Lisbon Countryside Food Tour on Vintage Car

If you’re considering a trip to Sintra and looking for a way to see the quieter, more authentic side of Portugal, this Lisbon Countryside Food Tour on Vintage Car might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve followed the reviews and details closely, and it seems perfect for anyone craving a relaxed, personalized experience outside the usual tourist spots.

What I really like about this tour are two key aspects: first, the unique vintage cars—a Citroën 2CV and a VW T3 van—that promise a charming, nostalgic ride. Second, the local, organic food picnic combined with scenic stops offers a taste of real rural life. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a smaller-group experience, which might mean less flexibility if you’re traveling with a larger party. This tour appears ideal for those who love authentic scenery, good food, and a bit of vintage flair.

If you’re someone who enjoys meaningful conversations, scenic drives, and discovering lesser-known villages, this experience could be a real highlight. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to connect with local culture without the crowds. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a cozy, memorable outing will likely find this tour a delightful addition to their Sintra itinerary.

Key Points

• Small group experience with a maximum of 13 travelers ensures a personalized feel.
• Authentic local food served during the picnic, emphasizing organic, home-prepared products.
• Vintage cars add a nostalgic touch, making the journey memorable.
• Stunning countryside scenery including villages, waterfalls, and volcanic sites.
• Flexible transportation with both a classic Citroën 2CV and VW T3 van, accommodating different group sizes.
• Informative guides who share local insights and make the experience engaging.

Why This Tour Might Be Worth It

This tour combines several appealing elements: picturesque countryside, vintage vehicles, and home-cooked, organic food. For many travelers, the charm of cruising through Sintra’s rural areas on a vintage car is a definite highlight. The reviews highlight the hosts’ hospitality and knowledge, making it not just a sightseeing trip but an engaging cultural experience. The price, at around $99.49 per person, offers good value considering the personalized nature, scenic stops, and included picnic.

On top of that, the tour’s focus on sustainability and local products really resonates with conscious travelers. It’s evident the hosts put effort into creating a genuine, environmentally friendly experience, which adds a layer of respectability and authenticity.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Sintra and the Secret Waterfall

The adventure kicks off in Sintra, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a charming vintage car. The first highlight is a secret waterfall—a little hidden gem in the Sintra mountains. The climb and hike to reach it promise a bit of adventure, but it’s all part of the joy of discovering lesser-known spots.

After enjoying the waterfalls, the group heads to a rustic village for a picnic. Here, you’ll sit at a stone table, surrounded by the sounds of farm animals and the scents of local delicacies. The hosts prepare food using organic, home-made ingredients, which many reviewers rave about as delicious and authentic. One review even mentions a picnic with local wines and family-made chorizo, making it clear the food is a highlight.

Stop 2: Ericeira and Mafra

Next up is a walk in Ericeira, a renowned surf village with a charming atmosphere. The narrow streets paved with Portuguese Calçada and the fresh Atlantic air make for a lovely stroll. Expect to taste a traditional sweet here, a nice treat after the countryside adventure.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy Portuguese music playing softly in the vehicle, adding to the relaxed, local vibe. The drive from Sintra to Mafra and Ericeira offers plenty of opportunities for gorgeous views along the coast and countryside.

The Vehicles: Vintage Charm Meets Comfort

The Citroën 2CV is a classic, small car with a capacity of 4 passengers, including the driver. Many reviews mention how much they loved the nostalgic feel of cruising in this vehicle, like stepping back in time. It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking an intimate experience.

For larger groups—up to 8 people—the hosts switch to a Volkswagen T3 van, which provides ample space and comfort. The switch between vehicles is seamless and keeps the atmosphere fun and relaxed.

The Experience of Riding in Vintage Cars

Multiple reviews highlight the delight of the vintage rides, with comments like “Loved the vintage car” and “It felt like a trip from the 1990s.” The music, local accents, and the scenic views all combined to create a memorable journey. The cars are well-maintained, and the hosts go out of their way to make the ride enjoyable.

Food and Cultural Highlights

One of the standout features of this tour is the home-cooked organic picnic. Expect local products, possibly including homemade chorizo, cheeses, and bread, all prepared with care. The reviews mention that the food was delicious and that chatting with the hosts, Diogo and Rita, added warmth to the experience.

Having authentic, locally sourced food served in a scenic rural setting is a real plus—especially for travelers tired of touristy restaurants. You can sit back, enjoy the views, and truly taste Portugal’s countryside flavors.

Practical Details: What to Know Before Booking

• The tour lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, a comfortable length that balances sightseeing and relaxation.
• The cost is $99.49 per person, which covers transportation, the picnic, and guide services.
• Group sizes are limited to 13, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.
• The meeting point is conveniently located at Avenida Mário Firmino Miguel in Sintra.
• Tour operates in mostly good weather; cancellations are possible if weather conditions are poor, but you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, given the moderate physical activity involved and the interest in scenic drives.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

The glowing reviews reinforce the overall positive impression. Travelers love the friendly guides and the delicious local food, often mentioning how the picnic was a highlight. One reviewer called it “a most wonderful experience,” and another said it was “absolutely the best” tour they’d done in Portugal. Many mention the scenic drives and small villages as highlights, emphasizing that this is a more authentic, less touristy way to explore the region.

One reviewer shared that they had an “amazing honeymoon” experience, particularly praising the personal touch and local hospitality, making this a memorable and meaningful outing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This vintage countryside tour offers a personal, relaxed way to explore Portugal’s rural beauty. If you enjoy small-group experiences, scenic drives, and authentic local foods, you’ll likely find this tour charming and well worth the price. The vintage cars add a nostalgic touch, making the journey feel special rather than just a sightseeing trip.

It’s especially suitable for those who value local culture and good food and want a break from busy tourist spots. If you’re seeking a more adventurous or physically demanding activity, this might not be your best fit, but for a peaceful, engaging day in the countryside, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed nature and scenic stops suggest it’s suitable for most ages. However, keep in mind the vintage cars are small, and some hiking or walking is involved, so consider your children’s comfort.

What kind of food is served during the picnic?
You can expect organic, home-prepared products, possibly including local cheeses, chorizo from Rita’s family farm, and other delicacies, all served in a rustic setting.

How many people are in each vehicle?
The Citroën 2CV seats 4 people including the driver, perfect for small groups or couples. Larger groups are accommodated in the VW T3 van, which can hold up to 8 people.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While weather isn’t explicitly detailed, fair weather is preferred, as the tour includes outdoor stops and scenic drives along natural landscapes.

Is transportation included from Sintra?
Yes, the meeting point is in Sintra, and transportation is part of the experience, with a scenic drive through the countryside.

Are the guides knowledgeable about local culture?
Reviews suggest the guides share a lot of insights, making the experience not just scenic but also culturally enriching.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, a comfortable length for a relaxed day out.

This vintage car tour through Sintra’s countryside offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, authentic food, and charming vehicles. Whether you’re honeymooning, traveling with friends, or simply want a different perspective on Portugal’s rural charm, it’s worth considering for a memorable, laid-back adventure.