Lisbon’s surrounding area offers some of Portugal’s most memorable experiences, thanks to its diverse landscapes, rich culinary traditions, and accessible natural beauty. Whether you’re eager to paddle along cliffs and caves, sip world-class wines, or explore historic markets, the Lisbon Metropolitan Area provides a wealth of options. We’re especially fond of the Sesimbra: Arrábida Natural Park Guided Kayaking Tour for its combination of stunning scenery and marine life encounters—imagine exploring caves and pristine beaches by canoe with a local guide pointing out the best spots. It’s perfect for adventure lovers who want an active day on the water.
While adrenaline and nature are a winning combination, food and wine tours offer an equally enriching experience. For those looking to indulge, the Private Lisbon Arrábida Wine Tour immerses you in Portugal’s legendary vineyards, with visits to prestigious wineries and a charming market tour. For a comprehensive, all-day deep dive, the Lisbon: Private All Inclusive Setúbal & Arrábida Wine Tour combines scenic drives, tastings, and cultural stops. Whether you prefer a half-day or full-day adventure, Lisbon’s surroundings have something to suit your taste.
1. Sesimbra: Arrábida Natural Park Guided Kayaking Tour
Discover the marine life and breathtaking scenery of Arrábida Marine Park on this guided kayaking adventure. This tour takes you along the stunning coast of Sesimbra, about 45 minutes south of Lisbon, exploring caves, cliffs, and secluded beaches that only a kayak can reach. Your local guide will ensure safety and share insights about the area’s natural features and marine ecosystems along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to visit a hidden beach—an often inaccessible spot only reachable by water—and to see some of Europe’s most impressive cliffs, which rise sharply from the sea. The activity lasts roughly three hours, with transfers adding up to five hours, making it an ideal half-day escape. Reviewers love the personable guides and the well-organized logistics, noting the scenery as “amazing” and praising the team’s friendliness and professionalism. Some caution that weather conditions impact the experience, but overall, this kayak tour suits active travelers who want an up-close look at Portugal’s rugged coast.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this tour offers a memorable, hands-on way to experience the Arrábida coast’s caves and beaches. Book in advance, especially if the weather looks promising.
2. Private Lisbon Arrábida Wine Tour: Culture, Scenery & Wines
At number 2, the Private Lisbon Arrábida Wine Tour delivers a tailored, intimate experience that’s ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Portugal’s rich vinicultural landscape. This 8-hour tour includes visits to renowned wineries like Quinta da Bacalhôa or Quinta de Catralvos, where you’ll enjoy guided tastings of top-quality wines. The tour also features scenic drives through the Arrábida Natural Park, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos along the way.
What distinguishes this experience is its focus on local wine craftsmanship and the chance to visit a traditional tile studio—an authentic craft that has been part of Portugal’s identity since the 15th century. The itinerary includes a visit to the Setúbal market, dubbed one of the best markets in the world, adding a culinary dimension to your day. Guests rave about their guide Rui’s in-depth knowledge and humor, noting that the tour is “fabulous” and well-balanced between wine, food, and scenery.
Value for money is reflected in the comprehensive itinerary—visiting multiple wineries, a market, and a ceramic studio—making it a perfect day for those who want to enjoy local culture and flavors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers and culture seekers who appreciate a personalized experience. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred wineries.
3. Lisbon: Private All Inclusive Setúbal & Arrábida Wine Tour
For around $249, the Lisbon: Private All Inclusive Setúbal & Arrábida Wine Tour offers a full-day, carefully curated itinerary that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and wine tastings. Visiting 2-3 local wineries, you’ll experience guided tours and tastings at Jose Maria da Fonseca and Quinta do Piloto, both recognized for their quality and history. These visits are complemented by a stop at the Livramento market, over a century old, giving you a taste of local life and fresh produce.
The tour includes a visit to Arrábida Natural Park, with picture-perfect views of the mountains, and a stop at a traditional tile studio, where you can observe artisans at work. The itinerary also features a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, providing a true taste of Portuguese cuisine. Reviews highlight the flexibility and friendliness of guides, especially mentioning Duarte’s excellent driving and local knowledge. Guests appreciate the well-paced schedule that balances the scenic, cultural, and culinary aspects.
This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, all-day immersion with a focus on wine, food, and scenic vistas, making it perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, yet enriching experience.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a full, curated day out, combining wine, scenery, and culture, with enough flexibility to customize the experience.
4. Private Full Day Tour Lisbon
At number 4, the Private Full Day Tour Lisbon provides a personalized look at Portugal’s capital. This 8-hour private tour is perfect for travelers who want to cover major highlights like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Praça do Comércio, and Jerónimos Monastery. The advantage here is the flexibility to customize your itinerary, guided by a local who cares about your particular interests.
While it’s a shorter, more flexible option, it’s designed for intimate groups or couples seeking a stress-free day with panoramic views and key sights. The reviews, though limited, praise the guide’s attentiveness and the tour’s ability to adapt to your pace. Because it’s a private experience, it’s best suited for those who prefer a bespoke approach over a group tour.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a customized, private exploration of Lisbon’s iconic neighborhoods and panoramic viewpoints, this tour delivers a personalized touch. Booking early ensures availability.
5. From Lisbon: Setúbal & Arrábida Wine Tour with Lunch
Finally, the Setúbal & Arrábida Wine Tour with Lunch combines scenic drives, wine tastings, and a delicious Portuguese lunch into an 8.5-hour experience. Starting from Lisbon, you’ll visit two wineries—Jose Maria da Fonseca and Farm Catralvos—both offering guided tastings that showcase the best of local varieties. The tour also includes stops at Arrábida Natural Park and the Livramento market, providing a full sense of the region’s natural beauty and local flavor.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a sit-down lunch, giving you time to relax and soak up the local culinary ambiance. Reviews point out the friendly guide and the quality of tastings, with travelers appreciating the well-organized schedule that balances sightseeing, wine, and food. The tour is suited for those who want a comprehensive day with plenty of cultural and gastronomic highlights.
Bottom Line: A great option for travelers who want a full-day experience combining scenic views, wine, and traditional food, with the convenience of a guided tour.
$210 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re a nature lover and adventure enthusiast, the kayaking tour offers hands-on exploration of caves and beaches. For wine and culture aficionados, the private wine tours and full-day setúbal experience deliver in-depth tastings, scenic drives, and cultural sites.
Those with limited time might prefer the half-day kayaking or the private Lisbon highlights. Budget-conscious travelers should weigh the price with included experiences—most tours offer great value considering their comprehensive itineraries.
Finally, consider your physical activity level: kayaking and full-day wine tours are best suited for active travelers, while private city tours work well for those who want a relaxed experience. Booking early, especially during peak seasons, is key to securing your preferred date and tour.
Final Thoughts
The Lisbon Metropolitan Area offers something for almost every traveler—whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, culture, or culinary delights. For a memorable day on the water, the Arrábida kayak tour combines stunning scenery with a dose of adventure. If wine tasting and sightseeing are your priorities, the full-day wine tours and all-inclusive experiences provide a comprehensive taste of Portugal’s best vineyards and landscapes.
Regardless of your choice, early booking is recommended to ensure you get your preferred date and group size. With these options, you can tailor your Lisbon trip to include scenic coastlines, delicious wines, and authentic local culture—making your visit truly unforgettable.