Douro River Cruises

Helpful Tips to Know Before You Go

• The Douro cruise season is a long one, often running from March to November, so you’ll have plenty of choices for the ideal time to cruise. July through August can get extremely hot, while May and September tend to be most popular, so book well in advance.
• There’s so much to see, and you can expect to be enjoying plenty of walking tours and strolls along scenic promenades, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as well as a sunhat and sun cream.
• Douro river cruises enjoy calm and pastoral scenery, and stop at some quite small ports. You may need to take a coach to some attractions from your port, and you’ll have absolutely fantastic views to appreciate during the ride.
• It can be helpful to bring Spanish and Portuguese phrasebooks for the more rural stops, in case you wish to converse with locals. Currency is simpler: both countries are part of the Eurozone, and use the euro.
• When cruising the Douro, consider adding on a stay in Lisbon city. Your river cruise puts you in the perfect place to extend your holiday here, and it would be a great chance to explore this beautiful city for longer.

Things to Do

• Enjoy locally-produced artisan goods. The Douro passes through famous wine country, olive groves, and cities with traditional and exotic foods. Spend some time sampling local port wine, taking tours of vineyards, enjoying tapas, and more.
• Take scenic walks and hikes. From old but well-kept ruins to the breathtaking vistas of the river itself, the Douro makes port at some truly beautiful locations. Whether you head into nature or explore the loveliest sites in the cities and towns, you’re sure to love what you see.
• Visit historical sites and museums. Castles, forts and ruins that date back many hundreds of years are everywhere, statues and monuments punctuate every port, and well-curated museums will teach you of the history of the regions writ great or small. Perfect for any appreciator of historical significance.
• Discover arts and culture. From small live local music venues to grand orchestral performances, from the colourful faces of Lisbon’s buildings to the myriad works in the galleries, there’s artistry to enjoy in every corner.
• Enjoy a food tour of local cuisine. With popular ports in Portugal and Spain, there’s plenty of opportunity to savour classic dishes made in the local style, from fresh and delicious paella to piri-piri chicken done the traditional Portuguese way, and so much more.