Lisbon to Wine Tasting Setubal, Two Cellars, Half Day Tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Portugal’s renowned wine region, just a short drive from Lisbon. For around five hours, you’ll visit two carefully chosen wineries—Jose Maria da Fonseca and Quinta da Bacalhoa—and sample an impressive range of wines, including the region’s signature Moscatel, plus reds and whites. Led by knowledgeable guides, this private tour combines scenic vineyard views, rich history, and hands-on tastings, making it a compelling choice for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
What we love about this experience is how it showcases both historic and modern wineries, providing a sense of evolution within the local wine scene. The scenic landscapes of Setubal are an added bonus, offering vibrant views that pair beautifully with each tasting. Another highlight is the chance to enjoy local delicacies such as cheese and pastries, elevating the tasting experience beyond just wine.
A potential consideration is that the tour lasts about five hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy relaxed, immersive outings rather than hurried sightseeing. Also, since it’s a private group experience, the pace and focus can be tailored to your interests, which we find adds a lot of value.
This tour fits best for travelers who want a personalized, engaging introduction to Portugal’s wine culture without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you appreciate scenic landscapes, quality wines, and friendly guides, this is a trip worth considering.
Key Points
- Expert-guided experience focusing on two top wineries in Setubal.
- Diverse wine tastings, including local Moscatel, reds, and whites.
- Scenic vineyard views and a look at both historic and modern wineries.
- Comfortable private group for a personalized experience.
- Includes local food samples, enhancing the tasting journey.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off from Lisbon, Sintra, or Cascais.
A Practical Guide to the Lisbon to Setubal Wine Tour
If you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Portugal’s famous viticulture, this private half-day tour from Lisbon offers a relaxed yet deeply informative experience. Covering approximately 30 minutes’ drive south, you’ll explore the Setubal wine region, known for its Moscatel—a sweet, aromatic wine that’s a local specialty. The tour also includes visits to two renowned wineries, each with distinct personalities and histories, offering a well-rounded introduction to the area’s wine traditions.
Planning more time in Azeitao? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
First Impressions: What to Expect
The tour begins with a pickup from your Lisbon-area hotel, with three convenient options—Sintra, Lisbon, or Cascais—making it flexible for travelers based in different parts of the metropolitan area. Once on the road, expect a comfortable, private vehicle that allows for a relaxed journey without the crowded feeling of a large tour group.
The first stop is Azeitao, a charming town famed for its vineyards and historic wineries. Here, a guided tour of the first cellar—Jose Maria da Fonseca—gives insights into Portugal’s wine-making traditions, along with a tasting session that lasts about 1.5 hours. You’ll see the old cellars, learn about the process, and sample a variety of wines, including the beloved Moscatel.
Next, you’ll visit Quinta da Bacalhoa, a more modern winery that combines innovation with tradition. With stunning views of the vineyards and impressive architecture, this part of the tour offers a beautiful setting to taste more wines, including reds and whites, alongside local cheese and pastries.
The tour wraps up with a brief return journey to your pickup point, typically around 5 hours total, leaving you plenty of time to explore further on your own or relax with a glass of Portuguese wine back in Lisbon.
Highlights and Unique Features
Visit to Jose Maria da Fonseca: This historic winery is one of Portugal’s most iconic, having been in operation since 1851. It’s an excellent place to understand traditional wine-making methods and appreciate the heritage of the region. From seeing ancient cellars to tasting wines that have been aged for decades, this stop offers a tangible connection to Portugal’s wine past.
Tour of Quinta da Bacalhoa: Known for its striking architecture and contemporary wine facilities, this winery showcases how Portuguese wine producers embrace modern techniques while honoring tradition. The stunning vineyard landscape makes the tasting feel like an exclusive experience, especially with the chance to try local reds and whites.
Diverse Wine Tastings: The tour emphasizes local varieties, especially the renowned Moscatel de Setubal, a sweet wine perfect as a dessert or with cheese. The inclusion of reds and whites provides a well-rounded tasting profile, appealing to different palates.
Scenic Landscapes: As you travel through the region, you’ll see lush vineyards, rolling hills, and traditional Portuguese countryside. Many reviews highlight how the views alone make the trip worthwhile.
Local Food Samples: Sampling local cheeses and pastries along with wines adds an extra layer of enjoyment, giving you a taste of the regional culinary culture.
What’s Not So Perfect
While the tour is generally well-reviewed, travelers should note that it’s a half-day, so it’s not a comprehensive wine immersion but a taste of the region’s highlights. If you’re seeking an in-depth winery experience or to visit more wineries, you might find this tour slightly limited.
Also, because the schedule lasts about five hours, those who prefer a very relaxed or leisurely pace might want to consider how much time they want to dedicate to wine tasting and sightseeing.
More Great Tours NearbyIn-Depth Look at the Itinerary
Pickup and Journey (30 minutes)
Starting with your choice of pickup location—Cascais, Sintra, or Lisbon—the journey is smooth, thanks to the private transfer. This convenience ensures you start your wine adventure without the hassle of navigating public transport or large groups.
First Winery: Jose Maria da Fonseca (1.5 hours)
This winery is a cornerstone of Portugal’s wine history. You’ll likely see historic cellars, some dating back over a century, and learn about the traditional methods that have helped produce world-renowned wines. The tasting here includes some of the most iconic products, including the famous Moscatel de Setubal.
Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable guides like Goncalves enhance the experience, providing context and answering questions with enthusiasm and clarity. One reviewer notes, “Goncalves was an amazing tour guide. He was very knowledgeable and a kind person who was fun to hang out with.”
Second Winery: Quinta da Bacalhoa (1.5 hours)
This modern winery offers a different perspective—more contemporary architecture, innovative techniques, and equally high-quality wines. The setting is picturesque, with vineyards stretching to the horizon, making it perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape. Sampling the reds and whites here, along with regional cheese and pastries, rounds out the experience.
Return and Drop-off (Approx. 1 hour)
After the last tasting, the return trip is straightforward, returning you to your original pickup point. The total time allows for a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of Setubal’s wine scene.
Authentic Experiences and Reviews
The reviews reflect the high value many travelers find in this tour. Many praise their guides’ knowledge and friendliness. For example, one reviewer loved how “Marco was a wonderful tour guide and we especially loved Quinta de Catralvos,” highlighting personal touches and memorable interactions.
Another reviewer appreciated how the scenic views and excellent wines made the day special, saying, “The wine was amazing aswell, cant recommend it anymore.” The emphasis on local wines, including Moscatel, Reds, and Whites, ensures you get a genuine taste of the region’s offerings.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Book in advance: Tours are popular, especially during peak seasons, and they operate only on specific days with limited availability.
- Arrive prepared: Wear comfortable shoes if you want to explore the vineyards or the wineries’ architecture.
- Pace yourself: While wine tasting is the focus, pace your palate with water and small bites to enjoy the day fully.
- Bring a camera: The landscapes and winery architecture are worth capturing.
- Consider dietary restrictions: The tour includes local cheese and pastries, but if you have allergies or specific preferences, check with the provider beforehand.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re looking for a personalized, scenic introduction to Portuguese wines, this half-day tour hits many marks. It offers a chance to taste regional specialties like Moscatel, learn from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy stunning vineyard vistas—all in a comfortable private setting. It’s especially suited for those who want a balanced mix of history, scenery, and wine without spending a full day.
However, if you’re seeking an in-depth winery experience or want to visit many wineries in one day, you might want to explore more extensive options. But for a taste of Setubal’s wine culture combined with scenic beauty and excellent local wines, this tour provides great value.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately five hours, including transportation, visits, and tasting sessions.
What wineries are visited during the tour?
You visit Jose Maria da Fonseca and Quinta da Bacalhoa, each offering a different perspective on local wine production.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with options from Cascais, Sintra, or Lisbon.
Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can adapt the experience based on your interests, within the scope of the scheduled visits.
Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The tasting includes a range of wines, and guides are knowledgeable, making it friendly for all levels of experience.
Are local foods included?
Yes, you’ll have the chance to try regional cheese and pastries, enhancing the tasting experience.
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of mobility needs.
This private half-day wine tour from Lisbon offers a delightful combination of heritage, scenic beauty, and authentic taste. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about Portugal’s famed varieties, it provides a relaxed yet engaging way to explore the Setubal region’s vinicultural riches.
You can check availability for your dates here: