From Lisbon: Private Wine Tour with Wine & Cheese Tasting

If you’re planning a day out from Lisbon that combines wine, culture, and gorgeous scenery, this Private Wine Tour with Wine & Cheese Tasting might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a full-day experience that promises not only tasting some of Portugal’s finest wines and cheeses but also exploring key spots like traditional tile factories and scenic viewpoints.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its well-curated itinerary and the chance to enjoy it with a local guide who can bring each stop to life. Plus, the mix of tasting and sightseeing offers a satisfying balance—no rush, plenty of information, and some stunning visuals along the way.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a long day—about 9 to 10 hours—so it might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited energy. This tour tends to work best for those who love a good mix of cultural discovery and wine appreciation.

Overall, if you enjoy learning about local traditions, sampling regional specialties, and seeing Portugal’s countryside in comfort, this experience likely has something to offer you.

Key Points

• All-inclusive private experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Tasty combination of cheese, wine, and scenic stops—perfect for food and drink lovers.
• Diverse itinerary including markets, wineries, tile factories, and viewpoints.
• Expert guides who provide engaging insights and personalized attention.
• Long but rewarding day designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.
• Great value for the price considering the number of tastings and attractions included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Private Lisbon Region Wine & Cheese Tour

This private tour offers a chance to explore the Lisbon District’s scenic and cultural hotspots, all wrapped into a single day. It’s run by Natalia Portugalia Tours, and from reviews, it’s clear that guides like Natalia excel at making the experience engaging and informative.

How It All Begins: Pickup and First Impressions

The tour starts with hotel pickup — an advantage if you’re staying in Lisbon or nearby areas like Almada, Setúbal, or Sesimbra. The vehicle is air-conditioned and marked clearly, making it easy to find your driver. The entire experience is designed to be flexible, with pickup options tailored to different locations, which is great for travelers staying outside the city center.

Right from the start, you’ll notice the focus on comfort and convenience. This is a private group experience, so you’re not sharing with strangers, which means a more personalized vibe.

Setting the Stage at Livramento Market

The first major stop is the Livramento Market in Setúbal, renowned as one of the world’s best markets. Here, you’ll want to skip that heavy breakfast because you’ll dive into the local scene with cheese, rustic bread, and an array of fresh seafood, fruits, and regional produce.

Reviews from travelers like Melissa echo this, describing it as “amazing” and praising the artistry in the tile factory that follows. The market is an authentic peek into Portugal’s regional foods, with plenty of opportunities to shop for souvenirs or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

Expect about 50 minutes here—enough time for a guided tour, some shopping, and tasting. It’s a casual, lively start that sets the tone for the day.

Scenic Drive through Arrábida Natural Park

Next, you’ll hop into your vehicle for a scenic drive along the mountain roads of Arrábida Natural Park. This is a highlight for many, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Sado River, Sesimbra Castle, and the lush landscapes that make this area special.

You’ll stop at a viewpoint to breathe in the fresh air and snap some photos of the coastline—views that make it clear why this area is considered a gem. As K notes in reviews, guides like Natalia are highly knowledgeable about the area, making the drive both informative and visually stunning.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Winemaking Traditions at José Maria da Fonseca

A visit to the oldest wine cellar in the region, José Maria da Fonseca, is next. Here, you’ll get a guided tour into the wine-making process and enjoy tastings of the first red table wine of Portugal and the famous purple Moscatel, unique to the Setúbal Peninsula.

The wineries visited aren’t just about tasting—they’re about understanding the history and craftsmanship behind Portugal’s wine traditions. Reviews frequently mention how much visitors appreciated the insightful guidance and the chance to sample a variety of wines. The tasting is a highlight, especially for wine buffs looking to deepen their appreciation.

Discovering Ceramic Art at Azulejos de Azeitão

A trip to the tile factory is a real treat, especially if you have an interest in arts and crafts. You’ll see artisans at work, painting and glazing the beautiful ceramic tiles that Portugal is famous for.

The behind-the-scenes look at how the tiles are made gives a tangible sense of tradition and craftsmanship. And afterward, you’ll find a variety of souvenirs in the shop—perfect for gifts or keepsakes.

Visiting Bacalhôa Wines and Art

Next, the tour takes you to Quinta da Bacalhoa, a winery known for its impressive art collection and historic cellars. The visit includes a tour of the estate, seeing ancient olive trees and artistic displays, and concluding with a tasting of three distinguished wines.

Though some reviews mention that the art exhibitions can feel a bit “forced,” most appreciate the overall experience, especially the chance to compare different styles of wine and learn about the estate’s history.

Walking the Moorish Castle and Panoramic Views

No trip to this region would be complete without a stroll along the 9th-century Moorish Castle walls. From there, you’ll get sweeping panoramas of Arrábida, Sintra mountains, and the fishing village of Sesimbra. Be sure to bring your camera!

This area allows you to step back in time and enjoy views that are both peaceful and inspiring. Many reviews highlight how relaxing and beautiful this stop is—especially if the weather is clear.

Ending with Cristo Rei and Lisbon Views

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Cristo Rei statue, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Lisbon, including the iconic 25 April Bridge. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the day and take some memorable photos before heading back. The return trip across Europe’s longest suspension bridge is a scenic and satisfying end to your adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing but prefer it to be private and tailored. It suits travelers who want to learn about local traditions like tile making and wine production while enjoying scenic landscapes.

Keep in mind, it’s quite a long day—so it’s best for those comfortable with 9-10 hours of activity. It’s not suited for anyone looking for a slow, relaxed pace or with mobility issues, given the walking and sightseeing involved. But for curious travelers eager to understand Portugal beyond Lisbon, this tour offers a compelling, well-rounded glimpse.

Practical Details & Value

At $226 per person, this tour is a solid value considering the inclusions: hotel pickup/drop-off, multiple wine tastings, cheese and bread at the market, and visits to historic and artistic sites. The private aspect ensures you won’t be crammed or rushed, making it more comfortable than a large-group tour.

The tour is operated in several languages, including English, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Slovak, and Czech, accommodating a diverse range of travelers. Booking is flexible, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—a plus if your plans might change.

Final Thoughts

This private Lisbon region tour offers a thorough, engaging experience blending wine, culture, and scenery in one day. It’s especially appealing if you value personalized attention and want to explore beyond Lisbon’s city limits without feeling hurried.

The combination of guided tastings, scenic drives, and hands-on experiences like tile making makes it a well-rounded choice for those curious about Portuguese traditions and landscapes. The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and quality of the wine and food.

If you’re eager for a day that balances beautiful sights with authentic tastes, this tour is a smart pick. It’s less about ticking boxes and more about truly experiencing a slice of Portugal’s soul—one sip, one view at a time.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $226?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, wine tastings, bottled water, cheese and bread sampling at the market, all entrance fees, and a guided tour.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the tour provides several opportunities to try regional food, like a nice restaurant for tapas or a local eatery suggested for lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs about 9 to 10 hours, giving ample time to visit all the stops comfortably.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, guides are flexible and can adapt the schedule based on weather or your interests, as some reviewers note.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s mainly designed for adult travelers who enjoy wine and cultural experiences. While not specifically geared towards kids, families with older children interested in these activities might find it enjoyable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing for walking, along with layers if the weather is variable. Don’t forget your camera!

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, some walking at stops like the Moorish Castle and tile factory is expected, but overall, it’s manageable for most travelers.

How is the guide?
Reviews consistently praise guides like Natalia for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging—making the day both educational and fun.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see another side of Portugal, combining scenic vistas, historic sites, and tasty treats. Whether you’re a wine lover or just eager to explore the charming countryside near Lisbon, it’s worth considering for your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: