If you were looking for the perfect excuse to cross the 25 de Abril Bridge, you’ve just received it from the United Nations. Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, a small and picturesque town in the municipality of Setúbal, has been officially distinguished as “Best Tourism Village 2025” by UN Tourism (World Tourism Organization).
This distinction—also awarded to Loriga and Mértola —is not just a “medal,” but official recognition that this village is an example in promoting sustainable tourism in line with the development of the local community, without losing its cultural identity. Located just 35 kilometers from Lisbon, Vila Nogueira de Azeitão is well worth a visit .
Flavors and aromas at the foot of Arrábida
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Located at the foot of Arrábida, when it comes to Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, rather than explaining or writing beautiful tributes, it is best to taste it for yourself. From regional cheeses to the famous Tortas de Azeitão, not to mention the aromas of the wine cellars, here gastronomy and wine tourism take center stage.
In this sense, a getaway to this beautiful location cannot be complete without a stop for wine tasting; after all, this is the land of the famous muscatel wine. So, take the opportunity to explore historic wineries such as the José Maria da Fonseca House Museum and Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal. After that, get ready to devour cakes at Casa Negrito and the century-old Casa das Tortas (founded in 1910).
What to visit in Vila Nogueira de Azeitão?
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In addition to the charms of flavors and aromas, there are other points of interest when visiting one of UN Tourism’s “Best Tourism Villages 2025. “ For example, if you appreciate historic buildings, it is worth visiting the Palace of the Dukes of Aveiro —a direct testimony to the local aristocratic past.
The Pelourinho and the Church of São Lourenço (with its tile panel) are also worth a few photos for history buffs. However, if you’re looking for the perfect image for your feed, it’s best to stop by the colorful 18th-century Fonte dos Pasmados fountain. Considered a local landmark, it is said that its peculiar name is due to the reaction of admiration of those who contemplate it.
How to get there from Lisbon?
Getting to Vila Nogueira de Azeitão can take a long or short time, depending on traffic and your means of transport. Without a doubt, traveling by car is always the fastest option. To do so, just cross the 25 de Abril Bridge and take the A2 towards Setúbal. Then, take exit 2 (Fogueteiro) or the exit for Azeitão/Sesimbra via the N10.
Public transport is also an option to consider, particularly for those who want a more economical route. You can take the 4730 bus (Carris Metropolitana), which departs from Lisbon (Sete Rios) towards Setúbal, passing through the center of Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, without any transfers.
Alternatively, you can choose to combine train and bus. How? Take the Fertagus train from any Lisbon station towards Setúbal. Then get off at Coina station and, right outside the station, you will find several Carris Metropolitana buses that connect to the center of Azeitão.
Amidst traditional flavors and historic aromas, cradled by the photogenic beauty of Arrábida, Vila Nogueira de Azeitão invites you to take a trip outside Lisbon where the greatest luxury is simply to slow down.