douro river tour from porto

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Douro Cruises from Porto

A cruise adventure starting in Porto is a great way to see Douro. We have 34 tours that range from 5 days up to 21 days. The most popular time for tours from Porto is August, which has the most cruise departures.

34 Douro river cruises from Porto with 67 reviews

• River Cruise

Douro Experience 2024 (9 destinations)

Beautiful ship, great staff, fantastic food. Staff particularly helpful going above & beyond when my friend became ill & had to go to hospital. Bus drivers great & careful drivers.

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

Gems of the Douro (Port to Port Cruise)

Porto, the Douro valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)

Staff were fun, solicitous and helpful. Room on top level wonderful. Meals good. Everything was A-1. Loved the folkloric dances the last night.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Wine tasting

Gems of Porto & the Douro Valley with Douro River Cruise - 5 Days in Portugal

Outstanding personally and professionally.

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Lisbon, 2024)

Douro Experience 2024 (8 destinations)

• Bike and Barge

Portugal | Douro River BikeTour | Bike & Boat

The Douro River, the spirit of Portugal (port-to-port cruise) (12 destinations)

My experience with all other cruises has been much different than with tour radar. I felt I was missing a vast amount of information because of the disconnect with the actual cruise line. We were not advised of the changes to the itinerary because we were already out of the country before we received information on the cruise tour itself.

Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Porto, 2024)

Enticing Douro 2024

Flavors of Portugal & Spain 2024 Start Porto, End Vega de Terrón

Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon

Picturesque Solo Douro Tour

Delightful Douro

What people love about douro cruises from porto.

A very pleasant 8 day experience but really more like a five day cruise. The cruise information was incomplete, leaving out interesting opportunities along the way (Port museums and prehistoric rock art,) most particularly an excursion to Salamanca, which turned out to be a highlight for us. The food was good but not as interesting as Portuguese restaurants in Porto or even at home in Canada.

Excellent tour with great guides

Tours starting from Porto

• Porto to Porto tours (25)
• River Cruise from Porto (34)
• Family from Porto (18)
• Explorer from Porto (12)

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Douro River Cruises

• ITINERARIES

Welcome to the Douro River

A 2,000-year legacy of winemaking awaits you throughout Portugal's lush Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site… including the city of Porto, famous as the home of Port wine, carried in barrels along the golden Douro River aboard traditional rabelo boats, sailing past whitewashed quintas surrounded by vineyards…

Ms andorinha on the douro river, ms andorinha – a new riverboat inspired by the destination.

Purpose-built for cruising to historic quintas and villages along the golden Douro River from coastal Porto to the Spanish border, our newly built riverboat, ms Andorinha, offers spacious accommodations for just 84 guests, with 12 300-sq.-ft. suites plus more 225-sq.-ft. cabins, to maximize the onboard experience in every way. Add a small pool atop the Sun Deck, lounge and dining venues, plus built-in amenities designed to delight, and experience the advantages of a riverboat truly inspired by the destination.

The Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Winemaking traditions in portugal's douro valley.

White-painted quinta estates – sprawling farms surrounded by terraced vineyards – are a particularly popular feature of Portugal's historic Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its multicultural heritage, the unique grape varieties that grow in its fantastic climate, and a winemaking culture that stretches back centuries. The region entices with museums and historic sites in Porto, its chief port on the Atlantic… ancient monasteries and castles along the river… picture-perfect villages like Pinhão and Pocinho… and lush winemaking estates set within cliff-lined riverscapes.

Portugal's Rabelo boats

Only on the douro… the romance of the rabelo.

With a name that translates to "little tail" (for the long piece of timber extending from its stern that's used to steer it), the traditional wooden Rabelo boat carried passengers and cargo along Portugal's Douro River for centuries. Found nowhere else in the world, this flat-bottomed, shallow-draught sailboat became the fastest and most efficient way to transport casks of prized Port wine between Douro Valley vineyards and the city of Porto at the river's mouth. Although no longer used commercially, these iconic workhorses can still be seen plying the waters of the Douro today.

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Inspired by the Destination

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

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Specialists in Douro Cruises

Douro River Cruises

The best cruises in douro river.

6 Bridges Cruise

Experiences Through Douro

Lisbon to Douro Cruise 2 days

St. Valentine's Cruise - Cherish You Douro

Porto - Régua - Porto (Upstream) Cruise

Douro Brunch Cruise

Treasures of PInhão

Douro Cruise with Dinner

Cruise with Visit to the Cellars and Dinner with Fado

Douro River Cruise with Francesinha Lunch or Dinner

Porto - Pinhão - Porto Cruise 2 Days

Secrets of Douro and Tâmega 3 Days

Porto - Régua - Porto (with Visit) Cruise

Gift voucher.

Need an idea of a gift? Offer a Douro Cruise!

Tailor-made Cruises?

Tailor-made cruises for groups with special prices and conditions!

"It was a very well spent day in the Douro with this magnificent group of friends. We shared with you our smiles and we thank you for the wonderful experience you provided."

Rivers in Portugal: from Tagus to Douro River

From porto to the douro line: the emblematic são bento train station, porto wine cellars: history and flavors.

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Featured Cruises in the Douro River

St. John's Cruise with dinner on board - TZ

Embark at Freixo Quay - Porto.

Price: 145€

St. John's Cruise in Rabelo Boat

With embark at Ribeira Quay - Porto and see the fireworks.

Cruise with dinner and live music on board in Oporto

Next date available: May 17th.

Cruise Porto Régua Barca D`Alva Porto - Douro Total

2 Days cruise in Douro Valley. Saturdays and Sundays.

Price: 312€

Cruise Régua Porto Régua RD (Downstream)

Downstream by boat from Régua to Porto. With return by train to Régua.

Cruise Régua Pinhão

Embark at 14:45. Upstream by boat until Pinhão without return to Régua included.

Cruise Régua Pinhão Régua with lunch BA

Departure to Pinhão with aperitifs and lunch on board. Free time in Pinhão and return to Régua by boat again.

Cruise Régua Barca D`Alva Régua RD (Upstream)

Upstream by boat until Barca D'Alva. With breakfast, port wine aperitif and lunch on board.

Price: 110€

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We promote tourism in Portugal at the best price, with professionalism, credibility and security.

We enjoy what we do and have fun working!

Cruises in the Douro river, with duration of

50 min, 3 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 1 week.

Tours with tour guide

in the north of Portugal and Galicia.

Special Programs

Group cruises, Valentine's Day,

S. João Feast, New Year's Eve...

• Embora não seja a primeira viagem a régua por outros operadores turísticos, tenho a dizer que a este foi muito bom colaboradores atenciosos assim como a colaboradora no acto da reserva 5*****.
• Cesar Moreira - Maia
• Bonito passeio com staff simpático, menu de qualidade, interessante animação e cenários lindos ao longo do percurso. Parabéns!
• Maria Simão - Porto
• Staff simpático, Pequeno Almoço Bom ,Almoço bom, Vinho Bom, Paisagem Espetacular . Os meus parabéns a todos os colaboradores da Porto Douro .
• Jose Fernandes - Maia Portugal
• Adorei o cruzeiro. Empregados 5 estrelas tudo muito bom. E de novo vou repetir
• Daniel Castro - Porto
• Passeio muito bonito sendo que a comida surpreendeu pela positiva, muito bom. A recomendar!
• Catarina Simoes - Lisboa
• O Cruzeiro foi fantástico! As refeições, pequeno-almoço e almoço, eram ótimas e bem servidas. O que se deve, sobretudo, à simpatia e profissionalismo de todo o staff. A paisagem é soberba, sem palavras. Os meus parabéns a todos os colaboradores da Porto Douro!
• Joana Paiva - Santa Maria da Feira
• Muito bom, optei por esta solução para festejar o meu aniversário dos 50 anos junto dos meus amigos. Staff muito simpático e atencioso, a comida boa, qualidade preço bom. Todos adoramos. para repetir.
• Sónia Cristina Relvas da Rocha - vila nova gaia
• Foi um excelente passeio, com paisagens espectaculares, bom serviço e valor pelo dinheiro que se pagou.
• Florindo Da Silva - Regua/Porto
• Staff excelente, paisagens deslumbrantes, prova de vinhos fantástica e excelente organização. Recomendo vivamente
• Pedro Mena - Portimão
• Meus pais vieram do Brasil para nos visitar. Optamos pelo passeio para mostrar a beleza do rio Douro. Sua história e presente. Eles saíram estonteantes pelo que viram. As eclusas foram um capítulo a parte. A comida foi excelente, a equipa de bordo sensacional. Recomendo a todos o passeio.
• Altamir Rodrigues - Leiria

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6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise + Best Porto Boat Tours (2024)

Are you ready to enjoy a 6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise on one of the best Porto boat tours?

The 6 Bridges Cruise is one of the best things to do in Porto, and for a good reason. Hop onboard replica Rabelo boats to experience part of the path that former wine merchants would take when bringing barrels of Port wine from Douro Valley to Vila Nova de Gaia. Or go for a more private experience on a yacht or sailboat.

Escape the city and relax while enjoying the river’s calm waters and seeing this adorable riverside town from the water. I’ve done the six bridges tour in Porto and will share with you if the 6 Bridges cruise is worth it, how long the day river cruise is, and the best Porto boat tours. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links; if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Table of Contents

What are the 6 Bridges in Porto?

There are a total of six bridges in Porto: 

• Ponte Dom Luis I

Ponte do Infante

Ponte de dona maria pia, ponte de são joão bridge, ponte de freixo, ponte da arrábida.

This list is the order in which you will see them during your river cruise. Each bridge is distinct from the next, having been built over multiple years, using a variety of architectural styles. Below is information about each of the six bridges in Porto.

Ponte Dom Luis I 

Ponte Dom Luis I connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia and is the most famous bridge in Porto . When you see a picture of Porto with a bridge, it is almost always Ponte Dom Luis I.

A double-decker iron arch bridge, the bridge takes its influence from Paris’s Eiffel Tower . The bridge opened in 1886, designed for automobile and pedestrian usage. 

Today, the upper level of the bridge is for the metro and pedestrians, and the lower level is for pedestrians and cars. I walked across the upper and lower parts of the bridge. I recommend experiencing the bridge from both the upper and lower decks.

Ponte do Infante is the newest bridge in Porto , built in 2003. This upper-deck road bridge, Ponte do Infante, was built to replace the upper deck of Ponte Dom Luis and is used for automobile traffic. 

Ponte de Dona Maria Pia is the oldest bridge that connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, built in 1877. Its identity is often confused with Ponte Dom Luis I due to their similar shape, but they are each different.

Ponte de Dona Maria Pia is a wrought-iron single-deck arch bridge built for railway traffic. Today, the bridge is no longer used and is a landmark.

Ponte de São João Bridge is the futuristic looking bridge of Porto . This concrete bridge was built in 1991 for railway traffic to replace Ponte de Dona Maria Pia. Rail could travel faster on this bridge, so that was appealing. Its futuristic design allows for faster rail travel over the bridge than Maria Pia could provide. 

Ponte de Freixo is the most remote and interior bridge in Porto. Built in 1995, the bridge is another road bridge for automobiles to get between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Ponte de Freixo is double-wide, allowing for road traffic to cross from both directions simultaneously.

Ponte da Arrábida is the widest of the six bridges in Porto, being 87 ft wide. Opening in 1963, Ponte da Arrábida contains six lanes of traffic plus two pedestrian lanes.

Upon its completion, it had the largest span of any concrete arch bridge in the world. In 2011, Ponte da Arrábida was noted as a National Monument.

Is the 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise Worth it? 

If you enjoy river cruises and a quick getaway from the city, a 1 hour Douro River cruise is worth it .

Is the Douro a little touristy? Absolutely. But I would counter that a river cruise is one of the best ways to experience the riverfront and see the city of Porto from a different perspective. 

Porto is known as the city of bridges , so you won’t want to miss this activity on your Porto itinerary . I recommend everyone take the short Porto river cruise at least once, especially if it’s your first time visiting Porto. 

11 Best Porto Boat Tours

1. private tour in the douro (1 to 4 people) in a boat just for you  .

⭐ 5/5 ( 243 Reviews )

The Private Tour in the Douro (1 to 4 People) in a Boat Just For You is one of the best Porto boat tours.

This private tour gives guests the opportunity to explore Porto’s stunning Douro River and its iconic bridges from an intimate perspective. A great pick for a romantic getaway or family vacation.

Your group will be able to enjoy unobstructed views of some of the city’s best landmarks and attractions as you cruise along this beautiful waterway.

Book near sunset and you will get iconic views of Porto by day and night as you cruise along the river. It can get chilly out on the water, so bring your light jacket and get ready for a memorable experience with this family-run boat tour.

Duration: 2 Hours

• Private cruise
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Bottled water
• Almonds with aromatic herbs

Size of Tour: You and your group, up to 4 people max

“This boat ride was incredible! Great views, a great tour, and super hospitable guides! They were very friendly and welcoming right from the start, introducing themselves and making us feel very comfortable, they answered all of our questions and shared some very interesting information about the sights we were seeing and about Porto in general. They clearly love their city and love to share that with people! They even gave us a few glasses of “green wine” and let us try a red porto. On top of all of that they also recommended other places to visit in the city as well as great local places to eat dinner (he even made the reservation for us!). This trip was truly incredible and our experience in Porto was perfect thanks to this tour! We would highly recommend and will definitely book another tour when we come back.” – Bambi G ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Tour in the Douro ➜

2. Porto City Tour Full Day with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise – Private Basis

⭐ 5/5 ( 4 Reviews )

See the best of Porto on this Porto City Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise .

With a private guide , you’ll get an immersive experience of Portugal’s second-largest city, from its UNESCO World Heritage Site historical center to newer districts.

Indulge in a wine tasting, take a Douro River day cruise, buy your lunch while enjoying it with a view, and more. All while knowing that your money is going back into supporting the local community through the company’s pledge to support those in need .

Duration: 9 Hours

• Driver/guide
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Wine tasting

Size of Tour: You and your group

“We were so lucky to have Mr. Andre Vidal as our tour guide for our full-day guided city tour. He is a very knowledgeable, well-organized, and well-attentive tour guide. Our small group of 7 people from 3 hotels and 3 countries is amazed by his professionalism and excellent service. As a used to be a senior tour guide in my working history, I want to give him a rating of 10+ out of 10. He speaks excellent English, excellent French, excellent Spanish, and Excellent Portugal. I have visited more than 35 countries. He is the best tour guide I have ever experienced in my life.” – Tripadvisor Reviewer ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto City Tour Full Day with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise – Private ➜

3. Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch 

⭐ 5/5 ( 56 Reviews )

Get ready for an unforgettable experience of culture and history on the Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch .

This comprehensive full-day tour includes round-trip travel from your Porto hotel and all activity costs, leaving you free to explore Portugal’s historic city in comfort with an experienced driver and guide.

Experience Bolhão Market, try local wine at Porto’s renowned wine caves, take a sightseeing cruise on the Douro River and more. Get sweeping coastal views from various vantage points along your journey.

Even if you are travelling solo, they will pair you up with other like-minded travellers on this small group tour so you have the best time.

• Wine cellars visit with port tastings
• 6 Bridge River cruise (1 hour duration)
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Lunch (Optional)

Size of Tour: 8 people max, 3 person minimum per tour

“First, it started with the ease of booking. Wonderful customer service Our guide Tiago arrived promptly; he was so kind and helpful – we were two older ladies with mobility issues. He made it easy for us to see the sights. Ah, the content: churches, Harry Potter book Store, the River Cruise, the Port tasting, wonderful lunch away from all the tourists. Finally, a chance to see the beach on a wonderfully sunny day. Great day; Well worth the money. I would do it again.” – JH ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability of Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch ➜

4. Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River

⭐ 5/5 ( 24 Reviews )

See Porto in a single day on the Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River.

This full-day tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore this beautiful city while enjoying some of its best attractions, Porto Se Cathedral, Avinida dos Aliados, and the Igreja dos Clerigos. All this plus a river cruise and wine tasting.

It’s an early start, but with hotel pickup and drop-off included, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the best Porto has to offer.

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• River cruise
• WiFi on board

Size of Tour: 15 people max

“The guide very helpful , knowledgeable and accommodating and friendly. Recommend this tour to see porto in one day.” – Natalie S ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River ➜

5. Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar  

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 6 Reviews )

Journey through time on the Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar.

On this full-day tour, you’ll get to cruise down the Douro River, visit a wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and explore some of Portugal’s best-preserved architectural treasures. Discover all the secrets and corners of Porto, popularly called the “Invicta”, meaning the Unbeaten City.

Take a break from the tour to go for lunch, and at the end of the day, you can transfer back to the hotel or stay in the center of Porto to enjoy the late afternoon and catch the sunset.

This is an unforgettable experience that will give you insight into Porto’s fascinating history and culture.

Duration: 8.5 Hours

• Private transportation
• Guided tour by a professional tourism driver/guide
• 6 bridges cruise ticket
• Ticket to visit a Port Wine Cellar, with tasting at the end

“Our 10 night river cruise and excursions were great. But the very last day I arranged a private tour with eco tours in Porto Portugal. Absolutely wonderful and far better than the excursions offered on the ship. My mom is 86 and has mobility issues so private tours are life saving for our family. Daniela was our tour guide and he went far and above our expectations in ensuring my mom was able to see everything and experience hard to get to places like the Churchill wine tasting room. He literally backed up an extremely narrow cobblestone road inches from hitting cars and side of building to bring my mom up to the front door. During the tour, he made sure the tour guide carried a chair around for my mom to sit on as well. He was extremely knowledgeable and spoke English very well and was loud enough for all of us to hear in the very luxurious van. Bravo eco Tours! Highly recommend!” – TripAdvisor Travler ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar ➜

6. Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River

⭐  5/5 ( 33 Reviews )

The Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River is one of the most memorable boat tours in Porto.

Enjoy 2 hours of relaxation with friends or family as you cruise along the riverside of Porto and Gaia, taking pictures of the Dom Luis Bridge from the best spots. Sip on sparkling green wine or the famous Port wine while listening to custom music, all without leaving the comfort of your own boat.

Pack some snacks and get ready for an amazing way to explore one of Europe’s best cities and its stunning river.

Included: 

• Welcome drink (sparkling or Porto wine)
• Certified crew
• Custom music

“The trip is pretty good!! More than perfect!! And those boatmen were so friendly that told us the history of Porto. We sat in the front of the boat to view the seascape and the colorful houses, meanwhile we tasted the topical green wine which was so great!!! I’m satisfied with this journey! It’s worth!” – GetYourGuide Traveler, Spain ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River ➜

7. Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting  

⭐ 4.7/5 ( 21 Reviews )

Have an unforgettable day out in Porto on the Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting .

This full-day tour offers a combination of sightseeing, food, and wine tasting that will leave you feeling satisfied and full of new experiences.

Admire the exterior of the Cathedral and São Bento Railway Station on a guided walking tour. Take a panoramic tour in Boavista and Foz do Douro. Visit a local wine cellar and taste fine wines. Break for lunch and then cruise along the Douro River.

This is one of the best Porto boat tours and is sure to provide something special for everyone. The only thing you will want after this day is more wine.

• Guided Porto city tour
• Visit to a wine cellar with 2 wine tastings
• Two glasses of wine
• Pick up from hotels in Porto (if option selected)
• Lunch (if option selected)

Size of Tour: 8 -27 people

“Very interesting little town. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the city. We saw amazing views of the city from Porto and the town across Porto. Wine tasting was cool, the boat ride always also cool. Overall amazing day” – GetYourGuide Traveler ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting ➜

8. Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour  

⭐ 5/5 ( 14 Reviews )

Find the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion with the Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour.

This 2-hour cruise on the Douro River is perfect for private parties, with a sound system and onboard wifi available to make it just right for your occasion.

You’ll get amazing views of the city from this boat as it passes by all 6 bridges in Porto .

• Restroom on board

“Wow I cannot share how great of an experience my partner and I had. We were skeptical of the price as it seemed to good to be true, so we signed up and arrived early, and was ensured we were all set to go for our 3pm boat tour. We hung out at the nearby cafe until Ines came to retrieve us to start our boat ride. To our surprise, we had the whole boat to ourselves! Andrés and Ines showed us around the river and were very friendly and knowledgeable of the history of Porto. They then brought out various different wines to taste and paired them with delicioso chocolates. We had some great conversations and they even recommended some local restaurants for dinner. On the way back to dock, we were greeted with a beautiful sunset sky and docked at 5pm. Such a lovely experience, would recommend to anyone visiting Porto with a loved one or group of friends. Thank you so much Andres and Ines!” – Edgar ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour ➜

9. Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour and Douro River Cruise  

⭐ 4.6/5 ( 355 Reviews )

The Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour & Douro River Cruise is one of the most unique ways to see the city.

This amazing tour offers visitors an unforgettable tuk-tuk ride through some of the city’s most iconic sites and attractions, such as Sao Bento Station, the Clerigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop. Plus, you can see the city from a different perspective on a cruise down the Douro River.

With a 50-minute tuk-tuk ride and 55-minute river cruise , this is an adventure that cannot be missed.

You can split your tour across multiple days on your trip to Porto or enjoy it all at once.

Duration: 1.75 Hours

• Electric tuk-tuk tour
• Guide during tuk-tuk tour
• Cruise ticket

Size of Tour: Private group

“The guide Frédéric was very friendly and had a lot to tell us about this magnificent city. He answered all our questions and the tour of the city in a tuk tuk allows you to see a lot of things and as the vehicle is slow, we were able to take all our photos. Frankly I recommend. We also took the boat to admire the 6 bridges of the Douro and also we liked the walk, especially since the weather was very nice.” – GetYourGuide Traveler, France ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour and Douro River Cruise ➜

10. Porto Boat Tour

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 102 Reviews )

The Porto Boat Tour is an amazing experience that takes you through the Douro River and its stunning estuary.

You’ll have a chance to enjoy breathtaking views of churches, bridges, and other sites while sipping on a glass of port wine. Take in all the beauty of nature with wildlife sightings along your 2-hour cruise.

With blankets provided during winter months and comfortable Bénéteau sailboats , this is Porto boat tour that will leave a lasting impression. It’s even better at sunset!

• Glass of Port Wine

Size of Tour: 28 people max

“We enjoyed a very pleasant cruise down the Douro river and out to the harbor area. It was very personalized as we were the only couple on the boat. The couple taking us out were very friendly and helpful. It was much preferable to the other cruise boats that were packed with people.” – Tet M ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto Boat Tour ➜

11. Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve

⭐ 5/5 ( 1 Reviews )

The Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve tour is great for couples, families and groups who want to take in some of Portugal’s best sights while enjoying a unique experience on board.

This 2-hour small group tour sails along the calm waters of the Douro River to get away from the crowds, taking short breaks so you can admire all its beauty and capture photos that will last forever.

Cross the six iconic bridges of Porto while listening to your favourite music playlist via a Bluetooth speaker – making this trip even more enjoyable. Take in breathtaking views as you sail towards the mouth of the river at Douro Estuary Natural Reserve.

• Welcome Drink

Size of Tour: You and your group 

“Excellent trip Made the best even out if bad weather Our guide and Captain were both fantastic Will do this again in summer” – K.S ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve  ➜

The 6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise in Porto: What It’s Like

After scootering around Lagos and parasailing in Albufeira on Portugal’s southern coast, I was ready for more adventures in this beautiful country. Arrive early to check in for your river cruise before its departure time. After checking in, you will line up to board the boat, prepared to board when the ship is ready. Choose an open seat and get ready to sail. 

Depending on the tour you choose, there may be an audio part of the tour explaining the history of the six bridges. My river cruise did not include an audio tour.  

Once the boat sails, relax and feel the wind in your hair. Both sides of the boat offer a great view, as whatever you can’t see well on one side, you will see again on the return trip. I loved seeing each of Porto’s six bridges and enjoying sitting down after a long day of sightseeing.

Seeing Porto from the water is charming and well worth the ticket price. If I didn’t take the river cruise, I wouldn’t have seen half of the bridges in this adorable town. I recommend the 6 bridges cruise as part of your Porto itinerary.

Tips for the Best Experience with Your Porto River Day Cruise

• Plan your river cruise close to sunset if you plan to watch the sunset from Porto’s waterfront area. Porto is known for their incredible sunsets, so you will want to plan where you will be to watch it. We took our cruise around 5 pm, then stayed in the waterfront district until the sun had set.
• During the cruise, you cannot sit at the front of the boat as your seat , but you can take a photo with the view.
• If you sit on the left outer edge of the boat, be prepared to be splashed. During my tour, we got splashed, but the rest of the ship stayed dry. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but other people moved after that. Something to note when choosing where to sit during your ride. 
• Book a ticket in advance to ensure your spot. If you don’t know your schedule, buy your ticket for the same day, but be prepared that not all time options may be available. I bought my tickets on the same day and had to pick a time slightly later than I intended but it worked out. 
• Tie up your hair unless you are okay with it tangling in the wind.

FAQs about 6 Bridges Cruise Porto

What river passes through porto.

The Douro River passes through Porto , Portugal, flowing from Central Spain until it passes Porto and reaches the Atlantic Ocean. It is the second longest river in Portugal, after the Tagus River, which flows through Lisbon.

How Long is the Douro River Cruise?

A Porto bridges river cruise lasts 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tour operator. The tour starts near Ponte Dom Luis I and proceeds towards interior Portugal before turning around and heading to the mouth where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, then returning to Porto.

Where do River Cruises Depart from in Porto?

From the Porto side of the river, cruises depart from Cais da Ribeira . To reach this scenic waterfront street, be prepared to climb down plenty of stairs, ride in a tuk-tuk then walk the rest, or take the gondola on the other side of the river and walk across Ponte Dom Luis I. 

Final Thoughts: Is the 6 Bridges Cruise Worth it? + Best Porto Boat Tours

The 6 bridges Douro River day cruise is worth it for the unique perspective of the city and bridges, and the best way to see them is on a Porto boat tour.

From taking panoramic tours of Boavista and Foz do Douro to tasting fine wines or sailing along the tranquil waters of the Douro River, there’s something special for everyone on these best Porto boat tours. 

Whether it’s with family, friends or on your own, this unique adventure will provide lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. 

The best Porto boat tour is the one with the smallest group size – Private Tour in the Douro (1 to 4 People) in a Boat Just For You .

Happy travelling!

Related Posts – Portugal

• How to Spend 2 Days in Porto
• 3 Days in Lisbon: A Lisbon Itinerary
• Should I Buy a Lisboa Card?
• Tips for Riding the Telecabine Lisboa
• How to Visit the Lisboa Oceanarium 
• Castelo de São Jorge Review
• Lisbon Cathedral: Visiting the Se de Lisboa
• A Review of Pestana Lisboa Vintage Hotel
• Sidecar32 Scooter Rental in Lagos
• Parasailing with Dream Wave Algarve

Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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Douro River Valley

8 days | porto to porto.

4.3/5   132 reviews

• Dates and Pricing
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• 2 countries

An extraordinary journey designed for culturally curious travelers.

As you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port. Explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, home to iconic rabelo boats, cutting-edge cuisine and a thriving art scene. Wind your way through the dramatic landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Douro Valley, heading ashore to visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them. See the famous university of Salamanca, Spain, visit the mountaintop village of Castelo Rodrigo, and discover historic Guimarães. There’s no better way to discover Europe’s best-kept secret than this scenic and all-inclusive river cruise!

Uniworld also offers an 11-day version of this itinerary, featuring additional excursions in Lisbon. Click here for more information.

• Embark/Disembark
• Porto to Porto

Porto (Embark)

Arrive in Porto, the port city at the mouth of the Douro.

Porto, Entre-os-Rios

Portugal’s second city (after Lisbon), Porto gave its name to the nation’s most famous export, Port wine, and to the nation itself. Today, choose to explore Portugal on foot or by panoramic drive.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Choose between...

Porto panoramic tour.

Of course it is the longtime hub of the Port wine trade, but Porto is also much more. Take in the UNESCO-designated, 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace, seeing its famous Moorish Revival-style Arab Room, during your panoramic tour. Get a feel for this vibrant town, which is simultaneously...

Of course it is the longtime hub of the Port wine trade, but Porto is also much more. Take in the UNESCO-designated, 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace, seeing its famous Moorish Revival-style Arab Room, during your panoramic tour. Get a feel for this vibrant town, which is simultaneously profoundly urban and moodily romantic. Colorful multistory townhouses sheathe the hills that climb precipitously from the Douro estuary, medieval alleys snake through UNESCO-designated neighborhoods enclosed by 14th-century walls—which were erected on Roman foundations—and baroque church towers crown the hilltops. The river itself cuts through the city on its way to the ocean, marked by a series of iconic bridges along the way. It meets its final destination at Foz do Douro, a district whose name translates to "Mouth of the Douro." Our tour will take us all the way here, where you can admire the passeio alegre with its promenade inspired by French architecture, see the Castelo do Queijo that juts out over the Atlantic, and drive down Boavista Avenue.

Do as the Locals Do: Porto Walk with Exclusive Conservas Tasting

Depart by coach for Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, where we will begin our long walk around town. Cross the upper level of the Ponte Dom Luis, Porto's eye-catching bridge, and arrive at the Cathedral "Sé." From there, we'll walk to the São Bento Station to see its famous azulejos murals, ...

Depart by coach for Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, where we will begin our long walk around town. Cross the upper level of the Ponte Dom Luis, Porto's eye-catching bridge, and arrive at the Cathedral "Sé." From there, we'll walk to the São Bento Station to see its famous azulejos murals, which portray the city's rich history. After that, head up the hill to Santa Catarina Street, a bustling shopping street full of beautiful cafes, shops, and historical landmarks.

To fuel our jaunt around Porto, we'll stop at the Bolhão Market for a taste of an important local treat and one of the city's biggest industries: tinned fish. Known as conservas , specialty tinned fish are a cornerstone of Portugal’s culinary heritage, and gourmet versions are rapidly changing perceptions of tinned fish worldwide. Our guests enjoy an exclusive tasting experience designed just for our guests at the Bolhão Market, where the owners of a conservas shop will hand you a glass of Vinho Verde and walk you through a trio of high-quality sardines—a Portuguese favorite—canned with various flavorings.

Finally, we'll make our way to the Clérigos Quarter on the way back to the ship through Ribeira.

Entre-os-Rios, Régua

Today is all about wine, which has been cultivated in the Douro River Valley since ancient Roman times. Get a crash course on the history of Port during your visit to the Douro Museum.

Featured Excursions

Douro museum.

The Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine-growing district in Europe. Why? What makes Port the wine it is? Learn about the region’s unique geology and winemaking history—Romans planted vines in this region 2,000 years ago—at the Douro Museum. Exhibits laid out in buildings...

The Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine-growing district in Europe. Why? What makes Port the wine it is? Learn about the region’s unique geology and winemaking history—Romans planted vines in this region 2,000 years ago—at the Douro Museum. Exhibits laid out in buildings that were once home to Port winemaker Real Companhia Velha let you see how the process of making Port evolved over the centuries: You’ll find the tools of the trade and even a rabelo (a boat that carried wine from the vineyards to Porto) on display. An interactive map shows where the quintas are and how the region developed; and by sniffing vials of concentrated fragrance, you can learn to identify the many aromas that a good Port exhibits. It’s fun and informative—plus you can sample some regional Douro wine.

Lamego Heritage Tour

Discover the wonders of a special town right in the gateway of the Douro Valley, Lamego. Lamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios," planted on top of one of the city hills and reachable by a gorgeous staircase with 686 steps. During this experience,...

Discover the wonders of a special town right in the gateway of the Douro Valley, Lamego. Lamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios," planted on top of one of the city hills and reachable by a gorgeous staircase with 686 steps. During this experience, you’ll discover the importance of Lamego’s heritage to the valley. This is a very important area for the production of delicious sparkling wines and cold cuts, which you’ll be able to taste in the cozy and regionally typical atmosphere of a place called Presunteca , or the “Ham Library”.

Nights Out: Quinta Dinner

Travel up winding roads with spectacular views—and breath-stealing drop-offs—for a traditional dinner bursting with regional flavors. Your hosts: the owners of a local quinta , a Portuguese analogue for the French "chateau" or English "estate."

Régua, Pocinho, Vega de Terrón

Go medieval today at Castelo Rodrigo, both the name of a hilltop castle as well as the village that surrounds it. The view from the top is incredible and the village is a charming place to ramble, relax and replenish. Alternatively, lace up your hiking boots and unleash your inner Indiana Jones with an up-close gander at some prehistoric carvings at an archaeological park.

Archaeological Park of the Côa Valley

Ready for an expedition worthy of Indiana Jones? Today’s your chance. In the 1990s, scouting for a proposed dam project on the Côa River revealed an astonishing collection of prehistoric carvings, among them horses, deer and aurochs that span eons. The oldest images etched into the...

Ready for an expedition worthy of Indiana Jones? Today’s your chance. In the 1990s, scouting for a proposed dam project on the Côa River revealed an astonishing collection of prehistoric carvings, among them horses, deer and aurochs that span eons. The oldest images etched into the schist walls around the river date to approximately 22,000 to 20,000 BC, with younger carvings ranging from the Epipaleolithic, Neolithic and Bronze ages to the 17th century—images that represent human interaction with the natural world for more than 30,000 years. Learn about this amazing area and see the original rock art for yourself when you visit the Côa Valley with your knowledgeable guide. It will be an illuminating adventure. Note: Exploring these sites will require sturdy hiking footwear and considerable physical fitness: You’ll take a four-wheel drive down dirt roads and hike into rocky and hard-to-access locations.

Castelo Rodrigo

Ride through wonderfully scenic countryside—the region is noted for its honey, which derives its flavor from the fields of wild lavender and the almond groves you’ll pass—to Castelo Rodrigo, the name of both a castle and the village it shelters. The castle ruins stand high atop...

Ride through wonderfully scenic countryside—the region is noted for its honey, which derives its flavor from the fields of wild lavender and the almond groves you’ll pass—to Castelo Rodrigo, the name of both a castle and the village it shelters. The castle ruins stand high atop Marofa Mountain, telling the tale of border strife and Portugal’s struggle for independence in a single structure. Construction on the citadel began in 1209 under the auspices of the king of Leon, but it became part of Portugal within a century—though its local lords sided with Spanish rulers from time to time over the next four centuries. That’s why the palace adjoining the castle lies in ruins: Outraged citizens destroyed it after its lord sided with Castile. Take in the amazing view from the ancient stone walls, then step down through the tiny cobbled lanes of the village, passing the old pillory, the Manueline church, and the town’s market square. It’s not all history, of course. You’ll also get to sample delicious local treats, such as honey, almonds, olive oil and cheeses, and a newly restored tea-house invites you to relax over a cup of tea or a cool drink.

Vega de Terrón (Salamanca), Barca d’Alva

Today, you can visit the historic university town of Salamanca—the “Golden City”—famous for its sand-colored buildings and abundance of churches. Feel the centuries fall away as your ship winds its way through the pristine, dramatic UNESCO-protected landscapes of the Douro River Valley.

Featured Excursion

Salamanca - the golden city and spain's oldest university.

Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen beautiful and historic churches, including two cathedrals: the new one, built in the early 16th century, and the Old Cathedral, which dates to the 12th century and can only be entered from the New...

Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen beautiful and historic churches, including two cathedrals: the new one, built in the early 16th century, and the Old Cathedral, which dates to the 12th century and can only be entered from the New Cathedral. Walk with your guide through Plaza Mayor, lined with wonderful baroque buildings, to the university, which was founded by Alfonso IX in 1218. The ornate plateresque façade is stunning, and the interior rooms you see are equally beautiful. You'll have time to browse through the shops on Rua Mayor or enjoy a bite to eat on your own before we drive back to the ship. Your guide can recommend some excellent places to dine, whether you're looking for a typical tapas lunch or want to stroll the stalls of Salamanca's food hall (one of Spain's best).

Barca d’Alva, Régua

Head ashore for a choice of excursions, including a tasting at a prestigious Port wine estate or a vineyard hike with a wine tasting at a local quinta.

Local Quinta Guided Tour with Tasting

As you journey through the hills to a local quinta, a prestigious Port wine estate and the oldest in the Douro River Valley, you will see a unique landscape that has been shaped by wine growers for two millennia. The stone terraces curving around the steep slopes hold soil that is largely the...

As you journey through the hills to a local quinta, a prestigious Port wine estate and the oldest in the Douro River Valley, you will see a unique landscape that has been shaped by wine growers for two millennia. The stone terraces curving around the steep slopes hold soil that is largely the creation of human intervention: People have laboriously broken up the native silver schist stone over the centuries and turned it into usable sandy earth; it’s called “anthroposoil.” The process of producing Port wine is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity; the steepness of the slopes requires that grape vines be tended almost entirely by hand, but the wine itself is made using the most modern techniques. You’ll tour the estate to see its stainless steel and oak vats, Boutique Winery, and the historic wine presses, before proceeding to the terrace for a Port tasting with a view over the river.

Vineyard Hike and Wine Tasting at a Local Quinta

Although many Port wine estates are owned by international corporations nowadays, the tradition of the family-owned estate remains strong. Start this expedition in pretty Pinhão, heading up into the hills to a family-owned quinta, where you can get a firsthand look at how the vineyards are...

Although many Port wine estates are owned by international corporations nowadays, the tradition of the family-owned estate remains strong. Start this expedition in pretty Pinhão, heading up into the hills to a family-owned quinta, where you can get a firsthand look at how the vineyards are tended and grapes harvested. Although some 80 varieties of grapes are approved for the creation of Port, six grape varieties dominate. Discover which ones are grown here and learn why.

Régua (Guimarães), Porto

Explore Guimarães, the town where Portugal was born. Its well-preserved architecture and stylish young residents make it a pleasure to visit.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Guimarães City Tour

“Portugal was born here.” So the sign on the city wall proclaims. Guimarães was home to the first king of Portugal, Afonso I, who managed to win his kingdom’s independence in the 12th century from neighboring suzerains. The wonderfully well-preserved Old Town, with its...

“Portugal was born here.” So the sign on the city wall proclaims. Guimarães was home to the first king of Portugal, Afonso I, who managed to win his kingdom’s independence in the 12th century from neighboring suzerains. The wonderfully well-preserved Old Town, with its unique architecture (houses here combine granite with half-timbering) and charming little plazas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; overlooking it is the grand castle that appears on Portugal’s coat of arms. Rove with your guide from the castle toward the beautiful main square, the Largo da Oliveira, and to the splendid Monastery and Church of Our Lady of Oliveira and the 14th-century Gothic Padrão do Salado. But remember that despite these historic beauties, Guimarães has the youngest population of any city in Europe, so the pedestrian area is full of lively and fun cafés and shops.

Masterpiece Collection Providing the most all-inclusive luxury to our guests is the heart and soul of our brand and that will never change. Yet sometimes our guests want something that goes even "above and beyond" our included experiences. In light of this, we now offer guests a curated selection of optional excursions, available for an additional charge.

Let's go: porto to the sea bike tour.

The Douro River begins to open up from Porto as it makes its way to the Portuguese coast. Follow the river all the way to the sea and keep biking along the coastline for the most scenic cycling route this region has to offer—and that’s saying a lot. As you go, you’ll pass by the fishermen’s village of Afurada, bike the beaches of Gaia and break for coffee and a treat at the Esplanada do Alex.

*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.

Porto (Disembark)

If your cruise/tour package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Porto Airport for your flight home.

What's Included

• All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• Welcome and Farewell Dinners
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water

• 6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
• Guided “Do as the Locals Do” program
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions

Accommodations

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the chic S.S. São Gabriel
• Beautifully appointed riverview staterooms and suites with hotel-style beds, draped in fine linens with a choice of pillows
• Free Internet and Wi-Fi access

Experiences

• 2 countries: Portugal & Spain
• Multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
• Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
• Captivating onboard local entertainment

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• Cruises in the Douro River 1 Day Cruises

Douro Bridges Cruise

Amazing cruise in a typical “Rabelo” boat between the riverbanks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia

Sail along the banks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia in a typical Rabelo Boat and discover the beauty of the Douro River. With appealing prices and a 50-minute duration, the 6 Bridges Cruise has become the most popular boat tour. Enjoy a 10% discount on an online booking!

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Cruise Programme

Cruise Schedules

April - September

First Departure: 10:00 a.m.

Last Departure: 06:00 p.m.

October - March

First Departure: 11:00 a.m.

Last Departure: 04:00 p.m.

• If you book online, the issued voucher for this cruise has no specific time , so you will need to exchange it for an updated voucher at the pier , with the departure time of your choice (subject to availability on site)
• You may choose one of the following times, subject to availability on site: from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. , and from 02:00 p.m. and 06:00 p.m. (departure every 30 minutes)
• This programme includes a guide or audio-guide during the tour (Portuguese, English, Spanish and French)
• This cruise requires a minimum number of participants

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Departure from Pinhão

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Porto Boat Tours: 13 Unforgettable Adventures on the Douro

LOOKING FOR THE BEST BOAT TOURS IN PORTO PORTUGAL? 

You’re in the right place, as this article will outline 13 of the best Porto boat tours that you can take when visiting this magnificent city. 

Did you know that the Douro River stretches for 897 kilometers , flowing from its source in Spain to its mouth in Porto, Portugal 🤯? The river has been important to the development of these cities for thousands of years. 

Without it, we wouldn’t have port wine — can you believe that?! 

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Porto boat tour is this Douro Valley Cruise with a Winery Visit and Lunch Tour , with a near perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

Beyond its historical significance, the Douro River is a looker. Whether you are taking a boat trip around Porto or want to discover the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, a boat trip is a must-do when visiting Porto. 

Trust me, I’ve lived in Portugal since 2020, and one of my favorite things to do when visiting Porto is to go on a boat trip. And if you can swing it, a trip to the Douro Valley is an unforgettable experience. Ready for the 13 best Porto boat tours and cruises to enjoy the local scenery? Let’s go.

Top 3 Picks: Best Porto Boat Tours

Best of Porto Experience

→ Tram & Boat Ride (2h) → Lunch + coffee & tea

Douro Valley Cruise with Winery Visit

→ Explore the Douro on a private boat → Visit 2 small family-run wineries

Private Luxury Douro Yacht Cruise 

→ Private and customizable tour  → Alcohol, beverages & snacks provided

Should you go on a Douro River or Douro Valley tour?

What’s the difference between a Douro River and a Douro Valley ? It mainly comes down to location and duration.

A Douro River tour is focused around Porto, typically lasting 2-3 hours. This tour, primarily by boat, lets you see the city’s landscapes and historic sites but doesn’t include the Douro Valley.

On the other hand, a Douro Valley tour is a full-day experience, usually 8 to 9 hours long. This tour takes you into the Douro Valley, known for its winemaking. It often features a visit to a vineyard where you can participate in wine tasting and enjoy a lunch with local flavors set against the backdrop of the valley’s vineyards.

So the difference? While the river tour offers a quick overview of Porto, the valley tour provides a deeper exploration of the region’s wine culture. Keep that in mind as you scan the best Porto boat tours that are listed below.

13 Best Porto Boat Tours 

1. best of porto experience with boat trip & lunch.

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Discover Porto’s hidden gems on foot, by tram, and on a boat along the Douro River on this Best of Porto day tour.

On this Best of Porto experience, you’ll start off with a guided tour of Palácio da Bolsa — a 19th century neoclassical palace. From there, you’ll head down to the Douro River to board the boat, which will take you on a leisurely cruise toward the sea.

If you want a personalized tour by a local who will show and tell you about great local spots this is the tour for you. — REVIEW   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll get a chance to take in the beautiful scenery of both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia from this unique perspective. Lunch of fresh grilled fish is served in Afurada. You’ll return back to Cais de Ouro, but the tour doesn’t finish before you have the chance to enjoy a closing glass of Port.

The colorful houses sparkle under the sun in the Afurada neighborhood, where the smell of grilled seafood fills the air for lunchtime on this incredible Porto boat ride experience.

BEST PORTO BOAT TOURS

2. douro valley cruise with winery visit and lunch.

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8.5 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Discover the perfectly picturesque Douro Valley, Portugal’s renowned wine region, on this Cruise with a Winery Visit and Lunch.

The area is famous for its lush green terraced vineyards. On this cruise, you’ll visit two family-run wineries throughout the day and taste a total of 11 delicious local wines.

Mind-blowing!! This was the most memorable and fabulous experiences of our Portugal trip! — SHILPA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your tour guide — owner of one of the wineries — will tell you more about the history and fun stories about the area. Lunch is served fresh from the fire, cooked by your tour guide’s wife.

This intimate, authentic Porto boat trip Douro tour shows you the beauty of the region and its people. Your day is split between a van and a Porto river cruise 1 hour long along the Douro River.

3. Private Douro River Yacht Tour 

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Head west from Porto and watch the peaceful beaches of the Cabedelo Natural Reserve pass by on this Private Yacht Tour along the Douro River.

🌅 This is the perfect place to experience a stunning sunset if you book a late-afternoon cruise. 

Loved the small group, wine and the sunset. Overall wonderful way to see all the bridges. — PATRICIA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You’ll make your way all the way out to the westerlymost point in Porto, right where the river touches the sea and the Barra do Douro lighthouse guides ships safely into the harbor. The sea’s deep blues and the lighthouse’s reds create a picture-perfect scene. 

On this yacht tour, you’ll get a welcome drink of Brut or Port plus a tasting platter of local products.

4. Douro Valley Boat, Lunch and Wine Tasting Experience

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Looking for the ultimate Douro Valley winery experience? Enjoy this Porto to Pinhao boat trip , which will bring you to Peso da Régua’s historic town in the Douro Valley’s heart. You’ll also visit Pinhão, which is full of traditional wineries. 

During this Douro river boat tour Porto experience, you’ll also have the chance to visit two wineries.  At the wineries, you’ll learn all about how the wine is made, from the vines through the processing and into the bottles. 

I had an amazing time on this Douro valley wine tour. It was a very small group so it was intimate and we all became friends after a few drinks! — mARISA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

With a combination of travel by land and by sea, om this Pinhao Porto boat, you’ll pass by Amarante, where green wine is made, go through one of the largest tunnels in Europe in Serra do Marão, and visit Vila Real, one of the main cities in the region — full of history and culture.

In addition to wine tasting, this wine boat tour Porto experience day includes an all-inclusive lunch as well as a tasting of regional olive oil and other products.

5. Douro River Sunset Sailboat Experience

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Enjoy the unparalleled beauty of a sunset on the Douro River as the sky turns into a tapestry of golds and yellows, pinks, and reds on this incredible Sunset Sailboat Experience.

This sunset cruise brings you west from Porto towards the ocean. Your captain will keep an eye on the weather and scope out the perfect spot to enjoy the best sunset.

Guides were excellent sailors, funny, kind and shared such good info about Porto. I highly recommend this tour! — JEANNE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

During this Douro Porto boat cruise, you’ll enjoy learning about the landmarks you pass by on both sides of the river. You’ll also have the chance to sample local wines and a small platter of local snacks.

6. Douro Valley Private Day Trip by Car & Boat

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🍷 BOOK NOW

Want to experience a traditional boat tour Porto experience? Enjoy this cruise along the Douro River tour Porto in a Rabelo , a traditional Portuguese boat. These boats were traditionally used to transport wine along the river. 

As you cruise, you’ll learn all about the history of the region from your tour guide. The tour will stop for lunch along the river at a local restaurant. 

Oh my gosh, this trip is a MUST!! We had the most fabulous time with our Guide Luis!  — PAULA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

This Porto boat wine tour includes a visit to a stunning winery offering sweeping views across the valley. There, you can try a variety of ports and learn all about the process the winemakers go through to make these wines.

7. Porto: Douro River Boat Cruise with Port Wine

⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Experience the heart of Porto from the water on this Douro River Boat Cruise , where history, taste, and stunning views come together.

Spanning the Douro River between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, there are six bridges — the most famous of which is Dom Luis I, which was designed by Teófilo Seyrig, the business partner of Gustave Eiffel.

I cannot recommend this tour enough! 10/10 experience . — EMILY (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On this 6 bridges boat tour Porto cruise, you’ll pass under all six of the bridges, giving you a unique perspective on their iconic designs. 

Throughout the tour, your guide will tell you more about the region’s history and traditions, as well as stories of local fishermen and information about the architecture you pass. You’ll have a chance to sample local ports and try some small snacks such as a pastel de nata.

8.  Porto City Tour with Six Bridges Cruise and Lunch

⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | 🛥️ BOOK NOW

Your full day tour will start with a guided walk through the famous sites of Porto — from the stunning tiled interior of Sao Bento Railway Station to the elegant architecture of Batalha Square.

Before you finish, you’ll stop at a port wine cellar to learn more about the iconic local drink and try a few samples. 

The tour was an amazing experience of Porto and the Six Bridges!! Love the food and the cultural!! Highly recommend. — Michael (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Once you make your way down to the river, you’ll board a Rabelo boat that will take you along the river and under its six famous bridges. 

This 6 bridge boat tour Porto experience finishes at lunchtime when you’ll join your group for a Francesinha.

9. Private Yacht Cruise in the Douro River

Set out on this Porto Douro boat trip to explore the calm waters of the river as you make your way west to where it meets the Atlantic. 

As you sail, you’ll see the captivating Ribeira do Porto neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the charming fishermen’s village of São Pedro da Afurada. All the while, your tour guide and captain will share stories and the history of the landmarks you pass by.

Adriano and Iñez took excellent care of us. — JON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On this Porto private boat tour, you’ll be offered a bottle of vinho verde (green wine), as well as a bottle of port to enjoy alongside a tasting of regional products.

10. Private Sailing Lesson in Porto

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Ready to learn the ropes of how to sail your very own sailboat? Then this is this Private Boat Porto Sailing Lesson perfect activity for you.

You’ll be guided by a seasoned and accredited sailing instructor through the dos and don’ts of navigating the boat. You’ll learn everything from the basics of where things are and what they are called all the way to how to execute different maneuvers. 

Wow, this was such a brilliant experience. It was truly amazing getting to sail in a beautiful area while learning the ropes. — JON (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Throughout the class, you’ll navigate the Douro, having the opportunity to see the city of Porto from a unique perspective out on the water. The class runs for about two and a half hours and is held privately with one or two people only.

11. Porto: Douro Speedboat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 45 minutes | 🚤 BOOK NOW

Feel the wind in your hair as you travel on this Porto boat tour Douro at high speed on a speedboat for 45-minutes . You’ll be led by a crew of friendly and knowledgeable locals who will ensure you are safe, comfortable, and having fun the entire time.

Great fun speed boat ride. Professionally run yet informal and fun. Great crew who looked after us very well. — REVIEW (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

One of the best boat tours Porto Portugal offers for adrenaline junkies. Be prepared to get a bit wet as you bump up and down the river and even travel out onto the Atlantic.

Of course, moving through the city this way, you’ll have many chances to see amazing scenery on both banks of the river as you pass by.

12. Porto Sailboat Tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

Enjoy this peaceful opportunity to cruise Porto on an intimate sailboat .

You’ll see many of the top highlights of both the Porto and the Vila Nova de Gaia sides of the river as you make your way west to the mouth of the river and onto the open ocean. 

Our skippers were knowledgeable, friendly and went above and beyond to make it a memorable experience. — SUSIE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

You will pass by amazing landmarks like the Arrábida Bridge and the famous Dom Luis I Bridge as well as the Baroque-style Clerics Church with its famous tall steeple. 

Plus, look up on the hills at the port wine cellars where your welcome glass of port wine was made.

13. Porto Cruise on the Douro River

⭐️ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ⛵ BOOK NOW

This cruise takes you out on a 15-meter sailboat (about 50 feet) with a small group and an experienced guide. You’ll get to enjoy a glass of wine while on board and learn more about the attractions and neighborhoods you are cruising past. 

Our guides were amazing! They were so helpful and friendly! — REVIEW (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

On this Porto River Cruise, take the chance to snap photos of all of the most picturesque spots in Porto. Looking up from the river offers a unique perspective on the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia and the famous six bridges.

Porto Boat Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth doing a river cruise in Porto?

Yes — it is absolutely worth doing a river cruise while you’re in Porto.

A river cruise along the Douro River offers a unique perspective of Porto , showcasing its stunning landscape and architectural beauty from a vantage point that can’t be experienced on land.

You’ll glide past famous landmarks like the Dom Luís I Bridge , the picturesque Ribeira district , and the historic Vila Nova de Gaia , known for its port wine cellars.

Additionally, there are various types of cruises available, ranging from short trips to extended excursions, some even including meals and wine-tasting sessions. This variety ensures that there’s a cruise to suit everyone’s interests, whether you’re looking for a quick sightseeing tour or a leisurely exploration with local flavors and wines.

How long is the river cruise in Porto?

River cruises in Porto range from short two-hour cruises all the way up to full daylong trips which take you all the way up into the Douro Valley.

The river itself is nearly 900 km, over 500 miles, so you could spend days slowly traveling all the way up its entirety. 

Is the 6 Bridges cruise worth it in Porto?

Yes — Porto Six Bridges boat tours are totally worth it. The bridges spanning the Douro River are all architecturally unique and interesting, and cruising under them offers a fun perspective of their structures.

One of the bridges (the Dom Luis I) was built by the business partner of Eiffel and is an architectural wonder in its own right. So yes, Porto boat trip 6 bridges are totally worth it.

Where do the river boats leave from Porto?

The majority of Porto boat cruises leave from the Douro Marina. The marina is on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river just west of the Ponte da Arrabida.

Do check the info on your tour carefully, though, as some Porto boat trip groups will meet at a different spot in the city before heading to the marina together as a group.

But not every one of the best boat tour Porto has to offer departs from the marina. So make sure to double-check the departure location before leaving your accommodations.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Douro River?

There is no bad time to visit Porto or to cruise the Douro — it’s always a guaranteed stunning experience.

That being said, from late spring into early autumn, you’ll find the most stunning scenery with lush, deep greens everywhere you look. Long summer days also mean beautiful golden hours and lively happenings all throughout the neighborhoods. 

What do you wear on a Douro River cruise?

The best outfit to wear on a Porto river boat tour depends both on the time of year you visit as well as the type of cruise you’ll be taking.

If your Portugal river cruise includes a Porto wine boat tour, you may be asked not to wear casual summer clothes such as flip-flops or tank tops. If you’re headed out on the speedboat tour, you can expect to get a bit wet, so you’ll want to wear lighter clothing that will dry quickly.

Any time of year, wearing plenty of sunscreen is important . If you’re going on Portuguese river cruises in the autumn or winter months or a sunset cruise Porto experience, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got some layers to stay warm.

What are the boats in Porto called?

The classic old boats from Porto are called Rabelos. These boots were originally used to transport wine along the river.

Some of the cruises mentioned here are Rabelo boat tour Porto companies and they use refurbished rabelos. So a Rabelo boat tour Porto is a great option if you are looking for something a little more traditional.

But many river cruises Porto offer trips in more modern boats like yachts, sailboats, or speedboats. 

Final Thoughts: Porto Boat Tours

A Porto boat tour is an activity not to be missed. The Douro river and the valley it runs through are some of the most stunning parts of Portugal, so a Douro boat trip Porto departure is a perfect way to see a whole lot of the region in a relaxing but packed day.

Are you ready to go on the best Porto river cruise? Whether you choose a Porto river cruise 2-hour experience or want to take a river cruise Porto to Douro Valley to explore wineries and do a Portoriver cruise wine tasting, this article is chock full of some of the best river cruise Porto experiences that you can find.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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Douro River Cruises

River Cruises on the Douro

Come aboard! Discover the beauty of the Douro, and explore Portugal’s soul.

Porto is the port of departure and arrival for our Douro cruises. Which means you’ll have plenty of time to stroll through the splendid old town, take in the view from Portugal’s highest church tower and sample  bacalhau , the country’s favourite dried fish. It is said that there are 365 ways to cook it. While you are there, don’t miss the opportunity to go on an excursion to Salamanca in Spain. With its 13th-century university, this impressive city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Douro River Cruises

Our Portugal cruises uncover one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned wine regions. Cruise the Douro River through ancient wine estates, passing barcos rabelos laden with casks en route to Porto and Lisbon. A sublimely scenic corner of Europe, with equally sublime food and wine.

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Highlights of Douro River Cruises

Portugal famously prospered during its Age of Discovery and you will find monuments to this vibrant era everywhere. Port wine, too, put the nation on the maps of travelers and oenophiles. A Douro cruise with Viking brings it all into sharp focus for you, providing rich insight into fascinating highlights such as these:

• Lisbon’s stunning Manueline architecture
• Lisbon’s Moorish-flavored Alfama District
• Ancient universities in Coimbra, Portugal and Salamanca, Spain
• Port warehouses of Porto
• Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Scenic vineyard-laden hills along the Douro River
• Vila Real’s extraordinary Mateus Palace
• The hilltop fortress town of Castelo Rodrigo
• The tiny village of Favaios, nestled among picturesque hills
• Port wine tastings at elegant estates

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Best river cruises in Porto

I already wrote about the famous 6 bridges cruise in Porto, but the truth is that a lot of people…

I already wrote about the famous 6 bridges cruise in Porto , but the truth is that a lot of people simply prefer to have a more intimate river cruise in Porto, so I decided to write this Complete Guide of the best river cruises in Porto.

Important note: Please do not mistake these with the best river cruises in Douro Valley ! The river cruises on this article that you are reading now refer to the best river cruises in Porto city.

If you are in a hurry: best river cruises in Porto – a snapshot

If you are in a hurry, these are the best options for:

• Best river cruise in Porto with Wine and Tapas
• Best river cruise in Porto for bachelor / bachelorette parties
• Best river cruise in Porto for solo travellers
• Top river cruise on a PRIVATE Yacht
• Best river cruise with a local Fisherman!

Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River

The Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River is one of the best river cruises in Porto for large groups (either bachelor / bachelorette parties or holidays with your extended family) because, given its size (49 foot), it can accommodate a loooot of people.

Something else that I love about this river cruise in particular is that it’s a really pretty sailboat, with a very comfortable interior room open to the outside. Beware though, that most of the time (especially when it’s not windy) they use the engines of the boats instead of the sails.

Moreover, and unlike the very touristy 6 bridges cruise, the Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River provides translated explanations of what you are about to see, and hence skipping the loud speakers altogether.

You can book your Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River online.

Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River – Details

Mar douro river sailing cruise.

The Mar Douro river sailing cruise is another great option to navigate the waters of the Douro river on a classic 31-foot motor sailor boat.

The skipper, Raul, is a really charismatic person with tons of nice stories about the Marina, the Douro river and the city itself. He is also quite generous with his Port wine servings, so I am sure you are going to end the trip feeling a bit tipsy 😀

The only thing I don’t like about the  Mar Douro river sailing cruise is that the indoors area is small, dark and not particularly comfortable, so I don’t recommend this tour for bad weather days.

You can book your Mar Douro river sailing cruise online.

Mar Douro river sailing cruise – Details

Douro river party boat.

I know how hard it is do organise bachelor / bachelorette parties not only because I organised it for some of my friends, but also because we welcome a lot of such groups on our Full day private tour of Porto 🙂 And hence it is my pleasure to introduce you to the ONLY party boat in Porto , a boat that can accommodate more than 50 people on board!

The idea is quite simple: a large boat, a DJ, and a bar. Plenty of music, no places to sit down (it’s a PARTY boat, not a place to take a nap! :D) and the opportunity to mingle with like minded travellers. Naturally, you can also make the trip private, if you wish to do so. 

I think this is a great, great option for large groups of friends and yes, I have included this on one of my friends bachelorette party 🙂

There is only ONE slot everyday, so hurry up and book your party river cruise in Porto online.

Party river cruise in Porto – Details

Douro captain sailboat cruise.

Douro Captain sailboat cruise is one of the most versatile river cruises in Porto. After all, it goes out into the river three times a day, every day; and it provides both group trips (for those of you that want to make new friends) and private trips (for those, like me, that prefer a private experience 🙂

Ricardo’s team is not only very friendly but also gives you lots of tips to make the most of your days in Porto, while filling your glass with a Port tonic cocktail. No wonder, then, that it is the most popular river cruise in the city!

To finish up the experience, we even got to take a quick spin out on the ocean, sailing directly into the sunset – a once in a lifetime experience that will engrave Porto in our happy memories.

You can book your Douro Captain sailboat cruise online.

Douro Captain sailboat cruise – Details

Private yacht cruise with tapas.

Another fantastic yacht river cruise in Porto with wines and tapas included (again, massive foodie here!) is this Private yacht cruise with tapas .

I really like it because it is designed to be a private tour from the start, meaning that you have the undivided skippers’ attention, complete privacy AND nobody can steal the best cheeses from you 😀

Indeed, the crew (who is super nice, by the way – I really enjoyed their company!) will always make sure that your glasses are ful and that your stomach is happy. I particularly enjoyed the regional cheese from the Azores islands, and I think you will like it too 🙂

You can book your Private yacht cruise with tapas online.

Private yacht cruise with tapas – Details

River cruise with a local fisherman.

Sometimes what we need is a bit of simplicity, but mostly authenticity, on our holidays and experiences around the world. With that in mind, I decided to include on this article about the best river cruises in Porto a River cruise with a local fisherman 🙂

Indeed, Paulo and Daniel are both former fishermen and now wonderful hosts. They will tell you all about their fishing days, the Douro river, make sure your glasses of wine are always topped and take fantastic photos of you. 

The boat is small (only 20 foot long!), inspired by ancient fishing boats and specially built to allow you for a closer look at the local fishing culture.

This is truly a unique experience , better suited for down-to-earth people, that you will not forget 🙂

You can book your River cruise with a local fisherman online.

River cruise with a local fisherman – Details

Glamorous porto yacht tour.

The Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour tour is by far the fanciest river cruise in Porto, particularly for those of you that prefer to yachts over sailing boats. 

This yacht is indeed very fancy, with really nice (and comfortable) sofas both outdoors and on the covered area inside. It is suuuuper nice and makes for a very relaxing trip. 

Moreover, the boat is so large that it allows for several groups to have their own private area (at the bow, the stern, or up top).

The couple that runs this river cruise is Nancy and Fernando, and precisely because this is a family business, they have different schedules for every day of the week, so I recommend you to book the Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour as soon as possible to avoid missing out. They always try to include one schedule that allows for a sunset cruise, which is great!

The only thing I didn’t super like about my trip was that they only serve ONE glass of a welcome drink (sangria), which I find a bit awkward given how generous we, the Portuguese, are with wines.

You can book your Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour online.

Glamorous Porto Yacht Tour – Details

Douro river boat cruise with port wine.

The Douro river boat cruise with Port wine is also a good option for those who want an intimate and uncomplicated boat trip, as the trip takes place on a small boat (maximum 6 people). But don’t worry because despite its small size, the boat is very comfortable and even has an awning to protect you from the sun 🙂 The skipper is called Jonas, a young man who, in addition to being very friendly, has a lot of knowledge about the city and Port wine. He will welcome you with a tasting of 3 Port wines (one of each style), which is the perfect note to start this river cruise in Porto.

Moreover, being a small unpretentious boat, it has two advantages that some of the best river cruises in Porto do NOT have: it welcomes both solo travellers (hiey!) AND pets on board 🙂

You can book your Douro river boat cruise with Port wine online.

Douro river boat cruise with Port wine – Details

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The Douro Valley by car: a day trip and drive along the N222 road

The N222 is one of the most scenic roads in Portugal and follows the majestic Douro River as it meanders through the beautiful scenery of the region.

The majority of tourists explore the Douro Valley by river cruise; these boat tours may be relaxing, but they only show a tiny portion of this wonderful region. With a car, you can travel to remote viewpoints, discover picturesque valleys and visit traditional villages.

This article will provide a guide to exploring the Alto Douro as a day trip with the use of a car. The majority of the route follows the N222, but it also includes the little-visited Douro Superior region near the Valeira dam. Related articles: Guide to the Douro - The Douro by train - Porto day trips

A car allows you to discover remote areas, far away from other tourists.

A suggested driving tour of the Alto Douro region

The suggested route begins in the town of Peso da Régua and the informative Museu do Douro before following the N222 (and Douro River) to the town of Pinhão. Pinhão is extremely pretty, set amidst terraced vineyards and sitting on the banks of the Douro River, and is a popular destination for short (1-2hour) river cruises.

From Pinhão, the N322 heads north and winds up hills lined with the terraced vineyards to the charming village of Vale de Mendiz. After passing through Alijó, the route enters the Parque Natural Do Vale do Tua, and the stunning scenery surrounding the Albufeira de Foz Tua lake.

The road then drops down to the Douro River and the village of Tua after passing the newly constructed Tua dam. Tua is another pretty riverside village and a fantastic location for hiking, and lunch.

From Tua, the N214 climbs the steep hills behind the village and then enters the little-visited Douro Superior region around the Valeira dam (Barragem da Valeira). Above the dam is a wonderful viewpoint, the São Salvador do Mundo.

The final section follows the N222 eastwards through the vineyards and terraced hills back to Peso da Régua. If you still have the energy or time you could visit the Sao Leonardo de Galafura , which is considered as the best viewpoint of the Douro.

Below is an interactive map displaying the route, and the most scenic sections of the drive are highlighted in red.

Key to sights along the route 1) Peso da Régua 2) Pinhão 3) Vale de Mendiz 4) São Mamede de Ribatua 5) Albufeira de Foz Tua (lake) 6) Tua 7) Linhares 8) Barragem da Valeira dam 9) Sao Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint (optional) The best viewpoints along the route: 1st Sao Leonardo de Galafura (9) , 2nd São Salvador do Mundo, 3rd Vale de Mendiz, 4th Miradouro Ilha do Tua Note: This route is explained in-depth, further in this article.

You can join a boat tour at Pinhão

Tours of the Douro Valley An organised tour led by an experienced guide is often the best way to get the most from the Douro region. There are many excellent tours that combine wine tasting, a boat cruise and sightseeing in a single day. Some of the best tours offered by GetYourGuide include: • A highly regarded full-day tour, with over 7,000 positive reviews! • A river cruise from Porto to Pinhão, complete with breakfast and dinner • A wine tour of the Douro featuring two tastings and a river cruise • A small-group tour of the Douro region

Practicalities for exploring the Douro as a driving day trip

As the complete route is over 120km and takes around seven hours to fully see, we suggest either spending the night in Peso da Régua or the pretty town of Lamego (just to the south of Peso da Régua). Another option is to share the driving between two people.

All of the roads shown in this tour are fully tarmacked, and wide enough for two cars. The route narrows along the M633, which leads down to the Valeira dam, but is still fine for cars or motorbikes.

The main draw of the Douro region are the spectacular hills, valleys and views, so expect many tight turns, switchbacks and generally demanding driving. If the total length is too long, the day trip could end in Tua or Pinhão. Pinhão is the prettiest town along the route and is the highlight of the day.

The steep hills of the Douro mean that the grapes have to be picked by hand, and is the only major grape-producing region to do this

The Douro drive from Porto

If you are driving from Porto, we suggest heading to Peso da Régua via the A4 expressway and then heading south on the A24, which crosses the high bridge at Peso da Régua. For a day trip from Porto aim for at least visiting Pinhão.

To reduce the length of the day trip, Peso da Régua could be skipped (the only unique attraction is the Museu do Douro) and the Douro Superior section could be removed. Also, a fast way to return to Porto after visiting Tua, is to join the IC5 which then connects to the A4 near Pópulo.

Guide to the sections along the driving route

Peso da régua.

Peso da Régua was traditional the hub for transporting goods up and down the Douro River, and today it is the primary departure location for cruises along the Douro.

Peso da Régua has a pretty waterfront and contains the excellent Museu do Douro, but there are much more scenic towns further up the Douro.

The three bridges of Peso da Régua, with the A24 bridge towering above the valley

N222 from Peso da Régua to Pinhão

This section of the road follows the river and passes the Barragem da Régua dam. There are many wonderful views across the terraced vineyards on the southern side of the river, and there are multiple places to stop. While along this section you could pull into the Quinta do Tedo to see the vineyards and taste their Port wines - tickets here €12

Luxurious cruise ships are frequently see sailing along the Douro, but a car is much better for the intrepid traveller

Pinhão is the quintessential Douro valley town and has a much more relaxed atmosphere than Peso da Régua. This delightful town is surrounded by vineyard terraces and sits on a major bend in the river.

There is pleasant riverside walk along the western banks of the Douro or for a challenging uphill hike there is the Torguiano de São Cristovão viewpoint, 1.7km from the town centre. For something more relaxing, there are short boat cruises of 1-2hours, and this section of the Douro is one of the prettiest.

Pinhão is the heart of port wine production (known as the Cima Corgo) and there are many fine Quintas (farms) offering port tasting, and include the Quinta do Bomfim, the Quinta da Foz and the Quinta das Carvalhas.

The waterfront in Pinhão with the tour boats ready for the tourists

The Ponte do Pinhão bridge leading into the town

Vale de Mendiz

The drive north from Pinhão to Vale de Mendiz (along N322) is one of the most scenic sections of the route, but unfortunately, there are not many places to stop along the winding road.

This region provides the classic images of the Douro region, with ancient vineyards covering every section of the steep hills, and perched at the centre along a high ridge is the pretty village of Vale de Mendiz.

Advice: The Miradouro de Vale de Mendiz viewpoint is at one of the highest points of the region but is just beyond the most scenic part of the road. The section through Granja and Alijó is nothing special, so just pass through as quickly as possible.

The village of Vale de Mendiz

The Miradouro de Vale de Mendiz viewpoint

São Mamede de Riba Tua and the Albufeira de Foz Tua

Just beyond the village of São Mamede de Riba is the Parque Natural Do Vale do Tua and the Albufeira de Foz Tua, the largest lake of the Alto Douro. The lake is actually a reservoir and was created in 2016 with the completion of the Tua dam. Insight: This area offers some of the most spectacular landscapes.

The Albufeira de Foz Tua lake

The Tua dam and the main bridge into Tua

Tua is a small village in the upper Douro. This is a quiet and tranquil village (once away from the train station complex) is popular for hiking, and there is a pretty riverside footpath that leads to the Tua dam. The N214 as it snakes out of Tua provides more breath-taking scenery and views such as from the Miradouro de Parambos.

The Linha do Douro railway crosses the Tua River, as it joins the Douro

The Miradouro de Parambos overlooking Tua lake

The section between Linhares and the Valeira dam becomes more rugged and wild. The forests and exposed hills dotted boulders, more clearly resemble the Douro region before the intense grape growing that begun in the Roman era.

The road drops down to cross the Valeira dam and then enters the Douro Superior region, which is much hotter and drier than the Cima Corgo.

The Barragem da Valeira and the natural vegetation over the Douro’s schist hills

The Miradouro de São Salvador do Mundoview point overlooking the Douro Superior

N222 back to Peso da Régua

The final section re-joins the N222 and heads westwards back to Peso da Régua. This region passes through the Cima Corgo vineyard growing region, and is another incredibly scenic road that meanders around hills lined with the terraced vineyards. There is an outstanding viewpoint at the Miradouro da Abelheira.

Vineyards cover every available space

Sao Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint

Probably by this stage of the day, you are exhausted, but if you still have energy, there is an amazing viewpoint at Sao Leonardo de Galafura . This summit at 640m provides some of the finest views of the Douro valley.

The view from the Sao Leonardo de Galafura

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This Stunning Region in Portugal Is a Wine Lover's Dream — With Historic Train Rides, Scenic Boat Tours, and Luxury Hotels

Wine, forests, and boat tours. What else do you need?

• Best Hotels and Resorts
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Best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

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As a newly minted resident of Portugal , I am here to tell you, every single square inch of it is beautiful. But there's something extra special about the Douro Valley.

Located in the northern region of Portugal, the Douro Valley is as enchanting a place as they come. Its rolling hills — punctuated by perfectly aligned vineyard vines, which are a testament to the agricultural dedication of local farmers dating back thousands of years — give away to winding river views that go on for as far as the eye can see. In the summer, the word "verdant" doesn't do the greenery justice, and come fall, the dazzling foliage takes over.

"The Douro Valley is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, steeped in centuries of winemaking history," Madalena Dinis, director of marketing and communication for the Porto and northern Portugal tourism board, told Travel + Leisure . "Notably, the Douro is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, which adds a historical richness to its vineyards and winemaking traditions. It’s a haven for wine enthusiasts and a perfect place for anyone seeking a serene escape in nature. The region’s rich culinary traditions and the warmth of its people make it an inviting destination for all." 

Ready to see it for yourself? Here are the best places to stay, attractions to see, and vineyards to visit on your next trip to Douro Valley. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Don't miss the fantastic views from around the riverbanks, especially at sunset. 
• Indulge in all the wonderful spa treatments offered in the Douro Valley hotels.
• Book a table at one of the hotel restaurants for a taste of delicious regional Portuguese cuisine. 
• The easiest way to explore the area's fantastic history is by taking a ride on its Historical Train.
• Taste the fruit of the valley during a wine tasting at any of the area's vineyards. None of them will disappoint. 

Best Hotels and Resorts 

Courtesy of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Six Senses Douro Valley

The Six Senses was voted one of the best resorts in Portugal and Spain by T+L readers in the 2023 World's Best Awards, and it's easy to see why. The 19th-century manor-turned-hotel sits amid the terraced vineyards and offers spacious suites for you to call home. Here, guests can also indulge in spa treatments, walk the organic gardens, dig into locally sourced meals, and yes, enjoy plenty of wine tastings, too. 

Lamego Hotel & Life

Lamego Hotel & Life is tailor-made for those seeking a more modern experience. The property's contemporary design, which includes a clean-lined pool surrounded by neutral-toned chaise loungers, provides the utmost relaxing atmosphere. Guests here can also swim in the indoor pool on chillier days, get a treatment at the L'Occitane spa, and indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine at the restaurant, O Comendador. The hotel is also within walking distance of regional cultural landmarks, including Lamego Cathedral and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies.

Quinta de la Rosa

Perched on a bend in the Douro River, Quinta de la Rosa offers a family-style stay so guests can feel immersed in the destination. Calling it a "hotel" is a bit of a misnomer, as the rooms are sprinkled all over the property, giving everyone a sense of solitude during their stay. When ready for a meal, guests are invited to Cozinha da Clara (or Clara's Kitchen) for a regionally inspired meal.

Vidago Palace

A few nights at Vidago Palace , a historic hotel set in a centuries-old forest, is bound to make you feel like royalty. The palace was the vision of King Carlos, who wanted to build a luxury spa to entice a global clientele — and he succeeded. Here, visitors will find opulence at every turn, from the grand staircase in the entryway to the manicured gardens, rooms with leather furnishings, and a thermal spa that will undoubtedly undo all your aches and pains. 

Best Things to Do 

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Drink in the view at São Salvador do Mundo.

While the Douro Valley is beautiful from every angle, the São Salvador do Mundo viewpoint allows visitors to take in all of its splendor at once. Located high on the riverbank, this vantage point offers a sweeping view of the water and terraced vineyards. Plus, it's a prime spot for admiring the sunset. There's also a tiny chapel at the top, along with pre-Roman remains. 

Get to know the land at Côa Valley Archaeological Park.

The Côa Valley Archaeological Park , located about a one-hour drive from the heart of the Douro region, offers a glimpse into not just Portugal's past, but into humanity's. The museum and open-air gallery are home to an extensive collection of Paleolithic rock carvings, some dating as far back as 30,000 years ago. The museum itself is a sight to behold, made out of a natural-colored cement that blends seamlessly into the landscape. But don't stop there — continue on to explore the park via a guided tour so you don't miss a thing. 

Image Source/Getty Images

Take a boat tour.

Get a whole new perspective of the valley during a boat tour down the river. There are several local operators offering tours, from quick river trips to multiday cruises. For something even more unique, Anima Durius hosts trips on super-cool small vessels, including classic wooden boats and a few handsome sailboats. 

Hop aboard the Historical Train.

Travel back in time with a ride on Douro's Historical Train . The trip, which runs between Régua and Tua, hugs the banks of the river, providing beautiful videos from the five historical carriages. Passengers can also expect entertainment and even a few little gifts on board. 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Quinta do Seixo

Quinta do Seixo , located along the banks of the river, goes on for nearly 250 acres. The winery is well-known for its modern winemaking center that pairs perfectly with its traditional vineyard farming. Guests can come for a tour and tasting led by one of the vineyard's experts. 

Quinta da Pacheca

Quinta da Pacheca has been producing wine since 1738, making it one of the Douro's oldest estates. Here, guests can opt for the traditional tastings, book a picnic lunch or dinner to enjoy among the vines, or visit in the fall to experience the olive oil harvest. As for where to stay, you can book one of the vineyard's massive wine barrels turned glamping sites , which have become popular thanks to Instagram. 

Quinta das Carvalhas

Quinta das Carvalhas is younger than Quinta da Pacheca, but not by much. It began producing wines in 1759 and has been a prominent vineyard in the region ever since. Here, guests can go on guided tours, which include climbing the hillside landscape for a 360-degree view of the Douro Valley and learning all about the history of viticulture along the way. 

The best time to visit the Douro Valley, according to locals, is really whenever you'd like.  "Whether you prefer the vibrant colors of spring, the bustling atmosphere of harvest season, or the serene tranquility of winter, there's never a wrong time to visit the Douro Valley, Richard Bowden, the director of marketing and communications at the Six Senses Douro Valley, shared with T+L.  "Each season offers its own distinct charm and allure for travelers." While he has a hard time picking a favorite, Bowden notes the grape harvest season, which runs from September to October, "is a particularly vibrant time to visit, as the vineyards are ablaze with autumn colors, and many wineries offer special events and experiences."

If you had to choose, the most optimal time to visit is usually between late spring and early autumn (May to September), when the days are sunny, long, and warm. All that adds up to lovely days made for hiking, wine tasting, or cruising down the river. However, if you want to stretch your trip into late October, you'll catch the olive harvest season, too. 

By Car: Driving is the easiest way to reach and explore the Douro Valley. From Porto, it's about a 1.5- to two-hour drive via the A4 motorway and N222 road. With this drive, it really is about the journey and the destination, as the N222 road is often regarded as one of the most beautiful drives in the world thanks to its green hillsides and plenty of viewpoints. From Lisbon, you can make it to the Douro Valley in about 3.5 hours. It's not as glamorous of a drive, but it will get you there. 

By Train: For a more relaxing alternative, try the train. The Linha do Douro (Douro Line) runs from Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã stations to Pocinho, passing through Régua, Pinhão, and Tua along the way. It, too, is known for its picturesque landscapes en route, including right along the river's edge, making it a pleasant journey. 

By Car: Again, it's easiest to bring your own car when visiting the Douro Valley, as things are quite spread out. This way, you can see all the sights in your own time. Travelers can rent a car from either Porto or Lisbon; companies like Avis, Hertz, and Alamo all have stations in each city. 

Tour Guide: If you're not comfortable driving on the narrow, winding roads, you can hire a private tour guide. There are plenty of local (and knowledgeable) guides ready to whisk you away to all their favorite spots, including some off-the-beaten-path gems.

Related Articles

Best Things to do in Douro Valley Portugal

L isted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Douro Valley Portugal is the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Nestled in Northern Portugal, the valley is known for its beautiful lookout points, charming villages and abundant wineries. About an hour from the city of Porto, the Douro wine region can easily be visited on a day trip or a long weekend trip while visiting Portugal . Viking River Cruises also offers an intimate longship journey through the Douro.

Table wine and port wine are produced here and shipped all over the world. Spend the day exploring vineyards, crushing grapes with your feet or sampling local wines. In addition to wine tasting , visitors can take a river cruise on the Douro River, go hiking and visit a natural park. Plus, be sure to explore the valley’s villages. Read about these activities, and more, with our roundup of the 6 best things to do in Douro Valley Portugal.

1. Visit a winery

A trip to Douro Valley would be incomplete without a visit to a winery. Quinta da Pacheca in Lamego sits in the heart of the Douro Valley. One of the region’s oldest wine estates, Quinta da Pacheca is a winery, hotel and olive producer all-in-one. Wine lovers can take a guided tour of the winery, book a tasting, go grape stomping, participate in an olive harvesting experience and more. The wine hotel features traditional guest rooms or for something a little more adventurous, guests can go glamping in huge wine barrels.

In addition, Quinta Nova is another hotel and winery that goes way back. Here, visitors can go wine tasting, take a wine-making class, enjoy a vineyard tour at sunset and order traditional Portuguese food at the winery restaurant. Plus, there is a museum associated with the winery that preserves its history.

Quinta do Seixo

Visit Quinta do Seixo for beautiful views over the valley. This winery is part of the Sandeman brand, a popular port wine producer. Here, visitors can have a picnic in the vineyard, take a guided tour of the estate or book a tasting. Quinta do Vale Meao is another famous winery. In the city of Vila Nova de Foz Côa, this winery is family-owned and a great place to learn about Douro Valley wine production.

2. Take a boat tour through the Douro River

One of the easiest ways to see the Douro Valley is from a boat trip down the Douro River, which stretches from the Soria Province in Spain to Porto. In fact, wine was traditionally carried down this river in Rabelo boats, long flat boats, recognizable by the long oar protruding from the back. The wine was then stored in Porto wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Today, many boats make the same journey, this time carrying tourists as part of organized river cruises.

There are short boat trips that depart from Pinhão or longer ones that leave from Porto. Many tours include wine tasting and lunch. The longer tours from Porto typically make stops at some of the smaller villages along the river valley. Click here  to select the right tour for you.

3. Go to a lookout

The Douro Valley is known for its amazing lookout points. São Leonardo da Galafura is one of the most famous lookouts. Here, visitors will be greeted by stunning views of terraced vineyards, rolling hills and the meandering Douro River. There is also a chapel and a picnic area.

São Salvador do Mundo is another breathtaking viewpoint. It’s perched at the top of a hill, and although you can drive up part of the way, you’ll have to walk the rest, but the views are certainly worth the walk. The Valeira Dam, open countryside, lush greenery, rugged slopes and the beautiful Douro River are all visible from the viewpoint.

The Miradouro de Casal de Loivos is another amazing place to soak up the Douro Valley’s natural beauty. It’s located near the village of Casal de Loivos and can be reached by car. From here, viewers can look over Pinhão, the Douro River and several wineries spanning the hillside.

4. Visit the Douro International Natural Park

Immerse yourself in the valley’s untouched nature while hiking in the Douro International Natural Park. This protected area is close to the Spanish border and features a deep river canyon, majestic cliffs, olive trees and many different animal species, including wolves, wild boar, cave bats and Egyptian vultures.

For panoramic views of the canyon, head to one of the park’s many beautiful viewpoints. Penedo Durão is the best viewpoint for birdwatching and Miradouro de Penha das Torres is a great place to see the sunrise. If you’re not sure where to start your adventure to the Douro International Natural Park, book a guided tour, such as this one with Ambieduc .

5. Visit the Douro Museum

Dive into the valley’s history at the Douro Museu or the Museu do Douro. Located in the small town of Régua, the museum is housed in a historic wine warehouse on the riverfront. Exhibits showcase the history of the wine-making industry in the Douro Valley, and its impact on the local community. In addition, you’ll learn about the geographical features of the valley and why these are so well suited for producing wine.

After exploring the museum, enjoy a glass of wine at the on-site wine bar. Visitors receive one complimentary glass of port or table wine with their ticket. For those based in Porto, the museum can be reached by train from the São Bento Station or through a boat tour from Porto.

6. Visit the small towns

When you’re not wine tasting or soaking up the views, explore the charming towns scattered throughout the valley. The town of Lamego boasts a beautiful historic chapel sitting atop a grand staircase. The chapel, called the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, was constructed between the 18th and 20th centuries. It features a variety of architectural styles, including Baroque, Romantic and Gothic. The outside of the chapel is decorated in stunning blue and white tiles, called azulejos. Lamego is also home to other historical sites and museums, located just down the hill from the chapel.

Travel Train

If you love azulejos, be sure to visit Pinhão train station, built in 1937. Pinhão is also centrally located, close to many of the most popular wineries, making it a convenient place to stop. There is also a historical train that stops in Pinhão. There is wine and often entertainment on the train.

The train departs from Peso da Régua, another popular town in the Douro Valley. Since many boat tours also depart here, there’s plenty to do for tourists. for example, walk along the Régua pier, check out the town’s churches and grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants.

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