How to Plan Your Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

Porto, also known as Oporto, is Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon. It is a beautiful, historic city that offers many activities and sights to see, and one of the most popular activities is the River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise. This cruise provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of Porto from the water and learn about the city’s rich history. In this blog post, we will guide you through everything you need to know to plan your Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise.

Experience

The River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise is an excellent way to explore the city of Porto from a unique perspective. On this cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the city’s history while taking in the breathtaking beauty of its surroundings. This tour follows the route of the old rabello boats, which transported wine from the valley to the wine cellars. It has become famous for its majestic bridges, and the beauty of the valley from the waters of the river.

Highlights

The Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise is a 50-minute tour, where you will have a chance to admire the six bridges that connect the cities of Porto and Gaia. The highlights of the tour are:

Follow the Route of Old Rabello Boats

The tour follows the route of the old rabello boats, which were traditionally used to transport wine barrels from the Douro Valley to the wine cellars. The boats have been replaced over the years with more modern vessels, but the route remains the same, and you’ll be enjoying the same scenery, just like the wine merchants did.

Enjoy Fantastic Views

While on the tour, you will have a chance to take in some stunning views of the Douro River and the surrounding landscapes. The majestic bridges towering over the river are especially unforgettable like the Don Luís I Bridge or the Arrábida Bridge. You will also get to admire the Ribeira Square, one of the most famous Portuguese Squares, and Vila Nova de Gaia’s historical houses.

Learn More About the Bridges of Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia

The six bridges that connect Porto and Gaia are architectural wonders and have become famous icons of the city. During the tour, you will learn about the history of each bridge and how they came to be built. Some of the bridges you’ll see are:

• Don Luís I Bridge
• D. Maria Pia Bridge
• Freixo Bridge
• Infante Bridge
• Arrábida Bridge
• São João Bridge

Enjoy Panoramic Cruise Down the River Douro

The River Douro is the lifeblood of Porto, and it is an excellent opportunity to take a panoramic cruise along the river. You will experience the beauty of Porto while leisurely meandering down the river, admiring the stunning valley landscapes and the sidebanks.

How to Book the Tour

Now that you have decided to join the Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise, the next step is booking the tour. You can book the tour by visiting the following website: Book the tour here. It is always advisable to book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment.

Conclusion

The Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise is an unforgettable and must-have tour when visiting Porto. It provides the opportunity to see the city from a unique perspective while learning about its history and experiencing some fantastic views. Follow our guide to plan your tour and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Porto.

An Insider’s Guide to Porto, Portugal: The River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise

Porto, also known as Oporto, is a charming and vibrant city located along the River Douro in northern Portugal. The city is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and of course, its famous port wine. One of the must-do activities while visiting Porto is taking a river Douro 6 bridges cruise. This experience offers stunning views of the city and its iconic bridges. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Porto has to offer.

Attractions

Porto is a city steeped in history and culture, and there is no shortage of things to do and see. Here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

– Ribeira: Located on the south bank of the Douro River, Ribeira is Porto’s historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and traditional restaurants and cafes.

– São Bento Railway Station: This iconic train station features an impressive atrium, decorated with beautiful azulejo tiles that depict scenes from Portugal’s history.

– Clérigos Tower: This 18th-century bell tower is one of Porto’s most recognizable landmarks and offers panoramic views of the city.

– Livraria Lello: This historic bookstore is one of Porto’s top attractions, thanks to its stunning interior architecture and decoration.

Dining Spots

Portuguese cuisine is as delicious as it is diverse, and Porto is no exception. Here are some local favorites:

– Casa Guedes: This popular eatery is known for its pork sandwiches with melted cheese and slices of roasted pork loin.

– O Paparico: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern interpretations of traditional Portuguese dishes.

– Café Santiago: A must-visit spot for trying the local dish of francesinha, a hearty sandwich filled with various meats, covered in melted cheese, and smothered in a spicy tomato sauce.

Cultural Experiences

Porto is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can delve into its history and traditions through various experiences.

– Port wine cellars: Porto is famous for its port wine, and visitors can tour the numerous cellars located on the south bank of the Douro River. This experience includes tastings of different port wines and a chance to learn about the wine-making process.

– Casa da Música: This iconic concert hall features a striking modern architectural design and hosts a wide range of music performances.

– Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis: One of Porto’s most important museums showcasing works of art from various periods.

Local History

Portugal has a rich history dating back centuries, and Porto has played a vital role in its development. Here are some historical sites to explore:

– Porto Cathedral: Built-in the 12th century, this cathedral combines various architectural styles and is one of Porto’s most important religious buildings.

– Palacio da Bolsa: A beautiful neoclassical building, formerly the city’s stock exchange.

– Forte de São Francisco Xavier: Located at the mouth of the Douro River, this 17th-century fortress offers stunning views of the river and the ocean.

Off-The-Beaten-Path

For visitors looking to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Jardim do Morro: Located on the south bank of the river, this park offers a panoramic view of the city and is an excellent spot for a picnic.

– Fundação Serralves: This contemporary arts center features exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events in a beautiful architectural setting.

– Foz Velha: This quiet neighborhood located at the mouth of the river is full of charming, narrow streets, and offers a glimpse into local life that is off the tourist radar.

Conclusion

Porto is a city that has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to wine connoisseurs, to foodies and culture-seekers. A river Douro 6 bridges cruise is an excellent way to explore the city and should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list. With this insider’s guide, you’re ready to explore all that this fantastic city has to offer.