Lisbon to Douro Valley: the best ways to travel!

Find out how to get to Douro Valley from Lisbon. We will give you all the details

There are many reasons to travel from Lisbon to Douro Valley. This region is known as the “Enchanted Valley” for a reason. Natural beauty, history and gastronomy define this area. However, given the long distance between Lisbon and the region’s capital - Peso da Régua (about 350 km), sometimes it’s hard to choose the best way to travel between Lisbon and Douro Valley. Car, train or bus… So let’s find out how to get to Douro Valley from Lisbon.

Why should you visit the Douro Valley?

Nestled in the heart of Portugal, the Douro Valley stands as a captivating destination that beckons travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned wine culture. Here’s why you should travel from Lisbon to Douro Valley:

- The Douro Valley is renowned worldwide for its breathtaking landscapes;

- It’s a demarcated wine region. Its terraced vineyards, draped over the undulating hills, cradle the vineyards that produce the great Port Wine;

- The historic wine estates, known as “quintas” will allow you to tour vineyards, witness traditional winemaking processes, and indulge in tastings of exquisite wines;

- Outdoor activities: hiking and biking trails wind through the vineyards and hills will immerse you in the natural beauty of the region;

- You can experience a Douro River Cruise, a great way to explore the enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures of the Douro Valley.

How to travel from Lisbon to Douro by car?

This is one of the fastest and most practical ways to get to the region. The main advantage of traveling by car is the freedom to make stops on the way (to enjoy the view, for example), and to change your plans if you want to.

Renting a car provides flexibility and allows you to go from Lisbon to Douro Valley at your own pace. There are several rent-a-car companies in Lisbon. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. You can take the A1 highway to Porto - it’s the fastest way and that’s how to get from Douro Valley to Lisbon again too.

Embarking on a journey through the Douro Valley region unveils a tapestry of enchanting stops. We recommend that you choose a final destination and stop at some of the important landmarks in this great region along the way, like Lamego or Pinhão. You can also stop at gas stations or viewpoints to rest, if you need to. 

The Douro Valley might be vast but each stop is a breathtaking experience. The most famous one is the city of Peso da Régua. If you decide to travel to this city, it’s a good idea to park your car and explore the area in different ways. Here, you must go up to Pinhão by boat - one of the most famous places in Douro.

How to travel from Lisbon to Douro by train? 

Trains are one of the most comfortable ways to travel! It’s the right choice for those who don’t want to drive and want to enjoy the ride peacefully and with no worries.

In this case, the best plan is to go from Lisbon to Porto. Comboios de Portugal (CP) operates trains between both cities. You can take a train from one of Lisbon's railway stations (Santa Apolónia ou Oriente, for example) to São Bento or Campanhã, in Porto. Train schedules may vary, so it's advisable to check the current schedule and book tickets in advance. 

Once you get to Porto, there are many options to go to Douro Valley, but the most fun one is to take a cruise along the Douro River. Do you want to go to Régua? Or to Pinhão? It’s up to you to choose what makes more sense to you. Our cruises even include breakfast and lunch!

Another interesting option would be to stay in Porto for a day and explore the city. There are several programs in Porto throughout the year with the possibility of visiting Port wine cellars and going on a small cruise in the Douro River, for example.

How to travel from Lisbon to Douro by bus?

The bus ride is a great option to get directly to Douro Valley. Bus services operate daily from Lisbon to Douro Valley and many cities in the region. You can find buses from Lisbon to Douro Valley at the major bus terminals in Lisbon, such as Sete Rios or Oriente. Just like what happens with the train option, make sure you book your tickets in advance (you can easily do it online) and always check the schedules.

If you’re one of those who like to dream big and prefer to buy an all inclusive program (transportation, accommodation, food, and rides), there are options for you! Depart from Lisbon and get through the main spots of the Douro Region. This way, you don’t have to worry about a thing! What’s the right direction, where should I sleep, what should I visit first? Your only job is to enjoy! 

When should you visit the Douro Valley?

Now you know how to get to Douro Valley from Lisbon, when should you travel? The best time to visit the Douro Valley depends on your preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. Here are some considerations for different seasons:

- Spring: the landscape is covered in vibrant greenery and flowers. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it suitable for outdoor activities;

- Summer: the high tourist season, attracting visitors with warm and hot temperatures;

- Fall: a popular time to visit the Douro Valley, especially during the grape harvest season;

- Winter: the off-peak season, great to enjoy a peaceful and quiet experience.

Are you ready to go from Lisbon to Douro Valley?

You have our guide on how to get from Lisbon to Douro Valley, so now the most important thing is you live a fulfilling experience and enjoy the wonders of this magic place. After you choose how you go, it’s time to decide how exactly you’ll enjoy your trip. Study about the region and how to live it the best. Unforgettable experiences await you! Cruises, riverside walks, iconic monuments and good food are guaranteed.