How to explore Portugal's most glorious river
Featured on Channel 5's Cruising With Susan Calman, the Douro Valley in northern Portugal is an increasingly popular destination, especially among wine-lovers but also those who enjoy all the joys and benefits of river cruises.
GH'S EXCLUSIVE DOURO RIVER CRUISE
And a cruise is the very best way to see the Douro, taking you past sweeping vineyards and other gorgeous landscapes, and between picture-postcard riverside towns and villages. And as you might imagine, there’s lots of scope for stopping off at wineries for a tasting of excellent local vintages, some of which have been produced for generations – including the world-famous local port wine.
Port is made by adding grape brandy to wine to halt the fermentation process, leaving residual sugar. Aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, it can be consumed young or aged for several decades. Some of the oldest Ports are among the finest wines in the world. The Douro also produces some of Portugal’s best red and white table wines.
Destined to be one of 2025's most sought-after destinations, the Douro Wine Region Valley/Alto Douro Wine Region, which runs from Lisbon’s second city of Porto to the sleepy village of Barca de Alva, is the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, with lovely inclined terraces that expose the vines to the sun’s rays. And in Peso da Régua’s Douro Museum, you can stop off and learn more about the region and its wine growing.
What is the best time of year for a Douro river cruise?
The best times to visit the Douro Valley are late spring and early summer (May and June) and then late summer/autumn (September and October).
Temperatures at these times are mainly mild and pleasant, and Porto has fewer visitors too. In summer the vines are a lush green, while in autumn they sport a gorgeous fiery hue. Good Housekeeping's Douro river cruises run in May, September and October.
What is the most scenic part of the Douro River?
You’ll see breathtaking scenery all around the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro, but particularly delightful spots include the vineyards around the charming little town of Pinhão, dotted by quintas (wine-producing estates), where you can taste local vintages and regional food.
Nestled in the Parque Natural do Douro, Barca d’Alva is also beautiful, with tranquil cobbled streets and views of terraced hillsides dotted by quaint cottages. The river from here to Miranda do Douro, which narrows as it runs though soaring escarpments, marks the border between Portugal and Spain. Douro cruises can also take you into Spain, to Vega Terron and to visit the historic university town of Salamanca.
Elsewhere in the valley, Leverinho has wonderful landscapes and wildlife, while Lamego is one of the most beautiful cities in northern Portugal, with its Shrine of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios reached by a vast blue and white tiled flight of steps.
As well as exploring the Douro River from a cruise ship, the Linha do Douro railway, built in late-1800s, is a great way of seeing the region. You can stop off at Pocinho to see the listed riverside railway terminus (decorated with ancient tiles dedicated to the cultivation of vines) and bridge. Also near Pocinho are the castle of Numão, with its skyline view, and A Vale do Coa Archaeological Park, a UNESCO-listed open-air rock art gallery.
Along the river, you’ll also spot old rabelo boats – vessels that carried the wine from the quintasto the mouth of river, before the dams that made the river navigable were built.
Where do Douro river cruises start?
The gateway to the Douro is atmospheric Porto, home to a UNESCO-listed old town with buildings featuring traditional azulejo-tiled facades, colourful little houses, narrow alleyways and an array of viewpoints for admiring the river.
On many Douro river cruises, like this one, you’ll fly from the UK to Porto, where you'll be met and transferred to your ship. At the end of your cruise, you’ll return Porto, where you'll have a free day to explore under your own steam.
How long is a Douro river cruise?
Most Douro river cruises, including Good Housekeeping's Douro cruise, last a week, setting sail from Porto as above and taking you first to Régua, which has produced port wine since the 18th century.
The largest city in the valley and one central to the production of port in the region, it’s home to the Baroque Mateus Palace with its handcrafted chestnut wooden ceilings and famous gardens with sculptures, ponds and rare trees.
Which is the best Douro river cruise?
There are a number of cruise companies that travel to the Douro Valley. A-ROSA is one of the best-loved Douro specialists. Its ALVA ship has spacious cabins and an inviting sun deck complete with recliners and sunshades, immersing you in the spectacular views. Most of the cabins have panoramic windows, and there's a heated outdoor pool, an onboard spa, a sauna, a relaxation room, a gym and crazy golf.
Elsewhere, Uniworld is known for its luxurious Douro river cruises, while AmaWaterways, Emerald, Viking, Scenic and Avalon are also popular choices.
Good Housekeeping has an exclusive Douro river cruise on the A-ROSA ALVA. During the eight-day holiday, you will sample local wines, explore pretty Porto and visit a Baroque palace.
Browse more extraordinary journeys in the latest Good Housekeeping Holidays brochure.
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