Experiences
The Douro Valley: vineyard terraces, river cruises and port wine in Portugal
Vine terraces along a winding river, the train from Porto and port lodges by the water. How to experience the Douro Valley, and where to stay at the wine estates and in Porto.
The train hugs the river so closely you could almost touch the water. Above you, vine terraces climb the hills in long, curving lines, and here and there a white estate house has its name painted on the wall. At the next station a driver from the winery is waiting.
The Douro is one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world, and the valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where port is made, along with more and more fine table wines. Here is how to experience the valley, and where to stay.
The links to the hotels and experiences are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
For a deeper dive into the wine, see our Douro Valley wine guide, with quintas and hotels in the valley.
The best things to do in the Douro
Book the experience: See wine tours and river cruises from Porto
Tastings at the quintas
The wine estates are called quintas, and many welcome visitors for tours and tastings. Book ahead, and have a driver or join an organised tour.
River cruises
Boats leave from Porto and from Pinhão. A short trip on the river shows you the terraces from the water, while longer cruises last a full day.
The train along the river
The Douro line runs from Porto and follows the river through the valley. Get off at Pinhão, a small town in the heart of the wine region.
The port lodges in Gaia
Across the river from Porto, in Vila Nova de Gaia, are the cellars where port is aged. Many offer tours and tastings.
Where to stay in the Douro and Porto
Stay at a wine estate for peace and views, and in Porto for city life and the port lodges.
Six Senses Douro Valley
Six Senses is in an old manor house above the river, with a spa and vine terraces all around. One of the best-known hotels in the valley.
Book your stay: See rooms at Six Senses Douro Valley
The Wine House Hotel, Quinta da Pacheca
A hotel on the wine estate.
The Wine House Hotel, Quinta da Pacheca
Quinta da Pacheca is a wine estate with a hotel near Peso da Régua. You stay among the vines and can taste the wine where it is made.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Wine House Hotel, Quinta da Pacheca
The Yeatman
Views over Porto.
The Yeatman
The Yeatman is in Gaia, overlooking the river and Porto. It has a spa and a strong focus on wine, with the port lodges just below.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Yeatman
Torel Palace Porto
A palace in Porto.
Torel Palace Porto
Torel Palace is in an old palace in central Porto, with a pool and a restaurant. A good base for the city.
Book your stay: See rooms at Torel Palace Porto
When is the best time to visit the Douro?
September and October: the harvest, with busy estates and autumn colours on the terraces.
May and June: green and comfortable.
July and August: very hot in the valley. Stay somewhere with a pool.
Douro Valley FAQ
Where is the Douro Valley?
East of Porto, along the River Douro in northern Portugal.
Can I visit on a day trip from Porto?
Yes, by train, boat or organised tour. Staying overnight in the valley is better, though.
What is a quinta?
A wine estate. Many welcome visitors for tours and tastings.
When is the harvest?
Usually in September and early October.
Where should I stay?
At a quinta in the valley for peace, and in Porto or Gaia for city life.