Lisbon Countryside Food Tour on Vintage Car

A Vintage Ride Through Portugal’s Countryside: Sintra, Mafra, and Ericeira

If you’re dreaming of seeing Portugal beyond the bustling tourist spots, this Lisbon Countryside Food Tour on a Vintage Car offers a delightful mix of scenic drives, authentic village life, and local flavors. For just under $100, you’ll spend about four and a half hours exploring the lush, rural corners of Sintra, Mafra, and Ericeira, guided by passionate locals who love sharing their homeland. The experience revolves around small-group intimacy, charming vintage vehicles, and homemade, organic food that highlights the region’s best produce.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to travel in either a tiny Citroën 2CV—perfect for a cozy, nostalgic ride—or a more spacious Volkswagen T3 van if your group is larger. We especially appreciated the personal touch of a guided picnic at a secret waterfall and the chance to stroll through vibrant coastal villages. On the flip side, one thing to note: the vintage car capacity is limited to four passengers, so if you’re traveling with a bigger group, the van is your go-to. This experience suits travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate adventure, and those eager to taste genuine rural Portugal without the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Visit small villages, secret waterfalls, and inactive volcanoes surrounded by natural beauty.
• Personalized transportation: Choice between a cute Citroën 2CV or a spacious VW T3 van, accommodating small groups and families.
• Gourmet picnic: Organic, homemade food served at a scenic stone table amid village sounds and aromas.
• Local insights: Guides share knowledge about the region, adding depth to the experience.
• Stunning coastal views: Walk through Ericeira’s charming streets, enjoy Atlantic vistas, and taste traditional desserts.
• Community and sustainability: Focus on local, sustainable ingredients and authentic Portuguese hospitality.

Exploring the Details: What You Can Expect

Sintra: The Gateway to Rural Portugal

Your adventure kicks off in Sintra, famous for palaces and mystical forests, but this tour takes you off the beaten path. Your hosts—likely Diogo and Rita—welcome you with warmth and enthusiasm. The first highlight is a secret waterfall, tucked away along mountain trails. This secluded spot offers a peaceful retreat where we loved hearing the sounds of nature, with the gentle rush of water providing a perfect backdrop for photos and reflection.

Following the waterfall, the tour continues with a rustic village visit, where local products are lovingly prepared into a delicious organic picnic. Imagine sitting at a stone table, surrounded by farm animals and the scent of freshly baked bread and regional delicacies. One review mentioned how the hosts curated a picnic with family-produced chorizo, making the meal not only tasty but also a genuine taste of local life.

Mafra and the Active Volcano

As we move through the countryside, we pass by an inactive volcano, a geological feature that adds a quiet sense of history to the landscape. Though the tour doesn’t include a formal hike here, the scenery is striking—rolling hills, lush greenery, and the distant sounds of village life.

Ericeira: Seaside Charm and Traditional Flavors

The coastal leg of the tour brings us to Ericeira, a famous surfing reserve and charming fishing village. Strolling along its narrow streets paved with Calçada Portuguesa (Portuguese cobblestones), you immediately sense the contrast between the inland countryside and this lively Atlantic town. Here, you’ll enjoy sampling a traditional sweet—something praised in reviews for its authenticity and flavor.

The views along the Atlantic coast are unforgettable, with sweeping vistas that remind you why Portugal’s coast is so revered. The town’s atmosphere—laid-back, friendly, and rooted in local tradition—makes it a perfect place for a relaxed walk and a final sip of local wine or a sweet treat.

Transportation: Vintage Cars with a Personal Touch

The choice of vehicle is part of what makes this tour memorable. The Citroën 2CV exudes nostalgia, and with a capacity of four, it creates an intimate, chatty atmosphere—ideal if you’re traveling as a couple or small group. Many reviews praise how comfortable and fun the vintage car is, with one guest noting, “Loved the vintage car,” and another saying it reminded them of childhood rides.

For larger groups, the Volkswagen T3 van ensures everyone can enjoy the scenic drive comfortably. The guides are flexible, and both options promise a relaxed, enjoyable ride through some of Portugal’s most picturesque countryside.

Timing and Group Size

Scheduled for around 4.5 hours, the tour includes two main stops, with a total of about 2 hours at each. The small group size (max 13 travelers) enhances the chance for personalized interaction and questions. The tour starts at Avenida Mário Firmino Miguel in Sintra, with easy access via public transportation or parking options nearby.

Food, Music, and Atmosphere

One of the often-mentioned highlights is the Portuguese music playing during the drive, adding local flavor to the journey. The hosts are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making each stop feel like visiting friends rather than just a tourist attraction.

Value and Booking

At $99.49 per person, this experience provides a lot of value—combining scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and good food, all delivered in a cozy, small-group setting. Booking in advance (about 39 days ahead on average) is recommended, especially in high season.

The tour’s flexibility with cancellation—allowing free cancellations at least 24 hours in advance—gives peace of mind, particularly if weather turns sour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking to see the Portuguese countryside in a relaxed, authentic way. It’s ideal for those who appreciate local cuisine, want a personalized experience, and enjoy small-group interactions. Couples on a honeymoon, families, or small groups of friends will likely find this tour a highlight of their trip, especially since many guests raved about the delicious picnic and friendly guides.

Final Thoughts

This vintage car tour offers a charming, laid-back way to explore Portugal’s rural areas. It’s a chance to see small villages, taste homemade organic food, and enjoy the natural beauty away from crowded tourist sites. The combination of scenic drives, local flavors, and genuine hospitality makes it a memorable experience—especially for those who love authentic, less commercialized adventures.

While the vehicle capacity limits the number of passengers, it creates a cozy atmosphere that many find more enjoyable than a large bus tour. If you’re after a taste of Portugal’s countryside, with the added bonus of personalized touches and stunning views, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The small-group and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, especially those interested in outdoor scenery and local food.

What kind of vehicles are used?
The tour typically uses a vintage Citroën 2CV for smaller groups (up to 4 people, including the driver) or a Volkswagen T3 van for larger groups. Both are comfortable and add a nostalgic touch.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with two main stops of about 2 hours each. It includes time for sightseeing, eating, and relaxing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Avenida Mário Firmino Miguel in Sintra and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans shift.

Is the food included?
Yes, the organic picnic prepared with local products is part of the experience, and many reviews highlight how delicious and authentic it is.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the outdoor stops. The tour provides a scenic, relaxed atmosphere, so dress casually.

This vintage countryside tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and genuine hospitality, making it a memorable addition to any Portugal journey. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family outing, or a small-group adventure, it provides both value and authenticity in every mile traveled.