Lisbon: Cheers Before the Vows (Wine or Beer?)

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to soak up some local flavors during your Lisbon trip, the Cheers Before the Vows tour at Taverna das Marias might catch your eye. This experience is all about enjoying Portugal’s best wines or craft beers in a cozy setting, with a friendly atmosphere that encourages good conversations and laughter.

What we really like about this experience is how informal and fun it feels—no stiff tasting room here. Plus, the option to add a tapas tasting enhances the experience, making it more than just drinks. On the flip side, it’s a short session, clocking in at just 1.5 hours, so if you’re craving a deeper dive into Portuguese wine or a more extensive beer tour, this might feel a bit light. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, social outing, it’s a great pick. It suits travelers who enjoy casual gatherings, love trying local beverages, and want a taste of Lisbon’s lively scene without the fuss.

Key Points

• Relaxed Atmosphere: The vibe is easygoing, with music and a cozy setting perfect for unwinding
• Variety of Options: Choose between 4 wines or 5 craft beers, with regional favorites included
• Add-On Options: Tapas tasting menu available for those wanting a fuller bite of Portuguese cuisine
• Short and Sweet: 1.5-hour duration makes it ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary
• Guided Experience: Enjoy insights from knowledgeable guides in multiple languages
• No Stress Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and pay later options available

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

When considering a tasting tour like this, you want something that’s both enjoyable and worth your time and money. And honestly, Taverna das Marias delivers on that front, especially if you’re into trying local drinks in a friendly setting. This isn’t a formal, high-pressure wine tasting. Instead, it’s a casual gathering with a focus on fun, good music, and great company.

The Venue: Taverna das Marias

The meeting point, Taverna das Marias, is described as a charming, music-filled spot where every corner seems to have a story. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect backdrop for a relaxed tasting session. The setting feels like meeting friends at a favorite neighborhood tavern, rather than a sterile tasting room. For many, this atmosphere is part of the charm, encouraging conversations and a relaxed attitude toward tasting.

The Beverages: Wines & Craft Beers

The choices on offer are thoughtfully curated. If you opt for the wine tasting, you’ll sample some of Portugal’s regional favorites, like the Vinho Verde, known for its light, crisp qualities. Expect a floral, smooth, and balanced white, complemented by a fruity rose, and a bold, full-bodied red. According to reviews, the wines are of top quality and served in a way that promotes a social, unpretentious vibe.

Choose the craft beer option, and you’ll be tasting five styles of artisanal brews. Highlights include a golden blond ale, a classic lager, a tangy hibiscus and strawberry sour, a hoppy session IPA, and a dark, creamy dry stout. Reviewers have noted the beers are well-selected, offering a good range of flavors that showcase Portugal’s craft brewing scene.

The Experience: What to Expect

The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, which is a solid amount of time to taste and chat without feeling rushed. During the session, you can relax to good music, sip your drinks, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, making the event feel more like hanging out with friends than a formal lesson.

An optional tapas tasting menu can be added, which is especially appealing if you want a fuller Portuguese experience. While details on the menu aren’t specified, it’s described as delicious, and many reviews suggest it’s a great way to complement the beverages.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

• The tour starts and ends at Taverna das Marias. The venue is easily accessible and a perfect place for small groups or couples.
• You’ll be served 4 glasses of wine or 5 craft beers, depending on your choice.
• The experience includes music and the cozy ambiance, making it feel more like a social outing than a formal tasting class.
• Booking in advance is recommended; you can cancel for free up to 24 hours beforehand, which adds some flexibility.
• It’s suitable for groups, couples, or special celebrations. However, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues.

The Value Question

At its price point, this experience offers a good deal for anyone who values quality beverages and a relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a taste of Lisbon’s local drinks without the fuss of a large tour or a formal wine cellar visit. The addition of music, friendly guides, and optional tapas makes it feel like a little escape in the city.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is best suited for travelers who enjoy casual, social experiences. If you appreciate good music, cozy settings, and tasting regional beverages in a relaxed environment, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a fantastic choice for bachelor or bachelorette pre-parties, small groups, or couples wanting a fun, memorable night out.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth wine education, extensive beer tasting, or a long, structured tour, this short session might not satisfy those needs. Also, those traveling with young kids or with mobility concerns should note it’s not designed for children or those with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts

Cheers Before the Vows at Taverna das Marias offers a genuine and friendly way to explore Portugal’s beverage scene. With a focus on quality drinks, relaxed vibes, and good company, it’s a memorable experience that captures the spirit of Lisbon’s lively social scene. Whether you opt for wine or craft beer, you’ll leave with a better appreciation of regional flavors and perhaps some new friends.

If you’re seeking a low-pressure, enjoyable outing that combines local tastes with music and good company, this is a solid choice. Not a deep dive into Portuguese wine culture, but that’s part of the charm—sometimes, the best experiences are simple and fun, just like this.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers or pregnant women?
No, this experience involves alcoholic drinks and is not suitable for pregnant women or those who do not drink alcohol.

Can I add the tapas tasting menu?
Yes, the tapas tasting menu can be added for an additional charge, offering a fuller Portuguese culinary experience.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the venue is not included. You’ll need to get there on your own.

How long is the tour?
The tasting lasts about 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Are there guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guided tours are available in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.

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

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 18, so it’s best suited for adults and those of legal drinking age.

Would I recommend this experience?
Absolutely, if you’re after a relaxed, social way to enjoy Lisbon’s local drinks with a friendly crowd, this tour hits the right notes. It’s less about education and more about enjoying good drinks, good music, and good company in a cozy setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: