Porto: Douro Valley Tour with 2 Wineries, Lunch and Cruise

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Porto: This tour covers visits to two wineries, a medieval village, and a 400-year-old winery.
• Taste regional specialties: Enjoy wine tastings, bread making in ancient ovens, and a hearty local lunch with stunning river views.
• Scenic boat cruise: Relax on a 1.5-hour boat trip along the Douro River, offering breathtaking vistas of the vine-covered hillsides.
• Private guide and small-group experience: A personalized journey with knowledgeable guides ensures a tailored visit.
• Affordable luxury: At $193 per person, this full-day experience offers excellent value for exploring the Douro’s wine culture and natural beauty.
• Highly praised guides: Visitors highlight friendly, well-informed guides such as Jesús, who make the day engaging and personalized.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Douro Valley with OldTour Porto

This 8-9 hour tour offers an engaging exploration of Portugal’s famed Douro Valley, departing conveniently from Porto. For $193 per person, travelers gain access to a carefully curated itinerary that combines wine tastings, historic villages, a traditional regional lunch, and a scenic boat cruise. The experience is designed to highlight the region’s wine-making traditions, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights, making it ideal for those interested in authentic experiences and cultural exploration.

The tour departs from Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia in the morning, with a luxurious vehicle suitable for all terrains. A private guide accompanies the group throughout the day, ensuring a personalized and informative experience. The maximized small-group size allows for flexibility, engaging storytelling, and answers to every curiosity about the Douro’s treasures.

Visiting Favaios: The Medieval Village and Its Bakery

The journey begins at Favaios, a medieval village with cobbled streets and historic charm. Visitors walk through cobbled alleys and explore centuries-old buildings, gaining insight into the local traditions. The village’s ancient bakery, with over 200 years of history, is a highlight where traditional bread making still takes place. Witness bakers working with time-honored ovens and savor freshly baked bread, connecting with Portugal’s culinary roots.

This stop offers a chance to appreciate the authenticity of regional life and enjoy a local aperitif paired with food tastings. The village’s peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved architecture make it an ideal starting point for understanding the region’s cultural fabric.

Exploring Quinta da Avassada and Its Vineyards

Next, the tour visits Quinta da Avassada, a wine estate that showcases the region’s grape varieties. Here, visitors see vineyards that produce the grapes used in Favaios wines, known for their distinct flavors. The guided wine tasting presents a variety of award-winning wines, emphasizing the production techniques and historical significance of the estate.

Guides explain the wine-making process from grape growing to bottling, enriching understanding of the region’s high-quality wines. This stop emphasizes the importance of tradition and craftsmanship in Douro’s wine excellence.

Authentic Regional Lunch with Douro Views

After the vineyard visits, the group travels to a Quinta overlooking the Douro River for a regional lunch. The menu features local ingredients prepared by top chefs, highlighting the best of regional cuisine. Guests choose between enjoying breathtaking river panoramas or experiencing the vintage wine cellars filled with Port barrels.

The lunch includes tapas, desserts, and regional specialties, offering a generous and flavorful meal that reflects the area’s culinary traditions. It’s a great opportunity to relax and soak in the scenic surroundings.

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Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Quinta de São Luís

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Quinta de São Luís, a 400-year-old winery. Guided tours lead visitors through vineyards and cellars, revealing secrets of wine production from grape harvest to bottling. The estate’s history adds a layer of depth to the experience, and guests taste Port wines and local sweets as part of the tour.

This stop provides an educational and sensory experience, emphasizing the traditions that have shaped the Douro’s wine excellence for centuries.

Scenic Douro River Boat Cruise

A highlight of the tour is the 1.5-hour boat cruise along the Douro River. Departing from Peso da Régua, travelers enjoy panoramic views of vine-covered hills and quaint villages from the water. The cruise offers a relaxing break to appreciate the natural beauty of the region, with ample opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

The boat ride provides a different perspective on the Douro’s landscape, complementing the land-based visits and showcasing the region’s scenic charm.

Vintage Car Tour of Gaia’s Historic Area

As an extra treat, guests also receive a Vintage Car Tour that explores Gaia’s historic charm. This extra allows for a luxurious ride through Porto’s neighboring city, highlighting historic sites and local sights in style. It’s a fitting end to a day rich in wine, culture, and scenery.

Logistics and Group Size Advantages

The entire experience is organized to ensure comfort and efficiency. The group is small enough for a personalized feel, yet large enough for a lively atmosphere. Pickup points are clearly marked, and the vehicle is easily identifiable. The driver and guide are attentive, providing informative commentary in multiple languages including English, Portuguese, Spanish, German, and French.

For travelers with mobility needs, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different guests. The timing is well-paced, with stops designed to maximize enjoyment without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This Douro Valley trip shines through its balanced itinerary—combining cultural visits, wine tastings, and scenic views. The personalized service and knowledgeable guides like Jesús are frequently praised for making the experience enjoyable and engaging. The authentic regional meal and the boat cruise add layers of richness to the day.

While the tour does not include personal expenses or optional activities outside the planned itinerary, the comprehensive nature of the experience offers excellent value for those interested in wine, history, and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts on the Douro Valley Tour

This tour from Porto offers a well-rounded insight into the Douro’s wine culture, landscapes, and traditions. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone seeking a luxurious, personalized day immersed in the region’s authentic charm.

The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure a friendly, informative experience. The inclusion of lunch, tastings, and a river cruise makes it a full package that showcases the best of the Douro.

The main limitation to consider is that the itinerary is quite full, and some may prefer more free time. However, this is balanced by the organized pace and expert commentary throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts between 8 and 9 hours, starting at 8 am from Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia.

Does the tour include lunch and wine tastings?
Yes, the regional lunch is included, featuring local ingredients and regional specialties. The tour also includes wine tastings at multiple wineries and Port wines at Quinta de São Luís.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, guests travel in a luxurious 8-seater van or a vehicle suitable for difficult terrains, with pickup points in Porto and Gaia.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available when canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, German, and French.

Is this tour suitable for small or private groups?
Both private and small groups are available, enhancing the personalized experience.

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $193 per person, providing a comprehensive day of wine, scenery, and culture in the Douro.

This detailed review highlights the authentic, scenic, and wine-focused experience offered by this Douro Valley tour from Porto, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a combination of culture, landscape, and taste.

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