Map of Setúbal, Portugal
Explore the port city south of Lisbon with turquoise Arrábida beaches, resident dolphins and the best fried cuttlefish in Portugal.
About Setúbal
Setúbal is a working port city about 45 minutes south of Lisbon, set between the Sado estuary and the limestone ridge of the Serra da Arrábida. It is a great base for the Arrábida Natural Park's sheltered beaches, dolphin-watching trips and the ferry to the Tróia peninsula, and it is famous for choco frito (fried cuttlefish) and Moscatel de Setúbal wine.
Things to Do in Setúbal
Dolphin Watching
A resident group of bottlenose dolphins lives in the Sado estuary. Boat trips leave from the city year-round.
Arrábida Beaches
Portinho da Arrábida, Figueirinha and Galapinhos have calm, clear water backed by green cliffs.
Livramento Market
One of Portugal's best fish markets, decorated with large azulejo panels.
Fortress of São Filipe
A star-shaped 16th-century fortress with views over the city and estuary.
Tróia Peninsula
Take the ferry across the estuary to long sandy beaches and Roman ruins.
Wine Tasting
Visit Azeitão wineries to taste Moscatel de Setúbal and local reds.
Getting to Setúbal
- By train - Fertagus trains cross the 25 de Abril Bridge from Lisbon in about an hour
- By bus - express buses from Lisbon take around 45 minutes
- By car - 40 to 50 minutes via the A2 or A12. In summer, access to the Arrábida beaches is often restricted and shuttle buses run from Setúbal
Nearby
From Setúbal you can continue south along the Alentejo coast to Comporta, or head back to Lisbon via Sesimbra and Cabo Espichel.
Plan your trip to Setúbal
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see dolphins in Setúbal?
Yes. A resident group of bottlenose dolphins lives in the Sado estuary, and boat trips leave from Setúbal year-round.
How do I get from Lisbon to Setúbal?
Fertagus trains cross the 25 de Abril Bridge from Lisbon in about an hour, express buses take around 45 minutes, and the drive takes 40 to 50 minutes.
What are the best beaches near Setúbal?
The Arrábida beaches, such as Portinho da Arrábida, Figueirinha and Galapinhos, have calm turquoise water. In summer, car access is often restricted and shuttle buses run from Setúbal.
What food is Setúbal known for?
Choco frito (fried cuttlefish) is the city's signature dish, and the region is also known for Moscatel de Setúbal dessert wine.