Private Special Tour Around Lisbon and Wine Tasting

Discover the Unique Charm of This Private Lisbon and Wine Tour

This private tour around Lisbon offers an engaging mix of iconic sights, scenic landscapes, and wine experiences, all within a flexible 8 to 9-hour itinerary. Priced at $196.79 per person, it provides a personalized way to explore some of the city’s most notable landmarks and countryside. The tour includes pickup, transport in an air-conditioned minivan, and a guided experience, making it ideal for those seeking comfort and tailored attention.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its highlights: the statue of Christ the King, the stunning views of Arrabida Natural Park, the historic Bacalhoa Palace, and a wine tasting session at a renowned winery. It’s well-suited for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a taste of Portuguese wine culture, all while enjoying a private, intimate setting.

While the tour involves some walking at scenic stops, it is generally accessible and designed for most travelers. The only notable limitation is that lunch is not included, so planning for that is recommended. This tour is a comprehensive choice for those wanting a balanced day filled with impressive vistas, cultural insights, and wine indulgence.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with just your group and a guide
• Duration of 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:00am
• Visit four main stops: Christ the King, Arrabida Park, Bacalhoa Palace, and winery
• Includes wine tasting of three different wines: red, white, and Moscatel
• Transport in an air-conditioned minivan with USB sockets and bottled water
• No lunch included, so plan accordingly

The Significance of the Christ the King Statue in Lisbon

The tour begins at the Santuario Nacional de Cristo Rei, an impressive statue inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. Built between 1949 and 1959, it was erected to fulfill a vow made by the Portuguese episcopate during World War II, asking for peace and Portugal’s neutrality during the war.

Standing more than 30 minutes from the city, this monument offers spectacular views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. While admission is not included, the exterior view alone provides a powerful photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate Portugal’s religious and cultural symbolism.

This stop is perfect for those interested in the history behind Portugal’s peaceful stance during WWII and for visitors wanting a panoramic perspective of Lisbon from an elevated spot. The guide explains the monument’s background, adding context to this iconic landmark.

Scenic Drive Through Arrabida Natural Park

Next, the tour takes you into the Arrabida Natural Park, a protected area on the Setúbal Peninsula. The park reaches an altitude of 501 meters, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Arrabida is celebrated for its diverse flora and fauna, including the rare Candidula arrabidensis snail and fireflies, an endangered species. The park’s environment has changed over the centuries, but it remains a magical location with unique plant species—more than 1,400 are found here, representing 40% of Portugal’s plant species.

While the stop here lasts about 30 minutes, it’s a highlight for nature lovers and those who appreciate scenic vistas. The landscape’s tranquility and biodiversity provide a perfect setting for photos and quiet reflection.

Exploring Bacalhoa Palace: A Historic Vineyard Estate

The Palácio da Bacalhoa is a highlight for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. This former royal estate dates back to the 15th century and was once owned by Infante João, son of King João I. Restored in 1936 by American Orlena Scoville, the estate now belongs to the Berardo Foundation.

Classified as a Monumento Nacional in 1996, the palace and its grounds are considered the most beautiful quinta from the first half of the 16th century still existing in Portugal. Visitors can admire the restored architecture, stroll through vineyards, and appreciate the estate’s historical significance.

The 2-hour visit offers a chance to learn about Portugal’s royal past and the estate’s transformation into a prominent wine producer. The site’s cultural value and scenic beauty make it a worthwhile stop, especially for those interested in Portugal’s wine and history.

Wine Tasting at Bacalhoa: Red, White, and Moscatel

A key feature of this tour is the wine tasting session at the Bacalhoa winery, lasting about 1 hour. Here, the group samples three different wines, including red, white, and Moscatel, giving a well-rounded introduction to Portugal’s wine diversity.

The winery’s reputation as one of Portugal’s major producers ensures a quality experience. Guests can learn about the wine-making process and the distinct characteristics of each variety, making this a memorable part of the day.

The tasting is perfect for wine enthusiasts or those curious about Portuguese wine traditions. No additional purchase is necessary, as the tasting is included in the tour price.

Logistics: Pickup, Transport, and Group Size

This private tour offers pickup at your hotel or port, making logistics seamless. Transport is provided by an air-conditioned minivan equipped with USB sockets for mobile charging and bottled water, ensuring comfort during the day.

Because it’s a private experience, only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed and personalized pace. The tour begins at 9:00am, with most travelers booking 6 days in advance for availability. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with easy access and no strenuous physical activity required.

Practical Tips for the Day

Although lunch is not included, the tour’s timing allows for flexibility to bring snacks or plan to dine at local restaurants near the stops. The stops are spaced out comfortably, with enough time at each location for sightseeing and photos.

Since the tour involves some walking at scenic stops and historical sites, comfortable footwear is advisable. The tour operates near public transportation, but the private pickup ensures direct access from your accommodation or port.

Value and Overall Experience

At $196.79 per person, this private tour provides a comprehensive experience that combines scenic drives, cultural visits, and wine tasting. The presence of a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience, as reviews mention guides who share insightful stories and history.

While the tour does not include lunch, the inclusion of bottled water, wifi, and USB sockets adds to the overall comfort. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a personalized day with stunning views and cultural insights without the hassle of large group tours.

Final Thoughts on the Lisbon and Wine Private Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring both Lisbon’s iconic monument and beautiful natural landscapes, culminating in a wine tasting experience that showcases Portuguese craftsmanship. Its private nature and flexible itinerary make it appealing for those seeking a more intimate, customized adventure.

The stops at Christ the King, Arrabida Park, and Bacalhoa Palace provide a mix of breathtaking views, historical depth, and nature, complemented by a quality wine tasting. The comfort features like hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and thoughtful amenities add value.

This tour is an excellent option for history buffs, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts looking for a full-day, personalized experience in the Lisbon region. It balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture, making for a memorable day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking at scenic stops but is generally accessible for most ages.

What is included in the price?
The price includes hotel or port pickup, transport in an air-conditioned minivan, bottled water, wifi, a driver/guide, and the wine tasting session. Lunch is not included.

How much time is spent at each stop?
Expect about 30 minutes at Christ the King for photos and views, 30 minutes at Arrabida Park, 2 hours at Bacalhoa Palace for sightseeing, and 1 hour for wine tasting.

Do I need to prepare for physical activity?
The stops involve some walking, but no strenuous physical activity is required. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it is a private experience, there is room for some customization, especially regarding timing or specific interests, with prior arrangement.

When should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 6 days in advance. Confirmations are sent immediately upon booking, ensuring availability for your preferred date.