With just 60 miles (97 km) separating Porto and the Douro Valley, it’s a quick and easy trip. While the most practical way to visit the Douro Valley is with a car, some visitors may enjoy an unusual approach: arriving by boat.
If you’re already planning a trip that includes Porto and the Douro Valley, you may be interested to see the other destinations included in our 14-day Best of Portugal Tour. Water lovers may also want to consider an adventurous sailing trip in the Algarve.
By Boat
Duration: 6 hours
Most river cruises to the Douro Valley will depart from Vila Nova de Gaia’s Quay and finish at the Pinhão or Peso da Régua quay. The adventurous route takes you through two dams, the Crestuma-Lever Dam and the Carrapatelo Dam.
The Douro River cruises to Régua depart in the mornings, between 8 and 9 am. As the journey takes half a day most sailings also offer breakfast and lunch on board. Some even include wine tastings from the very vineyards you will cruise past.
By Car
Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes
For your convenience, Porto has several rental car companies operating both within the city limits and at the airport. The drive along the Douro River is quite lush with varying landscapes, so a private driver is a great option to allow you to take in all the sights.
The drive between Porto and Peso da Régua is a simple one; get onto the A4 Highway and follow it for 70 miles before (110 km) taking Exit 11 towards Peso da Régua.
Take note that Portugal operates many toll roads and not all accept cash. Be sure to have a credit card on hand or arrange a pre-paid device with the car rental company to keep yourself in the fast lane.
By Train
Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
There are several trains per day from the Porto Campanha Station into the Douro Valley. The end of the line is Pocinho, but the train also stops in Peso da Régua depending on your final destination.
Just under two hours, the trip is a pleasant one, with plenty of chances to see the Douro River and surrounding vineyards.
By Bus
Duration: 2 hours
There is a bus service between Porto and Peso da Régua six times per week, departing in the afternoon. It leaves from Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto Station and arrives into Régua two hours later.
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