Everything You Need to Know About the Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise

When you take a trip to Porto, Portugal, consider taking a memorable and exciting trip up the Douro River. The Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise is an unforgettable trip that offers a great way to experience the beauty of the scenery and the culture of Northern Portugal. This two-hour boat tour bridges two countries, Portugal and Spain, and gives passengers a fantastic view of Porto and its iconic bridges. When the cruise first starts, you will be able to take in the stunning views along the south bank of the Douro River. As the boat winds through Porto and its many bridges, you can take in the amazing sites and sounds of the city.

The Douro River is a major river system in Northern Portugal and is commonly referred to as “Portugal’s secret paradise.” The river got its name from the Latin word for “bronze,” and it is the site of one of the world’s oldest wine-making regions. It is an incredibly scenic river system with amazing cities located along its banks. This boat tour takes you on a relaxing and informative journey up the Douro River as it sees incredible striking scenery from both sides.

What to Expect on The 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise

The Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise offers passengers a unique way to experience the Douro river system. You will have the chance to gaze up at the stunning 1000-year old bridges crossing over its many waterways, as well as dwell on its history as a major trading route connecting Spain and Portugal. Make sure to bring a camera on this cruise as there will be plenty of opportunities for snapping amazing photos of this incredible waterway.

The boat tour will last for two hours, offering passengers an amazing tour of the five riverbank districts of Porto – Vila Nova de Gaia, Matosinhos, Vila Nova de Gaia, Nelas, Cedofeita, and Foz do Douro. You will also be able to observe the enormous Alto Douro Wine Region which is made up of quintas or wine-producing farms.

Departure Time & Location

The Porto 6 Bridges cruise departs from a pier at the Passeio dos Clérigos in Porto. It is recommended that you show up at least 15 minutes before the cruise starts. The cruise runs all day, so you can easily find a time that works for your schedule. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance as this company gets booked up quickly and tickets can sell out fast during peak season.

What’s Included

The ticket includes entrance to the boat tour, onboard commentary by experienced local guides, and also includes a complimentary wine and bread tasting. The experience guided by professional multilingual staff with expertise in local folklore, architectural history, and natural wonders. Onboard with you during the experience will be other passengers from around the world all on their own voyage of discovery, so make sure to take advantage of this amazing opportunity.

Pricing

The price of this boat tour can vary depending on when and where you purchase your ticket from. Tickets booked in advance usually cost €25 for an adult ticket, €18 for a student ticket, and €12 for a child ticket (ages 4–12). Children three years and younger can ride for free, however they must be accompanied on board by an adult at all times. You can pick up tickets for this cruise from authorized tour operators or book them online.

The Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise: An Unforgettable Way to Explore Porto

If you are looking for an amazing way to explore Porto and learn more about Portuguese history and culture, then the Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise is definitely something you should consider doing. It offers unbeatable views of the majestic city of Porto as well as its famous bridges. With experienced local guides along for the journey and an amazing complimentary wine and bread tasting, this boat cruise is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you will never forget. So why wait? Book your tickets today and start your own journey up the beautiful Douro River!

An Insider’s Guide to Porto, Portugal

Welcome to Porto, Portugal, a city that encapsulates beauty, history, and culture. Famous for its wine, colorful houses, and the Douro River, Porto boasts numerous unique experiences that tourists would love. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your time in this charming city.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While visiting the city, make sure to check out the seaside district of Foz do Douro. This area is highlighted by the Castelo da Foz, a fortress that dates back to the 17th century. You’ll find plenty of local bars and restaurants around here, and it’s also a perfect place to watch the sunset.

Hidden from plain sight, the Palácio de Cristal Gardens is a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This vast botanical garden boasts mesmerizing views of Porto, and you can enjoy them while strolling through the beautifully maintained gardens.

Looking for a unique shopping experience? Check out the Mercado do Bolhão, a traditional market that has been around since the 19th century. Expect to see colorful stalls selling everything from fresh flowers to local cheeses, wines, and seafood.

Dining Spots: The Best Places to Eat in Porto

Porto is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine. To get the most authentic taste of the city, visit the 422 Grill & Lounge. The menu is a mix of contemporary and traditional Portuguese dishes, and the wine selection is unparalleled.

If you’re looking for something on the go, try the iconic “Francesinha” at Santiago Cafe in Rua Passos Manuel. It is a sandwich that includes steak, ham, and sausage, served with cheese and a fried egg, with a spicy tomato sauce that will make your taste buds dance.

And let’s not forget about the “pastel de nata,” a creamy egg tart pastry. You can find the best ones at the century-old Confeitaria do Bolhão.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, and Festivals

If you’re an art lover, make sure to visit the Serralves Foundation, a museum of contemporary art that’s housed in a stunning modernist building. The Foundation regularly hosts events and exhibitions showcasing contemporary dance, music, and art.

Porto is renowned for its music, and you can’t visit the city without experiencing “Fado.” Casa da Mariquinhas offers a traditional and intimate atmosphere for visitors to indulge in a live Fado performance. The performers sing soulful songs that reflect life, love, and passion.

If you happen to be in Porto on June 23rd, you get to witness the city’s biggest celebration, St. John’s Festival. This event has been celebrated for over 600 years and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, including a midnight firework show, street parties, and a unique custom of hitting each other on the head with plastic hammers.

Local History: Inspiring Stories from the Past

Did you know that the famous bookstore, Livraria Lello, was once a secret meeting place for resistance against the dictatorship? Today it is an iconic building, attracting millions of visitors each year to admire its Art Nouveau interior.

Another hidden gem is the Jewish Quarter, which has roots dating back to the 12th century. It’s a small cobbled street lined with traditional houses, and visiting this place is an excellent way to learn how the Jewish population influenced Porto’s development.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences to Try

Escape the city center by taking a train to Miramar Beach, a serene golden beach and a popular spot for surfing and paddleboarding.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, book a Porto Bridge Climb experience. It’s a leisurely walk up the Gustave Eiffel bridge (yes, that Eiffel), and the view from the top is nothing less than stunning.

To have an unequalled dining experience, arrange to eat with a local family through the EatWith app. They’ll cook an authentic Portuguese meal at home, and you get to know more about their culture and traditions.

In conclusion, visiting Porto is a unique experience that immerses you in art, history, and beauty. We hope this insider’s guide has given you a new perspective on the city and encouraged you to go off the beaten path. Follow our suggestions, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.