Lisbon Countryside Food Tour on Vintage Car

Discover the Charm of Sintra’s Countryside on a Vintage Car Tour

The Lisbon Countryside Food Tour on Vintage Car offers an intimate look at Portugal’s natural beauty, small villages, and traditional flavors. Priced at $99.49 per person, this 4-hour 30-minute experience combines scenic drives, organic local food, and engaging storytelling. With a maximum group size of 13 travelers, it’s perfect for those seeking a personal, relaxed adventure outside the busy tourist spots.

Guided by Diogo Santos Trajano, the tour starts in Sintra and takes you through the picturesque villages of Mafra and Ericeira. The tour is especially praised for its authentic organic picnic, knowledgeable hosts, and the use of classic vehicles like the Volkswagen T3 van, which comfortably seats up to 8 people. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or vintage car enthusiast, this tour offers a warm, genuine glimpse of Portugal’s countryside.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $99.49 for around 4.5 hours, this tour offers good value for a personalized experience.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 13 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and attentive guides.
• Unique Vehicles: Guided in a Volkswagen T3 van, with an option for a Citroen 2cv for smaller groups.
• Scenic Stops: Includes a secret waterfall in Sintra and a walk in Ericeira with Atlantic views and traditional cobblestone streets.
• Organic Picnic: Enjoy a rustic, organic lunch in a mountain village, featuring local products and family farm delicacies.
• Music and Atmosphere: Portuguese tunes play during the drive, creating a lively and authentic vibe.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Avenida Mário Firmino Miguel in Sintra. The meeting point is easy to find, with nearby public transportation available. The activity concludes back at the start point, making it convenient for planning the rest of your day. The group size is capped at 13 to maintain intimacy and personalized attention.

Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received within 48 hours. The tour is available on most days, with most travelers able to participate. If weather conditions are poor, the experience can be rescheduled or refunded, adding a layer of flexibility.

Exploring Sintra’s Secret Waterfall and Rustic Villages

The first stop is a hidden waterfall in Sintra’s mountaineering trails. This peaceful spot is perfect for a short walk and photo opportunities. The guide shares insights about the inactive volcano nearby, adding a touch of geological interest.

Next, the tour takes you to a rustic village where the organic picnic is set up at a stone table. Here, the sounds of farm animals and the aroma of local delicacies create a cozy, authentic atmosphere. The local products are prepared at home, emphasizing sustainability and organic farming. The experience highlights the rural side of Sintra often missed by visitors.

Discovering Mafra and Its Main Street Sights

The group then moves to Mafra, passing along its main street and the National Palace of Mafra. While the tour emphasizes the natural and small-town charm rather than inside visits, the scenery and architecture provide a glimpse into Portuguese cultural heritage. The guide shares stories about the area’s history and its significance.

Atlantic Views and a Walk in Ericeira

The last stop is the coastal village of Ericeira, famous as a world surf reserve with stunning Atlantic views. Travelers are invited for a free walk through its narrow streets, paved with Calçada Portuguesa cobblestones. The walk offers picturesque vistas along the coast and the chance to savor a traditional Portuguese sweet.

Ericeira’s lively atmosphere and scenic coastline make it a fitting finale to the countryside tour. The narrow streets and the Atlantic breeze leave a lasting impression of Portugal’s seaside charm.

The Vehicles: Classic Cars with a Warm Atmosphere

The tour features two vintage vehicles: a Citroen 2cv, which seats 4 including the driver, and a Volkswagen T3 van for larger groups. Both vehicles are driven by passionate hosts, with Portuguese music playing to enhance the experience. The Volkswagen T3 offers a spacious, comfortable ride, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.

The Food and Drink Experience

A standout feature is the organic picnic lunch prepared by the hosts. It’s set at a stone table in a mountain village, with local products and family farm delicacies like authentic chorizo. The picnic is praised as delicious and a genuine highlight, providing a relaxed environment to chat and soak in the countryside atmosphere.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy scenic drives, local food, and small villages. The experience is weather-dependent, with provisions for rescheduling or refunds if conditions are unfavorable. Remember to wear comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to walk at stops.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What sets this experience apart is the combination of vintage vehicles, organic local food, and authentic village visits. The small group size ensures a personal touch, and Diogo and Rita are consistently praised for their warm hospitality and knowledge.

Despite its focus on countryside scenery and food, the tour offers a comfortable pace and meaningful insights into Portuguese rural life. It’s especially recommended for those seeking a relaxed, genuine experience beyond standard sightseeing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals most to food lovers, vintage vehicle enthusiasts, and nature lovers eager to explore small villages and Atlantic coast views. It’s ideal for families or small groups seeking a personalized experience with local hosts. Since it includes a delicious picnic and scenic drives, it’s perfect for those looking for an authentic taste of Portugal’s countryside.

Final Thoughts on the Lisbon Countryside Food Tour

The $99.49 price point offers a good value for the variety of experiences packed into this 4.5-hour tour. The small group setting and personalized storytelling by Diogo Santos Trajano create a warm, engaging atmosphere. The organic picnic and visits to hidden spots like the waterfall and Ericeira’s streets make this tour stand out.

While it might not suit those seeking inside museum visits or extensive sightseeing, it excels for visitors wanting to experience Portugal’s rural life, natural beauty, and local flavors in a relaxed setting. The tour’s high rating of 5.0/5 from 29 reviews attests to its consistent quality and genuine charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, including stops for sightseeing, a picnic, and walking.

What vehicles are used during the tour?
The tour is guided in a Volkswagen T3 van for larger groups, with an option for a Citroen 2cv for smaller groups, both driven by hosts with Portuguese music playing.

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

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; the tour suits those comfortable with short walks and scenic drives.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with options for rescheduling or a full refund if weather disrupts the experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guides, vintage vehicle transport, and the organic picnic lunch.

This tour provides a relaxed, authentic view of Sintra’s rural beauty, perfect for visitors eager for a personal connection to Portugal’s countryside.