Azeitão Wineries Day Tour from Lisbon
Escape the hustle of Lisbon for a day dedicated to the wines and culinary delights of Azeitão. This curated day tour offers a relaxed exploration of the Setúbal Peninsula, a region celebrated for its unique Moscatel wine and picturesque landscapes. Your private driver will take you south across the 25 de Abril Bridge, offering panoramic views of the Tagus River as you head towards the verdant hills of Azeitão.
The journey unfolds through charming Portuguese countryside, leading to a visit at one of the area's most historic Moscatel producers. Here, you will gain insight into the traditional winemaking processes and enjoy a tasting of this renowned sweet wine. The Azeitão region is also famous for its sheep's cheese and traditional pastries, adding another layer to your gastronomic adventure.
Following the wine tasting, a long, leisurely lunch awaits at a carefully selected local restaurant. This is an opportunity to savor regional cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood from the nearby coast or robust meat dishes, paired with local wines. The afternoon is designed for unhurried enjoyment, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the flavors and atmosphere of Azeitão before your comfortable return to Lisbon.
Moscatel de Setúbal, José Maria da Fonseca and a long lunch.
About this experience
A relaxed wine day in the Azeitão area, including a tasting at one of the historic Moscatel producers and a long lunch nearby.
Departure and return from Lisbon. Duration: 7 hours. Pricing is per private vehicle, not per person. Request availability and prices.
What's included
- Private Mercedes-Benz vehicle from our fleet
- English-speaking professional driver
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon
- Flexible timing and a relaxed break for lunch
- All fuel, tolls and parking
Plan this private experience from Lisbon with Portugal Magik
Frequently asked questions
What makes Moscatel de Setúbal unique compared to other Portuguese wines?
Moscatel de Setúbal is a fortified wine, distinct from Port or Madeira, made primarily from the Moscatel de Alexandria grape. Its unique characteristic comes from the maceration process, where the grape skins are left in contact with the fermenting must for an extended period, sometimes up to six months. This extracts intense aromatic compounds, resulting in its signature floral and citrus notes, often with hints of honey and nuts as it ages.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated during the long lunch in Azeitão?
Yes, our local partners are generally able to accommodate most common dietary restrictions and allergies. Please inform us of any specific requirements when booking your tour. We will relay this information to the chosen restaurant in advance to ensure a suitable menu is available for your lunch.
Is there an opportunity to purchase wine directly from the winery visited?
Absolutely. The wineries we partner with typically have a cellar door shop where you can purchase their wines, including the Moscatel de Setúbal, and sometimes other regional products. This provides an excellent opportunity to take home some of the unique flavors of Azeitão.
Local detail
The Azeitão region, nestled within the Arrábida Natural Park, is characterized by its rolling vineyards and olive groves, framed by the dramatic Serra da Arrábida mountain range. The area's microclimate, influenced by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus River, creates ideal conditions for cultivating the Moscatel grape, which forms the basis of the famous Moscatel de Setúbal. You will visit a distinguished winery, such as José Maria da Fonseca, one of Portugal's oldest and most respected wine producers, dating back to 1834. Their cellars hold centuries of winemaking history, and their tours often include a visit to the family museum.
Beyond its wines, Azeitão is also known for its local gastronomy. The 'Queijo de Azeitão' is a DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) sheep's cheese, creamy and intense, best enjoyed with a slice of rustic bread. For those with a sweet tooth, the 'Torta de Azeitão' is a soft, rolled sponge cake filled with egg cream, a local specialty found in many of the region's pastry shops. Lunch will be at a restaurant offering authentic regional dishes, providing a true taste of the Setúbal Peninsula's culinary heritage. The drive itself offers scenic beauty, with glimpses of the Arrábida coastline and its pristine beaches.