Things To Do
in Costa de Caparica

Costa de Caparica is a picturesque coastal town located just south of Lisbon, Portugal. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant surf culture, it attracts both locals and tourists seeking sun and relaxation. The town features a charming promenade lined with restaurants and shops, and is surrounded by lush natural parks.

With its proximity to the capital, it serves as a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Praia de Caparica, one of the most popular beaches where you can enjoy the sun and surf. Grab a traditional Portuguese breakfast at a nearby cafe.

afternoon
:

Explore the Caparica town center, visiting local shops and the beautiful Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church. Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood.

evening
:

Watch the sunset at the beach, followed by dinner at a local tapas bar, where you can try various Portuguese dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the nearby Arriba Fóssil da Costa de Caparica Natural Monument for a morning hike, enjoying scenic views of the cliffs and coastline.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the local food market to experience the local culture and sample some fresh produce. Enjoy lunch at one of the food stalls.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a beach bar for live music and a vibrant atmosphere, enjoying cocktails and local wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3
🏨Hotel per Night$70
🚍Public Transport Ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets.
  • Rich culinary scene focusing on fresh seafood.
  • Proximity to Lisbon, making it easily accessible.
  • Can be crowded during peak summer months.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to Lisbon.
  • Some areas may be affected by waste management issues.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Onde fica a praia?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Costa de Caparica

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia de Caparica

Famous for its expansive sandy beaches and stunning sunsets, it's a perfect spot for beach photography.

Arriba Fóssil

The dramatic cliffs and fossil formations provide an interesting backdrop for nature photography.

Caparica Promenade

A lively area where you can capture the essence of beach life with colorful bars and happy beachgoers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Costa de Caparica

Costa de Caparica offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese flavors.

Costa de Caparica Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bacalhau à Brás

A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, potatoes, and eggs, often garnished with olives.

Must-Try!

Sardinhas Assadas

Grilled sardines, especially popular during summer, served with bread and salad.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Almada

A vibrant market where you can find fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables, alongside food stalls offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Costa de Caparica has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can soar to around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures hover around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall is most common from November to March, making spring and summer the most favorable seasons for outdoor activities and beach visits.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating, and it's polite to say 'Bom Apetite' before starting.

Dress Code

Casual beachwear is acceptable during the day, but dress smartly for dinner or evening outings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Costa de Caparica is generally a safe destination, but standard precautions should be observed. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid isolated beaches after dark. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Costa de Caparica

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Costa de Caparica sees mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits without the summer crowds.

Summer

Summer brings hot weather and bustling beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

Autumn

Autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it a great time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cool and wet, but it’s a peaceful time to visit with fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices.

Nightlife Guide

Costa de Caparica at Night

Costa de Caparica boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, especially during the summer months. Beach bars and clubs come alive with music, dance, and social gatherings. Popular spots like Praia do Rei and Onda Bar feature live DJs and themed parties, drawing both locals and tourists. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with many places offering beachfront views and late-night dancing.

Hiking in Costa de Caparica

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ponta da Ursa Trail

A scenic trail that leads to breathtaking views of the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for nature lovers.

Cabo Espichel Trail

Located a short drive away, this trail offers stunning landscapes and historical sites, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Costa de Caparica by plane.

Lisbon Portela Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Costa de Caparica, this is the main international airport serving Lisbon, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Costa de Caparica is quite walkable, particularly along the beachfront promenade which stretches for kilometers. Many amenities such as cafes, shops, and restaurants are conveniently located within walking distance. However, some areas may require a short drive or public transport if you venture further inland.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Many locals live in Costa de Caparica, enjoying the relaxed beach lifestyle while commuting to Lisbon for work.

Tourists

The town attracts a diverse range of tourists, from beachgoers to surfers and families seeking a holiday destination.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

The Atlantic waves make Costa de Caparica a hotspot for surfing, attracting surfers of all skill levels.

Beach Soccer

Popular among locals, beach soccer is frequently played on the sandy shores, with informal games often open to newcomers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Costa de Caparica is generally light, but can become congested during peak summer months, especially on weekends. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Lisbon and neighboring areas, though schedules may be limited on weekends. Cycling is also encouraged, and many visitors rent bikes to explore the coastal area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Costa de Caparica.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, particularly in larger restaurants, but always confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Costa de Caparica is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals in the region. Emergency services can be accessed by calling 112, and most healthcare professionals speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide