From the plains of the Alentejo towards the south, to the more northern valleys of the Dão and Douro Rivers, each harvest and the local celebration that goes with it has a unique flavor.

During September and October, visitors can witness harvest and wine making techniques old and new at vineyards across the country. They can tour the vineyards and even help harvest or crush the grapes in some cases. Some wine estates, large and small, offer visitors a chance to stay onsite, with perhaps a wine tasting or a complete wine pairing dinner to end the day. 

Throughout the country, vineyards sit among stunning landscapes and are easily toured by car or on a bicycle. In the Minho region, the grapes used for the Vinho Verde wines grow on trellises. The vineyards of the Douro region run in a series of tiered, steep terraces. Throughout the September harvest, men can be seen walking the vineyards carrying baskets of grapes, while the women are helping and singing traditional songs as they work or celebrate.

Many of the wine routes in the middle of the country run through small towns, each brimming with history. Along the River Tejo, the Ribatejo wine region is full of fertile fields that get irrigated when the river bursts its banks.