Tucked away in the heart of northern Portugal, the Douro Valley is a captivating tapestry of verdant vineyards, charming quintas, and the winding Douro River. Embark on an exclusive day trip from Porto and discover the region’s rich winemaking legacy, indulging in prestigious Port and DOC wines at two renowned wineries. Savor a traditional lunch prepared by a local chef, then glide along the river’s serene waters on a private boat, taking in the breathtaking scenery. This intimate tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the Douro Valley’s enchanting blend of natural beauty and culinary heritage.
Good To Know
• A day trip from Porto to the Douro Valley, featuring visits to two local wineries, a traditional lunch, and a private boat cruise along the Douro River.
• Opportunity to taste a variety of prestigious port and DOC wines, guided by the winery owners to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
• Traditional lunch prepared by a local chef, highlighting seasonal ingredients and rustic flavors, served at a private farm in the Douro Valley.
• Serene boat cruise along the Douro River, allowing for appreciation of the valley’s scenic beauty and vineyards lining the riverbanks.
• Small group size of up to 7 participants, with complimentary hotel pick-up, a knowledgeable guide, and various inclusions for an intimate and comprehensive Douro Valley experience.
You can check if your dates are available here:Tour Overview and Pricing
This exclusive day trip from Porto to the Douro Valley offers an immersive wine experience spanning 9.5 hours, with prices starting from a savings of up to 8% – ranging from $158.38 to $145.71 per person.
Explore the picturesque region with a small group limited to 7 participants, led by a knowledgeable live guide available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Enjoy complimentary hotel pick-up, discover local family wineries, savor a traditional lunch prepared by a private chef, and cruise along the Douro River while sipping on cocktails and snacks.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the Douro Valley’s acclaimed wines and culinary delights.
Enjoy boat trips? More Porto water tours we've written about
Itinerary Highlights
The day’s adventure commences with a scenic drive through the idyllic countryside, offering ample photo opportunities to capture the region’s breathtaking vistas.
The first stop is a local family winery, where guests are invited to indulge in tastings of prestigious Port and DOC wines.
After this immersive wine experience, the group settles in for a traditional lunch at a private farm, where a local chef showcases the region’s finest culinary delights cooked over an open fire.
The highlight of the day is a serene boat cruise along the Douro River, complete with refreshing drinks and delightful snacks, allowing visitors to soak in the valley’s stunning natural beauty.
Scenic drive with photo stops
Wine tastings at a family winery
Traditional lunch at a private farm
Boat cruise on the Douro River
Wine and Culinary Experiences
Guests embark on a tantalizing exploration of the Douro Valley’s renowned wines and local cuisine, savoring a curated selection of 11 prestigious Port and DOC wines from two small producers. They’ll delight in the rich, velvety textures and complex flavors of these celebrated vintages, expertly guided through the tasting experience.
The culinary highlight is a traditional lunch cooked on an open fire, showcasing the area’s fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests relish every bite, transported by the rustic flavors and convivial atmosphere of the private farm.
During the serene boat cruise, they’ll sip refreshing drinks and savor local snacks, immersed in the valley’s breathtaking scenery.
Transportation and Inclusions
Whisking guests away in an air-conditioned vehicle, the tour provides comfortable and seamless transportation throughout the day’s captivating itinerary.
Complementing the immersive wine and culinary experiences, the inclusive package encompasses a knowledgeable guide, all Port and DOC wine tastings, a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients, a serene boat cruise with refreshments, and ample mineral water to quench one’s thirst.
The experience is enhanced by thoughtful inclusions, such as:
A photo service to capture precious moments
The ability to purchase additional food and drinks as desired
Convenient meeting point at the centrally located McDonald’s – Imperial
The suitability for adults only, ensuring an elevated atmosphere
Important Information and Requirements
Commencing at 8:15 AM from the centrally situated McDonald’s – Imperial, participants embark on the Douro Valley wine experience.
Suitable only for adults, the tour welcomes those aged 18 and above, with no children under 12 permitted.
Guests should come prepared with essential items like sunscreen, a sun hat, comfortable footwear, a camera, and sunglasses to fully enjoy the day’s activities.
Regrettably, pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
The scenic drive, wine tastings, traditional lunch, and river cruise promise an unforgettable culinary and viticultural adventure.
Guests will savor 11 prestigious Port and DOC wines, indulge in a fire-cooked local lunch, and sip refreshing beverages while admiring the Douro River’s stunning vistas.
Prefer private tours? More Porto exclusive experiences we've written about
- Porto: Porto & Vila Nova De Gaia Private Tour by Vintage Car
- Semi Private Oporto Fado Show With Dinner
- Porto: Private Transfer to Lisbon With Stops up to 3 Cities
- Porto: Private Transfer to Porto Airport (OPO)
- Porto: Douro Valley Private Tour 2 Vineyards & River Cruise
- Porto: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings With Locals
Starting Point and Scenic Drive
The day begins at the centrally located McDonald’s – Imperial, where participants eagerly assemble for the captivating Douro Valley wine adventure.
Soon, the group departs in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, embarking on a scenic 30-minute drive through the picturesque countryside, pausing periodically to capture breathtaking vistas along the way.
The journey offers a delightful glimpse into the region’s natural beauty, with:
Lush, rolling vineyards blanketing the verdant hills
The serene Douro River winding through the landscape
Charming villages dotting the countryside
Panoramic viewpoints showcasing the valley’s grandeur
This scenic prelude sets the stage for the oenophilic delights and culinary indulgences to come.
Winery Visit and Wine Tastings
After the scenic drive, the group arrives at a local family winery nestled in the heart of the Douro Valley. They’re greeted by the passionate owners who eagerly welcome them into their historic estate, brimming with generations of winemaking tradition.
The visitors are led on an immersive tasting journey, sampling 11 prestigious port and DOC wines from the estate’s revered vineyards. The owners share the unique terroir and meticulous production methods that imbue each bottle with captivating complexity and character.
As the group sips and swirls, they’re transported to the storied past and vibrant present of this renowned wine region, savoring the fruits of the land and the labor of the Douro’s devoted winemaking families.
Traditional Lunch and Douro River Cruise
Following the engaging wine tasting, the group delights in a traditional lunch at a private farm, prepared by a skilled local chef.
Savoring the bounty of the Douro’s fertile land, they indulge in a fire-cooked feast showcasing the region’s finest seasonal ingredients, each dish brimming with rustic authenticity and exquisite flavors.
The meal features:
Succulent roasted meats infused with herbs and spices
Vibrant seasonal salads dressed in luscious olive oil
Hearty bean stews and vegetable dishes bursting with flavor
Decadent desserts highlighting local fruits and sweet treats
After this satisfying repast, the group embarks on a serene Douro River cruise, sipping cocktails and savoring local snacks as they admire the stunning, terraced vineyards that line the river’s banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, bringing your own food and drinks is not permitted on this tour. The experience is designed to showcase the local cuisine and libations of the Douro Valley, so participants are encouraged to indulge in the provided culinary and wine offerings.
Is There Any Way to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
While the tour’s itinerary is set, the operator may accommodate special requests within reason, allowing guests to personalize their Douro Valley experience and indulge their culinary and enological preferences to the fullest.
What Is the Policy for Attendees With Dietary Restrictions?
The tour provider accommodates attendees with dietary restrictions, offering alternative options for the traditional lunch. Guests can request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals when booking to ensure a memorable gastronomic experience tailored to their needs.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Tour?
This tour offers discounts up to 8% off, providing a chance to save on an unforgettable day of exploring the Douro Valley’s wineries, savoring a private farm-fresh lunch, and cruising the river with wine and snacks.
Can I Request a Different Pick-Up or Drop-Off Location?
Guests can request an alternative pick-up or drop-off location, though it may incur an additional fee. The tour operator aims to accommodate guests’ needs and provide a seamless, personalized experience in the scenic Douro Valley.
The Sum Up
Enjoy the captivating Douro Valley, where you’ll sip renowned Port and DOC wines, savor a traditional lunch, and cruise along the picturesque river.
This intimate tour offers an unparalleled experience, blending breathtaking scenery, rich culinary heritage, and the art of winemaking, leaving you with indelible memories of Porto’s enchanting Douro Valley.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Private Tours in Porto
More Boat Tours in Porto
More Tour Reviews in Porto
- Walking Tour in Porto with Unique Polaroid Photos as a Gift
- Walking tour discover Porto’s center in German (max. 12 pax)
- Tour Porto: Tuk Tuk Adventure with a Classic Port Wine
- Tour Porto: Classic Adventure in Electric Tuk Tuk
- Tour Porto: Adventure in Electric Bike Tour
- Tour Porto: Classic Car + A Toast with Port Wine
Looking for something different? Other Porto activities we've written about
- Walking Tour in Porto with Unique Polaroid Photos as a Gift
- Walking tour discover Porto’s center in German (max. 12 pax)
- Tour Porto: Tuk Tuk Adventure with a Classic Port Wine
- Tour Porto: Classic Adventure in Electric Tuk Tuk
- Tour Porto: Adventure in Electric Bike Tour
- Tour Porto: Classic Car + A Toast with Port Wine
- From Porto or Aveiro: 516 Arouca Suspended Bridge Tour
- Sunset cruise party with DJ
- Ribeira das Quelhas: canyoning, Serra da Lousã near Coimbra
- Porto: Classic Tour at Real Companhia Velha
- Private Walking Tour, highlights and secrets of Porto
- Private Tour From Porto: Guimarães and Braga with Lunch