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Troia Beach
Troia Beach - Photo by Bruno Martins

Discover the Best of Setubal, Portugal: A Travel Guide

About Setubal, Portugal

Setúbal is a charming and picturesque city located just 30 miles south of Lisbon, Portugal. Known for its stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and historic landmarks, Setúbal is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a laid-back and authentic Portuguese experience. Discover the beauty of Setúbal today!

Located just south of Lisbon, Setubal is a charming coastal town in Portugal that is often overlooked by travelers. However, those who venture off the beaten path are in for a treat, as this hidden gem has a lot to offer.

One of the highlights of Setubal is its breathtaking natural beauty. The town is situated on the Sado Estuary, which is home to a diverse range of bird species and other wildlife. Visitors can take a boat tour to see dolphins and other marine life, or hike in the nearby Arrabida Natural Park for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

In addition to its natural beauty, Setubal is also known for its delicious seafood. The town is famous for its fresh fish and shellfish, which can be enjoyed at one of the many local restaurants or at the daily fish market.

History buffs will also find plenty to explore in Setubal. The town has a rich history dating back to Roman times, and there are several historic sites and museums to visit. One of the most popular is the Monastery of Jesus, a Gothic-style monastery that dates back to the 15th century.

For those looking for a more active vacation, Setubal has plenty of options. Visitors can enjoy cycling, hiking, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Overall, Setubal is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Portugal. With its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and rich history, this charming coastal town has something for everyone.

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Popular Stays in Setubal, Portugal

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Setubal, Portugal

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Family hotelsBusiness hotels

B&B Hotel Sado Setúbal

This upscale hotel is situated in the city centre of Setubal. The hotel lies just 15 km away from the Arrabida Hills. The nearest station, Setubal, offers ease of access to other areas to be explored. The hotel comprises elegantly-styled guest rooms, which offer a calm environment, perfectly conducive to work and rest. This wonderful hotel comprises 3 restaurants, with guests spoilt for choice with the range of cuisines that the menus provide. The hotel also features a bar and a coffee shops. A conference room is available for the convenience of those travelling for work purposes. This hotel offers a prime choice for business and leisure travellers alike.
Restaurant
Business hotelsGreen Hotel

Luna Esperança Centro

Boasting spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel impresses with its large saltwater pool and location deep within Sintra- Cascais Natural Park. Directly situated on Praia Grande, one of the finest beaches in the Lisbon area, Arribas Sintra Hotel combines a fantastic setting with friendly service. Wake up to the sound of rolling waves. After a swim in the 100-metre pool ( June until September), you can relax in style on one of the sun loungers in the pool area. Arribas Sintra Hotel also features various meeting rooms, making it the ideal destination for guests looking to mix business with pleasure. A day of work, sightseeing or pure relaxation can best be brought to a leisurely end when watching the sunset over the ocean from your very own balcony. NOTICE: From 0-3 years old, the children are free. From 4-10 years old, they pay the 50%. From 10 years old, they are considered like an adult.
Restaurant
Business hotelsHotels with charmSport hotels

Turim Club D´Azeitão Hotel

This cozy hotel, located at the foot of the mountain Arrábia and amid a forest, is located in the town of Azeitão, one kilometer from the center where you will find numerous restaurants. Roughly two miles are the nearest shops, bars, a nightclub and public transport. From the hotel can be reached in 20 minutes on the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. About 15 kilometers away is the sea and the beach. Housed in a building that dates back to the 18th century, this historical, charming hotel is ideal for both business guests and holidaymakers. Surrounded by 1,000 m The traditional rooms are air conditioned and feature a bathroom, hairdryer, hire safe and a minibar. Technical fittings include a direct dial telephone, an Internet connection, a radio and cable/ satellite TV. In the room double VIP the client is entitled the breakfast in room and a welcome drink. In the outdoor of this charming hotel offers a swimming pool, a snack bar and a sun terrace with loungers and parasols. Those sports enthusiasts will have the possibility to use the tennis court the hotel. At a distance of approximately 10 kilometers you will find Golf Course Quinta do Peru. The clients can enjoy a very good buffet breakfast.
Restaurant
Business hotelsHotels with charmSport hotels

Turim Club D´Azeitão Hotel

This cozy hotel, located at the foot of the mountain Arrábia and amid a forest, is located in the town of Azeitão, one kilometer from the center where you will find numerous restaurants. Roughly two miles are the nearest shops, bars, a nightclub and public transport. From the hotel can be reached in 20 minutes on the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. About 15 kilometers away is the sea and the beach. Housed in a building that dates back to the 18th century, this historical, charming hotel is ideal for both business guests and holidaymakers. Surrounded by 1,000 m The traditional rooms are air conditioned and feature a bathroom, hairdryer, hire safe and a minibar. Technical fittings include a direct dial telephone, an Internet connection, a radio and cable/ satellite TV. In the room double VIP the client is entitled the breakfast in room and a welcome drink. In the outdoor of this charming hotel offers a swimming pool, a snack bar and a sun terrace with loungers and parasols. Those sports enthusiasts will have the possibility to use the tennis court the hotel. At a distance of approximately 10 kilometers you will find Golf Course Quinta do Peru. The clients can enjoy a very good buffet breakfast.
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Business hotels

Amazonia Palmela

Acepta visa, acepta american express, acepta mastercard, acepta dinners.
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Business hotelsSustainable HotelSport hotelsFamily hotels

Vila Park

This hotel is situated close to the sandy beach halfway along the Alentejan coast. Praia Vila Nova Santo André is roughly 1 km from the hotel. This Centro Equestre is situated approximately 10 km from the hotel and Badoca Park lies 15 km away. Opened in 2003, this 2-storey beach hotel has a total of 79 rooms, including 12 suites and 5 wheelchair accessible rooms. Further facilities available include a bar, a restaurant serving regional culinary delights and a long conference room. A 24-hour reception is additionally to be found in the hotel foyer. The hotel also offers various packages (upon request) such as horse riding trips and visits to Badoca Park. A car park is available for those arriving by car. Each room is fully equipped with an en suite bathroom, satellite TV, a radio, a direct dial telephone, a double bar, a balcony or terrace as well as a minibar (on request). The air conditioning can be individually regulated. The hotel grounds feature a seawater swimming pool as well as a children's paddling area. More sporty types may wish to take advantage of the horse riding opportunities, tennis facilities and road/ mountain biking.
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Business hotelsGolf hotelsHotels with charmBeach hotelsSport hotelsFamily hotels

Troia Design Hotel

This modern resort faces the Sado River estuary and impresses with its unique design, as well as its location on the Tróia Peninsula. It is just next to the marina and only an hour from Lisbon Airport. Here the magnificent sea views are surpassed only by the mystery of the Arrábida Hills. Guests can observe dolphins frolicking in the sea from the balcony or watch a programme on the flat-screen TV. The hotel features a large conference centre and show venue, perfect for special events of any kind. It offers a number of luxurious rooms and suites. All have been designed with guests' comfort in mind and feature distinct contemporary furnishings. The use of glass to create different areas gives the rooms a sense of space, placing emphasis on the unique relationship between the building's interiors and the natural landscape. The furniture collection is exclusively designed for the hotel.
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Business hotelsGolf hotelsSport hotels

Troia Residence By The Editory Apartamentos Marina

Nestled within 486-hectares, this resort offers everything needed for a sun-soaked vacation in Tróia. Due to their location at less than one hour drive from Lisbon on the Troia Peninsula, it is popular with both locals looking for a weekend getaway and vacationers from throughout the country and the continent. The apartment complex offers modern units with beautiful views towards the marina and the Sado River bay. All of them are air-conditioned and come with separate living rooms with a cosy sofa and a dining area, where guests can enjoy the delicious dishes prepared in the fully-equipped kitchen. There is also a furnished balcony, which is a great choice for enjoying the balmy summer breezes with a chilled drink in hand and some pleasant company by the side. We would like to inform you that the check in time is after 4pm, at Editory By The Sea Hotel (GPS coordinates: 38º 29' 26 N, 8º 54' 02 W).

Things to do in Setubal, Portugal

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Setubal, Portugal

Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Arrabida Adventure Circuit

 The “Adventure Circuit” is an experience for those looking for strong emotions, an activity that combines various modalities such as climbing, abseiling, caving and walking.  Dare you! And discover one of the most extraordinary places of Arrábida Natural Park !!
Arrabida
Digital Voucher540 minutes

Private Tour for 1 to 8 people: Cristo Rei, Palmela, Setúbal, Arrábida, Sesimbra

Tour of the whole Setúbal Peninsula and the Arrábida National Park with its magnificent natural landscapes.
Bottlenose dolphin cruising along the Arrabida Maritime Park!
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Dolphin Watching and Boat Tour in Sesimbra

Experience unforgettable moments, particularly for younger audiences, and for all those that are seeking to go on a dolphin watching boat tour in their natural habitat for the first time! Only 30 minutes from Portugal´s capital city Lisbon, Sesimbra is one of Europe´s best destination to spot the bottlenose and short-beaked common dolphins in the wild. Get your friends and family together to visit these amazing mammals in the wild and learn all about their habits, features and behaviors while enjoying your tour in one of Bolhas´s dolphin watching boats. With 100% sightings since 2013, Bolhas Tours is the leading dolphin watch company of the region.
SUP Arrábida - Discover The Nature
Digital Voucher180 minutes

Stand Up Paddle Experience at Portinho da Arrábida

Stand Up Paddle is an excellent way to be in perfect symbiosis with nature, in the heart of the Arrábida Natural Park and Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, with its calm and crystal clear waters. We will start the activity in the unparalleled Portinho da Arrábida and then we will visit Ilha da Anicha, Praia dos Coelhos, not forgetting the Santa Margarida Cave or Alpertuche Beach. We are a family owned and operated business.
Arrábida Jeep Full Day
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Arrábida Jeep Full Day

Serra da Arrábida has a Natural Park that with its diverse fauna has become one of the most complete and versatile places for an unforgettable experience! Spend the day with us at the Arrábida Natural Park and leave at discovery of places like Portinho da Arrábida and Cabo Espichel. On board a Jeep you will have the opportunity to go through dirt tracks, penetrating the park's vegetation and reaching hidden places where you can enjoy fabulous panoramic views. Enjoy a guided tour of a Regional Winery and at the end discover and taste its wines. In this lively trip, you will have the opportunity to learn a little more about the Arrábida lost in its horizons, traditions, convents and palaces. Visit to the village of Azeitão and Sesimbra.
Dolphin Watching at the Arrabida (Lisbon region)
Digital Voucher150 minutes

Dolphin Watching at the Arrabida (Lisbon region)

Be overwhelmed by the incredible landscapes of the professor Luiz Saldanha Arrábida Marine Park, its caves, wild beaches and magnificent cliffs, coves where you may eventually swim or simply remain aboard for a tasting of local traditional delicacies.
Private Tour in Arrabida Region
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Private Tour in Arrabida Region

At the gates of Lisbon, the Arrábida is a small paradise that offers experiences of immersion in nature, its history and unique traditions. Let our monitors guide you through an adventure of your choice . We are local guides, specialized in the region and prepared to take you on an authentic experience of fun and encounter with nature. An always available 4x4 vehicle will meet you anywhere in the Arrábida - we guarantee your pick up in Sesimbra.
Over The Planet
Digital Voucher420 minutes

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

(Some Horseback Riding experience is required) The Louro Mountain Trail, consists of a horse ride that lasts for approximately 5 hours. The starting point is at the Quinta de S. Brás, in the Louro Mountain (“Serra do Louro”) in Palmela, and after crossing the Alcube valley, lunch is at a farm with the same name, Quinta de Alcube. The horse trails always take place in the Natural Park of Arrabida, in its eastern area. The price for the day – for riding through Louro Mountain and the Alcube Valley,  includes the light lunch (not vegetarian) in Quinta de Alcube that is accompanied by its excellent wines.

Why People Love Setubal, Portugal

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Setubal, Portugal

G
Goncalosa37
5
Feb 2023
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Fomos num grupo de 4 e recomendo muito para quem quiser passar uma tarde ou manhã incrivel no portinho
S
Stay65140667989
5
Apr 2023
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Foi uma experiência espectacular Sentimo-nos sempre seguros. Foi tudo muito bem explicado e tudo feito com calma. Adorámos cada momento e foi super divertido. Obrigado ao instrutor. Obrigado pela experiência
G
Global10106379947
5
Nov 2023
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Arrabida Adventure Circuit
Atividade muito gira e variada com excelente profissional! Foi uma tarde em família muito bem passada. Aconselho vivamente.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Setubal

What are some must-see attractions in Setubal?

There are many must-see attractions in Setubal, including the Arrabida Natural Park, the Monastery of Jesus, and the Convent of Arrabida. The Arrabida Natural Park is a stunning nature reserve with breathtaking views of the coastline, and it's a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The Monastery of Jesus is a beautiful Gothic monastery that dates back to the 15th century, and it's known for its intricate carvings and beautiful stained glass windows. The Convent of Arrabida is another historic site that's worth visiting. It's a beautiful 16th-century convent that was built on the site of an old Moorish castle. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

What activities are available in Setubal?

Setubal offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including hiking, cycling, swimming, and exploring historic sites. The Arrabida Natural Park is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, and the park offers stunning views of the coastline. Visitors can also explore the many beautiful beaches in the area, including Praia de Galapos, Praia de Albarquel, and Praia da Figueirinha. For history buffs, the Monastery of Jesus and the Convent of Arrabida are both worth a visit. Setubal is also known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to try some of the local specialties while you're in town.

What are some good restaurants in Setubal?

Setubal is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to try some of the local specialties while you're in town. Some of the best seafood restaurants in Setubal include Restaurante O Galleto, A Tasca do Z Russo, and Casa Santiago. For a more upscale dining experience, try the Michelin-starred restaurant, Casa de Palmela. This beautiful restaurant is located in a historic castle and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

What are some good places to stay in Setubal?

Setubal offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. For a luxurious stay, try the Casa de Palmela hotel, which is located in a historic castle and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Hotel Club d'Azeito is another upscale option, with beautiful gardens and a swimming pool. For a more budget-friendly option, try the Hotel Solaris. This hotel is located in the heart of Setubal and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

What is the best time of year to visit Setubal?

The best time to visit Setubal is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and crowded, but it's a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. The winter months can be rainy, but it's a good time to explore the historic sites and enjoy some of the local cuisine.

What are some good day trips from Setubal?

Setubal is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Some popular day trips from Setubal include a visit to the historic town of Sesimbra, which is known for its beautiful beaches and historic castle. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the Sado Estuary, which is home to a variety of bird species and dolphins. The city of Lisbon is also an easy day trip from Setubal, and visitors can explore the historic neighborhoods and enjoy some of the local cuisine.

What is the nightlife like in Setubal?

Setubal is not known for its nightlife, but there are a few bars and clubs in the area. The most popular nightlife spot in Setubal is the Praa do Bocage, which is a lively square with a variety of bars and restaurants. Visitors can also check out the Casa da Baia, which hosts live music and cultural events throughout the year.

What are some good beaches in Setubal?

Setubal is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many to choose from. Praia de Galapos is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and it's known for its crystal-clear water. Praia de Albarquel is another beautiful beach, with soft sand and calm waters. Praia da Figueirinha is a long, wide beach that's popular with families and water sports enthusiasts.

What is the local cuisine like in Setubal?

Setubal is known for its delicious seafood, and there are many local specialties to try. Some of the most popular dishes include grilled sardines, seafood rice, and octopus salad. Visitors can also try the local wine, which is made from the Muscat grape and is known for its sweet, fruity flavor.

What are some cultural events in Setubal?

Setubal is known for its cultural events, and there are many throughout the year. Some popular events include the Festa de So Julio, which is a traditional festival that takes place in August and features live music, dancing, and fireworks. The Festival of the Sea is another popular event, and it celebrates the town's maritime heritage with a variety of cultural and sporting events.