Porto's Old Town
Porto's Old Town / iStock.com / Sean Pavone
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Clérigos Church in Porto
Clérigos Church in Porto / iStock.com / vuk8691
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Port Barrels
Port Barrels / iStock.com / saiko3p
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Jamón Ibérico Sandwiches
Jamón Ibérico Sandwiches / iStock.com / Juan García Aunión
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Vineyards in the Douro River Valley
Vineyards in the Douro River Valley / iStock.com / Luz Gómez
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Rossio Square in Lisbon
Rossio Square in Lisbon / iStock.com / Michael Abid
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Santo Antão Street in Lisbon
Santo Antão Street in Lisbon / iStock.com / vichie81
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Tiles at Pinhão Railway Station
Tiles at Pinhão Railway Station / iStock.com / Peter Zaharov
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Cruise All River Cruise Destinations

Douro River

Our Review
by Gayle Keck
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

Rather than the cultural capitals that line better-known European waterways, a cruise along Portugal's Douro River offers lush hillsides and wild scenery. The cliff-like terraced vineyards are uniquely breathtaking. Voyages begin in Porto, traveling to Vega de Terron — just across the Spanish border — before working their way back to Porto. Trips last six to 14 days; the longer ones add land-based visits to Lisbon or Madrid. Sailing season is March through December, with the September harvest being prime time. Be prepared for foggy nights near Porto and scorching inland heat in summertime.

What We Love

The Other Wines: Although famous for Port, the Douro Valley produces regular wines, too — both reds and whites, many from old Portuguese varietal vines. On a hot day, it's hard to beat a glass of crisp, slightly fizzy “vinho verde.”

The Locks: Dams aid navigation on the Douro, and you'll travel through impressive locks that are up to 100 feet deep.

Best Known For

Port: A Douro itinerary offers plenty of opportunities to taste this fortified wine in all its versions, at Vila Nova de Gaia's port "lodges" (warehouses across the river from Porto) and at “quintas” (wineries) along the river.

Gorgeous Scenery: Vineyards rise to astonishing heights along the deep Douro Valley, offering spectacular views during excursions. Toward the Spanish border, the terrain turns rocky and rugged, but is equally stunning.

Best Ports

Porto: In this UNESCO-designated city, tear yourself away from port tastings (don't miss Taylor's) long enough to see the Bolsa Palace, Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello bookstore (a former J.K. Rowling haunt), and the lively, restaurant-lined quay.

Salamanca: This city of golden sandstone buildings — also UNESCO-designated — is famous as the home of the oldest university in Spain (established in 1218), where Christopher Columbus studied. It's worth the long bus transfer.

Régua: Visit the wine museum or take an excursion to the splendid 18th-century Mateus Palace and its gardens.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Expect Long Bus Rides: Most attractions are off the river, requiring schleps of 45 minutes to two hours.

No Night Cruising: Only daytime navigation is allowed, so you'll spend a fair amount of time on board.