Setúbal,Sesimbra & Palmela - Private tour, Nature & Culture
Palmela, PT
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Stunning scenery and incredible beaches
- Historical sites and delicious cuisine
- Iconic Christ King monument with panoramic views
- Picturesque medieval castle in Palmela
- Charming village of Sesimbra with majestic fortress
-
Duration 7-8 hours
-
Small group tour
-
Air-conditioned vehicle
-
WiFi on board
-
Expert guide in English & Portuguese
Embark on a journey through the stunning landscapes, historic sites, and delicious cuisine of Setúbal with the All-in-one Tour in Setúbal, Full Day. Explore the famous Livramento Market, known for its variety of fruits, fresh fish, and local products, before visiting the ancient Fortaleza de São Filipe, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and city. Experience the beauty of Arrábida Natural Park, with its paradisiacal beaches and crystal clear waters. Discover the picturesque village of Palmela, with its medieval castle perched atop a hill, and the charming village of Sesimbra, home to the majestic Sesimbra Castle and the Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel sanctuary. Finally, witness the awe-inspiring Cristo Rei monument and be rewarded with stunning views over the city of Lisbon. This tour is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this enchanting region.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
7 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in Portuguese, English
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Mobile voucher
-
Small Group tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Setúbal, from ancient castles to beautiful beaches, on this immersive day-long tour.
Included
-
All Fees and Taxes -
An amazing driver; · 8 hours of everlasting memories; Guided tour of the monuments
-
Full Insurance Coverage
-
Private transportation
-
In-vehicle air conditioning
-
On-board wifi
Excluded
-
Lunch
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Palmela Castle is located at one of the highest points in Serra da Arrábida. It is a difficult to access location and therefore ideal for fulfilling its territorial defense function. During the Christian Reconquista led by D. Afonso Henriques, first king of Portugal, Palmela was part of the defense line south of the Tagus. At that time, the king donated the territories of Palmela, Almada and Alcácer to the Order of Sant'Iago da Espada for defense and settlement. In 1205, D. Sancho I confirmed the donation and installed the Chapter of the Order in the castle. In the century. XV, D. João I ordered a series of restoration works to be carried out, especially in the keep and ordered the construction of the convent that would become the seat of the Order from 1443 onwards. The castle also underwent some changes in the 14th century. XVII, under order of D. Pedro II. The friars remained in the Santiago convent until the extinction of the religious orders in 1834.
45 minutes
Built to replace another market, demolished in 1876, it was opened in 1930. The interior was completely remodeled following renovation work on the facilities carried out between 2010 and 2011. The tile panels inside stand out, depicting the city's various economic activities, designed by Portuguese engraver and painter Pedro Pinto, dating from 1929. At the north entrance there are also, on both sides, two other panels by Rosa Rodrigues, with images of the city, dating from 1944. In June 2014, the North American magazine USA Today recognized Mercado do Livramento as one of the best fish markets in the world.
30 minutes
Local souvenir shop, handmade by local artisans. Fish-shaped building, made of cork and wood.
15 minutes
Church of the former Monastery of Jesus
The Convent and the Church of Jesus constitute true landmarks in Portuguese architectural history, marking the beginning of the Manueline style. The works, which began in 1490 and, apparently, ended in 1496, were led by Diogo Boitaca who signed works on monuments such as the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower and the Batalha Monastery. The Church of Jesus is considered the first attempt at a church-hall in Portugal, designed as a homogeneously lit space. At the Convent of Jesus, innovative solutions were used for the time, such as round arches, vaults based on lowered arches and networks of ribs.
15 minutes
Forte de Sao Filipe
A must-visit tourist spot, the São Filipe Fort was once an important defensive and control bastion for the city. The São Filipe Fort is the result of orders from the Spanish monarch Philip II on the fortification of the coastline that protects Setúbal and the mouth of the Sado River. It was designed by Captain Fratino in 1583, consisting of an irregular polygonal plan, in the shape of a six-pointed star with six bastions, and on a steep slope over the sea, being protected on the north side by a second walled line. Forte de São Filipe, more often referred to as a fort or fortress, played a tactical role in reinforcing the defense line of the Portuguese coast attacked by pirates from northern Europe and Africa. From the fort walls you can see one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the bay.
45 minutes
The crystal clear blue of the sea waters crossing with the green of Nature, makes Serra da Arrábida a special corner of Portugal. From paradisiacal beaches, stunning landscapes and viewpoints, to mysterious caves and castles to visit, Serra da Arrábida brings you a great diversity of activities. Serra da Arrábida is part of the Arrábida Natural Park and is located near the city of Setúbal (about 10 km), 45 km from Lisbon and approximately 17km from Sesimbra. The Arrábida Natural Park is made up of very steep terrain from the various mountains: Serra do Louro, Serra do Risco, Serra de São Luís, Serra dos Gaiteiros, Serra de São Francisco and Serra da Arrábida. Its highest point is 501 meters of altitude, allowing you to see a part of the Portuguese Vincentian coast. With an extension of around 10,800 hectares, Arrábida covers the municipalities of Palmela, Sesimbra and Setúbal.
45 minutes
Portinho da Arrabida
It belongs to the district of Setúbal and its beach (Portinho da Arrábida beach) is the main tourist attraction of this small town. It is a small sandy area next to the small town (village) of Portinho da Arrábida. It is at the foot of the mountain between other beaches (Creiro and Alpertuche) in the region. As in this entire area, the waters are calm, clear, cold and perfect for those who like diving. The beach is rocky and has some beach facilities (restaurants). In 2010, it won a distinction for being considered “one of the 7 natural wonders of Portugal” – beaches categories.
30 minutes
Castelo de Sesimbra
Sesimbra Castle is the last of the Portuguese castles on the sea to maintain its medieval design. It was classified as a National Monument on June 16, 1910 and has several reasons of interest. Its walls have a unique view over the town and the sea. Inside there are two permanent exhibitions about its history, a heritage interpretation center, a church and a disused cemetery. It also offers a museum circuit that allows visitors, independently, to enjoy the property's various points of interest. Visitors can walk along the walls and enjoy a privileged view of the town of Sesimbra and the region. The café with terrace offers some local products. It stands out in the landscape for its grandeur.
45 minutes
The Fortaleza de Santiago has coexisted with the Sesimbra community for 365 years. It was built at a time when danger arrived from the sea and maritime borders had to be defended, however, the course of history meant that it lost its defensive preponderance. After meticulous and specialized work, which preserved the initial structure as much as possible, the Santiago Fortress opened to the public in July 2014, fully restored. Visitors were then able to understand the original functions of each space, from the magazine area to the Governor's house, passing through the dormitories, getting an idea of how these fortifications worked. In 2016, the Fortaleza de Santiago received what is the biggest project destined for the space: the Sesimbra Maritime Museum, which showcases the history of the sea, fishing and the fishing community from the earliest times to the present.
45 minutes
Cabo Espichel
The Cabo Espichel Sanctuary, inserted in the Arrábida natural park, also known as the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Pedra Mua, is located in Cabo Espichel, west of the town of Sesimbra, which marks the southwestern tip of the Setúbal peninsula and from where glimpse the dizzying and abysmal Lagosteiros Bay. According to legend, an apparition of Our Lady took place there. Nothing remains of the primitive sanctuary referred to by the Visitations of the Order of Santiago. Based on the cult of Nossa Senhora do Cabo and the 14th century Ermida da Memória, in the 18th century, D. Pedro II and D. José ordered the construction of a sanctuary that continued to be worshiped until the transition to the 20th century, before going into decline. The sanctuary brings together the church built between 1701-1707 in a floor-to-ceiling style, two wings of inns built between 1745-1760, the water house dating from 1770 and supplied by an aqueduct and the opera house, from the end of the 1800s.
60 minutes
Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei
The desire to build a monument to Christ the King began in 1940 when the Portuguese bishops vowed to build a Monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus over Lisbon if Portugal were spared from the War. Portugal maintained a position of neutrality in World War II, not participating directly in war actions and this fact was decisive in launching a national fundraising campaign, so that the construction could become a reality. And, in 1959, the Monument to Christ the King was inaugurated, rising 113 meters over the cities of Almada and Lisbon, offering a 360º panoramic view over both banks of the Tagus River and surrounding areas. Within the four pillars of the Monument to Christ the King, symbol of the four cardinal points, is the Chapel of Our Lady of Peace. The image of Our Lady is a replica of the same image that was offered to the Church of Saint Eugene in Rome, on the occasion of the Holy Year of 1950.
45 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
-
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Service animals allowed
-
Specialized infant seats are available
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
-
To facilitate communication, use WhatsApp through the contact provided to arrange the tour and set the meeting point.
-
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
-
Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
-
Try local seafood at Livramento Market. -
Visit the breathtaking beaches of Arrábida.
-
Enjoy panoramic views from Palmela Castle.
-
Don't miss the sunset at Cristo Rei.
-
Check out artisanal crafts at SetubalSouv.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the wonders of Setúbal on this all-in-one tour that takes you on a picturesque journey through stunning landscapes, incredible beaches, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Starting with a visit to the Livramento Market, famous for its variety of fruits, fresh fish, and local products, you'll be immersed in the vibrant culture of the region. Next, explore the Fortaleza de São Filipe, an ancient fort offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the city. Then, venture into the Arrábida Natural Park, renowned for its paradisiacal beaches and lush greenery.What to expect?
On this full-day tour, you can anticipate a total duration of 420 to 480 minutes, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty of each destination. Experience the hustle and bustle of the Mercado do Livramento, savor the panoramic views from the Forte de São Filipe, and be awestruck by the crystal-clear blue waters and green landscapes of Serra da Arrábida. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the charming village of Sesimbra, explore the medieval Castelo de Palmela, and marvel at the medieval design of Castelo de Sesimbra. Finally, a visit to the Cabo Espichel Sanctuary and the Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei offers a spiritual and awe-inspiring end to the tour.Who is this for?
This tour caters to travelers who crave a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or a lover of picturesque landscapes, this tour is designed to satisfy your wanderlust. Explorers of all ages and backgrounds will enjoy immersing themselves in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Setúbal.Why book this?
Book this all-in-one tour in Setúbal to experience the best of the region all in a single day. This comprehensive tour takes care of all your sightseeing needs, making it the perfect choice for those who want a hassle-free and enriching travel experience. Discover hidden gems like the Livramento Market, where you can indulge in local flavors, and the mesmerizing Arrábida Natural Park, with its paradisiacal beaches. With an experienced guide leading the way, you'll gain insights into the history and culture of Setúbal, creating memories that will last a lifetime.Good to know
During this tour, expect durations of around 30 to 60 minutes per attraction. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Don't forget your sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Keep in mind that entrance fees and meals are not included in the tour price and should be budgeted separately.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this all-in-one tour in Setúbal have praised the diverse itinerary and knowledgeable guides. They were captivated by the natural beauty of the Arrábida Natural Park and mesmerized by the panoramic views offered by the Fortaleza de São Filipe. Visitors also appreciated the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Livramento Market and explore the historic castles in Palmela and Sesimbra. Overall, travelers were left with a deep appreciation for the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of the Setúbal region.Journals from our explorers at this location
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is
