What to do in São Sebastião

Activities, attractions and tours

Places to Visit in São Sebastião

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in São Sebastião, Setubal while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best São Sebastião attractions from NZ$20, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group São Sebastião tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 126 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular São Sebastião. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities


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Top places to visit

1. Rossio Square

Officially named Praça Dom Pedro IV, this centrally located square is much more commonly known simply as Rossio. Come here at any time of the day to find the square abuzz, as people gather to socialize at cafés around the square’s edge.
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A plaza with patterned pavement, a fountain, and historic buildings in the background.

2. Santa Justa Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator connects the hilltop neighborhood Bairro Alto with downtown Baixa. The gothic, iron structure rises up from the neoclassical architecture of downtown. The elevator has been in operation since 1905 and was originally operated by a steam engine. Today it’s powered by an electric engine and is a great way to enjoy views over the city. Visit the elevator’s rooftop café.
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A historic bridge with ornate metalwork and a view of a cityscape with red-tiled roofs.

3. Commerce Square

Meet your friends, bring the family or simply bask in the busy sunlit atmosphere of Commerce Square. Known locally as the Praça do Comércio, this riverfront plaza was used historically as a meeting place for royals, although this stopped after the Great Earthquake of 1755.
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A plaza with a statue, a large archway, and yellow buildings.

4. Lisbon Oceanarium

Delight in the diversity and colours of majestic birds and exotic sea-dwellers at the Lisbon Oceanarium. This huge indoor aquarium with 8,000 inhabitants is one of Europe’s largest. It offers family-friendly fun while you learn about these intriguing ocean inhabitants.
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A modern indoor space with a large blue mosaic wall and wooden sculptures.

5. Castle of São Jorge

Engage with the city’s history at the Castle of São Jorge. This massive medieval structure has looked over the city from a hill by the Alfama district for centuries. Take a guided tour of the grounds to imagine the lives of its ancient inhabitants, admire its intricate stonework and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its well-positioned lookouts.
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A historic stone fortress overlooking a cityscape with red-roofed buildings.

6. Lisbon Cathedral

The Lisbon Cathedral (the Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa) is the city’s spiritual centre. As one of Lisbon’s oldest religious buildings, it has been remodelled several times. Enjoy it as a stunning compilation of shifting architectural styles.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and a tram in the foreground.

What to do in São Sebastião


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Day trip destinations from São Sebastião

Frequently asked questions

Is São Sebastião worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor pursuits, there are loads of great things to do in São Sebastião. Don't forget to discover the area's blend of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in São Sebastião?
Bonfim Park is a good place to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in São Sebastião while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in São Sebastião?
The top tourist attraction near São Sebastião is Park Natural da Arrabida, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in São Sebastião?
With a three-day getaway to São Sebastião, you can comfortably enjoy the area's many fabulous sights, such as Park Natural da Arrabida and Bonfim Park.
Is São Sebastião a walkable neighbourhood?
It's easy to explore São Sebastião by foot, with must-visit sights like Park Natural da Arrabida and Bonfim Park both within walking distance. Well-known neighbourhoods like São Julião, Nossa Senhora da Anunciada e Santa Maria da Graçan and São Julião are also located only 2 kilometres and 3 kilometres from the centre of São Sebastião, so you can see and do more — no wheels required.
What are some activities to do in São Sebastião with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in São Sebastião with kids.

What to do in São Sebastião for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in São Sebastião for adults.
Are there free things to do in São Sebastião?
One of the best free things to do in São Sebastião is check out Park Natural da Arrabida. You can also walk through nearby neighbourhoods and explore parks and other green spaces in the area. If you're stuck for ideas, just talk with a local tour guide.