Setubal Private Wine Tour, Food Tasting, Beaches, Palaces and Art

Setubal Private Wine Tour, Food Tasting, Beaches, Palaces and Art

This private tour in Lisbon, Portugal offers a full-day experience priced at $127.76 per person with an estimated 8-hour duration. It stands out for its carefully curated stops, including a visit to Bacalhoa, where you enjoy tasting three exclusive Portuguese wines, and the opportunity to explore charming coastal towns like Setúbal and Sesimbra. The tour also features a visit to the Santuario de Cristo Rei, where panoramic views cover Lisbon, the 25 de Abril bridge, and the Tagus river.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its seamless convenience—pickup is offered, and group discounts may be available. The tour operates with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, equipped with WiFi and device charging, making it a comfortable and informative day for those looking to combine wine, scenery, and history in a single outing. The only potential limitation is the 2-hour visit to Bacalhoa, but this is balanced by the rich variety of stops that follow, suited for visitors eager to see both cultural landmarks and natural landscapes.

Key Points

• Private, all-in-one day tour from Lisbon covering wine, beaches, towns, and panoramic views
• Visit to Bacalhoa, a historic vineyard with art and architecture, including a palace and gardens
• Wine tasting of 3 exclusive Portuguese wines, including Moscatel de Setúbal
• Explore Setúbal, a city renowned for its fresh fish, markets, and historic fortifications
• Discover Sesimbra, a traditional fishing village with a medieval castle and scenic beaches
• Elevated view from Christ the King Sanctuary, with 360-degree vistas from 220 meters high over Lisbon and the Tagus river

Crossing the 25 de Abril Bridge into the Charm of Bacalhoa

The tour begins with a scenic drive across the 25 de Abril bridge, one of Lisbon’s iconic structures. Within approximately 30 minutes, you reach Bacalhoa, a historic estate known for its distinctive architecture and lush gardens. The highlight here is the visit to the Renaissance palace and its dreamlike gardens, which showcase a mix of classic and contemporary art pieces.

The estate is also a famous wine producer with a museum cellar and vineyards influenced by the unique soil, vegetation, and microclimate at the foot of the Arrábida mountain range. While the visit to the palace, gardens, and vineyards lasts about 2 hours, it’s important to note that admission tickets are not included, but for adults over 12 years, the wine tasting of 3 wines costs €12.

Art, Architecture, and Exclusive Wines at Quinta da Bacalhoa

Quinta da Bacalhoa is more than a vineyard; it’s a cultural jewel. The estate’s architecture reflects influences from travels across Europe, Africa, and the East, giving it a unique charm. Visitors can explore art pieces from private collections displayed throughout the estate, including in the gardens, vineyards, and lake house.

The wine tasting features three of Portugal’s most exclusive wines, such as the renowned Moscatel de Setúbal, offering a refined experience for wine enthusiasts. The estate’s microclimate and soil produce grapes with distinctive qualities, making the tasting a highlight of the day. The admission for the wine tasting is €12 per person for those over 12, with children under 12 free.

Discovering Setúbal’s Coastal Charm and Historic Fortifications

Next, the tour visits Setúbal, a city celebrated for its fishing port and fresh seafood. The Livramento Market showcases the freshness of local fish and produce, making it an ideal spot to appreciate Portugal’s culinary traditions. The city’s history is reflected in the São Filipe Fort, perched at 120 meters, offering impressive views of the sea, city, and sand beaches.

Setúbal’s beachfront and fisherman’s community present a contrast to Lisbon’s hustle, with quiet beaches and a more rustic vibe. While the market and fort are free to visit, the city’s atmosphere rewards visitors with its authentic local life and scenic vistas.

Medieval Heritage in Sesimbra and Its Canning Industry

The tour also includes a visit to Sesimbra, a fishing town with roots dating back to the Discoveries era. The Sesimbra Castle, built by D. Sancho I in the 12th century, remains a prominent historical site. From the castle’s elevated position, visitors get panoramic views of the town, sea, and surrounding landscape.

Sesimbra’s calm beaches, combined with its local seafood cuisine, make it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. The town’s canning industry historically thrived here, adding to its character as a traditional fishing community. Visits to the castle and town are free, and the area provides a rustic, authentic Portuguese experience.

The Magnificent Cristo Rei Sanctuary and Its 360-Degree Views

The final highlight of the tour is the Santuario de Cristo Rei, inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. Opened in 1959, the sanctuary was built as a gesture of gratitude for Portugal’s non-entry into World War II.

Climbing to the portico at 220 meters high, visitors are treated to unmatched panoramic views across Lisbon, the 25 de Abril bridge, Almada, and the Tagus river. The admission fee is €8 for those over 13 years, while children under 12 are free. This viewpoint offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the grandeur of Lisbon’s landscape from above.

Comfortable Transportation and Onboard Amenities

A key feature of this tour is the private, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi and device charging, ensuring comfort during the long day. The pick-up service simplifies logistics, and bottled water is provided for hydration. This setup makes the experience suitable for those who value convenience and a stress-free day out.

Flexibility and Booking Options

This is a private tour, so only your group participates, allowing for personalized experiences. The most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The booking process offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change. It starts at 9:00am, giving ample time to enjoy all stops without feeling rushed.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

The combination of wine tasting at Bacalhoa, visits to Setúbal and Sesimbra, and panoramic views from Cristo Rei creates a well-rounded day exploring Portugal’s rich maritime, cultural, and natural heritage. The private transportation and curated stops ensure a personalized experience, ideal for those seeking an exclusive day out that balances history, scenery, and gastronomy.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, history buffs, and beach enthusiasts alike. Visitors interested in art and architecture will appreciate the unique features of Bacalhoa and the medieval castle. The scenic viewpoints and culinary opportunities make it suited for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring the area near Lisbon.

Final Thoughts on the Setubal Private Tour

The $127.76 price point offers good value considering the full day of diverse activities, from wine tasting and art exploration to beachside towns and panoramic views. The balanced itinerary allows for a relaxed pace, with enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the scenery and local culture.

This tour appeals most to those seeking a personalized, all-encompassing experience outside Lisbon, combining gastronomy, history, and natural beauty. The limited limitations—mainly the 2-hour estate visit—are outweighed by the variety and quality of stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided for the entire day?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included for the whole duration of the tour.

Are admission tickets included for the wine tasting and Cristo Rei?
Tickets for Bacalhoa are €12 for adults over 12, and the Cristo Rei tickets are €8 for those over 13; these are paid separately. The visits to Setúbal and Sesimbra, including the market and castle, are free.

What is the best time to start this tour?
The tour begins at 9:00am, providing a full day to enjoy all stops comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 generally participate for free or at discounted rates, and the tour’s gentle pace makes it suitable for families.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended for exploring estates, towns, and viewpoints. Bottled water is provided onboard.

This Setubal Private Wine Tour combines luxury, culture, and natural beauty, providing a memorable excursion just outside Lisbon for those eager to explore Portugal’s coastal charm and fine wines.