Douro River Cruises. Availability & Offers 2024/2025

About the Douro River

Douro River, a hidden gem of Europe, cuts through the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, extending from Spain to the Atlantic coast of Portugal. Spanning a mighty 897 km (557 miles), its tranquil beauty and rich history beckon travellers from all walks of life.

Primarily famed for its wine production, the Douro Region in Portugal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage spot. This adds an educational aspect to your holiday, where you can delve into the area’s past, dating back centuries to the ancient civilisations that first cultivated the vineyards on its fertile terraces.

The river mirrors the diverse landscapes as it travels from its source in Soria Province, Spain, through the rugged wilderness and pristine valleys of northern Portugal. Moreover, its steep terraced hillsides, adorned with vineyards, provide a mesmerizing view, best enjoyed during a serene river cruise.

The Douro Valley is a melting pot of vibrant cultures, a testament to its intricate past. Here, you will encounter quaint riverside towns such as Lamego and Pinhao, where you can immerse yourselves in the rich history, gastronomy, and the artsy vibe.

Ensuring your escapade is replete with the allure of nature, a trip to Regua’s Douro Museum is a must. Here, the story of the region, known as Portugal’s River of Gold, unfolds with captivating exhibits of its geographical and cultural grandeur.

In addition to historical attractions, the Douro River’s flora and fauna are sure to captivate. Your river holiday won’t be complete without a visit to the International Douro Natural Park, where diverse wildlife and remarkable species await exploration.

In conclusion, the Douro River’s appeal combines scenic landscapes, intriguing history, and exceptional wine making it a perfect choice for those seeking a unique and refined holiday experience.

Our top 10 points of interest along the Douro River

Porto

The starting point of many Douro River cruises, Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and one of the oldest European cities. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the city boasts numerous notable architecture, renowned wine cellars of Port wine, and historic Ribeira district which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Régua

Often considered as the gateway to the Douro Valley, Régua is vital to the Port wine industry. The city’s landmark Peso da Régua has a grand wine-producing history and now home to the Douro Museum, which illustrates the valley’s winemaking activity through numerous exhibits.

Lamego

Situated on the banks of the Balsemão River, Lamego is best known for the baroque Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, featuring ornate stairways adorned with azulejos, the traditional blue and white tiles of Portugal.

Pinhao

The small charming town of Pinhao is noted for its wineries and the beautiful 19th-century tile murals at Pinhão train station that depict the scenic landscapes and winemaking traditions of the Douro Valley.

Vila Real

Vila Real is famous for Mateus Palace, an 18th-century baroque manor house that appears in the labels of Portugal’s renowned Rosé wine. Additionally, the city houses an open-air museum with five themed gardens, displaying ethnographic items from the region.

Barca d’Alva

Located on the Spain-Portugal border, Barca d’Alva offers the perfect ambiance for nature lovers. A gateway to International Douro Natural Park, this serene village is an ideal destination for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

Vila Nova de Foz Coa

Famed for its Archaeological Park of the Côa Valley, an open-air gallery of Paleolithic rock art, Vila Nova de Foz Coa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered one of the world’s most significant sites for prehistoric rock engravings.

Salamanca

Although technically in Spain, Salamanca is an integral part of Douro River Cruises. This city is known for its ancient University, exquisite baroque and renaissance architecture, and the sun-dappled Plaza Mayor, considered one of the finest squares in Spain.

Amarante

Famed for its romantic aura, Amarante is a historic town that flaunts a beautiful 18th-century bridge, São Gonçalo Bridge, which leads to a church and monastery of the same name, boasting fine ecclesiastical architecture.

Entre-os-Rios

Originally named for its location ‘Between-the-Rivers’ of Tâmega and Douro, Entre-os-Rios is renowned for an abundant landscape of vine-clad hills, where you can enjoy a traditional Portuguese village setting.