Portugal is renowned for its rich wine culture, lively taverns, and scenic coastlines, making it the ideal destination for memorable drinking tours. Whether you’re savoring local wines in Lisbon or celebrating New Year’s on a VIP ship, the country offers diverse ways to indulge. We love the From Lisbon: Wine, Beer, and Tapas Tasting at a Spa for its relaxing combination of flavorful tastings and luxurious spa experience—perfect for those who want a taste of Portugal’s culinary traditions while unwinding. The Lisbon New Year’s Eve VIP Ship tops our list for travelers seeking a glamorous celebration with panoramic river views and lively entertainment.
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of tours: from intimate tastings with local cheeses and Portuguese wines to an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party out on the water. Each experience offers a unique take on Portugal’s love for good drinks and good times. Let’s explore these options and help you pick the perfect one for your trip.
1. From Lisbon: Wine, Beer, and Tapas Tasting at a Spa
At number 1, this Wine, Beer, and Tapas experience offers a surprising blend of relaxation and flavor. For 3 hours, you’ll be picked up by a private driver from your Lisbon hotel and taken to a luxurious spa, where you can indulge in a guided tasting of Portuguese wines and local beers. The tour also includes cheese and food tastings, giving you a true taste of Portugal’s culinary diversity.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of sensory indulgence and comfort. Instead of a typical pub crawl, you get to relax in an immersive bath after sampling traditional flavors, making it particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy a calmer, more refined experience. The small group size (limited to 6) ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of tickets, insurance, and guide makes this a hassle-free way to sample Lisbon’s flavors.
This tour is perfect for those who want to combine tasting with a bit of pampering, ideal for couples or travelers with a taste for the luxurious. The only downside? You’ll need to bring your own bathrobe and slippers or buy them on-site.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, intimate way to enjoy Portugal’s drinks and spa culture—best suited for couples and those seeking a quiet, luxurious experience.
2. Lisbon: New Year’s Eve on a VIP Ship with Gala Dinner, DJ, and Premium Open Bar
For around 3 to 5 hours, this New Year’s Eve cruise offers one of the most festive ways to ring in the new year. The tour departs from Kattegat Lisboa and sails on the Lisbon river, the Tagus, providing panoramic views of fireworks over the city. You’ll enjoy a gala dinner with a luxurious menu, an open bar all night, and a live DJ spinning until dawn.
What makes this experience unique is the setting: a spacious VIP ship called Lisboa Vista do Tejo, providing both comfort and exclusivity. You’ll cruise past landmarks like the Commerce Square, 25 de Abril Bridge, Belem Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries, all lit up for New Year’s. The atmosphere is elegant yet lively, with plenty of dancing and mingling.
This tour is ideal for those who want a memorable, glamorous celebration without the hassle of city crowds. It is accessible (wheelchair-friendly) and includes an evening cruise, making it suitable for couples, groups, or anyone wanting to celebrate in style. The only point to consider is the cost, which is higher than typical pub nights, but the experience’s uniqueness makes it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A top pick for a luxurious, unforgettable New Year’s Eve with stunning views and all-night parties—best for those wanting a special celebration.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour for You
When selecting between these experiences, consider your priorities. If you prefer a peaceful, pampering tasting session, the Spa tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy Portugal’s flavors. For a lively, once-in-a-lifetime celebration, the VIP New Year’s Eve cruise provides a festive atmosphere with spectacular river views.
Balance your budget with your interests—tastings with food and drinks tend to be more affordable than exclusive celebrations on the water. Think about timing: a special event like New Year’s calls for early booking, especially for premium experiences. If you’re visiting Lisbon during the holiday season, reserve well ahead to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Portugal’s drinking tours range from relaxing spa tastings to glamorous New Year’s celebrations. The wine and beer tasting experience is perfect for those seeking comfort and flavor, while the luxury New Year’s Eve cruise offers an unforgettable night with fireworks and dancing.
For travelers who want a blend of authenticity and luxury, these options cover a wide spectrum. If your trip coincides with a special occasion or you’re simply eager to indulge, booking early is advised. Whatever your style, Portugal’s vibrant drinking scene has something to offer—so raise your glass and enjoy your trip.
