How to Plan Your Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour in Porto

If you’re planning a trip to Porto and are a wine enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to book the Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour. This tour offers an experience to taste Port wines, exploring the oldest demarcated wine region in the world and discovering the unique landscape of the Douro Valley. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan your Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour in Porto.

Experience

The Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour is a full-day guided tour that takes you from Porto to the Douro Valley, showcasing the stunning landscapes of the Vinho Verde wine region. The tour involves visiting two wineries – a renowned Port wine producer and a smaller family-owned winery. You’ll have the opportunity to taste several Port wines, as well as Douro DOC (controlled designation of origin) wines.

Highlights

The Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour offers a unique experience to:

• Taste Wine Port Wine in stunning locations
• Discover the unique landscape of the oldest wine region in the world
• Create unforgettable memories

Full Description

The tour starts with the guide picking you up from your centrally located hotel or a prearranged meeting point. The tour bus departs from Porto, heading east through the Vinho Verde wine region. The guide will provide you with information about the region and its history. After a scenic drive, the tour arrives at the first winery of the day – a renowned Port wine producer. You’ll learn about the making of Port wine and explore the winery and surrounding vineyards before tasting several delightful Port Wines. You’ll also have the option of a relaxing boat ride with breathtaking views so you can appreciate all the beauty of the Douro from the water. After that, you’ll head to the second winery – a smaller family-owned winery. Here, you’ll taste a variety of Douro DOC wines and have the opportunity to purchase some to take home as souvenirs. The tour includes a traditional Portuguese lunch, with a vegetarian option available upon request. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample some local delicacies and learn more about Portuguese cuisine. After lunch, the tour will return to Porto, dropping you off at the departure point.

Booking the Tour

To book the Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour, visit this link. The tour is operated by a third-party company and is highly rated by previous customers. It’s recommended to book the tour in advance to secure your spot.

Book Your Tour Now

The Douro Valley Wine Tasting Tour is a fantastic way to explore the Douro Valley and taste some of the best wines the region has to offer. By following our guide on how to plan your tour, you can sit back and relax while enjoying a memorable experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity during your next visit to Porto.

Frequently Asked Questions About Porto

If you are planning to visit Porto for the first time, you might have a lot of questions about the city. This FAQ guide will help you understand what to expect and provide you with useful information to make the most out of your trip.

1. What Is Porto?

Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal located in the northwest part of the country. It is best known for its historic center, impressive architecture, and famous port wine. Porto sits on the banks of the Douro River, which falls into the Atlantic Ocean, and it is also part of the Douro Valley wine region.

2. What Is the Best Time to Visit Porto?

The best time to visit Porto is from May to September, as the weather is sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, Porto is a year-round destination, and each season offers something unique.

3. What Is the Currency Used in Porto?

Portugal uses the Euro as its currency, and you can easily exchange money at banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs.

4. What Language Is Spoken in Porto?

Portuguese is the official and predominant language spoken in Porto. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

5. What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in Porto?

Porto is a beautiful city full of cultural and historical landmarks. Below is a list of must-visit attractions when in Porto.

a) The Ribeira district

This district is one of the most popular tourist destinations and is situated on the banks of the Douro River. It is characterized by colorful buildings that overlook the river, beautiful bridges, and plenty of restaurants and cafes.

b) The Bolhão Market

This market offers a unique experience and is popular among locals and visitors. It offers a variety of fresh produce, traditional crafts, souvenirs, and street food.

c) The Clérigos Tower

This tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto, offering fantastic views of the city. You need to climb 240 stairs to reach the top, but the view is worth it.

d) The Livraria Lello

This bookstore may look ordinary from the outside, but it’s a literary gem inside. It is famous for its beautiful architecture, exquisite interior, and as the inspiration for the library in the Harry Potter series.

6. What Is the Best Way to Get Around Porto?

Porto has a well-established public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metro lines. However, the best way to experience the city is by foot, especially in the historic center.

7. What Is the Food Like in Porto?

Porto cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and it is influenced by centuries of cultural influences. You can try traditional dishes such as Francesinha (a sandwich with several types of meat) or Bacalhau (codfish). Porto is also famous for its seafood, pastel de nata (custard tarts), and port wine.

8. What Is the Nightlife Like in Porto?

Porto has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to different tastes and preferences. You can find everything from sophisticated bars and clubs to cozy cafes and traditional taverns.

9. What Souvenirs Should I Buy in Porto?

Porto is famous for its port wine, and you can buy bottles to take home as souvenirs. You can also buy traditional crafts, cork products, and hand-painted tiles that depict the city’s landmarks.

10. What Are Some Nearby Cities That I Should Visit?

Porto is a great base for exploring other cities in Portugal’s Douro Valley wine region. Some nearby cities to consider visiting are:

a) Vila Nova de Gaia

This city is famous for its wine cellars and is located just across the Douro River from Porto.

b) Guimarães

This city is known as the birthplace of Portugal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also known for its beautiful castles and medieval architecture.

c) Braga

This historic city is a must-visit for its beautiful churches and gardens, and its nearby Bom Jesus do Monte, an impressive baroque-style sanctuary and pilgrimage site.

Book Your Tour Now

Porto is a beautiful city full of culture, history, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for landmarks, nightlife, or relaxation, Porto has something for everyone. With this FAQ guide, you can now plan your trip to Porto with confidence, and make unforgettable memories in this charming destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Porto

When it comes to tourism, Porto is a city that definitely should be on your bucket list. The second largest city in Portugal, Porto has a rich cultural heritage, great gastronomy, and plenty of tourist attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Porto, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time like a true tourist.

1. Visit the Historic Centre of Porto

The historic centre of Porto is one of the most important tourist attractions in the city. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, the historic centre of Porto is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, old houses, and ancient buildings. The best way to explore the historic centre of Porto is to start in the Praça da Ribeira and walk along the Rua das Flores, one of the most famous streets in the city. Be sure to stop at the famous São Bento Railway Station, featuring stunning tilework murals portraying Portugal’s history, and make your way to the iconic Ribeira Square, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the Douro River.

2. Discover Porto’s Wine Cellars

Porto is world-famous for producing Port wine, a fortified wine that is exclusively produced in the Douro Valley. To learn more about Portugal’s most famous export, take a tour of one of the many historic wine cellars in Porto. You can visit the cellars of the most renowned brands, such as Taylor’s, Sandeman or Graham’s, and taste the different varieties of port wine.

3. Admire the Lello Bookshop

The Lello Bookshop deserves a special mention. It’s one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world and can be visited on a tour. It was even an inspiration for J.K. Rowling as she wrote the Harry Potter series. The neo-gothic architecture, the carved woodwork, and the opulent staircase make this bookstore a must-visit attraction in Porto.

4. Relax in the City Parks

Porto has a great number of parks and gardens, such as the Serralves Park, the largest urban park in the city. You can also visit the Crystal Palace Gardens or the Passeio Alegre Garden, which is located at the mouth of the Douro River. These parks are great places to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the tranquillity of nature in the heart of the city.

5. Enjoy the Best View of Porto

Porto has many viewpoints, known locally as ‘miradouros’, from which you can enjoy the panoramic views of the city, the Douro River, and the neighbouring city of Gaia. The Miradouro da Vitória and the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar are two of the most popular viewpoints in Porto, and they offer some stunning views.

6. Taste the Local Gastronomy

Porto has a rich and varied gastronomy. Some of the must-try dishes include ‘francesinha,’ a hearty sandwich made with cured ham, fresh sausage, steak, and melted cheese, and the ‘tripas à moda do Porto,’ a traditional dish made with white beans and tripe. For dessert, try the ‘pastel de nata,’ a small custard tart that is now popular all over the world.

7. Go Shopping

Porto is a great place to shop. You can visit the traditional shops in the historic centre of the city or the trendy boutiques in the new commercial districts. Some popular shopping destinations include the Rua de Santa Catarina, the Mercado do Bolhão, and the Porto Fashion Outlet.

8. Attend Festivals and Events

Porto has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of festivals and events throughout the year. The Festa de São João is perhaps the most famous festival in Porto, celebrated on June 23rd, where the streets are illuminated with lanterns and fireworks light up the sky. Other popular events include the Fantasporto International Film Festival and the Queima das Fitas, a celebration for university students.

Book Your Tour Now

Porto is a versatile city, perfect for different types of travelers, from history lovers to foodies. With this guide, you’re sure to have a great time in Porto. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, and explore the many hidden corners of the city. By following these recommendations, you’ll experience a fantastic trip that will be unforgettable.