Lisbon Wine Tasting Private Tour

Thinking about exploring Portugal’s celebrated wine scene without the hassle of navigating on your own? This private Lisbon Wine Tasting Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience, combining visits to two local wineries with historic sights and traditional cuisine. It’s the kind of day that leaves you with a full glass—literally and figuratively—of Portugal’s rich vinicultural heritage.

What we really love about this tour? It’s personalized, thanks to a private group setting; the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both educational and fun; and the regional sights like the Baroque Palace of Mafra add a touch of history that complements the wine journey.

A possible consideration? Given that the tour is 8 hours long, it may feel a bit full for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or want more time at each stop. Still, if you’re eager to pack in authentic tastings, scenic views, and cultural insights, this tour is a fantastic fit.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day that balances wine tasting with regional exploration and authentic dining. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this experience offers genuine value in a compact format.

Good To Know

• Personalized private experience perfect for small groups or couples
• Visit two different wineries with tastings of a total of 10 wines
• Includes a traditional Portuguese lunch focused on seafood and local flavors
• Cultural highlights, such as the Baroque Palace of Mafra and medieval village walks
• Guides are friendly and well-informed, enriching the experience
• Transport is included, making logistics smooth and stress-free

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering the Charm of Lisbon’s Wine Country

This tour offers a scenic escape from Lisbon’s hustle, heading west into Portugal’s wine-producing region. The journey begins with a comfortable 45-minute drive through lush landscapes, setting the tone for a day of sensory delights. The first stop is Adega Mãe, about 40 minutes from the city, a sprawling winery with beautiful hillside vineyards. Here, you’ll learn about different wine varieties and the magic that happens in their barrel-filled “Temple room.”

The wine tastings at Adega Mãe include five wines—two reds, two whites, and one rosé—that highlight the winery’s diverse offerings. The guide explains the nuances of each, helping you understand what makes Portuguese wines special. One reviewer, Stephanie, praised the “interesting” tours and the quality of wines, noting how much she learned about the country’s wine culture. The tasting is complemented with crackers, bread, and olive oil, elevating the experience and allowing you to appreciate each sip fully.

A Seafood Lunch that Hits the Spot

After the first winery, the tour pauses for an authentic Portuguese lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in grilled seafood. This is often highlighted as a highlight—”one of the best food experiences of your whole trip,” as one reviewer put it. The meal, priced between €10-€20 per person, is a chance to indulge in local flavors and relax before continuing the wine adventure. The dishes are typically simple, flavorful, and perfectly paired with the region’s wines, making it a true taste of Portugal.

Exploring a Hidden Village and Its Wineries

Post-lunch, the group travels about 30 minutes to Cheleiros, a charming village that embodies Portugal’s tranquil rural charm. Here, you’ll visit Manzwine, a family-run winery with a compelling story rooted in the community’s history. The guide shares insights into how the project supports the local area, adding a layer of cultural appreciation to the tasting.

Inside, the focus is on five wines—including three reds and two whites. A special highlight is the Jampal grape, a rare Portuguese variety that is a true insider tip for wine lovers. Tasting this single-variety wine paired with homemade bread and olive oil becomes a memorable moment. Carly, another happy guest, remarked on how much she learned about Portuguese wine and appreciated the guide’s friendliness.

The Historic Touch: Palace of Mafra

Before heading back to Lisbon, the tour makes a brief stop at the Palácio Nacional de Mafra, Portugal’s largest baroque palace. Built in the 18th century under King João V, it’s a striking monument that adds a historic dimension to the day. It’s an unexpected highlight, especially for those interested in architecture and history, and provides fantastic photo opportunities.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Experience in Detail: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Private, Guided, and Comfortable

With a private group, you can expect a more intimate experience—perfect for couples, friends, or small families. The transportation, a comfortable van, takes care of all logistics, so you can focus on savoring the day. The guides, including João Guadalpi and others, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to personalize the experience. They share stories that enrich the wine tastings and make the day more than just a series of stops.

Authenticity and Regional Focus

Unlike larger, more commercial tours, this experience focuses on small wineries and a genuine regional vibe. The visit to Cheleiros and the local village walk allow you to step into everyday rural life, hear about the community’s importance in Portuguese wine production, and enjoy scenic views that are often missed by travelers.

Tasting Quality and Variety

The wines offered are diverse, with five at each winery, representing a spectrum of styles. The emphasis on local varieties and unique grapes like Jampal makes this tour a real treat for wine enthusiasts. Guests consistently mention the high quality of the wines and the tasteful explanations that deepen their understanding.

Food and Accommodations

The lunch in a typical Portuguese restaurant is a highlight for many—fresh seafood grilled to perfection, paired with regional wines, and served in a welcoming atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, the restaurant easily accommodated dietary restrictions, adding a layer of convenience.

Cultural and Architectural Highlights

Adding stops at the Palace of Mafra and the medieval bridge of Cheleiros ensures the day isn’t all about wine. These sights provide historical context and stunning visuals, enriching the overall experience.

Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration: 8 hours, including travel time and tastings
Price: $625 for the entire group (up to 6 people), which we find reasonable considering the personalized experience, two winery visits, lunch, and transportation.
Start Time: Check availability, as the tour operates multiple times daily, allowing flexibility.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, guided visits and tastings at two wineries, bread, crackers, olive oil, and water.
Not Included: Lunch, which is an additional cost (€10-€20 per person).
Language: Guides speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans shift.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups or couples seeking an immersive, relaxed day of wine and cultural discovery. It’s perfect for those who value authentic regional experiences over generic tours, and want expert guidance to deepen their understanding of Portuguese wines.

Travelers looking for delicious local food and picturesque views will also find this tour appealing. Given the mix of wine, history, and scenery, it’s a well-rounded adventure that suits those eager to explore beyond Lisbon’s city center.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While lunch options are typically seafood-based, the tour guides are known for accommodating dietary needs, so it’s best to specify in advance.

How much wine will I taste during the tour?
You’ll sample a total of 10 wines—five at each winery—including reds, whites, and rosés—giving a well-rounded tasting experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup at your accommodation and transportation between stops are part of the tour, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to six people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I book this tour on the same day?
Availability depends on the season and existing bookings; it’s recommended to reserve in advance.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides can speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, providing clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

How long is each winery visit?
Expect around 1.5 hours at each winery, including guided tours and tastings.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to walk around the vineyards and village.

Are there any additional costs?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but can be paid locally in the restaurant. Beverages outside the tastings and personal extras are also extra.

Final Thoughts

This private Lisbon wine tour offers a compelling mix of authentic wine tastings, regional scenery, and cultural sights—all in a well-paced, intimate setting. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Portugal’s wine diversity, along with memorable glimpses into rural life and historic architecture.

It’s perfect for those who want a guided, relaxed day with personalized attention, delicious food, and a chance to taste some truly unique Portuguese wines. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, this experience promises a balanced, engaging, and truly local journey through Portugal’s vinicultural heartland.

You can check if your dates are available here: