Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) to Setúbal is by taking the Aerobus to Sete Rios station and then the Fertagus train. This route balances speed, cost, and convenience. The total journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and costs around â¬7-10 per person. The cheapest option is the Metro + Fertagus train combo (â¬3-5), while the fastest door-to-door option is a taxi or private transfer (40-50 min, â¬70+).
By Train: The Fastest and Most Scenic Public Transport
The train is the top-recommended public transport method. It involves a short transfer in Lisbon to the Fertagus commuter line, which crosses the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge offering stunning views. There are two efficient route combinations from the airport.
Recommended Route: Aerobus + Fertagus Train
Best for: Most travelers, especially with luggage. Total Time: ~75 min. Total Cost: ~â¬7-10.
- Catch the Aerobus: Outside Arrivals, take the Aerobus (Line 1) to its final stop, Sete Rios (journey: 25-35 min, cost: â¬4). Buses run every 20-30 minutes.
- Walk to the Train Station: At Sete Rios, follow signs for âComboios/Trainsâ for a 3-minute walk to the Roma-Areeiro train station.
- Take the Fertagus Train: Board a Fertagus train bound for Setúbal or Praias do Sado (journey: 40 min, cost: ~â¬3.05). Trains depart every 15-30 minutes. Validate your ticket before boarding.
Budget Route: Metro + Fertagus Train
Best for: Budget travelers, those familiar with metros. Total Time: ~80-90 min. Total Cost: ~â¬3-5 (using a reusable âZappingâ card).
- Take the Lisbon Metro: At the airport, follow signs to the Metro (Red Line). Take a train towards S. Sebastião.
- Change Metro Lines: At S. Sebastião, switch to the Green Line towards Telheiras or the Yellow Line towards Odivelas. Get off at Entre Campos (2 stops).
- Take the Fertagus Train: The train station is integrated with the metro. Follow signs for âFertagusâ and take a train to Setúbal (journey: 40 min).
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Company | Fertagus |
| Key Departure Stations in Lisbon | Entrecampos, Roma-Areeiro |
| Frequency | Every 15-30 mins (peak), every 30 mins (off-peak) |
| Journey Time to Setúbal | ~40 minutes |
| Single Ticket Cost | ~â¬3.05 (with Zapping card) | ~â¬3.90 (paper ticket) |
| First/Last Train from Lisbon | ~5:30 AM / ~1:30 AM (approx.) |
| Luggage | Ample overhead and floor space in designated areas. |
Why Choose the Train?
- Speed & Reliability: Avoids Lisbon's road traffic, especially during rush hour.
- Scenic Value: Unbeatable views from the bridge.
- Frequency: No long waits.
- Comfort: Modern, air-conditioned carriages with Wi-Fi on some services.
By Bus: The Direct Budget Alternative
Direct buses are operated by Rede Expressos. This is a good option if your destination is near the Setúbal bus station, but be mindful of traffic delays leaving Lisbon.
Step-by-Step: Taking the Direct Bus
- Walk to the Bus Terminal: From Arrivals, follow signs to the âRodoviáriaâ (Bus Terminal). It's a 5-7 minute walk or a short ride on the free airport shuttle to Terminal 2.
- Purchase a Ticket: Buy a ticket at the Rede Expressos counter or, better yet, book online in advance to secure a seat, especially on weekends or holidays.
- Board the Bus: Buses to Setúbal typically depart from Platform 19 or 20. Check the screens.
- Arrive in Setúbal: The journey takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. You'll arrive at the Setúbal Rede Expressos Terminal (Avenida 5 de Outubro).
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Rede Expressos |
| Frequency | Approx. every 1-2 hours |
| Average Journey Time | 50-90 minutes (highly traffic-dependent) |
| Advance Ticket Price (Online) | â¬6-â¬8 |
| Ticket Price at Station | â¬7-â¬9 |
| Luggage Allowance | One suitcase + one carry-on in the hold (included). |
| Key Advantage | Direct, no transfers. |
| Key Disadvantage | Unpredictable travel time due to Lisbon traffic. |
Bus vs. Train: Which is Better for You?
- Choose the Bus if: You want a direct ride without any transfers, your accommodation is near the Setúbal bus station, and you are traveling outside of Lisbon's rush hours (7-9:30 AM, 5-7:30 PM).
- Choose the Train if: You prioritize a guaranteed travel time, want a scenic route, or are traveling during peak traffic periods.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option, ideal for specific circumstances. Official airport taxis (white/black with a rooftop light) are readily available outside Arrivals.
Taxi Details
- Average Cost: â¬70 - â¬90. The fare is metered but includes airport surcharges and baggage fees. Toll fees for the bridge (approx. â¬2) are extra.
- Journey Time: 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic.
- How to Pay: Cash or card are generally accepted. Always confirm the estimated total fare with the driver before departing.
Pre-Booked Private Transfer
Booking in advance with a company like Welcome Pickups or Booking.com Transfers offers fixed pricing and a driver meeting you with a name sign.
- Average Cost: â¬75 - â¬100 for a standard car.
- Advantages: Fixed price (no surprise fees), 24/7 service, meet-and-greet, often includes flight tracking for delays.
- Best For: Families with young children, groups of 3-4, travelers with a lot of luggage, late-night/early-morning arrivals, or those seeking maximum comfort and stress-free travel.
When is a Taxi/Transfer Worth It?
Consider this option if: 1) Your flight arrives after 11:00 PM (when public transport is scarce), 2) You are a group of 3 or more (splitting the cost makes it reasonable), 3) You have mobility issues or excessive luggage, or 4) Your accommodation is far from Setúbal's train/bus station.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: Lisbon Airport to Setúbal
Use this table to quickly compare all your options at a glance.
| Transport Method | Total Approx. Cost (One Way) | Total Approx. Travel Time | Transfers / Complexity | Best For | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerobus + Fertagus Train | â¬7 - â¬10 | ~75 minutes | One easy transfer (Bus to Train) | Most travelers (Best overall balance) | âââââ |
| Metro + Fertagus Train | â¬3 - â¬5 (Cheapest) | ~80-90 minutes | One metro line change + train | Budget travelers, light packers | ââââ |
| Rede Expressos Direct Bus | â¬6 - â¬9 | 50 - 90 minutes (traffic-dependent) | None (Direct) | Those near Setúbal bus station, off-peak travel | âââ½ |
| Taxi (Airport Rank) | â¬70 - â¬90+ | 40 - 50 minutes | None (Direct) | Groups, late arrivals, door-to-door convenience | âââ (for value) |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | â¬75 - â¬100+ | 40 - 50 minutes | None (Direct) | Families, peace of mind, fixed pricing | ââââ (for service) |
Verdict: For solo travelers/couples, the train combination is the clear winner. For groups of 3+, a taxi/transfer can be cost-competitive and far more convenient.
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Go beyond the basics with these insights from seasoned travelers.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Get a Reusable âZappingâ Card: If using public transport in Lisbon (metro, buses), buy a rechargeable Viva Viagem card and load it with âZappingâ credit. It's cheaper per journey than single paper tickets and works on metros, city buses, and the Fertagus train to Setúbal.
- Mind the Rush Hour: If taking the bus or taxi, avoid leaving the airport between 7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:30 PM on weekdays to escape severe traffic on the bridge and motorway.
- Validate Your Train Ticket! If using a paper ticket on Fertagus, you MUST validate it in the small yellow machines before boarding. Failure to do so can result in a fine. Zapping cards are validated when you tap in.
- Download Helpful Apps: Use CP (Comboios de Portugal) for train times and Rede Expressos for bus schedules and tickets.
Navigating Lisbon Airport & Stations
- Airport Layout: All transport options (metro, bus terminal, taxi rank) are well-signposted in English from the Arrivals hall. Allow an extra 10-15 minutes to find your way if it's your first time.
- At Sete Rios/Roma-Areeiro: The connection from the Aerobus stop to the train station is via an elevated walkway. Look for the âCPâ or âComboiosâ signs.
- Arriving in Setúbal by Train: The Setúbal train station is about a 15-minute walk from the historic city center. Taxis are usually waiting outside, or you can use a ride-hailing app like Bolt.
FAQs: Lisbon Airport to Setúbal Transportation
What is the cheapest way to get from Humberto Delgado Airport to Setúbal?
The cheapest option is the combination of the Lisbon Metro and the Fertagus commuter train. The total cost is around â¬3-5 per person, depending on your metro/train ticket choice (like the Zapping card). This is significantly cheaper than a taxi (â¬70+) or a private transfer.
What is the fastest way to get from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal?
The fastest way for most travelers is the direct Aerobus to Sete Rios + Fertagus Train route, taking about 1 hour 15 minutes total. For door-to-door speed without transfers, a taxi or private transfer is fastest (approx. 40-50 minutes), but at a much higher cost.
Is there a direct train from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal?
No, there is no direct train from the airport to Setúbal. You must first travel from the airport to a main Lisbon train station (Entrecampos or Sete Rios) that connects to the Fertagus line to Setúbal. This transfer is easy via metro or bus.
How much is a taxi from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal?
A pre-booked taxi or airport taxi from Lisbon Airport to Setúbal typically costs between â¬70 and â¬90. Prices can be higher at night, on weekends, or in heavy traffic. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Can I use the Lisboa Card for the trip to Setúbal?
No, the Lisboa Card only covers transport within Lisbon's city network. The Fertagus train to Setúbal operates in a different fare zone (Setúbal/âPenÃnsula de Setúbalâ). You will need a separate ticket for the train portion of the journey.
I arrive late at night. What are my options to get to Setúbal?
After the last trains and buses (around 11:30 PM-1:00 AM), your only options are a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. While expensive, this is the only guaranteed transport. We strongly advise booking a transfer in advance if your flight lands late.
Is the bus or train better to get to Setúbal?
The train is generally better and more recommended. It's faster, more frequent, offers scenic views over the Tagus River via the 25 de Abril Bridge, and has a dedicated, reliable schedule. The bus is a valid budget alternative but is subject to Lisbon road traffic delays.
Where exactly does the train to Setúbal depart from in Lisbon?
Trains to Setúbal on the Fertagus line depart from two main stations in Lisbon: Estação Entrecampos and Estação do Roma-Areeiro (which is connected to Sete Rios). You can reach both easily from the airport via the Red Metro line to 'S. Sebastião' and then changing to the Green or Yellow line.