Why the
Douro Valley
is special

The Douro River meanders down a picturesque valley lined with steep terraced vineyards, medieval castle ruins, and small wine villages and towns. Most of the grapes go into producing the world famous port wine.

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Douro Valley
tips & insights

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About the Douro River

It originates deep into Spain and during one whitewater stretch, it forms part of the Portuguese-Spanish border. It then becomes relatively smooth (thanks to dams) and proceeds westward about 200 kilometers (130 miles) through northern Portugal to the Atlantic at Oporto, the county's second largest city.

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Popular upriver towns

Peso da Regula

It is the most famous and important town, but has lost much of its former tourism appeal by growing too big and commercialized.

Pinhao

It's much smaller and more personalized than Pesco da Regula and has a lovely riverside setting.

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Getting around

Your best two options are trains and river cruise boats. Trains have an advantage because you can take narrow-gauge branch lines up the scenic valleys of the tributaries. But, of course, cruising provides a more relaxful experience.

Road travel offers scenic vistas and more freedom of choice, but there's an issue: Many roads off the main highway are challenging.

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Wonders of Portugal - Home page

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Tourism of Portugal

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Photo by npolvo

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