Douro Valley

A wine lover's Portuguese paradise

Wine lovers, welcome to your Portuguese paradise! The Douro Valley is one of the main wine regions in Portugal, and wine production here can be traced back more than two thousand years. This lush and fertile valley gets its name from the Douro River which meanders through it and is characterized by its hilly and steep terrain, much of which is covered in terraced vineyards. Without a doubt, the most famous wine produced here is the “port” variety, which was made famous in England. However the regular, non-fortified, wines made from local grape varieties are well worth getting to know.

There are many small towns and villages scattered throughout the valley, including the “capital”, Peso da Regua, Pinhao, and Lamego. Douro has more than just wine though, you can also find amazing examples of Portuguese Baroque architecture here, like the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, located in Lamego. Burn off your wine calories by climbing the 686 steps to the top of this beautiful pilgrimage site and enjoy the views from the top.

Popular Tour Itineraries Featuring Douro Valley

Spend some time in Douro Valley on a tour that takes in other cities in Portugal and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Douro Valley and other destinations throughout Portugal and Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.

Portugal: History & Gastronomy

Porto, Douro Valley, Lisbon

9 Days

Portugal from North to South

Porto, Douro Valley, Lisbon, Algarve

11 Days

Where to stay in Douro Valley

If you’d like to stay overnight in the Douro Valley, we’ve got hand-picked accommodations for you to choose from. Without a doubt, the very best places to rest your legs after an eventful day in the valley are the “Quintas”. Quintas are wine-producing farms where visitors can enjoy wine tastings, food, and relaxation all in one. If you want to take your experience to the next level, we can even arrange for you to sleep inside of a wine barrel! This unique and luxurious experience will surely be a memory that you’ll never forget. Once we start preparing your customized itinerary, we will present our recommended options for you to select from.

5-star Luxury Countryside Hotel

Luxury hotel that combines elegance with the history of the region, boasting a décor based on natural materials such as wood and stone.

Modern Hotel with a Rustic Touch

Set in the middle of the idylic wine-making region above the Douro river, The Vintage House Hotel is a modern hotel that still preserves its old-fashion charm.

Secluded Winery House

A real hideaway offering all the comforts of a luxury hotel together with the tranquility of a rural winery estate.

Things to do in Douro Valley

Wine will likely be the main focus during your time in the Douro Valley, but there are plenty of other things to keep you busy if you’re able to put down your glass for a little while. If you would like to tour the rugged and beautiful landscapes of the valley, why not do it in style driving a vintage car? You can also visit the historic train station in the village of Pinhao, and take a river cruise in a traditional Rabelo boat. Whichever you choose to do, our travel experts will help create the perfect itinerary for you during your time in the Douro Valley.

Douro Valley Private Tour in a Historic Vintage Car

Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Douro Valley

How many days should I spend in the Douro Valley?

A two days/one-night escape to the Douro Valley could well be the highlight of your stay in Portugal. The smooth landscape with the lazily floating river and the nicely cultivated wine terraces prove the century-old presence of inhabitants in this land. Full-bodied red wines accompanied by local cheese, ham, and olive oils as well as the fascinating ambiance of the wine cellars provide the visitors with a thrilling experience.

How much should I expect to spend person per day the the Douro Valley?

Plan to spend at least 30 EUR (38 USD) on food and another 10-15 EUR (20 USD) on admissions.

How do I get around the Douro Valley?

The Douro Valley is quite specific when it comes to public transportation. There is a traditional steam locomotive panoramic train connecting the villages, and there are hiking routes between the wineries. Make sure to sign up for a boat trip on the river. At sunset, before or after a wine tasting, it is a romantic end to the day. You might want to make use of the local taxi companies, too.

What are some cultural must-sees in the Douro Valley?

Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a museum in Peso da Régua, describing the history of wine growing in the region. You should not miss a visit to Lamego, considered one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. On an environmental river cruise, you will see the sweeping views of the cultivated land from the Douro River.

What souvenirs should I bring back from the Douro Valley?

Shopping in the Douro Valley focuses on wine, olive oil, and other products you can buy directly from the producers.

Where's best, easiest and safest to get some local currency in the Douro Valley?

The easiest way to get local currency, which is Euro in Portugal, is an ATM. Please be aware that banking fees occur when withdrawing cash abroad. Consult your bank about these in advance. Using your credit card in Portugal is convenient. Always ask to get charged in the local currency, as this saves you money. Please note that in Europe, chip and pin technology is in use. EuroPay, Mastercard and Visa cards are generally accepted. In case you have a different payment card, please contact your card issuer before traveling abroad to find out about being able to use it Portugal.

What are the dining options in the Douro Valley for people with dietary restrictions and intolerances?

Portuguese cuisine is rich in vegetables, fish & seafood, meat, and potatoes. People on a gluten-free diet should not struggle with choosing their food at any restaurant and pescatarians will indeed feel spoiled. Vegetarians and vegans might need to ask for options when dining at a traditional restaurant. There also are numerous vegetarian and vegan specialized eateries. Milk is not a typical ingredient in the Portuguese main dishes but is used in sweets and desserts. Lactose and gluten-free baked goods and desserts are available at vegan restaurants and bakeries.

Is Douro Valley safe?

Douro Valley is an extremely safe region.