Portugal’s Best River Cruises: Unforgettable Experiences on the Douro

Portugal as a country that is known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. It should come as no surprise then that its river cruises are just as amazing. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to check out Portugal’s Douro River. This picturesque waterway offers plenty of activities and attractions that will keep you entertained during your cruise as well as breathtaking views. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best river cruises in Portugal!

The Douro River is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Portugal. This river is located in the north of the country and runs through some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Europe. The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many different types of wildlife. If you’re looking for an amazing nature experience, a river cruise on the Douro is definitely for you!

One of the best things about taking a river cruise on the Douro is that there are so many different activities to do. You can go sightseeing in one of the many towns and villages along the river, or you can go hiking and explore the stunning countryside. There are also plenty of opportunities to try some delicious Portuguese food and wine!

Are Douro river cruises popular?

Douro river cruises have become popular relatively recently. The Douro river in Portugal and Spain is appealing to many people who have not river cruised before, due to the scenic nature of the river and the warmth of the climate 0n Northern Portugal cruises compared to the weather they might encounter on other European river cruises.

Unlike other European river cruises, there are relatively few ships currently operating along the Douro river for the English-speaking market so it makes comparisons relatively easy but also there is a limited amount of supply. The traffic along the Douro river is carefully managed as although it is no longer the large trade route it once was, there are some very steep stretches of the Douro river that have required incredible engineering and have produced two of the biggest and deepest locks in the world!

Where do Douro river cruises start and end?

Most Douro river cruises start and end in Porto. It is common that they are 7 night-cruises which travel as far as Northern Spain and then return to the city of Porto.

Which airlines fly to Porto from the UK?

There are many UK airports that now offer direct flights to Porto with Easyjet, TAP Portugal, Ryanair an,d British Airways.

Which are the best places to visit on Douro River Cruises?

Lamego

Lamego is a town located in the Douro Valley of Portugal. The town is situated on a hillside overlooking the valley, and is known for its terraced gardens and medieval architecture. The earliest records of Lamego date back to the 12th century, when it was founded by the Knights Templar. In the following centuries, the town became an important center of trade and commerce, and its prosperity is reflected in the many beautiful buildings that still stand today. Among these are the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Almaçada, the Church of St. Lawrence, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Today, Lamego is a popular tourist destination, and its historic center has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

City of Porto

Porto is a city in the Douro valley of northern Portugal. It is the second largest city in the country with a population of 1.3 million people. The city is known for its port wine, which is produced in the surrounding area. Porto is also a major tourist destination, with its medieval architecture and lively nightlife. The city is located on the banks of the Douro River, and its centre is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto was founded by the Celts in the 4th century BC, and it has been an important trading post since the Roman period. In the Middle Ages, the city was assaulted by Viking raiders and later occupied by the Moors. Portugal regained control of Porto in 1139, and it soon became an important centre of trade and shipbuilding. The city flourished during the Age of Discovery, and its Golden Age came to an end in 1755 with the Great Lisbon Earthquake. Today, Porto is a vibrant city that combines its rich history with a modern lifestyle.

Vega de Terrón

Vega de Terrón – the town is situated on the banks of the River Douro in Northern Spain, and its streets are lined with attractive stone buildings. The town has a long history, and its name means “field of stones” in the local dialect. Vega de Terrón is known for its annual fiesta, which features traditional music and dancing. Visitors to the town can also enjoy hiking and cycling in the surrounding countryside. With its beautiful setting and friendly atmosphere, Vega de Terrón is an ideal location for a relaxing holiday.

Entre-os-Rios

Entre-os-Rios. The village’s name means “between the rivers,” and it is named for its location between the Rio Douro and the Rio Tavora. Entre-os-Rios is known for its production of port wine, and its wines have won numerous awards. The town is also home to a number of historic buildings, including a 12th-century castle. Visitors to Entre-os-Rios can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley, sample the town’s delicious wines, and explore its fascinating history. You may also be able to visit a local quinta – a country estate – for a culinary and wine experience and this can be found on a number of Douro river cruise itineraries.

The Palace of Mateus

The Palace of Mateus is a beautiful 18th century estate located in the Portuguese town of Vila Real. The palace is notable for its ornate Rococo balconies and grand staircase, as well as its stunning gardens. The gardens are famous for their topiary, fountains, and marble sculptures. Visitors to the palace can also enjoy a tour of the regal interior, which features opulent furniture and tapestries and sacred works of art dating back several centuries. In addition to being a tourist destination, the Palace of Mateus is also home to a small winery. The estate produces a variety of red and white wines, which can be purchased at the on-site shop. Whether you’re interested in history, wine, or simply admire breathtaking architecture, a visit to the Palace of Mateus is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Salamanca

Salamanca is a beautiful city in western Spain that is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The historic center is full of stunning architecture, from the Romanesque Old Cathedral to the baroque New Cathedral. There are also many beautiful plazas, such as Plaza Mayor, and museums, such as the Museo de Salamanca. A visit to Salamanca is not complete without exploring the university campus, which is known for its ornate sandstone buildings. Students from all over the world come to study here, and the atmosphere is always lively. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just simply want to enjoy a beautiful European city, Salamanca is definitely worth a visit. The drive to Salamanca from a Douro river cruise usually takes around 2.5 hours, so is offered as a full day excursion.

Castelo Rodrigo

Castelo Rodrigo is a small fortified village located in the Portuguese municipality of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. The village is situated on a hilltop, overlooking the neighbouring town of Monsanto. The name Castelo Rodrigo refers to the 12th-century castle that was built on the site. Today, the castle is in ruins, but it is still possible to see the outline of its defensive walls and towers. In addition to the castle, Castelo Rodrigo also has a number of churches and monasteries. The most notable of these is the Church of Santa Maria da Vila, which was built in the 14th century. Castelo Rodrigo is a popular tourist destination, due to its well-preserved architecture and historical significance. You will visit Castelo Rodrigo whilst cruising to Barca d’Alva.

Barca d’Alva

Barca d’Alva itself is quite picturesque, with traditional stone buildings and narrow streets. Visitors to Barca d’Alva can tour one of the many port wineries, or take a cruise down the Douro River. There are also several hiking trails in the area, making it the perfect place to explore the countryside. Whether you’re interested in wine-tasting or nature walks, Barca d’Alva is an enjoyable place to visit.

Lisbon

You can also visit Lisbon as part of an extension to your 7 night Douro river cruise. Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. With its white limestone buildings, mosaic tile streets, and stunning views of the River Tagus, Lisbon is a city that has something for everyone. Just a short drive from Lisbon is the town of Sintra, which is known for its historic castles and palaces. Sintra was once the home of the Portuguese royal family, and it still retains much of its old-world charm. Visitors to Sintra can explore the ruins of the Moorish Castle, wander through the forests of the Sierra de Sintra, or take a ride on the historic tram line that runs through town. Whether you’re looking for history or culture, Lisbon and Sintra are sure to have something to offer.

Pinhoa

Visitors to Pinhoa can enjoy hiking and biking through the valley, sampling the local cuisine, and visiting the many vineyards in the area. The town itself is full of charming cafes and shops, and the nearby castle is well worth a visit. You can visit the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard, dating from the 18th century, the quinta currently produces organic wines using traditional viticulture.

When is the best month to take a Douro river cruise?

The Douro River valley has a temperate climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 27 degrees Celsius, and in the winter it is around 14 degrees Celsius. The rainfall is heaviest in the winter months, and the river often floods during this time. However, the Douro River valley is also one of the sunniest regions in Portugal, so there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors even during the winter months. In general, the weather in the Douro River valley is mild and pleasant, making it a great destination for a relaxing holiday.

The Douro is also a very fast-flowing river and if the speed is too high, then ships will not be allowed to sail. This can happen in early spring when the rain over the winter has been heavy and has caused the Douro to swell.

The weather in Porto can be mixed with periods of rain, but when the sun is out during the late spring and summer, it can be very hot as it can be along the whole of the Douro river journey. Heading towards the Spanish border and Salamanca, in the high summer, it can get very hot and trips are taken early morning.

When is the most popular time to visit The Douro River Portugal?

The most popular time to travel the Douro river is September and early October, as it is believed that the weather will be sunny but not too hot. But be warned, this is the time that the prices for river cruises in Portugal are at their most expensive. Plus, you may need to book at least a year in advance to get the date and the cabin type that you desire. If you would like to travel in the Douro in September, then book very, very early.

Douro cruises are now available from March through to December, so the cheapest time of year to go is November-December. So when you next visit Portugal, be sure to go river cruising along the Douro river.

Which operators provide the best Portugal river cruises?

In no particular order, here are five river cruise lines on the Douro which we recommend to our clients. Other cruises are available.

Riviera Travel Douro River Cruises

Riviera Travel is a UK-based tour operator that offers river cruises on the Douro River in Portugal. Riviera Travel offers a variety of itineraries and cabin options to suit different budgets and interests. All of Riviera Travel’s river cruises include return flights from the UK, transfers, meals, and excursions. Riviera Travel’s river cruises are aboard the sister ships of the Douro Elegence and Douro Splendor featuring 55 comfortable outside cabins and 8 suites are perfect for those who want to explore the stunning scenery of the Douro Valley and taste the region’s renowned wine. Catering to a mainly British clientele, Riviera are able to offer a good value, luxury river cruise experience to their customers.

Scenic Douro River Cruises

Enjoy a high-level all-inclusive experience on the Douro in Portugal with Scenic river cruises. Featuring a 7 night round trip from Porto, Scenic also offer a longer 10-night cruise with a chance to visit the Coa valley including a canoeing excursion on the Sabor river, the chance to spend a little longer in this part of Portugal. Both of these options are available on the river ship, Scenic Azure.

Scenic Azure, is a truly 5-star ship, featuring a maximum of 96 passengers in 48 suites, all with the fully opening balcony, which transforms into an all-weather conservatory-style space. The sundeck on Scenic Azure also features a vitality pool – a must for the downtime during the cruise when the weather is hot and sunny.

Uniworld Douro River Cruises

The Uniworld experience on the Douro mirrors the opulence and boutique elegance and service of the other worldwide rivers on which the company operates. Winners of many, many awards, sailing with Uniworld on the Douro will be a wonderful experience and an ultra-luxurious way to explore Portugal.

Uniworld’s S.S. São Gabriel is the newest ship on the Douro river and carries 100 passengers and 37 staff. Whereas most of the Douro river cruises will visit the same places, the on-ship experience will undoubtedly be one of the most relaxing aboard the Uniworld river cruise.

Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises “Secrets of the Douro” 7-night cruise down the Douro River was featured on Channel 5’s “Cruising with Jane McDonald”. Jane’s expert commentary brings the history and culture of the area to life. Jane is one of the most popular British cruise ship performers, and she’s now begun hosting her own TV series about cruises around the world.

The river cruise ship, the Emerald Radiance is a home away from home to a maximum 112 guests, features multiple dining venues and a beautiful pool on the sundeck, perfect for cooling down in the warm breezes of the Douro river valley. You too can enjoy one of the 300 ft upper deck one bedroom river view suites with private balcony to enjoy your continental breakfast and pre-dinner canapes on your river cruise.

AmaWaterways Douro River Cruises

River cruising with AmaWaterways is always a luxurious experience. Their Portugal river cruises now feature two ships on the Douro river, the AmaVida and brand new sister ship, AmaDouro.

AmaWaterways offer a large choice of excursions from which you can choose. Whether that be a hike, a slow walking tour or a visit to a museum or quinta. AMA also offer a one-way cruise from Porto to Madrid, with a 7 night cruise and then 3 nights in Madrid and Toledo. A really nice option for not doing a round cruise.

Enquire Now

Have any questions about planning your own river cruise? Feel free to reach out to us here at Global River Cruising and we’ll be happy to help! We hope this blog post has inspired you to start planning your next adventure. Bon voyage!