Setúbal - Discovering Portugal

Travelling to Setúbal

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Setúbal, a pretty good destination in Portugal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Setúbal and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Setúbal, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Portugal, here's everything to know about Setúbal for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Setúbal

Setúbal is a beautiful coastal city located in southwestern Portugal. It is the capital of the Setúbal District and is situated on the north bank of the Sado River estuary, about 40 kilometers south of Lisbon. The city has a rich cultural heritage and offers visitors a variety of attractions, including historic monuments, stunning beaches, delicious seafood, and popular outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Setúbal include the Arrábida Natural Park, the Troia Peninsula, the Convento de Jesus Museum, and the Livramento Market, which is famous for its fresh fish, seafood, and fruits. Setúbal is also known for its vineyards and wine production, particularly its Moscatel de Setúbal sweet wine.

What to visit in Setúbal

Of course, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Setúbal, Portugal and some information about each: 1. Arrábida Natural Park - This beautiful natural park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and includes beaches, hiking trails, and scenic drives.
2. Troia Beach - Located on a peninsula just south of Setúbal, Troia Beach is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters.
3. Castelo de Palmela - This medieval castle, perched on a hill overlooking Setúbal, is a must-visit. It offers amazing views of the surrounding area, as well as a glimpse into the region's history.
4. Church of São Julião - A beautiful example of Portuguese Baroque architecture, the Church of São Julião is a religious site that is revered by locals and visitors alike.
5. Forte de São Filipe - This historic fort, built in the 16th century, offers amazing views of Setúbal and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a tour of the fort and learn about its role in the region's history.
6. Museu de Setúbal - Located in the city center, the Setúbal Museum is full of artifacts and information about the history and culture of the region.
7. Livramento Market - This bustling market is a great place to find fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other local products. It's a great place to experience the local culture.
8. Wine Tasting - Setúbal is known for its production of Moscatel de Setúbal, a sweet dessert wine. Visitors can tour local wineries and taste some of the region's best wines.
Overall, Setúbal has a lot to offer visitors, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich history and culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Portugal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Setúbal.

When to go on holiday to Setúbal

The best time to visit Setúbal is during the months of May, June, September, and October when the weather is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C to 25°C. July and August are the peak tourist months with higher temperatures, but it can be crowded and more expensive. However, if you are looking to enjoy the beaches, then the summer months are ideal with water temperatures being suitable for swimming. Keep in mind that the winter months between November and February can be unpredictable, with rain and wind.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Setúbal

There are several ways to get to Setúbal, Portugal. Here are some options: 1. By Car: Setúbal is located approximately 50km south of Lisbon, Portugal. You can rent a car and follow the A2 highway, which connects Lisbon to Setúbal, It takes about 30-45 minutes by car depending on traffic.
2. By Bus: There are several bus companies that offer regular services between Lisbon and Setúbal. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and tickets can be bought in advance online or at the bus station.
3. By Train: Trains leave from Lisbon’s main train station, the Santa Apolonia Station. You can take a train to Setúbal which takes approximately 1 hour and leaves every 30 minutes.
4. By Ferry: You can take a ferry from Lisbon to Setúbal, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The ferry leaves from the Cais do Sodre terminal in Lisbon and drops you off at the Setúbal dock.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Setúbal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Setúbal

Sure, I'd be happy to help! Here are some typical foods from Setúbal, Portugal: 1. Choco Frito - This is a traditional dish from Setúbal made with fried cuttlefish. It is usually served with rice and beans drizzled with olive oil.
2. Sardinhas assadas - Grilled sardines are a must-try dish in Setúbal. They are usually served with roasted peppers and boiled potatoes.
3. Açorda de Marisco - The seafood açorda is a traditional herb soup made with bread, garlic, coriander, and seafood. It is very popular in Setúbal and common along the Portuguese coast.
4. Arroz de Tamboril - Monkfish rice is another typical dish from Setúbal. The fish is cooked with rice, peppers, and tomato sauce, making it a delicious and flavorful meal.
5. Queijo de Azeitão - Azeitão cheese is a soft sheep's cheese produced in the Setúbal region. It is usually served with a slice of bread or drizzled with local honey.
6. Moscatel de Setúbal - Lastly, Setúbal is famous for its sweet wine, Moscatel. It is made from the moscatel grape variety and has a rich and fruity flavor. It is often served with dessert or as a digestif. I hope you find this information helpful! Enjoy your trip to Setúbal!
You can find general info about typical foods in Portugal here.

Is Setúbal an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in Europe, Setúbal in Portugal is considered to be relatively affordable. However, prices can vary depending on the season, the type of accommodation, activities and dining options you choose. Some attractions in Setúbal, such as the Arrábida Natural Park, are free to visit while others may require an entrance fee. As a general guideline, you can expect to spend around €60-70 per day on food, accommodation, and transportation in Setúbal.

Where to find accomodation in Setúbal

The best areas to find accommodation while visiting Setúbal in Portugal are the city center, Azeitão, and Troia Peninsula. Staying in the city center gives you easy access to the historical and cultural attractions of Setúbal, including the castle, museums, and local markets. Azeitão, a charming village located just outside of Setúbal, offers a peaceful and picturesque retreat surrounded by vineyards and wineries. Troia Peninsula is a stunning natural reserve that offers a unique seaside experience with sandy beaches, clear waters, and excellent outdoor activities. It is located about 20 minutes from Setúbal by ferry.
You can check hotel prices at Setúbal here:
Booking.com

Is Setúbal a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Setúbal is considered a safe place for tourists. Portugal has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries in Europe, and Setúbal is not an exception to this. However, as with any travel destination, it's always important to take some basic safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night, make sure to take care of your belongings, and keep an eye on your valuables. As long as you take these measures, you should feel safe and enjoy your trip to Setúbal.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Portugal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Setúbal.

What type of travelers will enjoy Setúbal the most?

Setúbal, Portugal offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to different types of travelers. I would say Setúbal is perfect for families, couples and travelers who enjoy outdoor activities. There are plenty of activities for children such as visiting the dolphin watching boat tour, or going to the Arrábida National Park for hiking. For couples, Setúbal is a great romantic destination with breathtaking sunsets over the Sado estuary, delicious local cuisine, and romantic strolls along the beaches.
Young travelers looking for fun can enjoy the nightlife at Setúbal's bars, cafes and nightclubs specially in the summer. They can also visit nearby beaches like Portinho da Arrabida or Galapos where they can go diving, snorkeling or even relax under the sun.
Overall, Setúbal is perfect not only for family vacations, but for couples and young people as well. Everyone is sure to have an amazing time enjoying all that this beautiful region has to offer.

How to get around Setúbal

There are several options to move around Setúbal, such as: 1. Walking - If you plan to explore the town center, walking is the best way to do so.
2. Biking - You can easily rent a bike from a nearby rental shop to explore the town and surrounding areas.
3. Bus - Setúbal has a public transportation system that can get you around the town and neighboring areas.
4. Taxi - Taxis are always readily available, and are a convenient way to travel around the town.
5. Car rental - You can also rent a car to explore Setúbal and the surrounding region at your own pace.

What to see around Setúbal

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Setúbal, Portugal: 1. Arrábida Natural Park - a beautiful natural park with stunning beaches and hiking trails.
2. Sesimbra - a picturesque fishing town with nice beaches and seafood restaurants.
3. Palmela - a charming medieval town known for its castle and panoramic views of the region.
4. Azeitão - a small town known for its wine and cheese production, with several wineries and cheese factories open for visits.
5. Comporta - a trendy beach destination with serene white-sand beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
6. Troia - a peninsula with clean beaches and a casino, accessible by ferry from Setúbal.
7. Lisbon - Portugal's capital city is just a short drive or train ride away and offers plenty of attractions, from historic monuments to trendy neighborhoods and delicious food.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Setúbal!
For every travel information about Portugal you can click here.

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