Lisbon: Cheers Before the Vows (Wine or Beer?)

Lisbon: Cheers Before the Vows (Wine or Beer?) — A Fun, Flavored Escape in Lisbon

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to enjoy Portugal’s famous drinks, the Cheers Before the Vows experience at Taverna das Marias offers a perfect blend of casual fun, authentic flavors, and musical ambiance. It’s not your typical tasting — no stiff, overly formal vibe here. Instead, it feels like a gathering among friends, with top-quality drinks, good music, and a relaxed atmosphere.

What really caught our eye are three things: the chance to sample regional Portuguese wines or craft beers, the cozy environment filled with music, and the option to add a delicious tapas tasting for a fuller experience. The only consideration? It’s a short session—just 1.5 hours—so if you’re craving a longer, in-depth tasting, this might feel a bit quick. But for those wanting a taste of local life and flavors with a fun twist, this tour hits the spot.

Ideal for couples celebrating, groups of friends, or anyone who loves discovering new drinks without the fuss, this experience offers a glimpse into Portugal’s vibrant drinking culture with a friendly, no-pressure vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: Choose between Portuguese wines or craft beers, showcasing regional favorites.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Enjoy great music and a cozy setting that invites conversation and laughter.
• Flexible Experience: Add a tapas tasting menu for a more complete, flavorful visit.
• Authentic Size and Duration: 1.5 hours long, perfect for a quick yet memorable break in your day.
• Inclusive Experience: Offered in multiple languages, making it accessible for many travelers.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Great for pre-wedding celebrations, groups, or anyone wanting a casual cultural experience.

Setting the Scene: A Cozy Venue with a Friendly Vibe

Upon arriving at Taverna das Marias, it’s immediately evident that this isn’t a formal tasting room. Instead, it’s a lively, intimate space filled with warm lighting, music, and a welcoming crowd. The vibe is casual and social, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers while sampling some of Portugal’s best drinks.

The staff and guides are known for their friendly approach, creating an environment where you’re encouraged to relax and just enjoy. The focus here is on the experience, not on pretentious tasting rituals, which many reviewers highly appreciated, describing it as a “fun, relaxed, and social” session.

The Drink Selection: What You Can Expect

Portuguese Wines

• Vinho Verde: Light, crisp, and refreshingly tangy—perfect for a sunny Lisbon day.
• White Wine: Floral, smooth, and balanced, showcasing Portugal’s variety.
• Rosé: Fruity, easy-drinking, great for those who prefer something less intense.
• Red Wine: Bold, rich, and full-bodied, offering a taste of Portugal’s renowned reds.

More Great Tours Nearby

Craft Beers

• Blond Ale: Light, golden, and easy to sip, ideal for beer newcomers.
• Lager: Smooth, classic, and very drinkable, a staple for many beer lovers.
• Hibiscus & Strawberry Sour: Tangy, fruity, and fun, appealing to those looking for something different.
• Session IPA: Hoppy, citrusy, and dry, perfect for hop enthusiasts.
• Dry Stout: Dark, velvety, with chocolate notes—ideal for a cozy vibe.

Reviewers praise the quality of both options, remarking that the drinks are served in generous pours, and the selection feels thoughtfully curated to highlight Portugal’s diverse drink scene.

The Added Bonus: Tapas Tasting

For an extra charge, you can opt for a tapas tasting menu. This is a fantastic way to pair your drinks with authentic Portuguese bites—think cheeses, charcuterie, and small bites that complement the flavors of your drinks. Many guests found that adding tapas “elevated the experience”, turning it into a full-fledged cultural taste tour.

The Experience in Practice: What Will You Do?

The tasting lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted and seated comfortably with your choice of wine or beer. The host explains each selection, sharing insights into regional favorites and what makes each drink special. The emphasis is on casual enjoyment and discovery rather than technical tasting notes.

Music plays softly in the background, creating a lively yet chilled ambiance that encourages conversation. Many reviews highlight how the environment makes it easy to meet new people or simply relax with your companions.

Group Size and Vibe

This experience generally caters to small groups, making it perfect for intimate celebrations or socializing. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, providing just enough information without overwhelming.

Timing and Practicalities

The 1.5-hour duration is ideal for fitting into a busy sightseeing day or pre-dinner plans. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. The activity ends back at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring Lisbon afterward.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering the inclusion of four glasses of Portuguese wine or five craft beers, plus the cozy setting and live music, the price offers good value—especially for those who enjoy tasting and socializing without a hefty price tag. The optional tapas can enhance the experience further but come at an extra cost.

Reviewers note that the drinks are of high quality, and the relaxed atmosphere means you’re not just paying for drinks but for a memorable cultural experience. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Portugal’s drink culture without committing to a full tour or tasting session.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best for travelers who want a fun, social introduction to Portugal’s drinks scene without the formality of traditional tastings. It’s also perfect for those celebrating special occasions, pre-wedding parties, or just a relaxed night out. Food lovers will appreciate the option to add tapas, making it a more complete culinary adventure.

Those who prefer in-depth, structured wine or beer education might find this experience too casual. However, if your goal is to enjoy good drinks, good music, and a friendly vibe, this will meet your expectations.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This experience offers a relaxed, authentic taste of Portugal’s drink culture in a cozy setting, perfect for travelers seeking low-pressure, social fun. With a curated selection of wines and craft beers, friendly guides, and optional bites, it delivers great value for a short, memorable outing.

It’s especially ideal for couples, groups, or celebration pre-parties who want an easy-going way to enjoy local flavors. If you’re after a lively, musical atmosphere with quality drinks and the chance to meet fellow travelers, this is a winning choice.

However, if you’re looking for a lengthy, detailed tasting or a more formal experience, you might find this a bit too quick. Still, for a quick taste of Lisbon’s social drink scene, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Can I choose between wine and beer?
Yes, you select either the wine or craft beer tasting experience when booking, and the experience is tailored accordingly.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity within a busy day.

Is the experience suitable for groups?
Absolutely, it’s designed for groups, couples, and celebrations. It’s also friendly for solo travelers who want to meet new people.

Are drinks served in large portions?
Yes, each guest receives four glasses of wine or five craft beers, which are generous pours.

Can I add food?
Yes, there’s an optional tapas tasting menu available for an additional charge, which many find greatly enhances the experience.

Is this experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s intended for those of legal drinking age only.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the venue is not included, so plan to arrive on your own.

This cheerful, relaxed tasting experience at Taverna das Marias offers a wonderful way to enjoy Lisbon’s vibrant drink culture without the fuss, making it a solid choice for those seeking authentic, sociable fun in Portugal’s capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: