Portugal has so much to offer, especially when it comes to wine and food experiences that blend scenic beauty, deep history, and extraordinary flavors. While Portugal is small, its diversity in wine regions is huge, and we’ve had the pleasure of experiencing some of the best wine tours in the country. If you’re thinking about diving into Portugal’s rich wine culture, here’s a breakdown of seven particularly fantastic tours and a guide to the best wineries, where to stay, and things to do.

Best Wine Tasting In Portugal

We’ve carefully selected these tours based on our personal experiences, recommendations from locals, and a lot of wine research (tough job, right?). So, if you’re planning a trip to Portugal and want to explore the best wine regions, this guide will give you a solid head start.

Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch – Madeira Islands

If you’re heading to the stunning Madeira Islands, this full-day wine-tasting tour is a must. Operated by Wine Tours Madeira, this tour takes you on a journey through Madeira’s scenic vineyards, charming villages, and of course, to some of the island’s best wineries.

What we loved

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants a deep dive into Madeira’s famous fortified wines. You’ll visit the vineyards in Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente, which are all incredibly picturesque. You’ll particularly love the stop at São Vicente – the views of the vineyards rolling down toward the Atlantic are breathtaking. Plus, the lunch at a traditional Madeiran restaurant was fantastic, with local dishes paired with wines that really showcased the island’s unique terroir.

Practical tips

• Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
• Operated by: Wine Tours Madeira
• Price: Around $206 (includes lunch, hotel pickup, and wine tastings)
• Best for: Wine lovers who want to explore Madeira’s distinctive fortified wines in-depth.
• Don’t miss: The laurel forests and dramatic coastal scenery along the way.

Douro Valley All Included: Expert Guide, Boat, Lunch, Tastings

 

The Douro Valley is probably the most famous wine region in Portugal, and for good reason. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the landscapes here are jaw-droppingly beautiful. This full-day tour, operated by Oporto Sensations Tour, includes everything from a scenic boat ride on the Douro River to wine tastings at two excellent wineries.

What we loved

This tour does an amazing job of mixing wine education with relaxation. You’ll visit Peso da Régua and Pinhão, two of the most picturesque villages in the Douro, and learn about the region’s rich history of port wine production while enjoying stunning views such as Miradouro Torguiano De Sao Cristovao Do Douro or while driving National Road 222 by Peso Da Regua. A lovely boat cruise awaits you, not on an ordinary boat, but on a Rabelo, the typical vessel that transported barrels to Porto. The wine tastings here are some of the best you’ll ever have – the Ports are divine, and they also let you sample some excellent olive oil, which is often overlooked in the region.

Practical tips

• Duration: 9 hours (approx.)
• Operated by: Oporto Sensations Tour
• Price: Around $206 (includes lunch, hotel pickup, tastings, and boat ride)
• Best for: Wine enthusiasts who want to experience the Douro Valley’s scenery and wines in a small group.
• Don’t miss: The Rabelo boat ride – a traditional wooden boat that once transported port wine down the river.

Private Douro Valley Tour – Boutique Winery & River Cruise

If you prefer a more intimate, tailored experience, this private Douro Valley tour is ideal. Operated by Oporto Road Trips, this tour takes you to some lesser-known boutique wineries and includes a peaceful river cruise.

What we loved

The smaller, boutique wineries, such as Quinta do Cume, on this tour were a real highlight. They often fly under the radar but produce some of the most exquisite wines. The tastings were often hosted by the winemakers themselves. Lunch at a local restaurant in Pinhão was another highlight – the food was authentic, and the wine pairings perfect.

Practical tips

• Duration: 9-10 hours (approx.)
• Price: From $346 (includes tastings, river cruise, and lunch)
• Operated by: Oporto Road Trips
• Best for: Travelers looking for a private, customizable experience with a focus on boutique wineries.
• Don’t Miss: The Quinta do Cume – their wines are excellent, and the views from the vineyard are unforgettable.

Premium Private Douro Tour: 3 Wineries with Tastings & Lunch

For those wanting to experience the best of the Douro in style, this premium tour, operated by VYNEA, is unbeatable. You’ll visit three top wineries, enjoy a gourmet lunch, and even sample some of the region’s best olive oils and nuts.

What we loved

This tour really feels like a deep dive into the Douro Valley’s wine culture. At each winery, the tastings were thorough and informative, with an emphasis on both port and table wines. The lunch at Cais da Foz is a treat – regional specialties paired with Douro DOC wines. Plus, you’ll pass near the legendary Pinhao Railway Station.

Practical tips

• Duration: 10 hours (approx.)
• Price: From $425 (includes tastings, lunch, and hotel pickup)
• Operated by: VYNEA
• Best for: Wine enthusiasts who want a comprehensive wine and food experience in the Douro Valley.
• Don’t Miss: The family-run wineries – Quinta de Avessada, Quinta de Tourais, and Quinta Seara d’Ordens offer a more personal and authentic experience.

Douro Valley Tour in a Tesla

This one’s for the eco-conscious traveler! If you’ve ever wanted to explore the Douro Valley in style (and with a lower carbon footprint), Portugal EV Tours offers a fantastic day out in a Tesla. You’ll visit some of the region’s top wine estates and enjoy tastings of not only wine but also olive oil, honey, and almonds.

What we loved

The Tesla is such a cool way to explore the valley, especially knowing that you’re reducing your carbon footprint. But the real star here is the wine. The wine tasting at Quinta Seara d’Ordens and the lunch and tasting at Quinta de Ventozelo as well is an unforgettable experience – National Geographic even ranked it among the top three gastronomic experiences in the world! The farm-to-fork concept is brilliantly executed here, and the wines are just as spectacular. You also get to check out D’Origem, an olive oil mill that has been turned into a museum.

Practical tips

• Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
• Price: From $441 (includes lunch, tastings, and hotel pickup)
• Operated by: Portugal EV Tours
• Best for: Environmentally conscious travelers who want to explore the Douro Valley in style.
• Don’t Miss: The views from Casal de Loivos Viewpoint – BBC named it the best in the world!

Douro Valley Tour (wine & Food)

This is a personal favorite. It’s an 8-hour tour (approx.) that really lets you soak up everything the Douro Valley has to offer. I’ve always been a huge fan of Port wine and food, and this tour delivers on both.

What we loved

One of the things we loved most about this tour was that it’s private, meaning you have a lot of flexibility, and you’re not rushed. You can savor the wine and the food without being part of a massive group. Lunch was definitely a highlight — traditional Portuguese cuisine paired with local wines, which added depth to the overall experience. Also, bring a camera! The scenery you get to experience on this tour is out of this world.

Practical tips

• Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
• Price: From $1,096 (includes lunch, tastings, and hotel pickup)
• Operated by: 3Ts – Transfers & Touristic Tours
• Best for: Along with wine, the tour offers the chance to savor authentic Portuguese cuisine. PS. Because it’s a private tour, this experience is perfect for couples looking for a romantic day out or small groups of friends or family who want a more intimate experience.
• Don’t Miss: If you can, upgrade to the Rabelo boat ride. It’s a 50-minute cruise on the Douro River in a traditional wooden boat

Secrets of Porto and Douro Valley with River Cruise

If you have a bit more time and want a deeper experience, this 5-day tour operated by Portugal Travel Center is just brilliant. It’s a perfect mix of city and countryside, starting with a deep dive into Porto. Porto is such a vibrant, historical city, and the food there is some of the best you’ll find. I’m still dreaming about the francesinha we had! If you want to know more, you should check out a guide to Port tasting in Porto.

What we loved

The first part of the tour gives you a solid introduction to Porto’s historical center, with highlights like the Golden Church of São Francisco and the stunning Stock Exchange Palace. But the cherry on top was the port wine cellars tour. Tasting port right where it’s made is an experience you won’t forget. And the best part? You get to personalize the tour, so if you want to focus more on wine or food, you can adjust accordingly.

 

The rest of the tour takes you out to the Douro Valley. You spend two days immersed in vineyards, tasting incredible wines, and enjoying traditional Portuguese picnics. The boat cruise on the Douro River was again a must-do, offering unforgettable views of the valley. It’s just the right balance of relaxation and indulgence.

Practical tips

• Duration: 5 days (approx.)
• Price: From $1,873 (includes lunch, tastings, and hotel pickup)
• Operated by: Portugal Travel Center
• Best for: If you love exploring the history of a city and want to dive deep into the architectural wonders and cultural heritage, this tour is perfect. If food is your passion, this tour won’t disappoint, you’ll enjoy traditional meals throughout the tour. This tour offers a great mix of city exploration and countryside relaxation. You start with two days in Porto, exploring its vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and food scene. Then you shift to the peaceful, scenic Douro Valley, where the pace slows down, and you can unwind with wine, food, and river cruises. The personalized nature of the tour makes it ideal for couples or small groups who want an intimate, tailored experience.
• Don’t Miss: While the tour includes guided portions, you’ll also have some free time to explore Porto on your own. Don’t miss this opportunity! Whether it’s visiting the famous Livraria Lello bookstore (a must for Harry Potter fans!), wandering through the lively Ribeira district, or grabbing another francesinha, Porto has plenty to discover.

Must-Visit Wineries in Portugal

If you’re serious about wine, here are ten wineries that should be on your radar, but if you need more recommendations, check our guide to the best wineries to visit in Portugal. PS. Regarding Duro, we crafted a really cool article about the best wineries in Douro Valley:

 

• Quinta do Vallado (Douro Valley): One of the oldest and most renowned wineries in the Douro, known for its stunning estate and top-tier wines.
• Quinta da Pacheca (Douro Valley): Famous for its wine hotel where you can stay in wine barrels and enjoy tastings right on the estate.
• Quinta de Tourais (Douro Valley): A smaller, family-run winery that produces excellent Douro DOC and Port wines.
• Herdade do Esporão (Alentejo): Located in the Alentejo region, this estate offers a beautiful setting, fantastic wines, and an impressive wine tourism infrastructure.
• Quinta do Crasto (Douro Valley): With spectacular views over the Douro River, this winery is as much about the landscape as the wine.
• Adega Mayor (Alentejo): Known for its modern architecture and excellent wine, this winery offers tastings that focus on sustainability.
• Quinta da Aveleda (Vinho Verde region): Famous for its Vinho Verde wines and beautiful gardens, this estate is a great introduction to the region’s unique style of wine.
• Graham’s Lodge (Porto): One of the top port houses in Porto, offering detailed tours of its cellars and tastings of their award-winning ports.
• Quinta das Carrafouchas (Lisbon): A hidden gem near Lisbon, known for its beautiful vineyards and unique wine-tasting experiences.
• Quinta de Ventozelo (Douro Valley): Combining farm-to-table cuisine with exceptional wines, this is one of the best places to experience Douro’s wine culture.

Best Places to Stay in Portugal

After a day of wine tasting, you’ll need somewhere comfortable (and ideally scenic) to rest. Here are our top picks for places to stay, all offering great proximity to Portugal’s wine regions.

 

• Six Senses Douro Valley (Douro Valley): A luxury hotel set in a 19th-century manor house, with incredible views of the Douro River and vineyards.
• The Wine House Hotel (Douro Valley): Located at Quinta da Pacheca, this boutique hotel allows you to sleep in wine barrels!
• Casa do Rio (Douro Valley): A stunning eco-friendly hotel right on the banks of the Douro River, offering peace, luxury, and incredible views.
• Herdade do Sobroso Wine & Country House (Alentejo): A charming country house surrounded by vineyards and offering wine tastings on-site.
• Quinta do Vallado Wine Hotel (Douro Valley): This beautiful hotel offers stunning views of the Douro Valley and a range of wine-related activities.
• Hotel Monverde (Vinho Verde region): A beautiful wine hotel located in the heart of the Vinho Verde region, offering tastings and vineyard tours.
• Quinta da Comporta (Comporta): A chic and eco-friendly retreat near the coast, offering wine tastings and local gastronomy.
• São Lourenço do Barrocal (Alentejo): A luxurious hotel in a restored farmstead, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
• Vintage House Hotel (Douro Valley): Nestled right along the Douro River, this hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere and is perfect for wine lovers.
• Pousada Convento de Évora (Alentejo): Stay in a former convent in the heart of Évora, with easy access to Alentejo’s wine region.

Things to Do While Visiting Portugal

Here’s a list of twenty must-do activities in Portugal, with descriptions to help you plan your adventure:

• Explore the Douro Valley: Take a scenic drive or river cruise through the stunning Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its terraced vineyards and port wine production, this area offers wine tastings, picturesque villages, and unforgettable views.
• Visit Belém Tower (Lisbon): This iconic fortress on the Tagus River symbolizes Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Wander around the tower’s ornate Gothic architecture and soak in the maritime history.
• Taste Pastéis de Nata in Belém: Head to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery in Lisbon to indulge in these custard-filled pastries. These sweet treats are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside—a must-try!
• Wander through Alfama (Lisbon): Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district, known for its narrow, winding streets and authentic charm. Explore Fado music bars, colorful tiled buildings, and hidden viewpoints that showcase the city’s beauty.
• Visit Pena Palace (Sintra): Located in the fairytale town of Sintra, Pena Palace is a vibrant, romantic castle perched atop a hill. Its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles makes it a unique stop for architecture lovers.
• Take a Tram 28 Ride (Lisbon): Hop on the iconic yellow Tram 28 for a nostalgic ride through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods. You’ll pass landmarks like the Sé Cathedral and São Jorge Castle while getting a feel for the city’s hilly streets.
• Wine Tasting in Alentejo: Explore the Alentejo region, known for its rolling plains and exceptional wine. Visit local vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and taste robust reds and refreshing whites.
• Surf in Ericeira: Ericeira is a surfer’s paradise, and if you’re up for it, grab a board and catch some waves. This coastal town is famous for its consistent surf breaks and laid-back vibe.
• Explore the Azores: The Azores, an archipelago in the Atlantic, offers untouched nature, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes. Don’t miss the stunning Sete Cidades Lagoon or the chance to spot whales!
• Hike Serra da Estrela: Portugal’s highest mountain range, Serra da Estrela, is perfect for hiking and skiing in winter. Visit Torre, the highest peak, and try the famous local cheese, Queijo da Serra.
• Tour the Livraria Lello (Porto): This stunning bookstore in Porto inspired J.K. Rowling while writing Harry Potter. Its neo-Gothic architecture, with a swirling red staircase and stained glass ceiling, is magical.
• Visit the Oceanário de Lisboa: Lisbon’s oceanarium is one of the world’s largest and is home to marine life from around the globe. A family-friendly spot, it features immersive exhibits, including a huge central tank with sharks, rays, and sunfish.
• Fado Music Night: Experience traditional Fado music, a soulful genre that’s deeply rooted in Portuguese culture. Head to a local tavern in Lisbon or Porto to listen to live performances while enjoying a glass of wine.
• Explore Porto’s Ribeira District: Porto’s Ribeira District is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colorful riverside buildings. Walk along the Douro River, explore narrow alleyways, and enjoy a riverside meal or drink with a view.
• Walk Across Dom Luís I Bridge (Porto): This double-deck iron bridge connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. Walk along the upper deck for panoramic views of Porto’s skyline and the Douro River.
• Visit Sintra’s Quinta da Regaleira: A mystical palace and estate filled with secret tunnels, grottos, and an inverted tower. The intricate gardens are perfect for exploring and getting lost in a world of legends and symbolism.
• Taste the Francesinha (Porto): This indulgent sandwich is Porto’s most famous dish. Made with layers of meat, and melted cheese, and drenched in a spicy tomato and beer sauce, the Francesinha is a must-try for food lovers.
• Discover Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal: Known for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats, Aveiro is a charming town with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. Be sure to try the local sweet, Ovos Moles, made from egg yolk and sugar.
• Visit Fátima’s Sanctuary: Fátima is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. Thousands of visitors come to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima every year to pay their respects and experience its serene, spiritual atmosphere.
• Take a Cruise Along the Ria Formosa (Algarve): The Ria Formosa lagoon is a protected area of natural beauty in the Algarve. Take a boat tour to explore the stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and small fishing villages dotted along this unique coastal area.

Final Thoughts

Portugal provides an experience unlike any other for wine lovers. The country’s rich history and diverse wine regions make it a perfect destination for exploring unique grapes, scenic vineyards, and a variety of wine styles. Visitors to Portugal are guaranteed to experience personalized attention from family winemakers and learn about Portuguese culture in the process.

By the way, if you’re looking for more tips, Douro has some really great restaurants. Don’t forget to check out our article on the best restaurants in Douro Valley. And if you’re thinking of combining Portugal and Spain, take a look at our guide to the wine regions of Spain and Portugal.

PPS. If you’re thinking of staying in Portugal for more than a quick visit, you should take a look at our article on how the D7 visa can make your wine journey in Portugal even better.