Cruise on the Douro River in Porto
The Douro River serves as the center of activity in Portugal's second-largest city, providing Porto with some of its most recognizable monuments, such as its elegant bridges and ancient Ribeira (riverside) neighborhood with its vibrant merchant houses and old cafes. Therefore, the best way to see the key attractions and discover what makes Porto one of the country's most fascinating towns is by cruising on the Douro River.
In the past, Rabelo, wooden cargo boats, were used to transport Port wine barrels from the country's inland vineyards to cities and docks. Later, when the Douro became a popular tourist destination, people living around the river turned Rabelo cars into tourist vehicles. Just like that, colorful Rabelo fleets were gradually established and floating along the historic route. The Rabelo that takes tourists down the river has brought Porto to life and showcased the best of the city from a unique perspective.
A typical Porto Rabelo boat trip includes a hands-on exploration of sites including the world-famous six bridges (the Ponte D. Maria Pia, Ponte Infante Dom Henrique, and Ponte de Dom Luis I), the caverns Gaia and Cabedelo Nature Reserve. You will also see Barra do Douro emerge with its magnificent lighthouse, as well as Foz do Douro, where the river empties into the Atlantic Ocean.
In sum, cruising on the Douro River in Porto:
- The best way to see the key attractions and discover what makes Porto one of the country's most fascinating towns.
- Includes an experiential tour of attractions such as the famous six bridges, the caves Gaia, and Cabedelo Nature Reserve.
- Visitors will experience aboard the Rabelo boat during the journey.
