Douro Valley Tour: 2 Vineyard Visits, River Cruise, Winery Lunch

Explore the captivating Douro Valley on this immersive full-day tour. Discover the region’s rich wine heritage as you visit two charming vineyards, savor a scenic river cruise, and indulge in a delightful winery lunch. With tastings of exquisite wines, honey, and olive oil, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience for any wine enthusiast. Uncover the breathtaking landscapes and local delicacies that make the Douro Valley a truly enchanting destination.

Key Points

• A 9-10 hour Douro Valley tour with visits to two local vineyards for wine tastings and a relaxing river cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat.
• Lunch provided at a winery, with dietary options available, and opportunities to sample reds, whites, honey, and olive oil.
• Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle transportation and a professional tour guide, with pickup options from selected locations in Porto.
• Tour group size capped at 50 participants, with tours available in multiple languages.
• Inclusions such as onboard Wi-Fi, gratuities, and a 97% recommendation rate based on over 2,400 positive reviews.

Overview and Experience

The Douro Valley Tour offers a comprehensive experience exploring the renowned wine region of Porto, Portugal.

This 9-10 hour tour includes visits to two vineyards for wine tastings, a serene river cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, and a winery lunch.

With a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from over 2,400 travelers.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking to learn about the region’s natural beauty, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Douro Valley’s rich wine culture.

Itinerary and Activities

The Douro Valley Tour features a well-crafted itinerary that allows visitors to fully enjoy the region’s wine culture.

The tour includes a comfortable vehicle ride through the picturesque Douro Valley, a 45-minute river cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, and visits to two local vineyards for wine tastings.

Guests can sample a variety of reds, whites, honey, and olive oil. Lunch is served at a winery, with gluten-free and vegan options available upon request.

The maximum group size is 50, and the tour may be conducted in multiple languages depending on the composition of the group.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The Douro Valley Tour departs at 8:30 am from Igreja da Lapa, Largo da Lapa 1, in Porto.

Pickup options are available for selected locations, and the exact pickup time will be provided the day before. Those not opting for pickup can meet the group at the designated meeting point.

The tour may be conducted in two languages, depending on the group composition.

Travelers are advised to be punctual as the tour operates on a tight schedule, lasting approximately 9-10 hours, subject to traffic and other factors.

Tour Inclusions and Additional Info

Included in the Douro Valley Tour are the lunch, an air-conditioned vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi, and a professional tour guide. Gratuities are also covered.

Confirmation is received at booking, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller-friendly. Infant seats are available, but parents must provide car seats for children aged 1-3.

Rescheduling within 24 hours incurs a 30% fee.

While the tour is highly recommended, some feedback suggests better timing at wineries and awareness of weather conditions could improve the experience.

Exploring the Douro Valley

Nestled along the winding Douro River, the Douro Valley captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, rich wine heritage, and unique cultural experiences.

This renowned region offers a diverse array of activities:

1. Cruising the Douro River on a traditional Rabelo boat, admiring the terraced vineyards and historic quintas.
2. Exploring family-owned wineries, learning about the production of renowned Port and Douro wines.
3. Savoring a winery lunch featuring local delicacies and wine pairings.
4. Hiking or biking through the picturesque countryside, immersing in the region’s natural beauty.

Truly, the Douro Valley is a treasure trove of wine, nature, and culture.

Discovering the Vineyards

Though the Douro Valley’s vineyards span across rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, discovering their unique offerings is a true highlight of the region.

The tour includes visits to two renowned vineyards, where travelers can taste a variety of reds, whites, honey, and olive oil. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the winemaking process and the history of these family-owned estates.

Guests can also enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at one of the wineries, featuring gluten-free and vegan options.

Enjoying the River Cruise

During the Douro Valley Tour, travelers can embark on a captivating 45-minute river cruise along the Douro River. The traditional Rabelo boats offer a unique perspective of the region’s stunning landscape, with its terraced vineyards and quaint villages.

The cruise provides an opportunity to:

1. Admire the dramatic cliffs and rolling hills that line the riverbanks.
2. Spot local wildlife, such as birds and small mammals, in their natural habitat.
3. Learn about the history and significance of the Rabelo boats in the region’s wine trade.
4. Capture breathtaking photographs to commemorate the experience.

Savoring the Winery Lunch

As part of the Douro Valley Tour, travelers enjoy a delightful winery lunch that showcases the region’s culinary delights. The multi-course meal features local dishes and wines, catering to a variety of dietary needs. Guests can savor the flavors of the Douro while taking in the picturesque vineyard views.

Course	Description
Starter	Artisanal cheese plate with homemade preserves
Main	Traditional Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (salted cod with onions and potatoes)
Dessert	Creamy Pastel de Nata (Portuguese custard tarts)

The winery lunch provides a perfect opportunity to take in the Douro’s gastronomic heritage and pair the region’s exceptional wines with authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Ask Away

Can I Bring Children Under 1 Year Old on the Tour?

Children under 1 year old can’t be accommodated on the tour. The tour provider requires infant seats for children aged 1-3, which parents must provide themselves. Infants without car seats can’t join the tour for safety reasons.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour lasts approximately 9-10 hours and cannot be lengthened. However, the tour operator offers flexibility with pickup times and group sizes to accommodate visitors’ needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

There are no student or senior discounts available for this tour. The tour price is fixed, but visitors can request gluten-free or vegan lunch options in advance if needed.

Can I Take Photos During the Vineyard Visits and Wine Tastings?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the vineyard visits and wine tastings. However, it’s best to check with the tour guide or winery staff for any specific restrictions or guidelines.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Booking?

There is a 30% rescheduling fee if you need to change your booking within 24 hours. Bookings made can be confirmed, but any changes after that time period will incur the additional fee.

Final Words

This Douro Valley tour offers an immersive experience, blending vineyard visits, a scenic river cruise, and a delightful winery lunch. Guests can explore the region’s rich wine heritage, savor local delicacies, and soak in the breathtaking landscapes. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a must-do for any wine enthusiast seeking an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Portugal’s renowned wine country.