O Douro River is one of the longest on the Iberian Peninsula, but it is also one of the most important in Portugal. With a centuries-old history that is inevitably linked to the Port Wine Cellars offers a unique landscape . Therefore, embarking on a long or short boat trip on the Douro is a plan to keep in mind, especially in spring and summer summer.
Whether it’s aboard a fantastic Rabelo boat, or a romanticdate to enjoy the sunset, there are plenty of possibilities to enjoy the Douro, without leaving the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. However, there are other walks that take you a little further afield, where you can contemplate the Douro Wine Region, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To porto or tourists here is a list focused in particular on the proximity factor. However, without forgetting the breathtaking landscapes adorned by valleys, dams and more. With longer days ahead, or the sun calling for outdoor activities, shall we embark on a journey to remember?
Table Of Contents
6 Bridges Cruise
Here’s a cliché to start with. However, it doesn’t make sense to write an article about boat trips in Porto without mentioning the “6 Bridges Cruise”. Besides, a classic is always a classic. So this really is one of those activities for tourists, but which you should do it at least once in your life.
Around here, we can’t resist embarking on this experience more than once, especially when we have friends from abroad visiting Invicta. For about an hour, the journey is usually made aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, although there are also other types of boat. In any case, the tour takes us to appreciate the city’s six iconic bridges.
During the course of the trip, either through specialized guides or audio guides, various curiosities over the bridges. If you want to try it out, or do it again, these are some of the operators that offer this tourist service:
- Douro Azul;
- PortoDouro;
- TomazdoDouro;
- RentDouro;
- Douro Cruises, among others.
Speedboat Tour
If you like less conventional, high-speed experiences, then this suggestion is perfect for you. Far from the serenity of the “6 Bridges Cruise”, on the Speedboat Tour you can enjoy an adrenaline-pumping trip over the Douro bridges to the Freixo Palace.
Departing from the Douro Marina in Gaia, the tour lasts around 45 minutes and takes you to several emblematic points along the banks, but also to feel the sea breeze. Along the way, take plenty of photos.
Speedboat Tour: velocidade e adrenalina nas margens do Douro
Sailboat with Port Wine
This tip is valid for a variety of scenarios, whether you’re enjoying it with friends or even in a romanticdate. Departing from Douro Marina, BBDouro offers a different kind oftrip aboard a sailboatalong the shores of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
While you enjoy some of the most beautiful monuments overlooking the river, you can relax and feel the breeze. And you want to know more? During this boat trip on the Douro, you also get a glass of Port wine.
Passeio de veleiro nas margens do Douro com vinho do Porto
Navigating an amphibious bus
This is one of the newest tourist attractions in the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. The ‘yellow ducks’, as Porto Duck Tours’ amphibious buses have come to be known, offer a unique experience between land and water.
The ‘ducks’ have the particularity of being original World War II vehicles. If you’re interested in getting on board, then the best thing to do is to book online to avoid confusion, or when you get there and all the seats are full.
Each trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and departs from Jardim do Morro to Afurada by road, plus a 30-minute boat trip on the Douro. Tickets cost €29 for adults, €17 for children/teenagers (up to 16 years old) and seniors (65 euros and over).
Party Boat Tour
This suggestion is a little different from the previous ones, as it is not a ‘traditional’ boat trip. Instead, it’s a party in the middle of the Douro River. For a date for two or an outing with friends, this is an option to consider.
Around here, there’s music with a DJ on board, drinks and cocktails they promise to liven up the party for around two hours. An experience for the party-goers and adventurers who can’t do without a good evening out.
Boat trip from Porto to Pinhão
To end this list on a high note, now it’s time to sail up the Douro, exploring one of Portugal’s most breathtaking landscapes. Departing from Cais da Estiva or Cais de Gaia (to be confirmed with the reservations team), you can take a boat trip from Porto to Pinhão.
The idea is to escape the stress of the city and get to know the Douro Wine Region, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trip can include breakfast and lunch – check all the details before departure – but also wine tasting and panoramic views.
