Setúbal has beautiful landscapes | Portugal Premium Tours

Just a short drive from Lisbon, Setúbal combines natural beauty, tradition, and a vibrant local spirit. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Sado River, and the lush Arrábida Mountains, this coastal city offers stunning views and unforgettable experiences. Over time, the town built its identity through fishing and agriculture. These roots are still visible in the lively markets and strong community ties. However, Setúbal has also embraced its role as a tourism, leisure, and culture destination.

As you wander its streets, you’ll discover colourful cafés, fresh seafood stalls, and a proud maritime soul. Moreover, the waterfront invites you to relax, enjoy a meal by the sea, or even take a boat tour to spot wild dolphins in the Sado estuary. Just a few minutes away, the Arrábida Natural Park reveals a landscape of contrasts: turquoise waters and hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and forested trails. For those seeking flavour, the local vineyards and salt flats connect deeply to the region’s identity. Furthermore, Setúbal’s people bring warmth and authenticity to every experience. Their love for food, music, and nature makes the city feel welcoming. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquillity, or a taste of authentic Portugal, Setúbal offers it all.

Come meet this special city and discover what Setúbal has to offer you. Explore our suggestions on what to see, do, and taste, and let the heart of Setúbal stay with you.

Typical July:

22º C
72º F

Typical January:

11º C
52º F

What to see

This city’s interesting historical journey is reflected in the places to visit. Get to know them:

Arrábida Natural Park

Known for its verdant nature and imposing views of the Atlantic Ocean, this Parks offers its visitors a one of a kind experience.

Sado Estuary Natural Reserve

Known for its biodiversity, where the Sado River meets the sea, it is also the home to a bottlenose dolphin’s community.

São Filipe's Fort

Built in the 16th century during the Spanish occupation. Today it is used as a hotel - called a 'pousada'.

Palmela Castle

National Monument. It belonged to the Moors and was reconquered by D. Afonso Henriques. Nowadays it is a hotel, a 'Pousada'.

What to do

There are plenty of activities to choose from in Setúbal, especially if you like to be in touch with Nature. See what you can do:

See the dolphins

The bottlenose dolphin community that inhabits the Sado estuary can be seen in boat trips and it's a big local attraction.

Explore the vineyards

Setúbal is known for its wines and mostly for Setúbal's 'Moscatel'. You can observe and learn more about the vineyards in a local winery.

Go to 'Portinho da Arrábida'

A small and remote beach considered to be one of the country's most beautiful beaches. Great for diving and enjoying the crystal waters.

Have fun in Arrábida Natural Park

The perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty while you have fun hiking, caving, geocaching and others.

Visit Tróia

A long sandy peninsula, it is worth discovering its luxurious beaches. You can get there by car or by taking the ferry.

What to taste

Setúbal’s gastronomy is known for being very tasty and made out of the best and freshest ingredients, as well as for its drinks. Know what you must taste:

Fried Cuttlefish

A typical dish of Setúbal. The fresh cuttlefish from the Sado River is sliced in strips and deep-fried.

'Moscatel de Setúbal'

An emblematic wine of Setúbal Peninsula. Famous since the 12th century, it has been exported to England since 1381.

Grilled sardines

One of the 7 wonders of Portuguese gastronomy, Setúbal's grilled sardines are much appreciated.

Grilled goatfish

This grilled goatfish is a typical dish and a result of the abundant fresh fish in Setúbal.

'Tortas de Azeitão'

This sweet egg based pastries are a traditional Azeitão pastry and very enjoyed in Portugal.

Azeitão Cheese

Azeitão is known for its local cheese, made out of sheep's milk and very famous in Portugal.

Places to visit near Setúbal

Besides being nearby the capital, there are other places of interest close to Setúbal. Discover them:

Get to know Setúbal

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Enjoy Setúbal

Come meet this special city and discover what Setúbal has to offer you. Explore our suggestions on what to see, do, and taste, and let the heart of Setúbal stay with you.