Just a few hours from Lisbon, the Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions, famous for its picturesque vineyards and the scenic Douro River. Known for its Port wine, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers amazing views, charming villages, and plenty of opportunities for wine tasting. You can explore by car, boat, or train, with each option giving you stunning views along the way. Plan to spend a day visiting local wineries, walking through vineyards, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. If you love wine and nature, the Douro Valley is a must-visit!
Day Trip from Lisbon to Douro Valley: Wineries, Vineyards & River Cruises
If you’re planning to travel from Lisbon to Douro Valley, there are few convenient options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best one.
Travelling from Lisbon to the Douro Valley is simple, with several transportation options. One of the most popular ways is by train, particularly the Alfa Pendular service. You can take the Alfa Pendular from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia Station to Porto, then hop on a scenic regional train that runs along the Douro River. The total journey takes about 4 to 5 hours, offering stunning views along the way.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lisbon to Porto and then switch to a local bus or train to reach the Douro Valley.
For maximum flexibility and convenience, renting a car is a great option, allowing you to enjoy a scenic road trip through the countryside with the freedom to stop and explore at your own pace.
You can also consider booking a private tour from Lisbon, which offers a personalized experience and the chance to visit the best spots without worrying about transportation logistics.
Best Things to Do and See in Douro Valley
Take one of Portugal's most iconic trains
A train ride through the Douro Valley is one of the best ways to experience this beautiful region. The scenic journey from Porto to Pocinho follows the Douro River, offering stunning views of vineyards, hills, and charming villages. In the summer, you can even take a ride on the historic steam train for a unique experience. Whether you choose the regular train or the special tourist options, it’s a relaxing and affordable way to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley.
Visit Douro's oldest Quintas
One of the best ways to experience the region’s rich wine culture is to visit a wine-producing ‘quinta’ in the Douro Valley. These Quintas, such as Quinta do Seixo or Quinta da Pacheca, offer guided tours where you can learn how wine is made, explore the vineyards and see centuries-old traditions in action. Many quintas have been family-run for generations, and after the tour you’ll be able to taste some of their best wines, including the famous Port. It’s a relaxed and fun way to enjoy the stunning scenery, meet local winemakers and get a deeper appreciation of the Douro’s world-class wines.
Cruise along the Douro River
A boat tour on the Douro River is a must-do when visiting the Douro Valley. It’s the perfect way to take in the stunning views of the terraced vineyards and rolling hills from the water. You can join daily tours from Peso da Régua or Pinhão, with options ranging from short one-hour trips to longer journeys up the river. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful cruise or a scenic adventure, a boat ride offers a unique perspective of this beautiful region and makes for an unforgettable experience.
Drive one of the world's best roads
Driving along the N222, between Peso da Régua and Pinhão, is a must when visiting the Douro Valley. Voted the “World’s Best Driving Road,” this 27-kilometer road is full of exciting curves, but what makes it truly special are the stunning views. With the Douro River running alongside and vineyards covering the hills, every moment on this road feels like a postcard. It’s more than just a drive, it’s an unforgettable experience you won’t forget, perfect for anyone looking to get lost in the beauty of the Douro Valley.
Explore the breathtaking viewpoints
Discover the wine heritage at the Douro Museum
The Douro Museum is a must for anyone interested in the culture and history of the Douro Valley. Located in Peso da Régua by the river, this modern museum is in a former wine warehouse and features exhibits on wine production, the region’s geography, and local life. Enjoy a meal or a drink at the café and wine bar with a beautiful river view. Tickets cost around €6 and include a complimentary glass of local wine. It’s the perfect starting point for your exploration of the Douro Valley!
Climb to the magnificent Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Remedies
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Remedies in Lamego, located at the top of Mount St. Stephen, it’s known for its beautiful staircase with over 600 steps, taking you through nine levels filled with fountains, traditional Portuguese tiles, and sculptures. As you climb, enjoy the stunning views of Lamego and the surrounding hills. At the top, the Sanctuary itself offers a peaceful and beautiful interior to explore. Whether for the views, the history, or the peaceful atmosphere, this iconic site is well worth the visit.
Taste the local delicacies
The Douro Valley is famous for its delicious wines and local dishes. Be sure to try the iconic Port wine, which comes in many styles and pairs perfectly with desserts. Another treat is the sweet Moscatel de Favaios, made from Galego Branco grapes in the charming town of Favaios. When it comes to food, savour hearty dishes like roast kid goat, alheira sausages, and Mirandese steak. Don’t forget to enjoy traditional sweets made with eggs and almonds. Every bite and drink captures the flavours of this beautiful region.
Where to Stay in Douro Valley
We have curated a diverse range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference, from charming hotels to cozy apartments and enchanting guest houses. Our selection process involved considering the location of the accommodations, reliable reviews from our partner Booking.com, and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, which has 40 thousand enthusiastic members. These options have been selected carefully to make sure that your stay in Douro Valley is truly memorable.
Recomended Hotels:
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Transportation in Douro Valley
The Douro Valley’s transport options make it easy to explore the region’s beautiful landscapes and famous vineyards. Trains run along the scenic Douro Line, connecting Porto with towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão, offering breathtaking river views along the way. Once in the valley, driving is the most flexible way to visit the local wineries and villages, with car rentals available in the main towns. Alternatively, river cruises are a relaxing way to take in the sights. Taxis and private tours are also great options if you prefer a more comfortable, guided experience. Walking and cycling are perfect for short distances, especially through the picturesque vineyards.
Best Restaurants in Douro Valley
We have curated a list of the best restaurants in Douro Valley, inspired by the region’s rich culinary and cultural traditions. To create this list, we used trusted TripAdvisor reviews and insider tips from our amazing Lisbon Friends Facebook group, where over 40,000 members share their favourite recommendations.
Casa Do Arco
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
Cozinha da Clara
Mediterranean, European, $$ – $$$
Writer's Place
International, Mediterranean, $$ – $$$
Bomfim 1896
Mediterranean, European, $$$$
Best Tours in Douro Valley
We have selected a diverse range of tour options to suit all budgets and preferences. Our selection was based on the reliable reviews of our partner GetYourGuide and the opinions of the members of our Facebook group, Lisbon Travel, with 40,000 passionate members. These options have been carefully selected to ensure that your stay in Douro Valley is truly memorable.
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