Setubal District is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts who also appreciate stunning landscapes and authentic experiences. Known for its rich coastal vineyards, rugged hills, and historic wineries, the region offers a variety of tours that blend wine tasting with local culture. Whether you’re after a personalized private experience or an immersive group tour, the options here deliver more than just wine — they give you a taste of Portugal’s vibrant terroir. I especially like the A PRIVATE afternoon south of Lisbon, mountain WINES and SECRET places! tour for its flexibility and the chance to combine natural beauty with a visit to one of Portugal’s largest wineries.
If you’re planning a trip, these wine tours cover everything from scenic drives through Arrábida Natural Park to exclusive visits to legendary wineries like Bacalhôa and Jose Maria de Fonseca. The diversity allows you to choose based on your schedule, budget, and interests — whether you want a half-day tasting, a full-day private adventure, or a thematic exploration of Moscatel or tile heritage.
Quick Overview
We’ve curated a list of the top 8 wine tours in the Setubal District, each offering a different way to enjoy the region’s exceptional wines and scenery. From private, customizable experiences to guided group outings, these tours emphasize authentic encounters and stunning views. You’ll find options like the Private Azeitão, Palmela, and Setúbal Wines Tour, a full-day exploration of three wine regions, and shorter, more focused trips such as the Half Day Arrabida Tour with Wine Tasting in Sesimbra. For a truly immersive experience, the Workshop – Wine Tasting 101 offers an inside look into traditional wine production methods.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide the best fit for your trip.
1. A PRIVATE afternoon south of Lisbon, mountain WINES and SECRET places!
At number 1, this highly-rated private tour combines natural beauty, secret spots, and wine tastings into a flexible 5 to 7-hour experience. It’s perfect if you want a personalized day that can be tailored to your interests. The tour kicks off in Arrábida Natural Park, famous for its breathtaking views, beaches, and mystical corners. You’ll visit the Miradouro Portinho Da Arrabida, arguably the most scenic viewpoint in the park, with sweeping views over the beaches and ocean.
The highlight is the visit to Jose Maria de Fonseca, home to Portugal’s oldest winery. You’ll explore the cellars, learn about wine production, and taste some of the finest local wines, including the renowned Periquita. The guide customizes the itinerary, so if you’re into nature, history, or wine, this trip adapts to your preferences. The comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and local snacks make the day smooth and enjoyable.
Reviewers rave about Andre, the guide, who combines safety, knowledge, and a genuine love of the region. The tour is a hit among those looking for a private, relaxed experience with plenty of personalized touches.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, all-in-one day combining nature, views, and wine in a private setting.
2. Private Tour of Azeitão / Palmela / Setúbal Wines
This full-day private wine tour visits three distinct wine regions — Azeitão, Palmela, and Setúbal — with stops at two wineries in the morning and one in the afternoon. For around $434, your group (up to 2 people) gets a tailored experience that includes wine tastings at each location, with 2 to 3 wines sampled per cellar. The itinerary is designed to maximize exposure to the local wine culture.
The tour begins with Azeitão, famous for its Ribatejo wines and traditional tile factories, which provide a cultural twist to the wine tasting. In Palmela, you’ll visit a winery where you walk through vineyards, explore wine-making facilities, and enjoy tastings. The final stop in Setúbal offers another tasting session, giving you a comprehensive view of the region’s wine diversity.
Lunch at Portinho da Arrábida, facing the sea, adds a delicious culinary dimension, with options to enjoy regional seafood. The tour’s flexibility and focus on quality make it ideal for wine lovers who want a personalized, in-depth experience.
Guests consistently praise Francisco’s knowledge and the comfortable vehicle, noting the tour’s smooth flow and attention to detail. It’s best suited for couples or small groups wanting a private, all-inclusive day.
Bottom Line: A premium, customizable day that combines wine, regional culture, and seaside views for a truly memorable experience.
3. Private Half Day Arrabida Tour with Wine Tasting in Sesimbra
This 4 to 5-hour private trip offers a more focused look at Arrábida Natural Park and the charming town of Sesimbra. Starting with a visit to Sesimbra’s fishing harbor, you’ll see traditional boats and learn about local fishing methods, giving a flavor of authentic coastal life. Then, a walk along the old walls of the Moorish Castle offers sweeping views and a touch of history.
The highlight here is the wine tasting at a renowned winery, where you’ll sample regional wines while soaking in scenic vistas. The scenic drive along the mountain roads reveals picturesque coastlines, and the guide shares local insights along the way. This tour suits travelers short on time but eager for a taste of land, sea, and wine.
Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and personal touch, with Natalia praised for her knowledge and attentiveness. It’s an ideal choice if you prefer a half-day outing with a balanced mix of culture, nature, and wine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick yet rich experience of Arrábida’s landscape, history, and wine, with a friendly local guide.
4. Alentejo Wine Tour from Évora
For around $297, the Alentejo Wine Tour from Évora offers a stress-free trip exploring the renowned Alentejo wine region. It includes transportation from Évora and stops in charming small towns like Arraiolos, famous for its woven rugs and medieval castle. You’ll walk through vineyards at a winery, visit the cellar, and enjoy tastings of high-quality wines.
This tour stands out for its focus on smaller, boutique wineries and cultural highlights like artisanal rug-making. The group is limited, ensuring a personal experience. Reviewers say guide Joao’s deep knowledge and friendly attitude make the day especially memorable, even when the weather isn’t perfect.
Ideal for those wanting a relaxed day combining wine, culture, and scenic drives, this tour provides excellent value by including transportation and multiple winery visits.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a mix of wine tasting and cultural exploration in a small-group setting.
5. Half Day Wine Tour Around Évora
If time is tight but you still want to experience local wine culture, this 3-hour half-day tour offers a concentrated taste of Évora’s vineyards and wineries. Starting at 10 am, you’re taken to a partner winery where regional snacks accompany a guided tasting of local wines.
The tour emphasizes personalized service and includes transportation from Évora. It’s a straightforward way to learn about Portuguese wine without committing the whole day, ideal for travelers with packed itineraries.
Guests like Leonor, who guide the tour, are praised for their warmth and knowledge, making the experience engaging and informative. The focus on regional wine and snacks makes it a practical yet enjoyable option.
Bottom Line: Compact, focused, and a good value for those wanting a quick wine experience.
6. Wine Tour, discovering the famous Setúbal Moscatel
This 6 to 7-hour tour highlights Setúbal’s legendary Moscatel wine and includes visits to the Bacalhôa winery and palace. You’ll marvel at the architecture and art collections, including pieces from the Berardo Collection. Tasting sessions include Moscatel and other wines produced by Quinta da Bacalhôa, enriching your understanding of regional specialties.
The tour also visits a traditional tile factory, giving a taste of local craftsmanship. The inclusion of the Bacalhôa Palace and Museum ensures a cultural dimension, making it more than just wine tasting. Reviewers mention Hugo’s expertise and the smooth logistics that elevate this tour.
It’s a fitting choice for those interested in wine, art, and architecture, offering a comprehensive experience in one day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for art and wine lovers wanting a deep dive into Setúbal’s famous Moscatel and historic sites.
7. Workshop – Wine Tasting 101
If you’re curious about how wine is made or want a hands-on experience, this 2-hour workshop at Cella Vinaria Antiqua is a unique chance. The restored winery-museum teaches traditional techniques of producing wine in clay pots, connecting you to ancient winemaking methods.
Led by passionate hosts, this workshop offers practical insights, tasting techniques, and a chance to taste wines directly from historic vessels. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting a deeper understanding of Portuguese wine culture beyond just drinking.
Guests describe it as a fascinating, educational experience, blending history and taste. It’s perfect for those who enjoy interactive learning and want to add a cultural dimension to their trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious wine lovers eager to learn about traditional techniques and historical methods.
8. Arrábida: Private Dining Experience with Wine Pairing
For a truly memorable evening, this private dining experience combines a multi-course meal with exquisite Portuguese wines in the peaceful Arrábida mountains. Over about 3 hours, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated menu paired with local wines, all in an intimate setting.
The experience includes a peaceful walk through a private forest, adding a touch of tranquility and connection to nature. It’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious, authentic experience.
Reviews are limited, but the setting and focus on quality food and wine make it stand out. Expect personal attention, beautiful scenery, and a memorable gastronomic journey.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations needing a peaceful, exclusive atmosphere.
$235 per person
How to Choose the Perfect Wine Tour
When selecting a wine tour in Setubal, consider your priorities:
- For a personalized private day with flexibility and scenic drives, the A PRIVATE afternoon south of Lisbon is ideal.
- If you’re after a comprehensive exploration of multiple regions, the Azeitão, Palmela, and Setúbal** tour covers all bases; it’s perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to taste different terroirs.
- Short on time? The Half Day Arrabida Tour with Wine Tasting offers a focused experience with cultural and scenic highlights.
- For art and history lovers, the Setúbal Moscatel tour combines historic architecture with world-famous wines.
- Curious about traditional winemaking? The Workshop – Wine Tasting 101 provides a hands-on approach to understanding Portuguese wine techniques.
Pick your tour based on your available time, your interest in small-group or private options, and whether you prefer scenic drives, cultural sites, or educational experiences.
In The Sum Up
Setubal District offers a wide array of wine tours suited to different interests and schedules. If you want a private, flexible experience, the A PRIVATE afternoon south of Lisbon stands out. For those eager to explore multiple regions with a focus on cultural experiences, the Azeitão, Palmela, and Setúbal Wines tour offers great value. And if your time is limited, the Half Day Arrabida provides a perfect snapshot of the region’s beauty and flavors.
No matter your choice, these tours promise memorable moments—whether it’s tasting world-class Moscatel, learning traditional wine-making, or simply soaking in Portugal’s stunning landscapes. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and enjoy all that Setubal’s vibrant wine scene has to offer.