Top Things To Do In Douro Valley

August 22, 2023 Gaia Comments 0 Comment

Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world . It consists of terraced vineyards that have been around since the Roman time . If you enjoy greenery , hikes and wine region in general – definitely a city to add to on your Portugal itinerary. It’s only about an hour and fifteen minute drive from Porto . Easy to do if Porto is already on your itinerary.

How To Get Here :

Multiple options to get to Douro from Porto . Car Rental , train , day trips and even by boat . We went with the rental option and found driving to be pretty straightforward. Sure there are some one lane roads – as long as you are a competent driver you should not have any issues . More on driving to Douro here.

Driving In Douro Valley

Which town to visit ?

We only visited Pinhao in Douro and highly recommend visiting this town . It has everything Douro valley is known for :

Multiple wineries
Stunning hotels

Scenic view points

Town right by the river

World famous dining scene

How many days ?

Recommended at least one night and two days to get a feel for the region . If you want to experience it deeper – two days . If you just want to get drunk – than day trip !

Where to stay ?

We strayed at The Vintage House Hotel in Pinhao. Loved this hotel . It has historic charm and stunning riverside views . More on the hotel here . During our research we also came across multiple wineries that offered accommodation. Those all looked lovely as well . Definitely lots of choices in accommodation.

Where to eat ?

1. Casa dos Ecos – we had dinner here on our first night . Surprisingly this turned out to be a pop up restaurant of the chef from Pedro Lemos, Michelin star restaurant in Porto . This restaurant is located up a hill . Careful driving up . Stunningly decorated and delicious food . We were there for dinner so couldn’t see much – but the day time photos shows the Amazing views .

2. The Rabelo Restaurant – One of The Vintsge House restaurants. We had dinner here and it was delicious.

3. Salao do Rio – This is where breakfast is served at Tye Vintage House Hotel . Best part it has a terrace overlooking the river and rice fields !

What To Do ?

The Douro region has so much to offer .

1. Visit multiple wineries for tours , wine and food . The region is filled with so many different wineries and many with restaurants. Google to find the top ones in the town you are staying .

2. Hiking – it’s a lush green region . So many different options . Google to find one near your stay .

3. Visit view points – given it’s a hilly region there are many view points . We visited Casal de Loivos view point in Pinhao . Stunning views . The drive to get here was a bit hectic but totally worth it !