If you want to visit one of the most beautiful landscapes in Northern Portugal, there are several Douro cruise options available. In one day you can discover part of the beauty of the Douro River, which rises in the province of Sória (Spain) and ends in the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia (Portugal). Spanning about 895 kilometers, it is the third longest river in the Iberian Peninsula, though only the stretch in Portugal is navigable. In days of yore, it was considered a dangerous river and only ‘rabelo’ boats were able to sail through it. Now it is totally safe, as its 5 dams make it possible to control river flows (and produce electricity). Most Douro cruises set off from Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia towards Peso da Régua or Pinhão. The estates that have been producing excellent Portuguese wines for more than 2,000 years – including the famous Port Wine – are located In the winegrowing region of Alto Douro. Alto Douro was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, under the cultural landscape category. Douro Cruise routes Douro cruise routes Most Douro cruises set off from Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia […]