Explore Douro Valley With

When to Visit

The weather in Douro region has its peculiarities, important for the production of wine. Several mountain ranges shelter the valley from the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and give the climate a continental character: it has dry, hot summers and somewhat colder, wet winters. The best time to visit the region is spring or late summer when the temperature usually varies from 15 to 20ºC. September is good for Douro Valley wine tour from Porto. This time is also a great choice for walking or cycling as temperatures will be cooler.

It can be cold and rainy in Porto, but the higher up the river you go, the less rain there will be and the higher the temperature will rise. The average temperature in Douro Valley is more than 6 degrees higher than Porto.

In July and August, the temperature is usually around 30ºC, it's the most hot and active tourist season. The vineyards are open year-round, so no matter what time of year you visit, you can always count on getting your unique experience of wine tasting.

Getting Around

Douro Valley travel is easy with a developed transportation system, offering options for different preferences and budgets. Bus routes with fares around €2-€5 go through major towns like Peso da Régua, Pinhão, and Vila Real. Taxi service for more personalized travel is also available. Consider a traditional Rabelo boat trip along Douro River for a unique experience. And of course, the best way to be flexible and explore remote areas is the car rental.  

The train runs from the central railway station along the banks of Douro River. You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the early 20th century if you take a ride in a vintage carriage from the town of Peso da Regua.

For those seeking local insights and hassle-free transportation, the best options are the guided tours, such as Douro cruises from Porto. Prices vary depending on the itinerary and program.

Additionally, there is an option to rent bikes and explore scenic routes, enjoying the valley without crowds of other tourists. Rentals are available in all towns along Douro flow.

Travel Information

You can get an unforgettable experience while traveling in the Douro if you consider a few simple Douro travel tips:

1. How to make the first trip to Douro unforgettable?

One of the main advantages of Douro Valley is its beautiful nature. Douro River flows through the valley surrounded by vineyards, which is already a unique experience. But Douro Valley is also an important historical and cultural spot with numerous ancient buildings and monasteries. Most of them, located right on the slopes, date back to the Middle Ages. 

In addition, Douro Valley is famous for its bridges. Ponte do Infante bridge was built in the 14th century and was used as the main bridge for travel between the north and south of Portugal. Douro Valley is not only extremely picturesque but also perfectly located for outdoor activities. You can go hiking, visit observation decks, and swim in the river. You can also rent bicycles or a car to explore the area.

2. What is a list of Douro hidden gems?

Douro Valley wine is the main spot when we talk about the main attractions. But also this region is the site of many historical events, including the Portuguese War of Independence in the early 19th century. The witnesses of rich Douro Valley history are numerous castles, fortresses, and monasteries.

Also, the region is home to traditional villages that preserve the culture and native way of life. Here you can try local dishes and enjoy traditional music.

This picturesque Port wine region preserves a large number of caves, some of which are archaeological sites, and some of which were used in the past to store wine.

3. What dishes are the must-try in Douro?

Douro Valley's local cuisine is a perfect mix of regional flavors and traditional dishes. Among the must-try delights is bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, a stew of salted cod and veggies, tasting like a comfort food. One more popular stew is cozido à portuguesa, a hearty Portuguese dish with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, simmered to perfection. Posta mirandesa, a tender beef steak, served with roasted vegetables or potatoes, is another must-try dish. Caldo Verde is a veggie and cheese soup, perfect for chilly evenings.

And don't forget about Portuguese unforgettable desserts. Treat yourself with traditional pastéis de nata, delectable custard tarts with a crispy, caramelized crust, and a creamy, indulgent filling.