Setúbal Wine Tour from Lisbon: 2 Wineries & Moscatel Tasting

Summary

Setúbal’s family vineyards tasting rare Moscatel with locals

You’ll wander historic cellars in Setúbal with a local guide, taste rare Moscatel Roxo alongside classic reds and whites, and hear real stories from winemakers themselves. Expect salty breezes near Arrábida hills and time to buy your favorite bottles before heading back — it’s a day that lingers long after.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to feel so at home in Setúbal — maybe it was the way our guide Rui greeted us by name right from the van pickup in Lisbon. Forty minutes later, we were winding past those blue-green Arrábida hills, and suddenly the air changed: salty with a hint of wildflowers. At José Maria da Fonseca, the cellars smelled like old wood and something sweet — not quite honey, not quite raisins. Rui told us about the family who started it all back in 1834. I kept thinking about how many hands must’ve touched these barrels over the years.

We tried six wines (I lost count after the third), including this Moscatel Roxo de Setúbal that tasted like orange peel and summer afternoons. I probably made a face — it was richer than anything I’d had before. The woman pouring laughed and said “it’s always a surprise.” She was right. The Bacalhôa winery felt almost futuristic compared to the first — glass walls catching sunlight on rows of barrels, but still quiet inside except for our footsteps echoing. Someone asked about buying bottles; turns out you can get them straight from their shop. I grabbed one for my dad, though now I kind of wish I’d kept it for myself.

There was a moment outside Bacalhôa where everything went still — just us, vines stretching out under that pale sky, and a breeze carrying something herbal I couldn’t place. It’s funny how quickly you settle into these places when you’re with people who care about what they do. We never felt rushed; even when we got back in the van, Rui let us linger a bit longer than planned. So yeah, if you’re curious about Portuguese wine or just want a day away from Lisbon’s noise, this day trip to Setúbal is worth it. I still think about that Moscatel sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit and taste wines at Setúbal wineries

• Travel from Lisbon to Setúbal region
• Visit José Maria da Fonseca winery
• Learn winery history and traditions
• Taste 6 to 7 different wines
• Visit Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal winery
• Explore modern and traditional cellar areas
• Taste wines at Bacalhôa winery

Top questions

How far is Setúbal from Lisbon?

It’s about 40 minutes by car from Lisbon to Setúbal.

Which wineries are included in this Setúbal wine tour?

The tour usually visits José Maria da Fonseca and Bacalhôa wineries.

Are wine tastings included on this day trip?

Yes, tastings of 6-7 wines (including Moscatel Roxo) are included at both wineries.

Is transportation provided from Lisbon?

Yes, pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle is included from Lisbon.

Can I buy wine directly at the wineries?

Yes, you can purchase bottles directly from each winery's shop during your visit.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers or prams.

Are children allowed on this wine tour?

Infants and small children can join; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What languages does the guide speak?

The guide provides information throughout the tour; check ahead for specific language needs.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Lisbon with an air-conditioned vehicle (WiFi onboard), guided visits to two family-run Setúbal wineries with tastings of red, white, and muscatel wines (including rare Moscatel Roxo), plus bottled water along the way before returning to Lisbon in the afternoon.