For those who are visiting Northern Portugal, one of the best things to do in Porto is take a one day-trip to Douro, to discover the less urban and more natural side of one of Portugal's most famous wine regions.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2001, the Douro Region is the oldest Demarcated Region in the world and is definitely worth a visit.
Douro has an immensity of activities for visitors to engage at, so if you're only spending a day in Douro it will be difficult to chose from the wide range of experiences perfect for wine lovers.
At Quinta de La Rosa, located in one of Douro's terraces, you will have the opportunity to visit and sample some of the best Portuguese wines. On the opposite side of the Douro river, find Quinta do Seixo, a vineyard with over 100 years of history. Finally, make a visit to Quinta da Pacheca, one of the best well-known wine estates in the Douro Valley, which stands out for having been the first to bottle wine under its own brand.
What better way to discover Douro than with a cruise? After a wine tasting in some of the best vineyards in Douro, a calm relaxing sailing cruise will end your tour in Douro in the best way. Set sail in an exclusive boatwith a skipper that will let you relax and enjoy your company or, if you prefer, share some of his knowledge about the region, enriching your experience.
From Porto to Douro you can either take the train and enjoy the beautiful views along the way, or you can book a private driver and guide who will take you whenever you want to go.