Those intrigued by the prospect of cruising through beautiful wine country should look no further than river voyages in Portugal. These cruises offer travelers the perfect way to see the country’s best rural regions and cities. When traveling Portugal’s rivers, they’ll see low-slung, wooden fishing boats known as Rabelo boats dotting the route. While the cruises and cities are entirely modern, cruising Portugal’s rivers can feel like a time-traveling trip to the past.

Portugal itself is a colorful, oceanic country in the south of Europe. The land is brimming with nature, and is most well-known for its food, wine, and love of futebol. The country has a plethora of activities to get into for whatever travelers might be interested in. It’s also one of the best rural European river cruises due to its wonderful sights and countryside.

Cruises in Portugal are far more tranquil than most, inviting voyagers to take a load off. Unlike other river voyages in Europe, these visit few cities and place an emphasis on relaxation while traveling nature-surrounded rivers. The voyages are always enjoyable in Portugal, where cruisers can take a step out of the fast lane.

Douro River Wine Region in Portugal

Cruising the Douro River Valley in Portugal

Voyages on Portugal's Douro River

Portuguese river cruises primarily follow the Douro River. The river finds its source in Spain and flows west into the Atlantic Ocean. Along its route, voyagers will find the Portuguese wine region, which features a number of world-class wineries. Portugal and the Douro River are famous for the production of port wine, a fortified dessert wine native to the region.

The river winds through much of Portugal, offering scenic views and a direct route to several great destinations. For cruisers that can’t get enough of the river, the Douro even has a railway that runs along with it. The railway is known as the Linha do Douro, and gives travelers even more unique scenes. Cruising the Douro River makes for a peaceful time, where voyagers can sit back with a glass of vintage port wine in hand while taking in the Portuguese countryside.

Biggest cities along Portugal’s river cruises

Portugal is one of Europe’s most beautiful countries. Its riverbanks feature green grass and trees, dotted with flowers, rock formations, and quaint villages. While its rural areas are a highlight, Portugal also has two must-see cities for voyagers.

• Lisbon. This city is Portugal’s largest. It’s bursting with life, from its diverse population to its colorful architecture, especially in its famed Alfama district. It’s also the country’s capital and home to Europe's largest aquarium, the Lisbon Oceanarium. Travelers will find lots of museums and excellent dining in this seaside city located just around the corner from the Douro River's end.
• Porto​. The place where port wine gets its name, Porto is a slightly smaller, but no less exciting, city near the mouth of the Douro. It’s one of Portugal’s most visited cities for its ties to food and port wine. A Porto river cruise brings travelers to all that the city has to offer as the Douro River's most popular location.

Lisbon's Seaside Skyline

Alfama District in Lisbon, Portugal

Triumphal Arch in Alfama, Lisbon

The Lisbon Oceanarium in Portugal

Winery in the Douro Valley, Portugal

Wine Valley Cruise on the Douro River, Portugal

A bridge in the city of Porto, Portugal

Preparing for a Portuguese river cruise

​Being seaside in southern Europe, Portugal enjoys mostly beautiful weather. The country has moderate weather year-round, making it an ideal place for river voyages. Travelers should plan to bring a jacket and umbrella just in case, but they likely won’t see bad weather at all. 

Cruises in Portugal are very pleasant, featuring local wines, great food, and an even better culture. The cities are full of excitement, but the real charm to Portugal is its countryside. For those seeking a step back from day-to-day life, Portugal is the scenic European country to visit. ​