Lisbon is a fantastic city for those seeking plant-based culinary adventures. The city’s rich tradition of seafood and hearty dishes might seem at odds with vegan and vegetarian options, but the current scene is vibrant and growing. What we love about these tours is how they blend authentic local flavors with innovative plant-based twists, making it easy to enjoy Portugal without compromising your diet. For example, the Vegan Food & Walking Tour offers a deep dive into the city’s history and food, with a dedicated vegan option that’s both tasty and educational.
Another reason Lisbon stands out is the variety of experiences available—from tasting traditional dishes reimagined without animal products, to engaging in hands-on cooking workshops. These options cater to different interests and time commitments, ensuring everyone can find a worthwhile way to explore the city’s culinary culture. Whether you prefer a guided tasting stroll or learning how to cook authentic vegetarian recipes, the list below covers it all.
1. Food & Walking Tour (Vegan Tour available)
At number one, this 3-hour walking tour in Lisbon’s historic center combines a local food tasting experience with a scenic stroll through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. The tour includes sampling Portuguese delicacies, with a special vegan option available, making it perfect for plant-based travelers. The guide, Ines, is a highlight—described as energetic, knowledgeable, and passionate about both food and Portugal’s history.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its mix of delicious food and engaging storytelling. One reviewer called it an “absolutely perfect way to spend an afternoon,” noting that the vegan options exceeded expectations. The tour’s value lies in its small-group setting, which allows for personalized attention and a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Lisbon’s culinary and cultural highlights without spending a fortune.
Bottom line: This tour offers a balanced mix of history, local flavor, and vegan alternatives, making it a top pick for first-timers and seasoned foodies alike.
2. Portuguese Vegetarian Cooking Workshop in Lisbon
Coming in at number two, this hands-on cooking class provides a different kind of experience—creating authentic Portuguese dishes with a vegetarian twist. Held at Anfitriã, the workshop lasts around 3 hours and immerses you in Portugal’s culinary traditions through practical cooking and tasting. You’ll learn the secrets behind dishes like veggie-based Caldo Verde or flavorful eggplant bacalhau alternatives, all while gaining new skills in the kitchen.
What makes this tour special is its interactive nature. Instead of just tasting, you participate in preparing the food, making it perfect for those who want to deepen their culinary knowledge. The instructor emphasizes the cultural significance of each recipe, helping you understand Portugal’s gastronomic heritage from a vegetarian perspective. The reviews are glowing, with one describing it as “a journey into Portuguese culture through food,” and another noting the professionalism and warmth of the host.
Value for money is high, with participants walking away with new recipes and a better appreciation for plant-based Portuguese cuisine. Suitable for cooks of all levels, this experience is especially good for those who want to recreate authentic dishes at home.
Bottom line: A fun, educational choice for those eager to learn traditional Portuguese recipes with a vegetarian twist, while bonding over fresh ingredients.
3. Lisbon: Vegan Food and Culture Walking Tour with Tastings
This 3.5-hour tour is a lively exploration of Lisbon’s vegan scene, combining tastings, history, and local culture. It starts at Praça Luís de Camões and covers key neighborhoods like Chiado, Baixa, and Rossio, with stops at renowned spots such as Kong and Organi. The tour includes sampling plant-based versions of classics like Pastel de Nata—with a cinnamon twist—and a Ginjinha cherry liqueur tasting at a family-run bar.
What sets this experience apart is its ability to blend culinary discovery with a cultural walk. Guests enjoy a quick tour of Bertrand Bookstore, the world’s oldest operating bookstore, adding a literary touch to the day. The guide introduces you to Lisbon’s vegan culinary evolution while showing you the city’s historic sites. The highlight is the surprise vegan bite at Organi, which keeps the experience fresh and exciting.
Given its slightly longer duration, this tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, in-depth glimpse into vegan Lisbon. The reviews are excellent, with one praising the “captivating mix of food, history, and local flavor,” and the price offers good value considering the variety of tastings and sights.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious food lovers wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich vegan experience in Lisbon.
$71 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your priorities: Are you after a quick taste of Lisbon’s vegan offerings? The Food & Walking Tour is great for a balanced overview, especially if you want background stories along with your bites.
If you’re keen on learning to cook traditional Portuguese plant-based dishes yourself, the Vegetarian Cooking Workshop offers a hands-on approach, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a relaxed, cultural walk with multiple tastings and a mix of sightseeing, the Vegan Food and Culture Tour provides a deeper dive into Lisbon’s vegan scene with engaging storytelling.
Budget, time, and interest level are key. The guided walking tours are quick and affordable, ideal for a one-day exploration. The cooking class is longer and more involved, suited for travelers who want to learn new skills. Book early during peak seasons to secure your spot, especially for popular tours like the cooking workshop.
In summary, Lisbon offers a diverse range of vegan and vegetarian experiences, from casual food walks to immersive cooking workshops. For travelers seeking a quick, tasty overview, the Food & Walking Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer to roll up your sleeves and cook your own Portuguese vegetarian feast, the Cooking Workshop is ideal. And for those wanting a leisurely exploration of the city’s culinary culture combined with sightseeing, the Vegan Food and Culture Walk is a perfect choice.
No matter your style, booking early will ensure you get the best experience. Lisbon’s plant-based scene continues to grow, and these tours are a fantastic way to see the city through a compassionate lens—enjoy your culinary adventure!