Braga is known for its stunning architecture and religious heritage, but it’s also a surprisingly good base for exploring Portugal’s famous wine. This city offers a variety of wine tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re after a relaxed tasting in a vineyard, a cultural journey into historic towns, or an exclusive private experience. We especially like the tour at Quinta de Santa Cristina, which combines scenic vineyard walks with a delicious vineyard picnic, giving you a true taste of the Vinho Verde region. If you want a more comprehensive day, the Green Wine Ponte Lima Region tour takes you through charming towns and offers a deeper dive into Portugal’s green wine culture.
What makes Braga a great starting point is its proximity to the Vinho Verde region, easily reachable within 45 minutes, and its mix of history, landscape, and authentic wine experiences. Whether you’re a casual wine lover or a connoisseur eager to learn about Alvarinho wines, Braga’s diverse options will fit your style.
Below, we’ll explore five of the best wine tours in Braga, each offering something unique. From group excursions to private luxury, check out the details to find your perfect match.
1. Wine Tasting & Lunch | Quinta de Santa Cristina Vinho Verde
At number one on our list is the Wine Tasting & Lunch at Quinta de Santa Cristina. For just over $60 per person, this tour offers a true escape into the Portuguese countryside, about 45 minutes from Braga. The highlight is the chance to wander the estate’s lush orchards, vineyards, and forest—either solo or with a guided tour. This allows you to see where the famous Vinho Verde grapes are grown and understand the terroir behind the region’s light, fizzy wines.
The real treat comes at lunchtime, where you’ll enjoy a hearty picnic right in the vineyard. Expect regional cheeses, bread, charcuterie, and, of course, local wines poured generously. The experience is rated a perfect 5/5, partly thanks to Norma’s attentive hosting, who goes out of her way to reorganize plans if you’re running late. This tour is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, informative experience with excellent food paired with wine.
Bottom line: A laid-back, authentic day with beautiful scenery and regional flavors that’s perfect for those wanting a taste of the countryside without a massive time commitment.
2. Green Wine Ponte Lima Region – Small Group tour – Lunch, Wine Tastings
For a full day of exploration, the Green Wine Ponte Lima Region tour offers a comprehensive look at northern Portugal’s Minho area. Priced at about $155, this approximately 9-hour tour is packed with highlights, including visits to Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, and key viewpoints like Santo Ovidio. You’ll get sweeping views of the mountains, the river, and the vineyards, plus a chance to walk through historic streets and soak up local culture.
The tour also includes a visit to the Vinho Verde route, focusing on the region’s iconic green wines. You’ll stop at a local winery where you’ll taste regional wines and learn about their production. The trip is perfect for those wanting a mixture of scenery, history, and wine, with a personalized touch thanks to the small-group setting.
Guests rave about the stunning Santuario de Santa Luzia, considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, offering panoramic views that are unforgettable. The tour concludes with a Portuguese lunch and wine tasting, making it a well-rounded day.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a full immersion into the Minho region’s scenery, culture, and wine, with a well-structured itinerary and personalized experience.
3. Private Premium Tour Braga & Guimarães, Lunch, Offer wine bottle
If exclusivity and luxury are your priorities, the Private Premium Tour of Braga & Guimarães delivers a tailored experience. For around $385, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring these two historic cities with a dedicated guide. This is perfect if you’re looking for an intimate, in-depth immersion into Portugal’s history, architecture, and regional wines.
The tour kicks off at the Guimarães Castle, known as the birthplace of Portugal, followed by visits to the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, which combines Gothic and Renaissance styles. You’ll also see the Statue of D. Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, and the charming Largo da Oliveira square.
The highlight for wine lovers is the inclusion of regional tastings, with the tour providing a complimentary bottle of wine to take home. The flexibility of this private tour means you can customize your experience—whether you want extra time at a winery, more cultural stops, or a particular focus on regional cuisine.
Guests praise the guide’s deep knowledge and personalized attention. It’s suited for travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and a deep dive into the cultural landscape while enjoying regional wines.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a luxurious, customizable day with plenty of cultural highlights and a bonus winery experience.
4. Wine Tour at Mosteiro de Tibaes with an Exclusive Wine Tasting
At number four is a unique combo of monastic history and wine tasting at the Mosteiro de Tibaes. For about $66, this 4-hour tour offers a chance to explore the centuries-old monastery, including its cloisters and archives, and then enjoy a tasting of carefully selected Vinho Verde wines.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of cultural history with the region’s wine. You’ll spend around two hours exploring the monastery, discovering its hidden stories, and then move on to Gondizalves for a private tasting session. The wines are exclusive to Portugal, giving you a taste of the country’s unique viniculture.
The reviews highlight how magical the monastery gardens are, making this a peaceful, educational experience that’s ideal for history buffs and wine enthusiasts alike. The tour appeals to those who want to combine cultural discovery with the enjoyment of Portugal’s best white wines, all in a manageable half-day.
Bottom line: An enriching experience blending history and wine, perfect for travelers who enjoy culture and a relaxed pace.
5. Discover Quinta da Raza’s Alvarinho Wines
Finally, for those eager to focus on a specific grape variety, the Discover Quinta da Raza’s Alvarinho Wines offers a straightforward, affordable tasting session for about $31. Located in Portugal’s Norte region, this tour includes a guided visit to the winery and a tasting of three Alvarinho-made wines, all crafted from Portugal’s most prized white grape.
The highlight is the panoramic terrace, which provides excellent views while you sample wines and nibble on snacks and tapas. This experience is ideal for wine lovers who want a focused, intimate tasting without the fuss of a full-day tour. The winery’s reputation as a top producer of Alvarinho makes this tour especially appealing for serious connoisseurs.
Guests enjoy the chance to learn about the winemaking process directly from the vintners, and the small-group format ensures personalized attention. It’s best suited for those with a limited schedule or those specifically interested in white wines.
Bottom line: A focused, value-packed tasting for fans of Alvarinho, offering a chance to deepen your understanding of Portugal’s finest white grape.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Braga
When selecting a wine tour, think about your interests and time. If you want a relaxing day with great scenery and regional food, Wine Tasting & Lunch at Quinta de Santa Cristina offers excellent value. For a comprehensive day that combines cultural sights and wine, the Green Wine Ponte Lima Region is perfect. If exclusivity is your goal, consider the Private Braga & Guimarães Tour. History buffs will enjoy the Mosteiro de Tibaes, while dedicated wine fans should not miss the Alvarinho tasting at Quinta da Raza.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Braga’s variety of wine tours offers everything from casual tastings to full cultural immersions. Whether you’re after a quick vineyard visit or a private luxury experience, you’ll find an option that matches your style. You can’t go wrong—just pick your favorite, book ahead, and enjoy Portugal’s delicious wines and scenic views.
