From Lisbon: Comporta and Setúbal Trip with Horseback Riding

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Lisbon and experience a slice of Portugal’s unspoiled coast, this Comporta and Setúbal trip with horseback riding might catch your eye. It’s a well-rounded day that blends culture, nature, and a bit of adventure—perfect for travelers wanting more than just city sights.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances a scenic drive through charming towns with a genuinely unique activity—horseback riding on the beach. Plus, the visit to Setúbal, with its vibrant fish market and historic sites, adds a flavor of local life that’s often missed in typical tours.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is geared toward beginners or those who aren’t looking for a high-adrenaline ride. The tour is adapted to a broad range of riding abilities, but if you’re expecting to gallop wildly along the shoreline, you might be disappointed. This trip is best suited for those who appreciate gentle adventures, scenic views, and a taste of authentic Portuguese coastal life.

If you’re craving an active, nature-filled day that combines cultural highlights with a memorable horseback ride, this tour could be just the thing. It’s a solid choice for travelers who don’t mind a full schedule, want to see a less touristy side of Portugal, and are open to a relaxed but scenic experience.

Key Points

• Includes transportation and ferry transfers, making logistics simpler for travelers.
• Horse riding is suitable for beginners and adapted to riding levels, but the maximum weight limit is 95 kg.
• Visit both Setúbal and Comporta, with opportunities to explore local markets, historic sites, and pristine beaches.
• Scenic ferry ride to Troia Peninsula offers views of pine forests, rice paddies, and occasional dolphin sightings.
• Small group size (limited to 15 participants) ensures a more personal experience.
• The tour lasts around 6 hours, perfect for a day trip but not too exhausting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at Praça Marquês de Pombal

The tour kicks off in Lisbon’s busy heart at Praça Marquês de Pombal. This is a convenient meeting spot close to public transport and central enough to start your day smoothly. Gather your energy, hop into the van, and get ready for the scenic drive ahead.

Drive to Setúbal and Visit Mercado do Livramento

The first leg involves about a 45-minute bus ride to Setúbal, a lively fishing town famed for its seafood. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of Mercado do Livramento, often called one of Portugal’s best fish markets. Expect a vibrant scene with a rainbow of fresh catches, local produce, and a real sense of the town’s seafaring spirit.

Reviewers love this part, calling it “interesting” and emphasizing the “fishing life vibe.” It’s a chance to see how local people buy and sell their daily catch and maybe pick up a pastry or fruit for later. Plus, the historic center and São Filipe Fortress offer stunning panoramic views and a taste of local history—these sites are well worth the visit.

Ferry Ride to Troia Peninsula

Next, you’ll hop on a ferry for about 30 minutes to Troia. This boat ride isn’t just transportation; it’s a chance to soak up the scenery—pine forests, sand dunes, and the Atlantic horizon. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, as some visitors have spotted them during the crossing.

This part of the trip is especially calming and scenic. Many reviewers highlight how the ferry ride offers breathtaking views, making it a relaxing break before more activity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Horseback Riding at Comporta

Once on Troia, the highlight is the horseback riding experience in Comporta, a protected natural reserve known for its white sands and rice paddies. Here, you’ll meet your guide and horses, most of which are calm and suitable for beginners.

The guide will tailor the experience to your comfort and riding level. As one reviewer noted, “Maria was excellent and tailored each person’s experience,” allowing seasoned riders to gallop on the beach, while beginners can enjoy a more leisurely trot.

You’ll ride across rice paddies, pine forests, and dunes, eventually reaching the Atlantic coast. The landscape is utterly gorgeous—think endless white sands, shimmering water, and wildlife. The ride generally lasts about an hour, but the experience of riding along the shoreline and feeling the sea breeze is what makes it memorable.

A bonus here: some riders have commented on how peaceful and safe they felt, even those riding for the first time. It’s clear that the guides prioritize safety and enjoyment.

Return to Lisbon

After the ride, you’ll head back by bus for about 1.5 hours, passing through scenic countryside. Once back in Lisbon, the guide will usually give some recommendations for your stay, rounding out the day.

What’s Included and What Not

You’re paying around $284 per person for this full-day experience, which includes round-trip transportation, ferry transfer, and horseback riding. That’s decent value considering the diversity of activities packed into a single day—no hidden transportation costs or extra fees for the ferry or guide.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so planning some snacks or a packed lunch is smart, especially if you want to maximize your time at each stop. Hotel pickup isn’t part of the package, so you’ll need to meet at the starting point in Praça Marquês de Pombal, but that’s straightforward enough if you’re already central.

Group Size and Flexibility

With a group limited to 15, the tour feels intimate and personal. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds a layer of flexibility—something we all appreciate when booking day trips.

Ride Safety and Restrictions

The tour is perfect for beginners since it’s adapted for all riding levels. Still, there are some restrictions—participants should weigh no more than 95 kg and be at least 12 years old. This focus on safety ensures everyone feels comfortable, but it’s good to know in advance if you’re traveling with younger teens or heavier riders.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Many reviewers rave about the guides and drivers, highlighting their professionalism and friendliness. For instance, “Artur (driver) and Maria (guide) were such generous hosts,” and “Miguel was very professional and helpful,” show that the team makes an effort to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.

The horseback riding itself gets rave reviews, with many saying it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One reviewer called it a “great adventure,” and others appreciated that Maria tailored the ride to their comfort and skill level.

The scenic views, especially along the coast and in Setúbal, are frequently praised. One person described the landscape as “paradisiacal,” with blue sea, white sand, and lush pine forests. Several reviewers mentioned they were surprised by how beautiful and untouched Comporta is—less touristy than expected and perfect for a peaceful ride.

A few minor criticisms include some wishing for more than just walking the horses; however, most seem satisfied with the gentle pace that suits a wide audience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This experience offers a gentle, scenic escape from Lisbon that combines cultural highlights with outdoor adventure. It’s ideal for those who want to see Portugal’s coast without the high price tag or long hours. If you enjoy nature, local markets, and a relaxing horseback ride, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s especially suited for beginners or casual riders who appreciate safety and comfort. If you’re looking for adrenaline or a canter on the beach, this might feel too mellow—but for most, the views and relaxed pace are enough to make it memorable.

Travelers who love small-group experiences and want a mix of culture and nature find this tour offers good value. Just remember, it’s a full day—so be prepared for an active schedule, some driving, and plenty of scenic moments.

FAQ

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ride is adapted for all levels, including beginners. Guides tailor the experience to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable.

What is the maximum weight for participants?
The maximum allowed weight is 95 kg, to prioritize safety and comfort for both rider and horse.

How long is the horseback riding session?
The horseback riding lasts about an hour, during which you’ll ride across rice paddies, pine forests, and beaches.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to buy something in Setúbal.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and perhaps a hat. Having closed-toe shoes suitable for riding is recommended.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and relaxed adventure. It’s best for those who want a memorable day outside Lisbon, soaking up Portugal’s natural charm without intense activity or high adrenaline. If that sounds like you, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: