Douro River
The Douro carves Portugal’s terraced valley, delivering rich Ports and bold reds from sun-drenched slopes.
Wine Regions
The Douro River carves through Portugal’s dramatic Douro Valley, the world’s first demarcated wine region and birthplace of Port. Its fortified reds—ruby, tawny, and vintage—offer sweet, spicy richness, while dry table wines like Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz from ancient terraces bring bold, modern flair.
Gourmet Foods
Tuck into bacalhau à Brás, a comforting mix of salted cod, eggs, and potatoes, or caldo verde, a soul-warming kale and potato soup. Sweet pastéis de nata, crisp custard tarts, shine with a glass of late-bottled vintage Port, while alheira sausage adds smoky depth.
Cities & Highlights
Porto anchors your trip with its Ribeira district’s colourful houses and Vila Nova de Gaia’s Port lodges—cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for both. Régua, the valley’s wine hub, hums with tradition, while Pinhão’s vine-covered hills and tiled train station ooze rustic charm.
Other Wine Regions
Why Choose a River Cruise with WineCruiseEurope?
River cruises offer an intimate, immersive way to explore Europe’s iconic wine regions— perfect for discerning 40+ travellers seeking affordable luxury. Unlike ocean cruises, river journeys glide through the heart of destinations like the Douro, Danube, and Rhône, docking steps from historic vineyards and charming villages. Enjoy curated wine tastings (e.g., Ports, Rieslings), gourmet dining, and exclusive excursions, all in smaller, sophisticated settings— ideal for couples, retirees, and wine enthusiasts. River cruises blend relaxation, culture, and vinous discovery, delivering unforgettable experiences tailored to your passions.
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A brilliant trip
The wine selection on this river cruise was fantastic. Loved the vineyard stops! A brilliant trip.
Sarah
June 2024
