This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Setúbal.
Setúbal is located at the northern part of the mouth of the Sado River estuary, just around fifty kilometres south of the Portuguese capital of Lisbon and only about fifteen kilometres from the ocean. Although Setúbal is definitely not one of the most beautiful or well-preserved cities of Portugal, it is in a very strategic location for nearby attractions and it is therefore hugely recommended to stay in the city for at least a few days. It is a major transportation hub to places that might otherwise take too long to get to if you were taking a day trip from Lisbon.
Luckily, in the city, backpackers are very well catered for and they can choose from a variety of affordable, clean, and stylish hostels in Setúbal, Portugal, which are normally located quite close to the centre with its harbour and bus station. However, backpackers should double-check with the Setúbal, Portugal hostels regarding their desired travel dates, as some of them do not operate during the winter.
You should definitely take a boat trip to the other side of the bay to check out the Troia peninsula. With its never-ending sandy beaches that face the ocean and provide some of the most romantic sunsets around, this place is ideal for a day of chilling. However, there is a lot more to it than just that! This place is famous as a dolphin- and whale-watching point, and for lovers of culture, the peninsula has ancient Roman ruins scattered throughout. Last, but not least, the ferry ride here from Setúbal is an adventure in itself!
As a second option, you might want to do some hiking around the Arrabida Natural Park. With turquoise waters and rocky cliffs and trails that have a nonstop panorama of the ocean on one side and the bay on the other, you might find yourself spending way more time here taking in the breathtaking scenery than you expected. But make sure you keep an eye on your watch, because buses in this part of the area are rather scarce! However, if you are more keen on cultural attractions, then be sure not to miss the Convento de Jesus in downtown Setúbal, a monastery with beautiful artwork inside!
Written by local enthusiast for Setúbal hostels
JudyM
