Setubal between Roman times, Arrábida and the coast

Traces of Roman settlement, monastic architecture and the landscape of the Serra da Arrábida offer different ways to explore the history and nature of Setubal. When planning your hotel stay, you can start with the visits you have in mind: attractions range from archaeological sites and cultural buildings to hikes and maritime history. The Tróia Peninsula is accessible by boat or by road via Alcácer do Sal, Grândola or Santiago do Cacém.

Roman sites and architectural history

The settlement of Miróbriga dates from the late Bronze Age and Iron Age through to the 4th century AD. During the Roman period, the site included a forum, baths and an inn; today, it has a visitor and interpretation centre. The Sítio Arqueológico de Miróbriga is open Tuesday to Saturday from 09:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 17:30, and Sunday from 09:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Check the opening hours before your visit.

The Roman Ruins of Tróia comprise a site described as the largest industrial fish-salting centre in the Roman Empire. It was in use until the 6th century. The peninsula and Miróbriga thus offer different evidence of Roman settlement.

The Museu de Setúbal is housed in the Convento de Jesus, which is classified as a National Monument. It is dedicated to the history of the building, local and national history, and global art history. Construction of the convent began in 1490 on the initiative of Justa Rodrigues Pereira to accommodate nuns; the design is attributed to Diogo Boitaca. Group tours are available year-round by prior arrangement.

Landscape and trails in Arrábida

The Parque Natural da Arrábida covers around 17,000 hectares, including more than 5,000 hectares of marine area, and extends across parts of the municipalities of Palmela, Sesimbra and Setúbal. The park is home to one of Portugal’s rare examples of Mediterranean maquis. Serra do Risco has a 380-metre-high coastal cliff, considered the highest point on mainland Portugal’s coast. On the coast, where the Serra da Arrábida meets the sea, lie the beaches of Figueirinha, Galapos and Portinho da Arrábida.

The Grande Rota da Arrábida is around 60 kilometres long and connects Setúbal with Cabo Espichel. The Arrábida Walking Trails network in the municipality of Setúbal covers around 44 kilometres: four short circular and point-to-point trails linking natural or historical sights. Their lengths offer an initial guide to planning hikes of varying distances; conditions and access may vary. Check the latest information before setting out.

The Núcleo Interpretativo of the Jazida de Icnofósseis da Pedreira do Avelino in Zambujal also offers a point of interest for nature enthusiasts: it is one of Portugal’s seven natural monuments. In the Parque Natural da Arrábida, accredited companies also organise activities such as caving, diving and climbing. Check with providers for current availability.

Castles and religious heritage

Castelo de Palmela stands at one of the highest points of the Serra da Arrábida; admission is free. Confirm the details before your visit. The walls of Castelo de Sesimbra offer unique views of the town and the sea. Fortaleza de Santiago opened to the public in July 2014 after a complete restoration. It offers a regular cultural programme of exhibitions, music events, activities, receptions and conferences. For specific dates, check the events calendar.

The Castelo de Alcácer do Sal complex includes monastic ruins and the 13th-century Romanesque-Gothic Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo. Preserved rammed-earth and masonry walls surround part of the town; the Alcáçova was converted into a convent. The Convento da Arrábida, meanwhile, was inhabited by Franciscan friars from the 16th to the 19th century. Devotion to the Virgin Mary at the Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel, also called Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Pedra Mua, dates back to 1410.

Maritime culture and Azeitão

The Museu Marítimo de Sesimbra presents maritime and fishing heritage, much of which has been developed through close collaboration with the fishing community. A population of bottlenose dolphins lives year-round in the Estuário do Sado. They are easy to spot on guided boat trips on the river; however, sightings are not guaranteed and are subject to conservation rules.

The Rota dos Vinhos da Costa Azul leads to Azeitão, where visitors can sample local cheeses. Azeitão is also associated with azulejos, cheese, cakes, wine—with a particular focus on Moscatel—and Esses de Azeitão, all regional quality products.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Porto Covo, Tróia, Almada, Abela, Alcácer Do Sal, Santiago Do Cacém, Castelo, Palmela, Seixal, Setubal, Sines, Grândola, Alcochete, Canha, Santo André, Montijo, Moita, Trafaria, Portinho Da Arrábida, Fernão Ferro, Almada, Costa da Caparica, Palhais, Barreiro, Zambujal de Cima, Comporta, Sesimbra.

For the main travel overview: Portugal.