Distrito de Setúbal Travel Forum

Hi. We would like to holiday in the Setubal area this year as we think it could be a good place to purchase a holiday home but we normally go to the Algarve where the kids (3yrs & 2yrs) love the waterparks. We are worried there may not be enough to keep them occupied on the Lisbon Coast and so wonder how far/how long it would take to drive to say Lagoa in the Algarve, for a day at a waterpark? Also any ideas on things for young children more locally would be much appreciated. Thanks!

You are looking at at least 2 hours by toll motorway.

If you take the scenic coastal route via Troia, Vila Nova Milfontes, Aljezur, Lagos allow 2 hrs. 30 mins depending on time of year.

In Lisbon there are great things for kids such as the massive walk through Aquarium at Parque de Nações, the Zoo at Sete Rios, Tram Rides, the train ride along the Coast to Cascais, Toys R Us in the Colombo Centre, the kiddies park with rides etc. also in Colombo Centre.

All accessible by Fertagus train and Metro from Setubal station over the 25 Abril bridge and into Lisbon.

In the area of Setúbal you can always take trips to see the dolphins and boat tours along the coast (check for e.g. www.sal.pt or mail them to sal@sal.pt). In Santiago do Cacém there is a nice park for Kids called Badoca Park (it's a safari park with giraffes, zebras, deers, etc). Most animals are free and you can feed them and touch them.
In Lisbon you can't forget to check the Oceanário in the Expo Park (Oriente Subway Station) nearby, in the pavillion of the Knowledge, there are normally temporary expositions about the human body or other science themes. On the other side of the city (Algés) there is other smaller aquarium but also quite nice. And you can always check the zoo that has a small amusement park.
About your trip towards south to the waterpark you can take the scenery trip through the coastal road or the highway. Dependending on the area of the Setúbal District you are in it can take up to 3hours.

Have a nice trip!
João