Lisbon: Food and Wine tasting tour in Local Hidden Gems

If you’re seeking a way to explore Lisbon beyond the usual tourist spots, this Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Local Hidden Gems offers an authentic glimpse into Portuguese culinary life. It promises a journey through five carefully selected spots where you’ll get close to the real flavors of Lisbon, away from the crowds and tourist traps.

What we love about this experience is how it balances delicious food with cultural insights, giving you a taste of local traditions while exploring intimate venues. The small group size keeps things friendly and personalized, making the experience more engaging. Plus, the included wine and cheese tastings elevate the culinary adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour doesn’t cater to wheelchair users or very young children, which could be a consideration for some travelers. Also, at just three hours, it’s a compact experience — perfect if you want a quick, quality bite of Lisbon’s food scene without a long commitment.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave genuine local eats, small-group intimacy, and a comprehensive introduction to Portuguese flavors. If you enjoy food, wine, and a touch of history, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic local spots: Skip touristy venues and visit five hidden gems.
• Diverse tastings: Enjoy traditional dishes, exquisite wines, cheeses, and desserts.
• Small groups: Limited to ten participants for a more personal experience.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Portuguese culinary traditions from your guide.
• Hassle-free entry: Skip the lines with pre-arranged, separate entrance access.
• Time-efficient: Just three hours, making it a perfect short foodie adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This three-hour Lisbon food and wine tour promised to be a well-rounded introduction to the city’s lesser-known culinary treasures. From the start at Praça Luís de Camões, the guide greets you with a warm welcome and a quick overview of what’s ahead. The tour’s emphasis on hidden local spots rather than tourist hotspots immediately sets a relaxed, intimate tone.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Praça Luís de Camões
Your meeting point is easy to find next to the elevator, a helpful detail that keeps logistics simple. From here, the journey begins with a gentle walk to your first stop.

Stop 2: Local restaurant for food tasting
Here, we sample the legendary Bifana, a simple yet iconic Portuguese pork sandwich. The marinated pork thinly sliced and nestled in a crusty roll embodies Portugal’s casual, hearty approach to street food. Paired with a local beer, it’s a straightforward pleasure that sets the tone for the tour. One review describes this as a “top activity to discover local drinks and food,” emphasizing how this dish is a must-try for first-timers.

Stop 3: Local restaurant for a combined food and wine tasting
This stop highlights three different Portuguese wines, each with a carefully selected cheese pairing. The guide explains the nuances of each wine, helping you understand what makes Portuguese wines unique. We loved the way the guide took time to explain the heritage behind each sip, turning a simple tasting into a mini seminar. The wines range from crisp whites to more robust reds, each complemented by local cheeses, showcasing the country’s diverse wine culture.

Stop 4: A different eatery for more traditional bites
Next, you’ll taste Pica-Pau, an understated dish that packs a punch—tender, seasoned beef or pork bites served with crusty bread. It’s a dish that embodies Portugal’s meaty, flavorful style. The homemade green wine, a special Portuguese green wine, pairs beautifully with the Pica-Pau, making this a highlight for many guests. As one reviewer notes, the dishes reveal “the rich flavors and culture of Portugal,” emphasizing that every bite has a story.

Stop 5: Local bar for wine, cheese, and a sweet finish
The final stop offers a wine and cheese tasting paired with a traditional Portuguese dessert—most likely the famous Pastel de Nata, with its custard filling and flaky crust. The guide encourages you to savor the dessert slowly, complemented by a traditional Ginginha, a cherry liqueur that provides a sweet, boozy finish to the tour. Guests find this a delightful way to wrap up, with one reviewer calling it a “memorable sip” that leaves a lasting impression.

Finish: Back at Praça Luís de Camões
The tour ends conveniently back at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring or head to your next activity. The whole experience is designed for ease and comfort, with skip-the-line entry at each venue ensuring no wasting time in queues.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket price of $97 per person covers all food, drinks, and a knowledgeable guide. The included skip-the-line entry to five carefully selected venues means no fuss or long waits, and the small group size guarantees personal attention.

You’ll get to taste a variety of authentic dishes—from street food like Bifana to more refined cheese and wine pairings—plus a sweet Portuguese dessert and a cherry liqueur. The focus on local gems means these are venues that you might not encounter on your own, adding an exclusive feel to the experience.

Note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or very young children, and it’s designed for those eager to explore Lisbon’s culinary traditions in a social, relaxed setting.

What You’ll Experience at Each Stop

• Authentic flavors: The dishes and drinks reflect Portugal’s culinary heart, from hearty sandwiches to delicate desserts.
• Cultural stories: Your guide shares insights about each dish’s history and significance, turning eating into learning.
• Taste craftsmanship: The quality of cheeses, wines, and desserts is evident, showcasing Portugal’s artisanal products.
• Intimate settings: Small venues and limited groups create a cozy atmosphere ideal for engaging conversations.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike larger, more generic food tours, this experience emphasizes authenticity and intimacy. The focus on local hidden gems offers a clearer window into what makes Lisbon’s food scene special. The inclusion of wine and cheese tastings is a real bonus for those wanting a deeper appreciation of Portugal’s beverage culture.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the guide, describing them as smooth, spontaneous, and knowledgeable. The wine selections are also highlighted as particularly good, with some noting the variety and pairing options as standouts.

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “Interesting and authentic tour with a quality guide.” Another called it a “top activity to discover local drinks and food,” emphasizing the overall enjoyment and educational value.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for food lovers eager to see the real Lisbon, savoring local favorites in cozy, non-touristy venues. It’s perfect for those who enjoy wines and cheeses, and who appreciate a personalized, relaxed atmosphere. If you’re traveling with children under one year, or if mobility is an issue, you might want to consider other options. The three-hour duration makes it a compact yet rich way to enjoy Lisbon’s culinary scene without feeling rushed.

It’s also a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a friendly and informative experience. The price reflects the quality of the tastings and the access to exclusive venues, making it a good value for a gourmet sampling of Lisbon’s hidden flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour focuses on meat, cheese, and seafood dishes typical of Portuguese cuisine. It might not be ideal for vegetarians, as the main tastings include pork, beef, and seafood options.

How long is each tasting stop?
Each stop lasts roughly between 36 and 40 minutes, which allows enough time to enjoy the dishes and drinks comfortably and listen to the guide’s insights.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, all wines, beers, and the cherry liqueur are included, along with the food samples.

Is there a specific dress code?
There’s no strict dress code. Casual, comfortable clothing is best, especially since walking between venues is involved.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
The tour includes wine and a cherry liqueur, but if you prefer non-alcoholic options, it’s best to inquire beforehand. Some venues might offer alternatives.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts next to the elevator in Praça Luís de Camões, a central and easy-to-find spot in Lisbon.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or for those with mobility issues, as the tour involves walking and venue access limitations.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese, catering to a broad range of travelers.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot and ensure availability, especially during busy seasons. You can reserve now and pay later if desired.

This Lisbon food and wine tour offers a friendly, authentic, and flavorful slice of Portugal—perfect for curious eaters and wine lovers wanting a genuine taste of the city’s culinary soul. If you’re after a fun, intimate, and educational experience that highlights local favorites, this tour delivers both in quality and atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: