The Douro Valley in Portugal is famous for its stunning landscapes, world-class wines, and charming towns. Here are the top 10 day trips you can take in the region:

1. Pinhão & Scenic Train Ride

  • Visit the heart of the Douro wine region and take the Linha do Douro train from Peso da Régua to Pinhão for breathtaking river views.
  • Explore quintas (wineries) like Quinta do Crasto or Quinta das Carvalhas.
  • Admire the azulejo (tile) panels at Pinhão train station.

2. Régua (Peso da Régua)

  • Stop at the Douro Museum to learn about the region’s wine heritage.
  • Enjoy a river cruise or wine tasting at Quinta da Pacheca.
  • Visit the São Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint for panoramic views.

3. Lamego

  • Climb the 686-step Baroque staircase to the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Sanctuary.
  • Visit the Lamego Museum and the Sé (Cathedral).
  • Taste Raposeira (sparkling wine) and local cured meats.

4. Provesende & São Salvador do Mundo

  • Wander through the historic village of Provesende, known for its manor houses.
  • Drive to São Salvador do Mundo, one of the best viewpoints in the Douro.

5. Vila Nova de Foz Côa (Wine & Prehistoric Art)

  • Visit the Côa Valley Museum and see Paleolithic rock engravings (UNESCO).
  • Taste Douro wines and olive oil in this less-touristed area.

6. Favaios & Alijó (Moscatel Wine & Bread)

  • Try Moscatel wine and traditional Favaios bread.
  • Visit Quinta da Avessada, a fun, interactive wine museum.

7. Miranda do Douro & International Douro (Spain-Portugal Border)

  • Explore this remote area with dramatic cliffs and the Foz do Sabor nature reserve.
  • Try Posta Mirandesa (a famous beef dish).

8. Amarante (Historic Town & Gastronomy)

  • Cross the São Gonçalo Bridge and visit the São Gonçalo Church.
  • Try “Papos de Anjo” (egg-based sweets) and “Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá” (codfish dish).

9. Barca d’Alva & the International Douro (Near Spain)

  • A quieter area with stunning cliffs and boat tours.
  • Visit Freixo de Numão for Roman ruins.

10. Douro River Cruise (Régua to Pinhão or Barca d’Alva)

  • Take a Rabelo boat (traditional wooden boat) for a scenic river journey.
  • Best options: 1-hour cruise (Pinhão) or full-day cruise (Régua to Vega de Terrón).

Bonus: Mateus Palace (Near Vila Real)

  • Visit the iconic Solar de Mateus, featured on Mateus Rosé wine bottles.

Best Way to Explore?

  • By car (most flexible for vineyards & viewpoints).
  • By train (scenic route from Porto to Pinhão).
  • Guided tour (wine tastings & boat trips included).