological value.

Did you know you can see multiple dinosaur footprints there? Some dinosaur fossil trackways are thought to have been deposited during the Jurassic, which means they’re 200-145 million years old! If you do arrive there, ensure to check out the Pereira do Avelino natural monument, which has five tracks and 108 footprints.

Besides this, there are multiple medieval legends associated with the region that give it a mysterious touch.

10. The Frigate D. Fernando II E Glória

Visiting a coastal country automatically implies immersing oneself in its coastal culture and history! You can do so by visiting the Frigate D. Fernando II e Glória ship museum.

The frigate was launched in 1843. It stands as Portugal’s last-built sailing warship. In 1963, a fire almost destroyed the frigate, which remained unattended for almost 30 years. In 1990, it was restored to its original appearance. At Expo ‘98, the frigate welcomed almost a million visitors. Its restoration was quickly recognized as one of the best historic ship restorations.

It is now open to the public and contributes significantly to enhancing any visitor’s trip to Portugal! Put yourself in a sailor’s shoes and travel back to 19th-century Portugal!

11. The Sanctuary of Christ the King

You may have seen the Sanctuary of Christ the King from the airplane while it was preparing to land in Lisbon! You may have also spotted it from the 25 de Abril Bridge while crossing the river to get to Setúbal.

The Sanctuary is a Catholic monument dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is located in Almada, a city and municipality in the district of Setúbal. The sanctuary’s structure, as you’ll probably notice, is inspired by the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.

The monument stands on a clifftop 133 meters above sea level and overlooks Lisbon, Almada, and the Tagus River. The 28-meter image of Christ stands on an 82-meter trapezoidal pedestal. The interior of the monument is open to the public. The base of the sanctuary has a large observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the Tagus River and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.

If you decide to go to Almada, make sure to enjoy a ride on the panoramic Elevador da Boca do Vento. It connects the city’s historic center with Jardim do Rio. It has a glass structure and allows for breathtaking views!

12. Castelo de Santiago do Cacém

As you’ve probably noticed, Portugal is a land of castles , and the Castle of Santiago do Cacém is one of the most notable ones.

It stands in the municipality of Santiago do Cacém in the Alentejo region and dates back to the 12th century. It was built by the Moors and has an almost rectangular shape. Although hundreds of years have passed, the original architecture featuring Romanesque and Gothic details is still noticeable.

Close to the castle, you can find Igreja Matriz de Santiago do Cacém, which has a rich history behind it, spanning over 700 years.

13. Costa da Caparica Beaches

What better way to finish your journey through the district of Setúbal if not by spending a day by the ocean? The amazing thing is that visitors can do so even during the winter, as the weather is quite pleasant! You may even spot surfers catching waves in February!

Costa da Caparica is a freguesia located on the western coast of the Setúbal district. Its coastal area has a large beach extending for 30 kilometers. You can have a walk by the beach, take a coffee break, or have dinner by the breathtaking ocean view.

Besides this, the sunset sky is an absolute delight on the beaches in Costa da Caparica!

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Setúbal (Portugal) travel guide: things to do and best beaches in Arrabida National Park

Setúbal is home to postcard beaches where dolphins live, a rich gastronomy (it is the Portuguese capital of grilled fish), and a beautiful historic center where to go for a walk at the end of the day – aren’t these what most people look for in a week’s vacation?

For Randomtrip, moreover, Setúbal is a special city : it was where Inês was born and where she lived the first years of her life. She returns to her mother’s house, to one of her favorite beaches in the world and to the mountain range where she grew up, Serra da Arrábida, whenever she can.

This guide is written by a Setubalense who loves to get lost and feel like a tourist in her homeland. Here you will find the best beaches where you can swim, the best restaurants where you can eat a good grilled fish and taste the fried choco frito , and the best places to sleep in the jewel of the Sado river.

Guide updated in May 2024 to include the latest information on access restrictions by car to the beaches of Arrábida , with a map with the restrictions and parking spaces for the beaches of Arrábida

Basic facts for traveling to Setúbal

When to visit setúbal: beach months, how many days to spend in setúbal, map of setúbal, albarquel beach, figueirinha beach, galapos beach, galapinhos beach, coelhos beach, anicha and monte branco coves, creiro beach, portinho da arrábida, pilotos beach, alpertuche beach, penedos beach, arrábida sightseeing: by car, boat, or on foot, traffic restrictions in arrábida in summer, parking in arrábida: prices, parking lots, and limitations in the summertime, setúbal museums, mourisca and the sado estuary nature reserve, sesimbra and ribeira do cavalo beach, cape espichel and its sanctuary, palmela and its castle, azeitão and its typical wines, cheeses, and sweets, cross the sado using the ferry to tróia and explore the beaches of alentejo., serra da arrábida curiosities, where to sleep in setúbal, where to sleep in sesimbra, where to sleep in palmela, where to sleep in azeitão, where to eat in setúbal, how to get to setúbal from lisbon, rent a car in portugal, how much does it cost to travel to setúbal, recommendations for enjoying setúbal and the arrábida natural park and its beaches.

Less than an hour away from Lisbon, Setúbal is located in a privileged environment between the natural park of Arrábida with its paradisiacal beaches and the Sado river estuary with its dolphins and its biodiversity ideal for bird watching. The estuary separates it from the peninsula of Tróia . It is also known for its incredible beaches of fresh water: although they may look like Caribbean waters, don’t forget that you are in Portugal. Apart from being a beach jewel, it is also known for its good restaurants, and for its grilled fish and its specialty of choco frito (fried cuttlefish), reasons that have earned it a special place on the Portuguese tourist map in recent years.

Currency : Euro

Language : Portuguese

Population : 123,000 (in 2021)

Daily budget : From 60€/day per person (approx.) for a one week trip. More budget information here .

Weather : The climate varies in the summer months (Min 18º Max 30º) and winter (Min 7º Max 18º); best time to visit is between May and September to enjoy the beaches. Learn more about when to go here .

Accommodation : The best area to stay in Setúbal is near Avenida Luísa Todi, its central artery. This way you will be close to the historic center with its restaurants and terraces, the beaches of Arrábida and the ferry to cross to Tróia. We recommend a few places where to sleep here.

Duration : Minimum one weekend. Ideal 1 week to enjoy the beaches and surroundings.

Flights : There are many flights to Lisbon, the closest airport to Setubal. We recommend you to use flight comparators such as Skyscanner and Kiwi and be flexible with dates. We tell you how to get to Setúbal by car or by public transport from Lisbon here .

Transportation : The best option is to rent a car to move around freely, although you can easily get around the city on foot and reach the most secluded beaches of the Serra da Arrábida with a mix of public transport and your feet. More info here .

Time zone: UTC +1. The time in Setúbal (Portugal) is one hour less than in Spain.

Setúbal is a beach town , this is undeniable. Therefore, the best months to visit it are when the weather is nice enough to go to the beach, from May to September being the peak between July and August .

During the autumn and winter months, between October and March, temperatures are usually below 18º, with a minimum of 7º at night and a maximum of 18º during the day (although it is not uncommon to be surprised by a few warmer afternoons in autumn). The coldest month is January.

During the months of Spring and Summer, between April and September, temperatures usually vary from 22º in April to reach an average temperature of 27º from June onwards. The minimum does not usually drop below 18º. There are days in July and August when the thermometer can reach 30º or more. In the evenings, even at the peak of summer, there is always a sea breeze that cools, so it is advisable to wear a sweater for the summer nights of Setúbal.

One of the main activities to do in Setubal is dolphin watching in the Sado Estuary, book the tour here

If you plan to go to Setúbal for a long weekend you will not regret it. But if you want to enjoy the beaches and surrounding villages, ideally you should have 5 or more days . Therefore, we recommend that you dedicate a minimum of 3 days, and ideally a week.

Things to see and do in Setúbal

Although beaches are one of the main attractions in Setubal, there is more to discover in this amazing city. After a few good swims, there is a beautiful historical center to stroll through, fauna to observe in its estuary and nearby rural towns . Here is a list of everything you can do and you will realize that in one week you will not be able to cover it all.

Here you can see a Google Maps map with all the places recommended in this guide : beaches, villages, restaurants… By clicking on the top left you can see the legend, and you can take the map with you on your smartphone, with Google Maps, to be useful during your trip to Setúbal.

The best beaches of Setúbal and Serra da Arrábida

Here is a list with descriptions and photos of the beaches of Arrábida, so you can choose which one to visit and enjoy every day. We have listed them by order from Setúbal and, in our opinion, they are better as they get farther away from the city so we recommend you to go all the way to the end…

During the summer months (mid June to mid September) there are limitations for the circulation of cars and parking in a part of the Serra da Arrábida. We detail it here .

We start with Albarquel beach which has the great advantage of being easily reachable on foot from downtown Setúbal. It is the first beach that you will find when you enter the Serra da Arrábida, it has a big sand area and, although it is not one of our favorites, we can already glimpse the color of the water that Arrábida promises.

On the way from Albarquel beach to Figueirinha beach through the Serra da Arrábida, you will pass through several places full of curiosities which we tell you about below in the section Serra da Arrábida Curiosities .

We arrive at Figueirinha beach , the most family-oriented beach . This beach takes us back to the childhood memories of many people from Setubal: here we used to come in the mornings with the summer camps or the free time centers for the little ones. The thing is that it is still like this today, so do not be surprised that during the week, in summer, groups of girls and boys dressed in different colors flood the sand and water at the same time. On weekends the same thing, but with their families.

It has very good access, paid parking, showers, cafés, security, and surveillance . The water here is usually a couple of degrees warmer than the next beaches. The big sand area (the largest in the national park) the calm sea and an area where trees invite you to use their shade complete the ideal scenario. In short, an ideal beach that meets all the requirements for families with children.

Pay attention because the tunnels that you will find in the Arrábida Mountains to get to Figueirinha have art inside!

As we go down the stairs leading to Galapos Beach we find ourselves with a cove protected from the wind thanks to the mountains, with an intense turquoise color of the water and fine white sand that even makes us feel out of Portuguese land and on the beaches of Galapagos, but the freshness when entering the water quickly reminds us where we are.

It is recommended to bring snorkel goggles because here it starts to be easier to spot marine species in the crystalline waters of Arrábida. It is not a beach where you can enjoy the mountain range in solitude, as it is very appealing to many people because it has vigilance. But the fact that it has no parking and its access involves going down several stairs, inhibits more people than Figueirinha. During the summer, due to the traffic restrictions, it is not possible to reach it by car.

Right next to the Galapos beach, we arrived at the beach that was chosen as the best beach in Europe in 2017 by the European Best Destinations website: Galapinhos Beach. It has the same wind protection that its neighbor and the same crystalline waters but since the access is not by stairs but by a dirt path with some inclination, it is less crowded (at low tide you can walk from one to the other). The scenery is incredible and invites you to take a dip (almost always a cool one, of course).

As with the previous one, during the summer, due to the traffic restrictions, it is not possible to reach it by car.

Although not strictly a secret, Coelhos beach (in English, Rabbit Beach) is the one that remains wilder on this coast and it is never crowded. Perhaps it is because the directions to get there are not very clear: on the road after Galapinhos there is a sign asking not to leave trash that marks the beginning of the steep 10-minute trail. Upon arrival, a piece of paradise in the shape of a shell of fine sand surrounded by greenery and transparent waters. It has no surveillance or parking but enjoying it in peace is guaranteed. At low tide it is possible to walk to the coves of Anicha and Monte Branco and Creiro beach.

Like the previous one, during the summer, because of the traffic restrictions is not possible to reach it by car.

These coves of clear water with tiny sandy beaches interspersed with rocks are located between Coelhos and Creiro and are ideal for those who are looking for solitude . Right in front of the emblematic “Pedra de Anicha”, the 40-meter-long island is considered a zoological reserve , located in the middle of the sea, giving the coast of Arrábida more personality. It is common to practice scuba diving, so if you like to dive, you know where a lot of biodiversity can be found.

Our beach of choice in Arrábida, where Inês returns whenever she can to recharge her batteries at any time of the year: Creiro Beach . It is not one of the wildest, far from it, but its super large sandy area with small coves on the left, the Portinho de Arrábida on the right where to go for lunch (which is reached by walking a short trail), and the “Pedra de Anicha” in front of give it a special charm. It has paid parking (5€ per vehicle, all day, 3€ if you arrive after 1 pm, although it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays), surveillance, and a restaurant on the beach itself, which makes it one of the busiest in the area. Note, it has no bathrooms but the restaurant allows the use of theirs if you buy something.

We can say that this tiny fishing village is “the” postcard of Arrábida: a bay surrounded by the green of the mountains, a long beach with white sands and infinite shades of blue in the water. The beach of Portinho de Arrábida is so beautiful that in 2010 it was considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal .

There is so much biodiversity around here that it is common to practice scuba diving but beware that spearfishing is forbidden because the seabed here is also a Natural Reserve and thank goodness for that! If you want to enjoy a good grilled fish there are a couple of restaurants next to the half a dozen accommodations in the village, we tell you more in the section Where to Eat in Setúbal . Although it is temporarily closed at the time of writing this post, you can also find here the Oceanographic Museum (in the old Fort of Santa Maria de Arrábida ) where the collection is composed of various marine species from the nature reserve.

It is not always possible to enjoy this beach because it disappears when the tide rises . That’s right, to enjoy this small cove in peace and quiet, you have to go to Pilotos Beach at low tide. To get there you have to go down the stairs after the iron gate before the Fort of Santa Maria de Arrábida, just before reaching Portinho de Arrábida.

The Alpertuche beach is a very small beach which, like the previous one, it is recommended to visit at low tide, since at high tide the sandy area disappears. Even so, it is worth a visit. It is sheltered by The green of the mountains and although it does not have much sand, it is beautiful with the light reflecting on the wet stones sculpted by the sea. Next to the access to reach it, a dirt path 100 meters from the junction to turn to Portinho de Arrábida on the road (before the Hydrographic Museum) there is a ruined big house. Construction in the Serra da Arrábida was prohibited in 1976.

In Arrábida, on the way to Sesimbra (which we will talk about later), we find Penedos Beach also known as Praia do Infierno (Hell’s Beach). No hell there actually, as in this small cove of generous sand you have reached paradise.

If you don’t feel like walking, we recommend you to go around the mountain range by car/motorbike and contemplate the views of the mountains along 25 kilometers, interspersed by the sea stopping at the viewpoints of Antenas , Norte , Portinho da Arrábida or Conventos , among others.

This last one is our favorite viewpoint, the one of the beautiful Convent of Nossa Senhora da Arrábida , former refuge of Franciscan friars founded in 1542 (if you want to visit it, you will have to call first at +351212197628 ).

To make this route, take into account the limitations of circulation in the natural park in summer ( which we will talk about in the next point) . These viewpoints can also be accessed in summer, you just have to go along the road further inland inside the natural park. The easiest way is to open our map or the Google Maps links in the previous paragraphs to see directly the route to get there.

If you are in Lisbon, you can also book directly this day trip to Arrábida that includes views (of the Serra da Arrábida and Palmela Castle), swimming on the beach of Portinho de Arrábida food at the beautiful Sesimbra (which we will also tell you more about later) and wine tasting in Azeitão and Palmela. Before returning to Lisbon, you are entitled to one last stop at Cristo Rei to enjoy the views of the Tagus and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Book the day trip to Arrábida here .

If you prefer a one-day tour of Arrábida with more adventure riding on a Jeep and with the possibility of seeing dolphins on the Sado River with a boat ride included, this is a great option

Hire the Jeep Safari + Boat Trip here .

If you love to get lost in nature on foot, there are several hiking trails in which to get into the intricacies of the Serra da Arrábida. We highlight the “ Serra de São Luis “(8 kms), the “Moinhos” (13 km), or the “Serra de São Filipe” (5 kms).

To get information about the existing network of trails, take advantage of your visit to the “Forte de São Filipe” or the “ Casa da Baía ” in Baixa de Setúbal (we talk about both of them below ) where they will inform you about this and other adventure tourism in the region. Also in the “ Outão Caravan Ecopark ” on the way from Albarquel to Figueirinha before the Secil cement factory, they will inform you about these hiking trails in the Serra da Arrábida.

Here you have more information about hiking trails in Arrábida (in Portuguese)

If you choose to do one of these routes through the mountains, do not forget to always follow the marked trail and protect and respect the fauna and flora that you find. In this section, we give you a few suggestions and recommendations .

IMPORTANT! If you visit Setúbal and its beaches in the summer, the “ Car-free Arrábida ” program limits the circulation and parking of cars between mid-June and mid-September in part of the Serra da Arrábida: between Figueirinha Beach and Creiro Beach (between the second tunnel of Figueirinha and the parking lot of Creiro) between 07h and 19h. Traffic is also limited on the same dates between the short road that goes from “Casa do Gaiato” in Arrábida and “Portinho da Arrábida” between 07h and 19h, as well as the small road to access Albarquel beach between 07:30h and 19:30h.

That is, during the dates with restrictions, you won’t be able to reach Albarquel, Galapos, Galapinhos and Coelhos beaches by car, nor Portinho da Arrábida . You will be able to reach Figueirinha and Creiro beaches (as well as the beaches after Creiro) by car, although the parking spaces fill up quickly so you better be there soon in the morning.

May 2024 Update : the rules for access to the Serra da Arrábida beaches have already been published for the summer of 2024, where the circulation of cars is limited in the sections indicated above between June 1 2024 and September 15 2024 . You can see the official information on the website of the Municipality of Setúbal (in Portuguese). In addition to the driving bans for cars, all vehicles (including motorcycles and bicycles), are still temporarily prohibited from driving between Figueirinha and Galapos , due to the risk of landslides.. This means that, until further notice, to access the beaches of Galapos, Galapinhos and Coelhos, you have to do it from Creiro, since from Figueirinha there is no way to reach that area due to the blockade of the road to all vehicles .

Here you have a map where you can see it easier, visually. The sections in red are the ones that are closed for cars during the summer, but you can use all the rest (if you want to go from Setúbal to Creiro, you will have to go by the inner road (the one with the viewpoints) and then go back by the other road to the beaches, until the point where it is cut, where you can go down to the parking):

This means that to get to the beaches of Galapinhos, Galapos, and Coelhos which are located between these extremes, on these dates, you have 5 options:

• Get up early and park your car in the Creiro parking lot very early to find a space (at 10 am in the morning in summer there is usually no more space in one or the other). More info on where to park is in the next section . Then you can stay in Creiro, walk to Galapinhos, Galapos, and Coelhos or catch the bus 4477 which connects Creiro with those beaches (every 30min between 8:30h and 20:30h)
• Leave the car in Setúbal and take the bus that leaves Setúbal and goes all the way to Creiro and vice versa (bus line 4470). These buses leave every 30 minutes between 8:00h and 20:00h Check the official information in the local official site, with timetables, stops and prices (point “3. TRANSPORTE PÚBLICO PARA AS PRAIAS”)
• Motorcycles , there are no limitations for motorcycles, only for cars.
• Use taxi/Uber and similar , as they are allowed to use the restricted roads to take/get passengers.
• Walking or cycling : winning the splash with the effort of your legs

Although until a few years ago, especially in summer, cars parked on the sides of the road that runs along the beaches (which led to the limitations we have just mentioned), parking at Arrábida is limited in summer to the following locations:

• SECIL parking : free, 180 spaces. Bus line 4476 connects the parking with Figueirinha Beach (30 min frequency, from 8:30 to 20:30). There are no transport options from here to Creiro, Galapos, Galapinhos or Coelhos beaches.
• Figueirinha parking : paid parking with 240 spaces. The price is per hour, half day or full day, and varies according to the month.

• Parking Creiro : paid parking, 140 parking spaces. It has some spaces closer to the beach (down the road) and the rest (most of them) before that descent, on the main road. The price is 5€ per day, if you arrive in the morning (between 7:00 and 13.00) and 3€ after 13:00

These parking lots tend to fill up in summer , especially on holidays and weekends. So if you are going to visit these incredible beaches on a Sunday, you better get up early to find a parking space. You can find out about the number of sites available in real-time of the parking lots of SECIL and Figueirinha on this website: praiasarrabida.pt

Downtown and Baixa de Setúbal: squares, museums, markets, and lookout points

In the center of Setúbal there is a mixture of traditional stores (unfortunately fewer each year) and modern stores in its narrow streets with th e smell, taste, and decoration of the sea

From the old quarters of Troino (the oldest neighborhood in the city) to that of the Fontainhas (with its grilled fish terraces), passing through the main artery of the city, the long avenue Luisa Todi and the heart in Praça do Bocage , the “Baixa de Setúbal” is ideal for a walk at sunset, after a day at the beach. Here is a list of what you can’t miss, although the best thing you can do is just wander around here:

Praça do Bocage

The square that is the neuralgic center of Setubal pays homage to the Setubalense poet Manuel María Barbosa du Bocage whose statue presides from the top over the network of narrow streets that end here, in a Portuguese road square with gardens where you can taste a good Setúbal moscatel wine in one of its terraces.

Apart from the terraces, in this square, you will find the Igreja de São Julião (in baroque style after its reconstruction following the 1755 earthquake), the Setúbal Municipal Chamber building (where you will find the tourist information office), and the Setúbal House of Culture , a space that hosts a variety of artistic events and exhibitions (you can see the programming here )

At the end of the square, he is watched by his nymph, his muse: Marília, sitting in a fountain in front of him.

Luisa Todi Avenue (or Luiza Todi)

The main artery of Setúbal has its name in honor of the lyric Sadina singer: Luisa Todi was a famous Portuguese mezzo-soprano. It is on this avenue where several restaurants with grilled fish and choco frito (the famous Leo do Petisco and Casa de Santiago ) can be found, the beautiful Casa da Baía (a center for tourism promotion), the Livramento market (one of the best markets in the world, according to USA Today), the Luisa Todi Municipal Forum (where Setubalenses attend concerts and theater plays), the José Afonso Auditorium , stores and museums (the ones we told you about later in this guide ).

The mural “O Rapaz dos Passarinhos”, on the José Afonso Auditorium is already an icon of Avenida Luísa Todi. It is based on a 1930’s photograph of a boy who sold birds (and happily got to see “his” live mural from the top of his 90 years old). The photograph was taken by Américo, the well-known Setubalense photographer who best captured Setúbal and whose photographs you can appreciate in the Photographic Archive at Casa Bocage .

In the Casa da Baía , an old restored 18th century house that catches your eye when you stroll along Luisa Todi Avenue, you can find tourist information about the city . For example, here they will tell you more information about activities and walks that you can do in the Serra da Arrábida.

Also here you can visit the Interpretative Center of the Sado Estuary Roaz (dolphin) , enjoy its cozy restaurant or buy a souvenir in the gourmet store with regional products. During the summer it has a very lively agenda, the Nights of the bay!

Casa da Baía’s opening hours : from Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 23:45.

Sado Estuary Interpretative Center Opening Hours : Monday to Sunday from 09:30 to 20:00. Free admission.

It is also at the end of avenue Luisa Todi where the road that climbs up to the Serra da Arrábida and its beaches starts, and it is here where we recommend you to stay overnight, we tell you about it in the section Where to Sleep in Setúbal .

Livramento Market

It is no coincidence that in 2016 “USA Today” named it as one of the best markets in the world , next to one in the city of Tokyo and another one in Brooklyn. This beautiful market with more than 140 years of existence and more than 300 stalls (seafood and fresh fish, bread, Serra da Arrábida cheeses, fruit, and vegetables) is ideal for you to buy local products. It is in the middle of Avenida Luisa Todi.

Opening hours : From Tuesday to Sunday from 07:00 to 14:00. Closed Mondays and holidays.

Largo da Ribeira Velha

Largo da Ribeira Velha (known locally as Largo do Dr. Francisco Soveral) is a square with several restaurants and terraces of colorful buildings that is usually very lively, especially in summer.

Convento de Jesús

One of the setubalenses architectural pearls , the Church of Jesus was built in 1491 by Diogo de Boitaca (if you have been to Lisbon you may be familiar with this name because it is the same of the impressive Mosteiro dos Jerónimos ) and is one of the first examples of Portuguese Manueline style . Its interior is well worth a visit to see its incredible cloister and the spiral columns in the shape of a rope made of Arrábida marble.

The city’s beach: Praia da Saúde

If you want to take a dip without leaving the city, there is a beach in the center of Setúbal, the “ Health Beach “(Praia da Saúde). Although it has no comparison with those of the Serra da Arrábida, it is ideal for those who can not or do not want to climb up to the mountains.

Port and promenade

Setúbal was and still is a fishing port and it is precisely the port of Setúbal (and all the people who make it up) responsible for the fact that the city has become the portuguese capital of fresh grilled fish . Well, that and the technique of the people who grill the fish from Setubal, some of them also fishermen.

Strolling along Setúbal’s promenade is a great plan in itself, listening to the seagulls or the bathers returning from Tróia.

Miradouro de São Sebastião

It is worth leaving Avenida Luisa Todi to go up to the San Sebastião viewpoint, one of the viewpoints with the most beautiful views of the city . From here you will be able to contemplate the city bathed by the Sado river up to the Troia peninsula. You can stay as long as you want taking pictures from this viewpoint dressed in tiles, the trees will shade you.

If after the views you feel like a culture plan , next door is the Casa de Bocage and Photographic Archive Américo Ribeiro , a gallery in the poet’s house where you can contemplate some photographs from the most important photographer of Setubal, more information in the following section of Museums .

Jardim Multissensorial das Energias (Multisensorial Garden of Energies)

If you have gone to the São Sebastião viewpoint to contemplate the views, take the opportunity to go back down to Avenida Luisa Todi through the Multisensory Garden of Energies (about 10 minutes walk from the viewpoint), where you will also have views of Setubal.

This garden is an educational project that seeks to raise awareness among the youngest (and not only) about the importance of renewable energies and energy efficiency . For this purpose, it has six units (each representing one kind of renewable energy – biomass, geothermal, oceanic, solar, hydro, and wind) that stimulate the senses (through color, aromas, textures, and sounds) of those who pass by. In addition, the energy consumed in this garden is totally renewable and produced right there, thanks to a wind power station that was installed, an ideal place to go with the kids!

Forte de São Filipe

A must in Setúbal is to climb up to the fortress of Castelo de São Filipe and enjoy the most incredible views of the city . The bay of Setúbal in all its splendor and the immensity of the blue until you lose sight of it.

The chapel inside the Fortress is very beautiful, all of it is covered with blue and white tiles, and although the Pousada remains closed at the time of writing this post, its terrace is still open, making it a privileged place to have a drink. The fortress of S. Filipe was classified as a National Monument in 1933.

If you are in the mood for a more cultural plan, we suggest seven museums in the sadine city:

• Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography

Museum dedicated to the archaeological finds in the Setúbal region from the Paleolithic period to the Roman period . It also has a section dedicated to the regional ethnography of traditions, artisanal fishing, agriculture, livestock breeding, shipbuilding, weaving, and folk art. Its library , with a well-documented collection, includes more than 10,000 volumes on the Sadine region.

Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 and 17:30. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Saturdays in August. Free admission.

• Casa d’Avenida

Casa d’Avenida is a space for artistic production and diffusion . Of Pombaline architecture and with a balcony overlooking the Sado River, its intention is to make new and not-so-new artists visible, to host shows, parties, concerts, and poetry recitals. It includes an art gallery and cafeteria.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 20:00. Free admission. Check the events on its Facebook .

• Municipal Gallery of Banco de Portugal

Since 2013, it has been a recovered and adapted space that functions as a municipal gallery and hosts cultural events , mainly exhibitions. The beautiful building of Arnaldo Adães Bermudes shows influences of the art nouveau and was the representation of the Bank of Portugal in Setúbal between 1917 and 1994. Here it is possible to get to know some of the works of famous Portuguese painters .

Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 to 14:00 and from 15:00 to 18:00. Saturdays, from 11:00 to 13:00 h and from 14:00 to 18:00 h. Sundays on open in the afternoon. Closed Mondays and holidays. Price 1,50€/person.

• House of Culture

In the middle of Praça do Bocage, the city’s central square, this center hosts cultural events, from exhibits, book presentations, debates, and exhibitions.

Opening hours: Sundays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays: 10h00-22h00; Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays: 10h00-01h00. Closed on Mondays. Free admission.

• Casa Bocage and Américo Ribeiro Photographic Archive

Next to the San Sebastián viewpoint, in the network of beautiful narrow streets of Setubal, you will find this gallery in the ancient home of the most famous Setubalense poet: Bocage .

The Américo Ribeiro Municipal Archive of Photography is located in the same building. Américo Ribeiro is none other than Setúbal’s most important photographer. He was born in 1906 and until his death in 1992 he collected more than 10,000 photographic images. Some of his black-and-white photographs are authentic paintings, others are jewels of art that allow us to decipher Setubalense behaviors, traditions, and customs in the 20th century.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9h00-12h00 and 13h30-17h00; Saturday: 15h00-19h00. Closed on Sundays. Free admission.

• Baroque Museum (Casa do Corpo Santo)

This museum is located in a palace of the XVII-XVIII century, the former headquarters of the Brotherhood of Navigators, shipowners, and fishermen of Setúbal. It is in the heart of the historic center , next to the Church of Santa Maria. Even if you’re not a fan of baroque art, it’s worth going inside to see its interior lined with blue tiles illustrating the aristocratic daily life of yesteryear. In addition, it pays homage to the maritime history of Setúbal with a permanent exhibition of more than 100 nautical science instruments.

Opening hours: From Tuesday to Saturday from 9h00 to 12h30 and from 14h00 to 17h30. Sunday and Monday is closed. Price 1,50€/person.

• Michel Giacometti Labor Museum

Located in a former fish cannery that operated until 1971, this museum, inaugurated in 1995, has two permanent exhibits: one of industrial machinery related to the canning and fish lithography industries (“The canning industry: from the cannery to the can”) and another ethnographic exhibition about agricultural tools and implements collected under the guidance and supervision of Michel Giacometti.

Opening hours: From Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm; Saturdays from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm (in winter from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm). Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and holidays (open on Sundays in winter). Price 1,50€/person.

Even if these are the essentials to know in a walk through the center of the city, we tell you again that the best thing to do is to get lost in its narrow streets of colorful buildings, where the old blends with the Setúbal of today.

A curiosity : Portuguese in Setúbal has a very characteristic accent. The Setubalense accent, known as “charroco”, is still heard in the streets, but if you don’t want to miss it, going to the bairro de Troino (Troino neighborhood, the fishermen’s quarter) is a safe bet. This accent is characterized by emphasizing a lot the “r” in the words and aspirating some letters. For example, “ sardinha ” would be “ sarrrdinha ” and “ amiga “, “ miga “.

Surroundings of Setúbal: beaches and charming villages

If you visit for a week to enjoy the beaches of Setúbal and its gastronomy, you will also have time to explore its surroundings. In this section, we include some points that are real pearls of the region.

Located in the Sado Estuary Natural Reserve , the “Moinho de Maré da Mourisca” (Mourisca Tide Mill) is located in an area of marshes and salt marshes and it is an ideal plan for bird watching lovers.

The Mourisca estate is a very attractive area, rich in a variety of species and privileged for bird watching and ornithology. The Sado Estuary is a nesting, resting, or hibernating place for several birds, such as storks, flamingos y ducks and the spawning, development, and growth of various fishes and of the roaz (bottlenose dolphin) . It is also an ideal area to make some hiking routes like Mourisca route and Montado route.

The “Moinho da Maré da Mourisca” is one of the four known mills of the Sado estuary and, until a few decades ago, operated with eight molars simultaneously. There are guided tours of the mill building, boat trips on the Sado estuary, workshops, and thematic exhibitions. It also has a cafe and a store with regional products.

Opening hours: From Tuesday to Sunday from 10h00 to 17h00. Monday closed.

Our favorite villa in the surrounding area of Setúbal, Sesimbra, has a special charm. Its promenade has two beaches, although it looks like only one, Playa Oro on the left and Playa California on the right. It is not usually possible to enjoy this beach with much tranquility in summer (the more to the right the better) because it tends to have a lot of movement of local people but at the same time it is what gives it personality.

If Setúbal has the reputation as the Portuguese capital of grilled fish, Sesimbra has the fish and seafood from the same waters and very good restaurants. So, if you are craving fresh and good seafood, it’s a good place for it. The restaurant Rodinhas had good seafood at a good price but we haven’t been going for a few years.

If you are looking for more peace and quiet, go to a beach pearl that since its discovery has been considered one of the most beautiful beaches of Portugal: Ribeira do Cavalo beach. It is the first of the wild beaches west of Sesimbra and has a very extensive sandy area. Of course, the paradise has to be won, and getting there is not easy . After parking next to the Club Naval you have to walk for half an hour through wild terrain (2.5 km) until you reach the beach.

Cape Espichel is located in the westernmost point of the Sesimbra’s coastline , and we think it’s a great plan to end the day here at sunset after a few dips, don’t you?

You may be familiar with Cabo da Roca, the westernmost tip of the European continent, and Cabo Espichel, further away from the tourist routes, may come as a surprise. Here, apart from the natural beauty, you will find legends, a lighthouse, a hermitage, a shrine, and even a dinosaur footprint! !

At about 12 km from Sesimbra, the architectural ensemble of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Cape Espichel (also known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Pedra Mua) was built on a steep cliff of Cape Espichel in the 18th century.

Legend has it that on the steep cliff at the tip of Cape Espichel, to the west of the church is the Hermitage of Memory , a small temple implanted in the place where the Virgin Mary appeared. In fact, the wooden ceiling of the temple has an oil painting depicting the Assumption of the Virgin .

The first wilderness beach after Cape Espichel is the Porto de Baleeira Beach , also known as Paradise Beach. This bay is very popular for diving baptisms and if you arrive when the tide is high, you will run out of sand. If you prefer an extensive sandy beach where you will always have room for your towel, the nearby Meco Beach never fails.

At the beginning of the guide, we told you that this region was not only about the sea and the beaches, but also about enchanted villas, right? Welcome to Palmela ! Only 9 km from Setúbal inland and among the hills of Serra da Arrábida you will find the village of Palmela and its castle in a privileged position to enjoy a few days of spectacular views .

It is a medieval defensive fortress, successively conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by Arab and Christian troops, where in 1172 the warrior friars of the military order of Santiago de la Espada lived, founding the convent that exists inside. At present, this fortress is a national monument that houses a Pousada and also several stalls with regional products and handicrafts for visitors.

And we still haven’t talked about something very important: Setúbal is a wine region ! Sweet white or red wines, of the caste muscatel Setúbal and red muscat, but not only, also young rosé, sparkling and red wines of great complexity with the Castelão grape variety, known as ‘Periquita’. It is clear that the Setúbal area is also ideal for wine lovers .

The villages of Vila Nogueira de Azeitão and Vila Fresca de Azeitão, known as “Azeitão”, are 12 km from Palmela and Setúbal. Here the protagonism is in the tiles , the delicious Azeitão cheese (with strong aroma and flavor), the Azeitão cakes (one of the most famous sweets in the country), and, of course, wine!

There are several wineries where to visit and taste , and we can’t help but recommend the impressive Quinta da Bacalhôa or the warehouse of José María Fonseca .

Towards Palmela there is another winery owned by an enterprising woman with very good wine: Casa Ermelinda Freitas .

Is there anything better than a good wine accompanied by good cheese and a delicious dessert to finish?

A great plan to do one of the days that you are in Setúbal is to cross the Sado river by ferry boat to the Troia peninsula . The trip takes about 15 minutes and, with luck, you will be able to see roazes , the setubalense dolphins.

The ferry boat, known locally as “ sapo ” (toad) because of its green color, makes the trip from Setúbal to the Troia peninsula.

Upon arrival, you can enjoy the incredible beaches of Troia or, if you take the car on the ferry boat, you can go further south and discover some of what are, in our opinion, the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. From Troia to Sines you will find Europe’s largest sandy beach, 45 km where you can lay your towel! , which make being in solitude possible even at the peak of August!

f you are up for it, in this other post we tell you where are the best beaches of Alentejo and the Costa Vicentina and in this other one the itinerary we did during a week exploring the area by camper .

Apart from its beauty, this mountain range hides secrets and curiosities. Here we tell you some of them.

On the way between Albarquel beach and Figuerinha beach through the Serra da Arrábida, you will pass by a picnic area with tables, where many families gather on weekends, called “ Comenda “. On the seashore stands, imposing, the “ Comenda Palace “. This 26-room mansion was designed in the early 20th century by the Portuguese architect Raul Lino (also the architect of the beautiful Tivoli Theater in Lisbon).

This small palace hides a story: here, Jackie Kennedy took refuge in her mourning after the JFK assassination . Apparently, Jackie’s sister, Princess Lee Radziwill, had already vacationed here, even with her close friend Truman Capote , and recommended this oasis of marine peace. After being for sale since the death of its last owner, in 2009, and speculation about its fate (it was shuffled for example its transformation into a boutique hotel) it was sold for 50 million euros to a couple of millionaires who prefer to remain anonymous. The palace has had Cultural Heritage status since 2017.

On this same route through the mountains before arriving at Figueirinha you will also pass through a gray industrial stain that does not blend in with the landscape: the Secil-Outão cement factory, an “aberration” created in 1904. The operation of this factory has the people of Setubal divided between the environmental damage and the number of jobs that would be lost with its closure. Precisely because of pressure from environmental organizations, in 2003 Secil created the Environmental Accompaniment Commission of Outão (C.A.M.), which aims to accompany the environmental and social performance of the factory to make it as “sustainable” as possible…

Another curiosity of Arrábida (and also on this road) is that you will pass through a Fortress made hospital: the Orthopedic Hospital Santiago do Outão (Inês’ father worked there for a few years). The fortification of the watchtower was built in 1390 at the time of João I of Portugal, and it is one of the oldest maritime fortifications in the country . The fort was built in 1572 during the reign of Sebastião I of Portugal but it was not until the reign of Carlos I of Portugal that the queen D. Maria Amélia de Orleans (his wife) ordered, in 1900, that the fort be used as a tuberculosis sanatorium given the beneficial climate of the area. In 1909 the Sanatorium was converted into an Orthopedic Hospital (due to the drastic decrease of tuberculosis cases) until today, still housing in its facilities the Outão Lighthouse.

Setúbal is a city with a wide range of accommodations, the important thing is that you choose something according to your needs and your wallet. We recommend you stay near Praça do Bocage and Avenida Luisa Todi so that you can walk back home after a good dinner with wine from Setubal.

• DuplexduBocage : one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Praça do Bocage
• 6/4 de Sado : rooms and suites in the main artery of the city, Luisa Todi Ave.
• Casa Postigo do Cais : house in Travessa Postigo do Cais, with a terrace.

• For a whim: Quinta de São Filipe , villas and suites with sea and Arrábida mountain views

Find more accommodations in Setúbal here

Where to sleep near Setúbal

In all the surrounding villas that we mentioned before you can also spend a night if you want. Here are a few recommendations that we like very much.

Staying in the picturesque village of Sesimbra is another excellent option. A beautiful small beach and many gastronomic options where to dine in front of the sea. Sesimbra is also known for its grilled fish and seafood.

• Casinha do Pescador : 1-bedroom apartment with sofa bed in the living room and breathtaking views of Sesimbra

• Sesimbra Mar Apartmento : 3-bedroom beachfront apartment with balcony and sea view
• For a whim: Cali Luxury Suites Bed & Breakfast : suites overlooking the sea, the mountains or the city. A dream to wake up here.

• Inês stayed there a few years ago and loved it: the Sesimbra Hotel&Spa includes an infinity pool overlooking the sea , an amazing buffet breakfast, and giant, comfortable rooms.

Find more accommodations in Sesimbra here

If sleeping with a view of the illuminated castle is in your plans for a romantic night, pay attention to this list. If you prefer something more cheaper, there are also options:

• Roteiro dos Moinhos : houses and chalets on the windmill route, 1km from Palmela
• Porta da Arrábida Hostel & Suites : for all wallets: hostel with bunk beds or cozy suites overlooking Palmela Castle.

• For a whim: If instead of views of the castle, you prefer to sleep in it, go to the Pousada Castelo de Palmela : the inn has rooms or suites in the very Castle of Palmela with panoramic views of the Palmela countryside.

• Solar Santo Antonio : idea for large groups, villas from 13 to 25 people.

Find more accommodations in Palmela here

Azeitão, land of wine, mountains, tiles, cheese and pastries. Maybe one night here is not enough, better a weekend. Besides, there are so coquettish accommodations with views….:

• YMCA Camp Alambre Bungalows : independent bungalows from 2 to 4 persons
• Casa do Pinhal : very cozy apartment with 1 bedroom and sofa bed in the living room

• A Casa do Lagar : deluxe rooms with balcony
• For a whim: Arrábida Mountain House , a 5-bedroom house overlooking the Arrábida mountain range.

Find more accommodations in Azeitão here

As we have already mentioned, Setúbal’s gastronomy will delight fish and seafood lovers. It is not that it does not have good meat dishes, which it does, but in this city, the protagonist is the sea and at the tables of its restaurants as well. Fresh grilled fish, fish cataplanas, and fried cuttlefish are the most popular dishes of excellence in Setúbal and the ones we recommend you try.

To eat good grilled fish :

• O Miguel , near the river (Av. José Mourinho): it is not one of the cheapest but the quality is very good. Everything here is delicious, from the seafood starters to the grilled fish.
• Ribeirinha do Sado (Av. Luisa Todi): more economical than the previous one and very famous among local people

To eat a good fried choco frito :

• Leo do Petisco (Av. Luisa Todi): the king of Setúbal’s fried choco, the batter has an incredible spicy touch. Due to its fame, it tends to fill up early…
• Casa de Santiago (Av.Luisa Todi): In our opinion, it is not as tasty but it is not bad to go if the Leo is very crowded.

To eat a good cataplana :

¿ What is a cataplana ? you may be wondering. A cataplana is a casserole with an original spherical shape consisting of two parts joined by a hinged shaft in which food can be cooked, mainly fish and seafood. The food is steamed inside. For example, the fish is usually accompanied by potatoes and these take the rich flavor of the same fish, seafood, tomato, bell pepper, or other spices that are thrown in. Delicious.

• Novo 10 (Av. Luisa Todi): a mythical restaurant on Luisa Todi Avenue. The cataplanas and rice dishes are delicious.

To give yourself a whim :

• Champanheria (Av. Luisa Todi): to eat delicious fresh oysters as an appetizer.
• Xtoria (R. Guilherme Gomes Fernandes) by Rita Neto, winner of the first edition of Masterchef Portugal, which we still don’t know.
• Vela Branca (Albarquel Urban Park): the rice with wreckfish and the açorda (typical dish made with breadcrumbs) are delicious. The best: the views of the Sado River, the Atlantic, and Troia.

Good pastry and ice cream shops for breakfast or snacks:

• Pastelería Bambú
• Pastelería Capri
• Heladería Vicci

For a drink with a view:

• Hotel do Sado
• Moscatel Setúbal Experience (Praça do Bocage)

For those of you who are not fish lovers and prefer meat dishes (it is also very tasty here because we are already close to Alentejo, the land of rich meat and sausages):

• Carnes do Convento (next to the Convent of Jesus)
• Faiena (near the old bullring)

Dishes that you will have to try, apart from the ones mentioned above:

• Ameijôas à Bulhão Pato (clams in typical sauce with onion and coriander)
• Carne de Porco à Alentejana (pork with clams, sounds weird but it’s delicious)
• Salada de Polvo (octopus salad, fresh and tasty)

There are 3 ways to getting to Setúbal from Lisbon , by train, by bus or by car.

• By train : the one we like the most. The Fertagus train (known as the bridge train) crosses the 25 de Abril bridge and the views of Lisbon and the Tagus river from the train are spectacular. In addition, the trip takes less than an hour regardless of traffic time, there are several trains a day in both directions (Lisbon-Setubal or Setubal-Lisbon) and it is very punctual. The other advantage is that you can always go on the train even at rush hour, the worst that can happen is that you have to stand for part of the journey (which does not happen on the bus as you may have to wait for the next one). There are four Fertagus train stations in Lisbon (Roma-Areeiro, Entrecampos, Sete Rios, and Campolide) and one in Setúbal. Check the Fertagus train schedule here as it varies on weekdays and weekends/holidays.

If you arrive in Lisbon by air, you are at the airport and you want to go to Setúbal by this train, take the Lisbon subway at the airport station: red line (Oriente line) to “Alameda” station, then change to the green line (direction Telheiras) to “Roma ” station and go to “Roma Areeiro” train station . Here you can take the Fertagus train to Setúbal.

• By bus : There are two bus lines that run Lisbon-Setúbal and Setúbal-Lisbon several times a day and over both bridges that cross the Tagus. Depending on where you are in Lisbon, one or the other will be more convenient (there is only one station in Setúbal). Bus 562 makes the route Lisbon Oriente – Setúbal (via Vasco da Gama bridge, the bus leaves from Oriente station), and the bus “Rede Expresos” makes the route Sete Rios – Setúbal (via 25 de Abril bridge, the bus leaves from Sete Rios station). The route via “Vasco da Gama” (A12 – 54 km) may be a little longer than the “25 de Abril” bridge (A2 – 49 km) but usually has less traffic at rush hour. The disadvantage of the bus compared to the train is this: you depend on the traffic on the road and at rush hour you can run out of seats.

If you are coming from Lisbon airport , the ideal is to take the red metro line (Oriente line) from the “Aeroporto ” station to the “ Oriente ” station and then take the bus to Setúbal, via Vasco da Gama Bridge.

• Car or Motorbike : If you come with your own or rented car or motorcycle you will have to go by one of the two bridges that cross the Tagus to get to Setubal, just like by bus. You can cross the famous red bridge that resembles the one in San Francisco: the 25 de Abril bridge and its incredible views of Lisbon (more advisable if it is not rush hour, 17h-19h on weekdays and weekends mornings and afternoons with good weather) by the A2 highway for 49 km until you reach Setúbal. If you are closer to “Oriente” and Parque das Nações, you can also opt for the Vasco da Gama bridge, the second longest bridge in Europe (more than 12 km built for the Expo’98), and go south on the A12 freeway for 54 km to Setubal. More info on tolls is in the following section: Rent a car in Portugal.

We normally compare prices from different rental car companies in websites like DiscoverCars, always checking carefully what the rental terms are in each company (excess, what is covered by the insurance, fuel policy, reviews…) and not only the price.

Some tips for rent a car in Portugal :

• Fuel is significantly more expensive than in Spain, take this into account when calculating your budget for the trip.
• Hire the Via Verde device. All rental companies offer it, although you have to pay per day and it is not always worth it.
• Not hiring the Via Verde device: in that case, you will have to go through the manual lines and pay. The problem is that there is a type of toll in Portugal that does not have a manual payment option (they are arches that have cameras and Via Verde detectors). If you do not hire the device and go through one of them, you will have to pay afterward. You can do it in person at the CTT (Correos) offices in Portugal or online .
• Insurance : Most rental companies’ base price includes insurance with excess, but you can pay extra to lower or eliminate the excess. Check well which option you choose.
• Driving in Portugal is, in our opinion, more reckless than in Spain, especially on secondary roads. Drive cautiously and if someone is behind you in a hurry, let them pass.

If you are considering renting a motorcycle, you should know that we do it with Cooltra .

Budgets are always something that depends a lot on how you travel, how much you want/can spend, and what level of comfort you are looking for.

Budget for travel to Setúbal (7 days – one week)

• Lunch/dinner : 350€: 25 per lunch/dinner for two (50 per day)
• Accomodation*: 490€ (70€ per night, private room with private bathroom for 2)
• Parking in Arrábida: 16€ (4€ per day per vehicle)
• TOTAL**: about 850€ (120€ per day) for 2 (i.e. 60€/person)

*If you choose cheaper accommodations in advance or choose self-catering accommodation, it can also be cheaper. As we say, this budget is an estimate.

This budget assumes that you have a car and you come to Setúbal with it. If you don’t have a car or you fly to Lisbon and rent a car in Portugal, add this approximately to your budget:

• Car rental (8 days )* : 180€ (22€ per day)
• Fuel: 56€ (8€ per day)

• Protect and respect the fauna and flora of the Arrábida Natural Park.
• Respect others. Don’t play your music loud on the beach (if you want to listen to music, wear headphones), don’t leave trash , don’t throw cigarette butts, etc.
• Use reef friendly sunscreen, i.e., that does not contain chemicals that harm corals, without oxybenzone, and that has not been tested on animals, like this one or this one .
• In some beaches of this coast occasionally bathing can be dangerous, due to strong currents . Do not be brave.
• Follow an existing route along the marked trails : outside of this route is not allowed as you may cause irreversible damage to the biodiversity of the Serra.
• If you are going to enjoy the route alone, let your family and friends know your route and the estimated time of arrival.
• Choose comfortable clothing and footwear , always: a raincoat and a flashlight are always a good idea.
• Take your first-aid kit, including medicine for motion sickness (such as biodramina ), antibiotics, anti-diarrhea medication (and a probiotic to recover more quickly), antihistamines, painkillers, and antipyretics.
• Always travel with travel insurance : medical expenses, theft, or problems with your plane on a trip can mean a lot of money, so the ideal is to take out travel insurance. We always use IATI and we recommend it. If you purchase your insurance through this link you have a 5% discount.

Whatever you do, be responsible with the place you are in and with the people you may encounter there as well.

This guide to Setubal would not have been the same without my mother’s contribution. Cecília (Cila or Cilinha for family and friends), is a beautiful woman inside and outside, a lover of walks in the Serra da Arrábida where she tries to escape to every Sunday, of the good gastronomy of Setubal (she has a gift for making magic with ingredients), of the life of her neighborhood (one of the oldest in Setúbal) and of its people.

After leaving the land of her birth, Mozambique, in Setúbal she built a life, put down roots, and gave wings to my sister Sara and me, Inês. Now, as she often says, she feels almost more of this land than of any other, after all this is where she has already spent most of her life (although the dream of setting foot together in her Mozambican land is still there).

This guide is for you, Mummy. Obrigada, por tudo.

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How to Spend 4 Days in Setubal, Portugal

Setubal, Evora and Santarem. All three cities were new destinations for us while spending a month in Portugal. Each offered its own historic charm and hospitality. Our first stop was Setubal. We rented an apartment and spent four easy carefree days relaxing before adventuring further.

The Red-eye Flight

We landed in Lisbon after a red-eye flight from Washington, DC. I still debate the whole red-eye versus day flights conundrum. Although, on this occasion the red-eye worked out quite well. Abi and I each had an aisle seat across from each other and an empty middle seat next to us. Room to stretch out a bit lent itself to a few hours of sleep. Are you on team red-eye, or team day flight?

We didn’t know what to expect, but we loved Setubal. It’s a lovely little city (population approx. 121,000) that is also an industrial port city. Industrial doesn’t exactly conjure up the description of lovely, but there you go. Anytime we can walk along an ocean-front promenade, we’re blissfully happy. Seemingly, Setubal has not yet been found by hoards of foreign tourists, which definitely lends itself to a relaxing lovely experience.

We thoroughly explored all that Setubal had to offer, including a hike up a mountain road to visit an historic fort. The views alone are well-worth the hike (even on a hot day) and the small tiled chapel inside the fort is amazing. Four nights was just the right amount of time for visiting this charming little city.

A Walkable City

Setubal is a walkable city. We don’t drive while in Portugal, or anywhere in Europe actually, so walkability is a big deal for us. When walking isn’t an option, we make good use of public transportation. Speaking of public transit, it’s an easy one hour train ride from Lisbon to Setubal. But, I digress.

Shops & Eateries

The city square beckons tourists and locals alike to sit back at one of the many outdoor cafes. There is such a relaxing vibe, we loved it and spent a few lovely afternoons watching the world pass by. As with so many historic cities the streets of Setubal are lined with shops and eateries, most of which lead back to the city center. We ate really well.

A New Experience

How did we find such a sweet spot? Originally, we planned to stay in Lisbon and had rented an apartment. We did so mainly because we had an appointment in Lisbon . We enjoy Lisbon, but we’ve been there many times, and we were looking for a new experience. The apartment we found in Setubal was twice as large for half the cost of what we booked in Lisbon. And, with Setubal just 30 miles south of Lisbon, it was a no brainer.

Click HERE to watch our Youtube video of Setubal. And, please subscribe to our channel. Help us grow!

• Park View Setubal Apartment – Booking.com
• Dom Peppone Pizzaria – 5*
• Fort of São Filipe: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., closed Monday, free admission, restrooms, cafe
• Train from Lisbon to Setubal – Senior 5.80€ per ticket
• Mercado do Livramento: Tuesday – Sunday 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

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We have had such success following your recommendations around Portugal. Based on this article, I’ve booked 5 days in Setubal for this spring. Thank you and keep travelling.

Ah, thank you so much Trudie! You made our day. We sincerely hope you enjoy Setubal. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. There were a few places in Setubal we did not make it to, so we’ll look forward to hearing about your visit. More stories to come about our visits to Evora and Santarem.

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Here’s Why You Should Add Setúbal to Your Portugal Itinerary

Portugal is a popular travel destination, from Lisbon, Porto, and Douro in the north, to the Algarve in the south, and out to the Madeira and Azores Islands . Lesser-known Setúbal is a working port, a major commercial fishing center, and the 6 th largest region for wine production in the country.

Setúbal is not a typical tourist destination and is often overlooked. Just a day trip from Lisbon , it’s worth spending a few days in, especially for those who like a more industrial feel. This is the place to escape crowds of tourists and to experience Portuguese daily life. The city is replete with history, nature, wine, fresh seafood, and even bottlenose dolphin sightings.

Exceptional Wineries to Visit in Setúbal

Setúbal is located on the peninsula of the same name, at the mouth of the Sadu River. To the west are the hills of Serra da Arrabida and the beaches of the Portino da Arrábida, and to the south is the Sado Estuary and the beaches of the Troia Peninsula. The region is less than an hour from Lisbon, accessible via bus, train, ferry, taxi, or car.

Experience Living History

Setúbal was first settled by the Romans who built a military camp and a salt factory, since salt was used both as currency and to preserve fish. In the 14 th century, it had become part of the Portuguese monarchy of Afonso Enriques, and by the 17 th century, it had become an important shipping port for the country.

A day in Setúbal should start at the Livramento Market , a traditional city market that is considered the best covered market in Portugal. Located in an art deco building built in 1930, the interior walls are decorated with over 5,000 tiles depicting scenes from everyday life. In this vibrant market, you can buy fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, pastries, and local handicrafts, or you can just observe the locals as they do their daily shopping.

From the market, you can continue down Avenida Louísa Todi , a wide pedestrian street surrounded by greenery. This road will lead you to the Praça de Bocage , the main plaza of Setúbal. Restaurants surround the plaza which is a popular destination for locals. From here, wander through the historic center of Setúbal with its ancient, narrow streets filled with shops, restaurants, and small houses.

The waterfront is a lovely place to stroll along. On one side, seafood restaurants line the street. It also leads to the Doca dos Pescadores fishing harbor marked by colorful dolphin statues.

For great views over both the Tagus and Sado estuaries, the Castelo de Palmela is in the village of Palmela, 9 kilometers north of Setúbal. In addition to magnificent panoramic views, the Castelo de Palmela houses the Igreja de Santigo Church and a museum. The old convent wing has been transformed into a luxury hotel , which makes for an ideal accommodation for the classic Winetraveler.

RELATED: 10 Authentic Things to Do in Porto Portugal

Unparalleled Nature

The district of Setúbal is considered a cradle of nature. It is not a beach resort town but there are stretches of coastline that include the Troia Peninsula and the coastline of the Serra de Arrábida . There are some beaches within walking distance, such as the Praia de Albarquel , a large, sandy beach to enjoy swimming and sunbathing. This beach is where the River Sado meets the ocean. Other beaches are easily accessible via ferry or water taxi. Along the banks of the Sado Estuary is the Albarquel Urban Park , which contains grassy areas intermixed with the Praia da Saúde .

The Sado Estuary is the second largest in Portugal. Due to its biological diversity and its rich ecosystem, much of the interior of the Sado is a protected area. There are areas of white sand beaches, dunes, and marshes. Being one of the largest wetlands in the country, there are more than 200 species of birds. There is also a wide variety of fish, crustaceans, and mammals, including the fox, badger, genet, European otter, and the Roaz do Sado dolphins, as well as flora, that inhabit the estuary.

On the western edge of Setúbal is the Arrábida Natural Park which covers the coastline for 18 miles, all the way to the village of Sesimbra. Hikers can head to Serra do Risco , the highest cliff on mainland Portugal at more than 1245 feet above the Atlantic. Beach lovers can find plenty of small, remote alcoves.

Just a quick ferry ride across from Setúbal is the tip of the Tróia Peninsula , considered one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. The tip of the peninsula offers a number of modern hotels and a casino, but there are also white sand beaches, pine forests, and an 18-hole golf course.

Quench Your Thirst with Local Wine

If you want to have an immersive experience in southern Portugal, we highly recommend you take a private wine tour (leaving from Lisbon) with a local guide from TakingUThere . Forget about the driving, and tailor a day trip to the region based on your personal travel preferences.

The Setúbal region produces 60% red wine and 35% white wine. The remaining 5% is for Muscatel de Setúbal, a fortified wine that has been produced for 115 years. The first vineyards date back to 2000 BC. By 1400, shipping voyages gave origin to Muscatel de Setúbal. In 1907, Moscatel de Setúbal became a demarcated region.

Setúbal has a warm Mediterranean climate that is tempered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Estuaries of the Rivers Tagus and Sado to the east. The plains, which make up 80% of the Setúbal region, are slightly warmer with less rainfall compared to the cooler rolling hills of the Serra da Arrábida. The soils were formed by sea deposits and alternate between ancient sands in the plains and limestone and clay in the hills.

In the past, Setúbal was a bulk wine-producing region, but that has shifted over the last 20-40 years. Today Setúbal wines are produced under two DOCs and one IGP. The Palmela DOC covers white, red, rosé, and sparkling wines, grown both in the sandy plains and the hills. The dominant white grapes of Palmela DOC are Fernão Pires, Arinto , and Moscatel. The primary red grape is Castelão which must be a minimum of 67% in wines and is blended with Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet , Syrah , and others. The Palmela DOC red wines are structured wines with fruit-forward flavors of cherry, currant, raspberry, candied plum, blackberry, and pine nuts.

Setúbal DOC is a designation for fortified wine. This can be the white fortified wine from Moscatel de Setúbal or the red fortified wine from Moscatel Roxo. For these wines, the fermentation is stopped by the addition of grape brandy and the wines are characterized by an exotic, perfumed nose of flowers, honey, dates, and orange blossoms, as well as dried fruits, coffee, and nuts.

If you aren’t doing a guided trip , we recommend renting a car to explore all the wines from Setúbal. First, head to the town of Palmela and drive to the Casa Mãe da Rota de Vinhos , or Wine Route House. This wine shop houses numerous wines from the region, and they are available for tasting or purchase. It is also possible to visit some of the local wineries. Here are five of our favorites:

José Maria da Fonseca was founded in 1834 and is the oldest table wine company in Portugal. JM da Fonseca was the first to bottle red wine in Portugal in 1850 with Periguita. At the time, only Madeira and Port were bottled, and the rest was bulk wine. JM da Fonseca also started the infamous Lancers sweet rosé table wine in 1944. The family-owned company is based in the village of Azeitão on the Setúbal Peninsula and is now in its 7th generation. Sixth-generation Domingos Soares Franco was the first Portuguese person to graduate from UC Davis. A visit to JM da Fonseca includes a guided tour through the company museum. This is not only a good way to learn the history of the producer but to learn the history of the region as well.

Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal, SA is one of the largest wineries in Portugal with properties in seven Portuguese wine-growing regions, including Setúbal. Schedule a visit to the Bacalhôa Palace, a 14th-century property that belonged to João, Infante of Portugal, son of King D. João. It was passed down through generations and then sold to another Portuguese family in the 1500s. In 1936, the Bacalhôa Palace was bought and restored by American Orlena Scoville and in the 1970s her grandson began crafting the property into one of the largest wine producers in Portugal. The architecture of the palace, as well as its decoration and gardens, have been influenced over the centuries by the different owners, inspired by their travels through Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Herdade do Cebolal , which means onion farm, is owned by 5 th generation Luís Mota Capitão who is following in his mother’s footsteps. With 85 hectares located in the southern part of the Setúbal region, Luís practices organic and biodynamic farming . He has created a permaculture by building a 65-hectare forest around his 20-hectare vineyard, creating a specific microclimate with unique humidity and water conditions.

If that wasn’t unique enough, Luís, as well as some other local producers, have gone as far as to age some of their wines off the coast of Setúbal. The bottles are placed between 45 to 131 feet below sea level where the movement of the sea affects the bottles. At the same time, coral attaches to the glass, making each bottle a piece of art. Lucky visitors occasionally have the opportunity to taste these wines that are brought up after aging from the bottom of the sea. His organic focus also includes recycling glass and using beeswax on the bottles. In addition to producing wine, Luís is also a cork producer.

Casa Ermelinda Freitas is in Fernando Pó, in the municipality of Palmela. Casa Ermelinda Freitas is a family-owned company with more than 550 hectares of vineyard planted for 29 different grape varieties. The winery was established in 1920 by Leonilde Freitas and is today run by his great-great-granddaughter Leonor Freitas. A visit includes a tour through the vineyards and the Museum of Memories which shows the family’s evolution from producing bulk wine to branded wine.

Venâncio Costa Lima , established in 1914, is one of the oldest wineries in the Palmela region. Founded by Venâncio da Costa Lima, he left the winery to his six nieces and nephews. Today the 4 th generation of the Costa Lima family run the business. A visit to Venâncio da Costa Lima includes a wine tasting in the “Old Cellar,” where the barrels of Setúbal Moscatel age. The visit can also include tasting regional products, such as the Azeitão cheese, homemade bread, and smoked sausages.

Satisfy Your Palate with Fresh Seafood

Setúbal was once the heart of Portugal’s fishing industry and is still referred to as “the land of fish.” The cuisine of Setúbal is based on fish and shellfish and the most famous dish is fried cuttlefish, or “choco frito.” Everywhere you walk in Setúbal, you will see signs for choco frito.

Ostras Sobre Rodas (Av. José Mourinho, 122, Setúbal): Located on the waterfront, ‘Oysters On Wheels’ was opened by João Lopes four years ago. This casual spot on the beach serves fresh local Sado oysters, as well as wine and beer, from a fully self-sustaining mobile home.

Peixoco (Av. José Mourinho, 28, Setúbal): Peixoco Restaurant is a modern fish restaurant that serves fresh, local fish from non-endangered species. 

Xtória (Rua Guilherme Gomes Fernandes 17, Setúbal): With a menu that changes every three months, Xtória serves up creative and colorful dishes featuring local, seasonal products.

u Tópico (R. de Arronches Junqueiro 115, Setúbal): u Tópico is a charming restaurant off a small narrow street in the historic part of Setúbal that offers small Mediterranean and Portuguese dishes.

Restaurant De Pedra e Sal (Largo Dr. Francisco Soveral, Setúbal): A popular restaurant in the heart of Setúbal, the signature dish of Restaurant De Pedra e Sal is beef cooked on a salt stone.

O Farol (Portinho da Arrábida Road, Azeitão): Located in the Arrábida Natural Park in the village of Portinho da Arrábida, you can get to O Farol via a taxi boat or a taxi from Setúbal. Located on the beach, the view is spectacular as fresh fish and seafood are enjoyed.

Dolphins in the Wild

The Sado estuary is home to a pod of 28 bottlenose dolphins. Sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean with an abundant supply of food, this is one of the few places in the world where a pod of dolphins actively lives within a freshwater estuary. Watching the dolphins in their natural habitat as they swim, hunt, and play is an unforgettable experience to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

There are several highly-rated boat companies departing from the Porto de Pesca de Setúbal that offer three-hour dolphin-watching tours that take guests out on boats to find the dolphins. Many charters boast a 95% spotting rate, but the dolphins live in the wild and there are no guarantees to see them.

Vertigem Azul is a company with a 98-99% successful sighting rate over the past few years. Their sailboat catamaran departs from Setúbal or Troia. The award-winning company has been observing dolphins for almost 25 years and has a mission to contribute to the monitoring of the population of Sado Dolphins while offering sustainable tours that are in harmony with nature. The staff are marine biologists and students who provide insightful information about the dolphins. Once the sailing is underway, you can sit back and enjoy the sound of the ocean until the dolphins are spotted.

Accommodations, food, and wine are all available at a good price because Setúbal is not a well-known tourist destination. So, head off the tourist route and relax a bit. From history and nature to wine and fresh seafood, Setúbal is a region worth spending more than one day in.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Setúbal

Is setúbal worth a visit.

Yes, Setubal is worth a visit for travelers interested in exploring a charming Portuguese city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and local culture. Setubal is located near the stunning Arrábida Natural Park, which boasts beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes. The park is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. The city itself features a historic center with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and notable landmarks such as the 16th-century Monastery of Jesus and the São Julião Church. Setubal is also known for its vibrant food scene, particularly its fresh seafood and the local specialty, choco frito (fried cuttlefish). Additionally, Setubal is home to the Sado Estuary, where visitors can enjoy boat tours to observe the local population of bottlenose dolphins, as well as the nearby Troia Peninsula, which offers pristine beaches and opportunities for birdwatching.

What is Setúbal famous for?

Setúbal is famous for several reasons: Natural Beauty: The city is located near the beautiful Arrábida Natural Park, which features stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. Sado Estuary and Dolphins: The Sado Estuary is home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, making it a popular destination for boat tours to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Food Scene: Setúbal is well-known for its vibrant food culture, particularly its fresh seafood. The local specialty, choco frito (fried cuttlefish), is a must-try for visitors. Historic Center: The city’s historic center is characterized by narrow streets, colorful buildings, and notable landmarks such as the 16th-century Monastery of Jesus and the São Julião Church. Troia Peninsula: The nearby Troia Peninsula offers pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and opportunities for birdwatching, making it an attractive destination for relaxation and leisure.

How do you get around Setúbal?

Getting around in Setúbal is relatively easy and convenient, with various transportation options available to visitors. The city center is compact and walkable, allowing you to explore most of the attractions, shops, and restaurants on foot. For longer distances, the public bus system, operated by Transportes Sul do Tejo (TST), offers an affordable and efficient way to travel within Setúbal and to nearby areas. Buses run frequently, and schedules can be found at bus stops or on the TST website. Taxis and ridesharing services like Uber are also available in Setúbal, providing a convenient option for door-to-door transportation or for reaching destinations not served by public buses. Additionally, if you plan to explore the surrounding region, including the Arrábida Natural Park or the Troia Peninsula, renting a car can give you greater flexibility and the freedom to travel at your own pace. However, it is essential to be aware of parking availability and local traffic conditions when driving in Setúbal. Lastly, for a unique experience, consider renting a bike to explore the city and its nearby natural attractions while enjoying the scenic landscapes.

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Setúbal Peninsula

As the mercury rises, the promise of sun, sand and mouth-watering grilled fish lures lisboêtas south to the Setúbal Peninsula for weekends of seaside fun. Beach bums make for the Costa da Caparica’s 8km sweep of golden sand to surf the chilly Atlantic and unwind over sundowners in beachside cafes. Further south sits Cabo Espichel, a vertiginous cape thrashed by the Atlantic, where you can trace the footprints of dinosaurs.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Convento de Jesus

Setúbal’s man-made wonder is this sand-coloured stunner, the first known example of Manueline architecture, adorned with gargoyles and twirling turrets…

Visible from almost anywhere in Lisbon, the 110m Cristo Rei is a statue of Christ with outstretched arms. The slightly more baroque version of Rio de…

Casa da Cultura

This newish art space has a packed cultural calendar. Wander through changing exhibitions on the main floor, or stop in for an evening concert of jazz…

Reserva Natural do Estuário do Sado

This natural reserve protects the Sado Estuary, a biologically rich area of wetlands extending east and south of Setúbal. With more than 250 avian species…

Moinho de Maré da Mouriscas

This former tide mill built in 1601, which also houses a gallery and cafe, is a worthwhile nature-tourism interpretive centre amid prime birdwatching…

Castelo de São Filipe

Worth the 500m schlep uphill to the west, the castle was built by Filipe I in 1590 to fend off an English attack on the invincible Armada. Converted into…

Convento da Arrábida

Parque Natural da Arrábida

Local honey is delicious, especially that produced in the gardens of the whitewashed, red-roofed Convento da Arrábida, a 16th-century former monastery…

Museu do Trabalho Michel Giacometti

How does the sardine get in the tin and 1001 other fishy mysteries are solved at this quirky, rarely visited museum, set in a former sardine-canning…

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Setúbal Peninsula and beyond

• Towns & cities
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Setúbal - Portugal holiday guide

Setubal and its surrounding area are awash with history dating back to before the Roman period, indeed it is said that the town was founded by a relative of Noah . Its relationship with the sea is also remarkably long-lived with a fish salting industry which started in the 1st century AD and a large, protected harbour - the third largest in the country - from where, in the era of the Discoveries , King Alfonso V set sail in 1458 to conquer Alcacer Ceguera in Morocco.

Today, Setubal is at the heart of the Portuguese sardine industry and is famed for it’s sweet and globally acclaimed moscatel wine. Its pedestrian streets, fountains and gardens lend it a certain grace, although its still very functioning harbour certainly dominates giving it the feel of a still thriving historic town.

Arrabida Beach near Sesimbra

Setubal lies at the mouth of the river Sado on the coast just below Lisbon and opposite the beautifully filigree sandy Troia Peninsula , which protects it further from the often tempestuous Atlantic. The ancient Roman town of Cetobriga lies buried under the sands here. Once a prosperous fishing and fish-salting town, Certobriga was destroyed by an earthquake and the ensuing tidal wave in the 5th century. In the past century remnants of the town, including vestiges of its salting industry have been uncovered and can be visited. However, Troia nowadays is predominantly a large-scale tourist complex with many apartments, facilities and available activities to compliment its glorious beaches.

Within the city of Setubal, note the 15th century Mosteiro de Jesus (Monastery of Jesus) decorated with stonework in the typical maritime-themed style of the Manueline era, it is said to have been founded by said King’s nurse. Local Arrabida pink marble was used to make its columns and the adjoining monastery houses the most impressive collection of 16th century paintings in the country alongside other religious artefacts and displays dedicated to one of Portugal’s most important and outspoken poets, Bocage , who hailed from Setubal.

Forte de Sao Felipe interior

For fans of Portuguese ‘ azulejos ’, the lovely chapel inside the Fort of São Filipe , situated on the hill overlooking the city, contains tiled dados depicting the life of its patron saint Felipe and the Virgin Mary made by one of the most famous tile-makers of the 1700s, Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes . The Spanish King Filipe II built this imposing, star-shaped fortification to defend the town in the 16th century when he annexed his neighbouring Portugal. Nowadays this castle is one of the most beautiful and luxurious places to stay in Portugal, since it has been converted into a pousada , with 16th century antique furniture and breathtaking views of the bay.

The natural reserve surrounding the estuary of the river Sado provides all manner of wetland wonders from migratory birds and interesting fish species to unique agricultural and natural landscapes.

In recent years, development of the coast between Setubal and the capital has resulted in an array of high quality golf courses including possibly Portugal’s most popular and respected example at Aroeira . Designed in the 70’s by Pennink , the course has received many accolades and is widely considered one of the best in Europe.

Setúbal Guided Tours & Excursions

Transfer Sesimbra to Lisbon Airport

Coasteering in the Arrabida Natural Park (Lisbon region)

Private Tour of Azeitão / Palmela / Setúbal Wines

Horseback Riding In Lisbon - Arrábida - Louro Trail Mountain 5 - 6 Hours

Show all setúbal tours & excursions », related articles.

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