From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines

Discover Portugal’s wine and scenic highlights on this 7-hour tour from Lisbon, featuring Arrábida, Sesimbra, and top wineries with stunning views.

Traveling around Lisbon and its nearby regions can be a wonderful experience, especially if you’re into nature, history, and, of course, wine. This 7-hour tour offers a balanced mix of all three, taking you through some of the most scenic spots in the Setúbal region, with a heavy focus on local wineries and breathtaking landscapes.

We haven’t personally done this tour, but from what’s shared and the feedback from travelers, it seems like a solid choice for those who appreciate a well-organized day that combines outdoor beauty with culinary delights. What’s particularly nice is the promise of stunning views and good value for money, thanks to visits to two renowned wineries and several natural and historical sites.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a slow pace or more time at each stop, this might feel rushed. But overall, this experience seems well-suited for culture and nature lovers who want a taste of everything without straying too far from Lisbon.

Key Points

From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines - Key Points

  • Beautiful landscapes of Serra da Arrábida Natural Park and coastlines.
  • Wine tasting at two top wineries: Bacalhôa and José Maria da Fonseca.
  • Historical sites like Sesimbra Castle and Cabo Espichel offer cultural insights.
  • Great panoramic views, especially from Portinho da Arrábida and Cristo Rei.
  • Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned van makes the day smooth.
  • Flexible options for private or small group tours cater to different preferences.
You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines - A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded day for anyone curious about the Setúbal region’s natural beauty and wine culture. Starting from Lisbon, you’ll hop into a cozy, air-conditioned van — a smart move considering the day’s length and the hilly terrain. The first stop is at Bacalhôa Winery, one of Portugal’s most respected wine producers. Here, you’ll likely appreciate the guided tour that covers the region’s wine-making tradition, ending with a tasting session. The highlight? Tasting the famous Moscatel de Setúbal, a sweet wine that’s become a renowned export. One reviewer called this part “the icing on the cake,” emphasizing how enjoyable the tasting was and how it set the tone for the day.

Next, you’ll visit José Maria da Fonseca Winery, which also offers a chance to shop for wines and enjoy a typical lunch (note that lunch is not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly). The free time here is a good opportunity to browse their selection and perhaps pick up a bottle or two to take home. Travelers who have done this tour mention that the winery experience is both educational and enjoyable, with some noting the “good value for money” especially when combined with the scenic surroundings.

As the afternoon unfolds, you’ll head to Cabo Espichel, famous for its dramatic cliffs and religious sanctuary perched high above the Atlantic. It’s a striking spot where the wind can pick up, but the views are worth it. The sanctuary holds centuries of devotion, and the cliffs provide excellent photo opportunities. The next stop is Sesimbra Castle, which offers privileged views of the fishing village and Atlantic coast. The tour guide usually provides insightful commentary, making these stops more meaningful.

A highlight for many is the drive through Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, where lush green hills meet the blue sea. The Portinho da Arrábida viewpoint is a must-see, with panoramic views that make it clear why this area is considered a jewel of Portugal. It’s a great spot for photos and just soaking in the natural beauty.

Finally, the day wraps up at Cristo Rei in Almada, offering spectacular views of Lisbon, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the river. Travelers have described this as a perfect end to the day, taking in Lisbon’s skyline from above.

What Makes This Tour Special

From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines - What Makes This Tour Special

The standout features are definitely the scenic vistas and the wine tasting. Travelers consistently mention the “beautiful places” and “good value for money,” which suggests that the experience is well worth the cost of $93 per person. The tour’s structure allows you to see a variety of sights — from mountains and coastlines to historic castles and religious sites — all in one day.

The inclusion of a professional guide adds value, enriching the experience with context and storytelling. The tour’s flexibility with private or small group options is also a plus if you prefer a more personalized experience.

However, keep in mind that with a packed itinerary and a duration of about 7 hours, the pace can be a bit brisk. If you’re someone who loves to linger or take lots of photos, be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Considerations

From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines - Practical Details and Considerations

The cost of $93 covers transportation, guide, visits to the wineries, and the wine tasting itself. Lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning a quick meal might be wise. The tour lasts about 7 hours, with pickup options available either from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Lisbon — the meeting point is conveniently located at HF Fênix Lisboa near Praça Marquês de Pombal.

The group size tends to be small or private, which means more personalized attention. The tours are offered in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for international travelers.

Most travelers find the experience very satisfying, especially appreciating the stunning scenery and the delicious wines. One review from Brazil summed it up as a “wonderful tour,” highlighting the attentive guide and charming stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines - Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love exploring outside the city and want a balanced day of nature, history, and wine, this tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or dealing with transportation logistics.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, if your family enjoys scenic views, light hiking, and wine tasting (or if older kids are involved), it could work well. Just remember that the day is quite packed, so small children might find the pace a little demanding.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking good value and a rundown of the Setúbal region’s highlights, especially if you’re on a time crunch but want to maximize the experience.

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From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines



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FAQ

From Lisbon: Serra da Arrábida, Sesimbra, and Setúbal Wines - FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time at José Maria da Fonseca Winery to enjoy a meal and shop for wines, so plan to eat beforehand or bring some snacks.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor sightseeing. A hat and sunscreen are advisable, especially for stops at Cabo Espichel and Portinho da Arrábida, where exposure to the sun is common.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, the tour includes wine tastings, but participation is optional. If you prefer not to drink, you can still enjoy the surrounding scenery and learn about the region.

How long is the drive between stops?
Drive times vary from about 20 to 35 minutes between stops, making it manageable and allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Can I customize the tour or choose specific sites?
The standard tour has a set itinerary, but private options may offer more flexibility. Check with the provider if customization is important.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Many travelers cite the scenic viewpoints, especially Portinho da Arrábida, and the wine tasting experiences at Bacalhôa and José Maria da Fonseca as the highlights.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the sights and gentle walks make it suitable for older children and teens. Always consider your family’s pace and interests.

This tour from Lisbon offers a satisfying blend of stunning vistas, cultural attractions, and delicious wine. It’s especially suited for those who want to see a variety of sights in one go without too much hassle. The value for money is generally praised, and the experience seems to be well-organized, thanks to knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.

If you’re after a relaxed yet enriching day that combines the best of Portugal’s natural beauty and wine heritage, this trip will likely meet your expectations. Just be prepared for a full schedule and a lot of scenery — it’s a visual and flavorful treat. Perfect for travelers who want an immersive taste of Portugal’s southern treasures without straying too far from Lisbon.

Enjoy your trip and happy tasting!

You can check availability for your dates here: