Hints and tips for living in Caparica & Setúbal
Turquoise waters and exquisite seafood an hour from Lisbon
CAPARICA | AZEITÃO | ARRÁBIDA | SETÚBAL
Quick facts - Caparica & Setúbal
Population: 20,000 (Caparica), 53,000 (Sesimbra), 124,000 (Setúbal)
Distance by car to central Lisbon (Cais do Sodre): 25 mins from Caparica, 45 mins from Setúbal, 50 mins from Sesimbra
Distance by car to airport (Lisbon): 20 mins from Caparica, 35 mins from Setubal, 40 mins from Sesimbra
Highlights: Fresh seafood, the stunning Parque Natural da Arrábida, affordable, slower-paced life compared to Lisbon
Weather: Similar to Lisbon. Warm, dry, and mostly clear summers. Mild and partly cloudy winters.
Need a car? Yes
Fun fact: In 2017, Praia dos Galapinhos in the Parque Natural da Arrábida was recognized as the most beautiful beach in Europe
A locals view on Caparica & Setúbal
Joao P. - Lisbon / Setubal / Cascais resident for 27 years
What’s your favourite thing about living in the Setúbal area?
Undoubtedly the beautiful coastline in the Parque Natural da Arrábida where I spend my free time doing sports and exploring. It is such a rich and diverse area that even though I’ve lived here most of my life, I still find new paradises frequently.
What should a new expat know if they are thinking about moving to the Setúbal area?
Pay attention to where you base yourself if you need to commute to Lisbon every day. Most people advertise that Setúbal is only a 30 min drive to Lisbon, however, this can be a 2h commute in rush hour due to traffic jams before and after the 25th of April bridge.
Favourite thing about the Setúbal area that most tourists don’t know?
The cost of living is much lower than in Lisbon, especially properties in Setúbal and restaurants in Caparica and its surroundings. For example, a building in Setúbal can be at least half of the price of a similar building in Lisbon, and in Cacilhas (a 10 min boat trip from Lisbon) it is possible to eat grilled fish for less than 8 euros.
What do you wish you’d known when you arrived in the Setúbal area?
The seasonality factor. Access to the beaches in Setúbal, Sesimbra, and Caparica can be difficult in the high season. If you go to the beach frequently or plan to live near the beach, expect a big change in the population of your town during the summer.
Least favourite thing about living in the Setúbal area?
Commuting in Caparica and from Caparica to other places using public transport can be difficult since it can get quite busy, and the bus is the main option. Having a car is almost mandatory if you want to live in Caparica or its surroundings.
Best recommendation you could give a new expat in the Setúbal area?
As a local that commutes several days a week from Setúbal to Lisbon, my golden advice is: if you don’t plan to have a car, your life will be much easier if you base yourself near a public transport hub. You don’t want to miss your frequent visits to Lisbon, our vibrant capital!
Our Caparica & Setúbal recommendations
Move here if you like: Nature, beaches, gastronomy, and an affordable and slower-paced lifestyle
Don’t move here if you like: To live in a place where you are not affected by the seasonality factor
Secret highlights: Secret caves in Arrábida Natural Park. Ribeira do Cavalo beach in Sesimbra
Best restaurants: Cheap “petiscos” by the beach Dr. Bernard. Affordable quality Japanese & Asian food at Tanaka. Cheap Portuguese traditional food at A Transmontana. The best Choco Frito (fried cuttlefish) at Casa Santiago.
A great builder: Manu and Rúben at Mr Contrucao Manutencao
OUR BESPOKE PRIVATE TOURS IN CAPARICA & SETUBAL
Caparica & Setúbal Essential Scouting Tour
Make an informed decision on whether moving to Caparica or Setúbal is right for you
Flexible dates
6-7h
€315
price per tour
MEET YOUR CAPARICA & SETUBAL RELOCATION CONSULTANT
Hi! I’m Joao
JOAO P. - LISBON / SETUBAL / CASCAIS RESIDENT FOR 27 YEARS
Bom dia! I’m really excited to show you around my hometown. Setúbal born and raised, I lived most of my life here in Setúbal and Lisbon before taking off to travel the world. The lure of coming back to my beloved Portugal was too strong and now I’m back, and want to welcome you, and help you integrate into my wonderful country!
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