Arriving in Lisbon, Portugal, with excitement and anticipation for the beautiful coastal town of Setúbal is an unforgettable experience. But before you dive into the culture, beaches, and delicious seafood, the very first challenge you face is figuring out the best way to get from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal. Thankfully, the journey is relatively easy, and there are several options to suit different preferences and budgets. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my personal experience and share some valuable tips on the most convenient and reliable ways to make the trip.
1. Getting to Know Lisbon Airport
Location: Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport), Lisbon, Portugal
Distance from Setúbal: Approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles)
Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport is the main international gateway to the city and is located just 7 kilometers (about 4.3 miles) from the city center. Despite being one of the busiest airports in Europe, it’s quite modern and well-connected to the city and surrounding areas, including Setúbal. The airport features multiple terminals, each catering to various airlines and services, and it’s easy to navigate through with clear signage in both Portuguese and English.
After arriving, you might be excited to get to Setúbal, and the good news is there are plenty of options for transportation. Depending on your preferences—whether you want convenience, budget-friendly choices, or even a more scenic experience—you’ll find a solution that fits your needs.
2. Option 1: By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services
Estimated Time: 40-50 minutes
Cost: Around €45-€60
Booking Platform: Uber, Bolt, or a Taxi Stand at the airport
The most straightforward option for reaching Setúbal from Lisbon Airport is by taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt. As I made my way through the bustling Lisbon Airport, I couldn’t help but appreciate the convenience of a taxi. Upon exiting the terminal, I headed straight to the designated taxi rank where there were plenty of taxis waiting to pick up passengers. The journey itself was quite smooth—thanks to Lisbon’s well-maintained highways—and I could sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as I made my way out of the city and toward Setúbal.
A taxi ride from the airport to Setúbal typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic, and the cost can range between €45 to €60. I recommend confirming the estimated fare with the driver before setting off, especially if you’re traveling during peak hours when traffic can sometimes cause delays. Another advantage of using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt is the ability to track your journey in real-time and pay through the app, which eliminates any concerns about currency or having to deal with cash.
3. Option 2: By Airport Shuttle (Private or Shared)
Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
Cost: Around €25-€40 for a private shuttle, €10-€15 for a shared shuttle
Booking Platform: Shuttle Direct, Viator
If you prefer a more affordable and still relatively convenient option, consider taking an airport shuttle. During my visit, I opted for a shared shuttle service, which allowed me to pay a much lower price than a taxi while still enjoying door-to-door service. While shared shuttles may take slightly longer due to other stops along the way, it was a great way to meet other travelers and hear about their adventures in Portugal.
For those looking for a more exclusive experience, private shuttles are also available. These services are more expensive than shared shuttles, but they offer more flexibility and comfort. Companies like Shuttle Direct and Viator provide booking platforms where you can pre-arrange your shuttle service directly online, often with a variety of options that include both private and shared services. I found it particularly convenient to book my shuttle through Viator, where I could read reviews from other travelers to ensure I was getting a reliable service.
While shared shuttles are often cheaper, private shuttles are a great option if you value comfort and privacy. The cost for a private shuttle from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal is around €25-€40, while a shared shuttle will cost approximately €10-€15. If you’re traveling with a group or with heavy luggage, private shuttles could be worth the extra investment.
4. Option 3: By Bus (Public Transportation)
Estimated Time: 50-70 minutes
Cost: €5-€7
Booking Platform: Rede Expressos, ALSA
For those on a tighter budget or looking for an authentic, local experience, the bus is another option to reach Setúbal from Lisbon Airport. I took this option on a second visit, as I wanted to experience the local way of traveling and interact more with fellow travelers. From the airport, you can catch the Rede Expressos or ALSA buses from the main bus terminal, which is located near the arrivals hall.
The bus ride to Setúbal offers a comfortable and budget-friendly experience. Tickets cost around €5 to €7, which is a bargain compared to a taxi or private shuttle. The buses are clean and well-equipped, and the journey takes about 50 to 70 minutes. The buses are relatively frequent throughout the day, so I didn’t have to wait long for my departure.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the buses might not drop you off directly in the heart of Setúbal. Depending on your final destination, you might need to walk a bit or take a local taxi to your accommodation. But for the price, it’s an excellent choice, especially if you’re traveling solo or on a budget. You can book tickets directly on the Rede Expressos or ALSA websites, where you can also check schedules and availability.
5. Option 4: By Car Rental (For the Adventurous Traveler)
Estimated Time: 40-50 minutes
Cost: €25-€50 per day (depending on car type and rental duration)
Booking Platform: Rentalcars.com, Europcar
If you’re like me and enjoy having the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car from the airport is a fantastic option. I rented a car during my trip to Setúbal, as I wanted to have the flexibility to stop at charming towns and attractions along the way. The car rental process at Lisbon Airport was smooth and quick, with numerous rental car agencies like Europcar, Hertz, and Rentalcars.com all located in close proximity to the terminal.
Rental prices vary depending on the type of car you choose and the duration of your rental. You can expect to pay around €25-€50 per day for a compact car, and booking in advance via platforms like Rentalcars.com often provides discounts or special deals. I highly recommend booking early, especially during the summer months when demand for rental cars is higher. The convenience of having a rental car allowed me to take detours, explore more of the picturesque landscapes of the Setúbal region, and reach remote beaches or vineyards that would have been difficult to access by public transport.
6. Booking Flights to Lisbon
When planning your trip to Lisbon, securing the best flight deal is always a priority. Skyscanner is one of the most popular platforms for finding competitive prices. I often use it because it compares prices across different airlines and booking sites, giving you the best options for your preferred travel dates. You can filter your search based on flight duration, price, and stopovers. It’s an excellent tool for budget travelers who want to save on airfare.
Skyscanner also allows you to set up price alerts, which can help you monitor fluctuations in ticket prices and jump on deals as soon as they appear. This feature is especially useful for those with flexible travel dates, as you can choose the cheapest time to fly. I’ve saved quite a bit of money using these alerts, and I recommend it to anyone looking to maximize their travel budget.
If you’re flying from Europe, budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet frequently offer cheap flights to Lisbon from major cities across the continent. These no-frills carriers offer competitive fares, but keep in mind that additional fees for luggage or seat selection may apply. Despite these extra costs, Ryanair and EasyJet are still some of the most affordable options available for European travelers heading to Lisbon.
However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable experience, you can also find good deals on mainstream airlines like TAP Air Portugal or Iberia. These airlines often provide direct flights from major cities to Lisbon, and while their fares are typically higher than budget carriers, they offer added benefits like complimentary baggage allowance and more flexible ticket options.
For a more tailored search, Google Flights is another great platform for finding flight deals and comparing prices. I often use it to track fluctuations in airfare and set up price alerts, ensuring I don’t miss out on a great deal. Google Flights also allows you to explore alternate airports or different departure dates, giving you more flexibility and control over your travel plans.
To make your booking even more seamless, consider using Momondo as well, which offers detailed breakdowns of different pricing options. Once I found a great deal on Skyscanner, I checked Momondo to confirm I was getting the best rate possible. This combination has always worked well for me.
7. Smooth Sailing to Setúbal
Whether you prefer the convenience of a taxi, the budget-friendly option of a bus, or the flexibility of renting a car, getting from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal is a straightforward process. After all, the adventure begins the moment you land in Lisbon, and the journey to Setúbal offers a wonderful prelude to the beauty and charm of the town. By choosing the transportation method that best fits your schedule, budget, and preferences, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing everything Setúbal has to offer.
For those who are eager to make the most of their time in Lisbon, getting to Setúbal is part of the excitement. As you leave the airport, the journey from Lisbon to Setúbal feels like a transition from the vibrant city to the peaceful coast. The drive takes you past the stunning landscapes of the Setúbal Peninsula, and along the way, you might catch glimpses of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean, making the journey feel less like a chore and more like part of your adventure.
Taking a taxi or private shuttle is the most comfortable option for travelers who prefer direct service. On the other hand, taking the bus is an ideal option for those on a budget who are comfortable with a longer, more local experience. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and is perfect for travelers who enjoy road trips and spontaneous detours.
No matter how you choose to get to Setúbal, the journey will only enhance your excitement about exploring the stunning beaches, charming town, and beautiful natural surroundings that await. It’s always been part of the allure for me – the fact that Lisbon’s bustling energy is just a short distance away from Setúbal’s peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. And with so many transportation options available, reaching Setúbal from the airport has never been easier.
