When we look for memorable ways to explore Portugal beyond the usual sights, tours like this one truly catch our eye. This full-day experience from Lisbon promises a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation—perfect for those who want to see the country’s highlights without feeling rushed. From horseback riding on the beach to sampling regional wines and taking in stunning viewpoints, this tour covers quite a lot in just nine hours.

What really stands out are the personalized touches, like a private driver and guide, and the seamless way it combines different experiences into a single day. Plus, with the inclusion of entrance tickets and skip-the-line access, it’s designed to make your day smooth and hassle-free. However, it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite full, so if you’re not used to a busy day, it might feel a bit packed.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy a combination of active outdoor time, cultural insights, and scenic vistas. It’s especially good if you’re looking for an immersive day that feels authentic and offers some of Portugal’s best features—without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Key Points

Includes all entrance tickets and priority access to save time
Private driver and guide provide personalized attention
Horseback riding on the beach offers a unique connection with nature
Visit to a traditional farm and winery for tasting regional products
Stunning viewpoints like Cristo Rei and Seixal Bay for memorable photos
Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Day of Portuguese Charm and Variety

This tour packs a lot into just nine hours, making it an excellent choice if you want to maximize your day without the stress of logistics. It kicks off early in the morning, with a private driver picking you up from your Lisbon hotel. This approach is a real plus—it means no worries about navigating public transport or figuring out directions, especially if you’re new to the area.

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Horseback Riding on the Beach

The adventure begins at a farm where you get to saddle up for a 2.5-hour horseback ride on the beach. If you love animals or enjoy outdoor activities, this is a fantastic highlight. The scenery during the ride is striking—waves crashing nearby, wide stretches of sand, and perhaps even some seagulls overhead. We loved the way the experience connects you with nature and gives you a different perspective on Portugal’s coastline.

The guides here are knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights into the horses and the local environment. As one reviewer pointed out, “Claudia was very nice and always guiding us with valuable information about the places.” So, expect not just a ride but a bit of storytelling and cultural context along the way.

Lunch in Sesimbra

After the ride, you’ll stop in the charming fishing village of Sesimbra. Here, the focus shifts to tasting some of the freshest seafood in Portugal. The lunch break typically lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the local cuisine. Whether it’s grilled fish, seafood rice, or other regional specialties, you’ll find that the seafood here is a highlight of the day.

The village itself is picturesque, with narrow streets, a lively harbor, and views across the bay. It’s a great spot for photos and soaking up the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional seaside town.

Wine Tasting at a Farm in Azeitão

Next, the tour takes you to a famous wine farm in Azeitão for a tasting session. This part of the day really impressed us because of how educational and immersive it was. The wine cellar tours explain the production process, and the tastings feature local varieties you might not find elsewhere. The guide’s knowledge about Portuguese wines adds depth, turning a simple tasting into a small lesson.

One guest shared, “The wine tasting was excellent, and the guide explained everything about the wine production and export process.” If you enjoy vino, this is a treat—and it’s a good way to slow down and savor Portugal’s traditions.

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Scenic Viewpoints and Cultural Stops

The tour doesn’t end there. You’ll visit the Cristo Rei viewpoint in Almada, which offers sweeping views over Lisbon and the river. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially at sunset, which makes for a dramatic end to the day. We loved how the tour includes this peaceful pause amid a busy schedule.

Later, a short ferry crossing takes you from Baía do Seixal to Cais do Sodré, giving you a taste of local transport and adding to the adventure. The entire experience is well-paced, with a total of about 25 minutes on the river boat.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

There are several elements that really elevate this experience. First, the private driver and guide ensure you’re well looked after and can customize parts of the day if needed. Second, the seamless timing with pre-arranged tickets and skip-the-line access means no waiting around; you spend more time enjoying the sights.

The variety of stops—from horseback riding to wine tasting—means you get a full spectrum of Portugal’s highlights. Plus, the small group size (limit of 10 participants) makes it more intimate and engaging, allowing your guide to focus more on your interests.

Potential Drawbacks

Of course, a packed schedule isn’t for everyone. If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace or wants more time at each site, this might feel a little rushed. Plus, the tour involves a lot of moving parts—ferry crossings, multiple stops—which could be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Another point to consider is the cost—it’s a full-day experience with many included activities, so the price reflects that. For travelers looking for a budget option, it’s worth comparing with other smaller or self-guided options, but in terms of convenience and inclusiveness, it offers good value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day that introduces them to Portugal’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural highlights. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding, as well as wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about regional varieties.

If you appreciate guided tours that handle all the logistics—like transport, tickets, and timing—this is a strong pick. It’s also great for couples celebrating special occasions or anyone looking to tick off several must-see spots in one day.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this full-day tour from Lisbon offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. The fact that it’s tailored with a private guide and includes all entrance fees makes it a hassle-free way to explore Portugal’s coastal regions and countryside.

What stands out most is the combination of horseback riding on the beach and a visit to a traditional wine farm, giving you deep, authentic experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. The viewpoints and ferry crossing also add a sense of exploration and fun.

If you’re looking for a day that blends activity with cultural discovery, and don’t mind a packed schedule, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

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From Lisbon: Amazing Full-Day Tour with Horse Riding on the Beach

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FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, a private driver and guide are included for the entire day, starting from your Lisbon hotel.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and sports shoes. The guide recommends these for comfort and safety, especially during horseback riding.

How long is the horseback riding?
The horseback ride on the beach lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a meal included?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch break in Sesimbra, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and regional dishes.

What’s the schedule like?
The tour starts at 9:00 a.m. and ends around 7:00 p.m., with ferry crossing included.

Is this experience suitable for families with children?
The tour involves outdoor activities and transportation, but the suitability for children depends on their comfort with horseback riding and a full schedule. It’s best to evaluate this based on your family’s specific needs.

Are entrance tickets included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees for the stops are included, helping you skip lines and save time.

What languages is the guide available in?
The guides speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Portugal’s coastal charm, regional wines, and scenic vistas—all in one carefully curated day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply eager to see more of Portugal beyond Lisbon, it’s an experience worth considering.