Portodouro
Portodouro is a boat service that operates cruises on the Douro River. The boats move slowly along the banks and offer passengers space for day trips up to multi-day cruises, with comfortable decks and attentive crew members.
The Douro River cruises are woven into the region's history of wine trade, as this river was the transport route for goods for centuries. Today, these modern boat services connect the river's past with contemporary tourism.
The name Portodouro reflects the connection between the Douro River and the city of Porto, showing how central the river is to the region's identity. Along the way, travelers see vineyards and villages that reveal how local life has always been tied to the river and wine production.
The boats depart primarily from Porto, particularly from the busy Ribeira area with its colorful buildings and bustling quays. Since cruises vary in length, visitors should check in advance which route and duration suit their schedule best.
A special feature is the river locks, called Eclusas, which visitors can watch and pass through during the cruise. These engineering structures are a fascinating part of the river's story and make the journey distinctive from typical tourist outings.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.