The BEST Douro River Cruise: 5 Amazing Options for Families
*This post will help you choose the best Douro River Cruise for your family. It may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive commissions for purchases made through those links, at no cost to you.
Are you planning a trip to Porto and looking for a fun and family-friendly way to discover the Douro Valley? Look no further! In my opinion, taking a Douro River Cruise is the best way to explore this unique region. Keep reading to find my handpicked selection of best family-friendly cruises on the Douro River.
Located in Portugal, the Douro River is famous for its stunning scenery, delicious wines, and rich history. If your family is heading to Porto, a Douro River Cruise is a must. It definitely is the best way to explore this UNESCO-protected region. Indeed, it offers unparalleled access to its unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems.
Many families overlook this activity, believing it to be inappropriate or inadequate for kids. Fortunately, I’m here to make sure you don’t miss out on this bucket list-worthy activity.
In this blog post, I’ll take you through the 5 best Douro River Cruises for families, including how much they costs, how long they last, and more. All the options featured in this guide are family-friendly – you won’t have to stress about bringing your little one aboard!
Finally, I’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about the Douro River Cruises – one of the best things to do in Porto.
Mini Guide to Porto with Kids
Don’t have a lot of time to go through all the blog posts to plan your family trip? Here’s a mini guide to Porto to help you plan your family adventure!
Things to do in Porto with kids:
– Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: this is a really fun way to discover the city of Porto with kids!
– Go on a Douro River Cruise
– Stroll through the many parks and gardens
– Take a day trip by train
Where to stay in Porto with kids:
– The Yeatman: top luxury and fantastic views!
– Vincci Porto: Amazing location (mid-range)
– London Lodge Hotel: Charming budget-friendly boutique hotel
– Other hotels in Porto
To make the most of your family trip, discover when is the best to go to Portugal with kids right here!
➡️ Read Next: 15 Amazing Things to do in Porto with kids
Why Choose a Douro River Cruise for Your Family?
First, let me convince you that a Douro River Cruise is the perfect adventure for your family in Porto. It’s an amazing, if not the best way to explore this iconic region of Portugal with your family. Here’s why:
- Beautiful Scenery: Imagine cruising along a river with stunning views of terraced vineyards, charming villages, and rolling hills. It’s like stepping into a postcard.
- Rich Culture: You’ll get to visit historic cities, learn about local traditions, and taste delicious Portuguese food. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about a new culture.
- Easy Travel: Cruises take the hassle out of traveling. Everything from your room to meals and activities is taken care of. Just relax and enjoy the ride. I always find it easier to book this kind of activity rather than getting there by train or renting a car. Everything is taken care of!
- Unforgettable Memories: Cruising down the Douro River is a unique experience that your family will remember forever.
Seeing the Douro Valley from a cruise is like experiencing the heart of Portugal. The terraced vineyards, quaint villages, and rich history come alive from the river. Even though the Douro Valley is known for its wine, these cruises remain a perfect activity for families.
Breakdown of the 5 Best Douro River Cruises for Families
Now, that we’ve covered why a Douro River Cruise should be on your Portugal itinerary, let’s dive into the 5 best family-friendly options!
In the section below, you’ll find my top 5 recommendations for Douro River cruises for families. Each of them includes price, duration, and what’s included. This guide will help you choose the best Douro River Cruise for your family.
#1 Douro Valley Boat Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch by CMTOUR
- Price: $80-$107 per person (free for kids 6 and under)
- Duration: 10h / day trip
- Includes: 1-hour Douro River Cruise, 2 wine tastings, olive oil tasting, lunch, guide, bus transportation
The first one I recommend is the CMTour Douro Valley boat tour, which is the one of the most popular ones with families in Porto.
The reason we like it so much is that you don’t have to worry about a thing. Everything is thought of and included! We also love that this cruise is free for kids aged 6 and under. In addition, seating for children is available upon request.
What’s Included in this Douro Cruise
This full-day activity starts with bus/coach ride that will take you to Peso da Régua. This is where you’ll have your first guided tour and wine tasting experience. A lunch will be served before the group is taken to Pinhão for a one-hour scenic boat cruise on the Douro River.
Note that vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
You will be able to admire the stunning landscapes, the vineyard slopes, and the famous picturesque terraces.
A second guided tour and wine tasting follows the boat tour.
At the end of the day, you will be taken back to Porto by bus/coach.
This is the perfect package for families who want the full experience, including the Douro River cruise, wine tasting and guided tours. Kids also have plenty of time to run around and let off some energy!
The total duration of this activity is 10 hours – it’s a full day trip from Porto to the Douro Valley.
With everything included – including bus transport, lunch and the cruise – it’s an affordable package for families. Tickets start at $107 for adults and $80 for kids aged 7 to 15. Kids waged 6 and under are free!
#2 Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise
- Price: $10-19$ per person (free for kids 3 and under)
- Duration: 50 minutes
- Includes: River cruise
The Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise is perfect for families who are looking for a short and sweet boat tour. This is the cruise we personally went on last time we were in Porto with our kids! I can’t recommend this cruise enough – it’s hands down one of the best things to do in Porto with kids.
The cruise starts at the Praça da Ribeira, the most picturesque place in Porto. For this boat tour, you’ll sail aboard a boat that was originally used to transport Port wine barrels. But don’t worry, the boats have been adapted and are now equipped to transport passengers comfortably.
What’s Included in this Douro Cruise
During this 50-minute Douro River cruise, you’ll get to admire the stunning views of the historic center of Porto (Ribeira), Vila Nova de Gaia and its wine cellars, and the mouth of the Douro River.
During the cruise, an expert guide will speak on the history of the six bridges between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
This is a much simpler version of the Douro River cruise. It does not include tastings or guided tours. However, the fact that it’s short and easily accessible, right in the heart of Porto’s historic quarter, makes it extremely attractive to families.
It’s one of the most popular activities for all tourists visiting Porto. So, to avoid crowds and long queues, we advise you to get to the boarding point early in the morning and buy your tickets in advance. You can buy them here.
During our last family trip to Porto, we picked this budget-friendly cruise because of its duration and simplicity. It was super easy to add it to our itinerary and our kids absolutely LOVED it!
Family Travel Tip
Make sure to bring a camera for your kids so they can take their own pictures. They’ll feel special to be able to snap photos of what they like and I promise you’ll get emotional when you’ll see the result – a (possible blurry!) version of your trip through your little ones’ eyes. This is the one our daugther brings everywhere since she is 3!
#3 Porto Daytime or Sunset Sailboat Cruise on the Douro River
- Price: $49 (daytime) to $65 (sunset) per person
- Duration: 2 hours
- Includes: welcome drink, snacks, and daytime or sunset sailboat cruise
I highly recommend this sunset sailboat cruise on the Douro River for families who want to live a special moment together. Don’t get me wrong, the daytime version is just as good, but being able to watch the sunset from a sailing boat, surrounded by such magnificent Portuguese scenery… that’s pretty hard to beat!
What’s Included in this Douro Cruise
As you sail on the Douro River, the crew will share anecdotes and history elements on Porto.
You’ll start your journey towards the Luis I Bridge, so make sure to grab your camera – it’s the best spot to take a picture of this iconic Portuguese landmark. Then, you’ll reverse your course and head towards the sea, passing through the protected area of the Douro estuary and the old mouth of Porto. It’s undeniably the best spot to watch the sunset in Porto.
Adults will receive a complementary glass of Douro port wine to enjoy as they cruise past Porto’s main highlights such as cellar wines, Rabelo boats, and Ribeira.
#4 Tuk-Tuk and Douro River Cruise Bundle
- Price: $18 to $36 per person
- Duration: 3 hours (2-hour tuk-tuk tour and 1-hour cruise)
- Includes: Guided tuk-tuk tour and guided Douro River cruise
For families looking for a different and fun way to explore Porto, this guided city tour by tuk-tuk and Douro River cruise is the perfect combination!
Indeed, this unique combination offers a fantastic adventure for families, both on land and on water.
Tuk-tuks are small, open-air vehicles that offer a fun and unique way to explore the city. Kids love the novelty of riding in a tuk-tuk, and it’s a great way to see the sights up close.
What’s Included in this Douro Cruise Package
The guided city tour by tuk-tuk comes with friendly and knowledgeable guides who make the experience fun and educational for the whole family. They share interesting stories and facts about Porto’s history, culture, and landmarks.
The tour is designed to be at a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time for photo stops and breaks. It’s perfect for families with kids who need to stretch their legs and take in the sights without feeling rushed.
After the city tour, you’ll embark on a relaxing cruise along the Douro River. It provides a wonderful contrast to the bustling city tour, offering stunning views of the riverbanks, historic bridges, and picturesque vineyards.
This tour really offers the best of both worlds — land and water exploration. It’s a comprehensive way to experience the Douro Valley and Porto, ensuring you don’t miss any highlights.
The guided city tour by tuk-tuk usually lasts about 2 hours, followed by a 1-hour Douro River cruise.
Tuk-tuks are comfortable and safe, with seating for small groups. The river cruise offers comfortable seating and often provides refreshments.
Please note that strollers and baby-carriers are not allowed on tuk-tuks. Some tuk-tuks don’t allow pregnant women, as well as babies and small children either.
#5 Douro Valley Wine Tour, Tastings & River Cruise
- Price: $54-$106 per person (free for 3 and under)
- Duration: 10 hours / day trip
- Includes: 1-hour river cruise, 2 wine tastings, cheese and olive oils tastings, lunch, transportation, free bonus Porto walking tour
The Douro Valley wine tour and river cruise offered by Living Tours is another extremely popular option. Just like the first cruise we recommended in this guide, this Douro River cruise allows families to explore the stunning beauty of the Douro Valley for a day.
This 10-hour day trip from Porto features a guided tour to a family-owned wine estate, two wine tastings, cheese and olive oil tastings, lunch, and Douro River cruise at Pinhão.
What’s Included in this Douro cruise
The tour will start in Porto, where you’ll get on a bus/coach that will take you to the beautiful town of Amarante for a quick stop. You’ll then be taken to Sabrosa for a first wine tasting.
After lunch, you will go to Pinhão for scenic boat tour. A second wine tasting session will take place right after the cruise.
We also love that Living Tours offer a free Porto city walking tour to all participants. This bonus activity is available the day after the cruise tour.
Prices range from $54 for kids to $106 for adults. The tour is free for kids aged 3 and under.
➡️ Read Next: 9 Amazing Day Trips From Porto with Kids
Frequently Asked Questions about Douro River Cruises for Families
What is the best time to take a Douro River cruise with kids?
The best time to take a Douro River cruise is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are beautiful. Avoid the peak summer months (July and August) as it can be quite hot and crowded. I also highly recommend planning this activity in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Are Douro River cruises suitable for young children?
Yes! Most Douro River cruises are suitable for young children. They are safe, easily accessible and fun for the whole family. Also, on some cruises, kids can join for free.
Are there any age restrictions for Douro River cruises?
Most Douro River cruises are accessible to children. Some specific private cruises may have age restriction. I suggest to confirm the information on the company’s website before booking your tickets.
How long do Douro River cruises typically last?
Douro River cruises typically last between 50 minutes to 10 hours, depending on the type of cruise and itinerary. Shorter cruises stay near Porto’s historic center, while longer cruises usually include a guided tour, lunch, and wine tasting in the Douro Valley.
Can we bring a stroller on a Douro River cruise?
Unfortunately, most Douro River cruises have narrow pathways or stairs, so strollers are not the best option. I highly recommend bringing a good baby-carrier or super lightweight and foldable stroller.
Conclusion – Douro River Cruises for Families
A cruise on the Douro River is definitely at the top of the list of the best things to do in Porto with kids. Aboard a boat, you’ll get goose bumps as you admire the magnificent scenery before you. I promise!
Your kids, both young and old, will love the experience too.
As mentioned in this guide, there are Douro River cruises to suit all tastes and budgets. If you’re looking for the full experience and want to take advantage of the opportunity to discover the Douro Valley and its delicious wines, opt for the CMTour or Living Tours cruises. They will allow you to escape for a day and discover the full extent of the natural beauty of this region. For families with younger children or who are more limited in time, the six bridges cruise and the tuk-tuk/cruise combination are perfect options. Finally, for families looking for a moment of calm AND magic, a sunset cruise on a sailboat is undoubtedly the best choice.
In short, you now have all the information you need to help you choose the best Douro River cruise for your family.
Planning a family trip to Portugal? Check out my other posts on this amazing family destination:
– The Best Time to Go to Portugal: Your Family-Friendly Guide
– 9 Amazing Day Trips From Porto with Kids
– 15 Amazing Things to do in Porto with kids
– Lisbon with Kids: the Greatest 4-Day Itinerary for Families
– Where to Stay with Kids in Lisbon
– 7 Incredible Day Trips from Lisbon by Train For Families
– The Ultimate Family Guide to Cascais Beaches
– 11 Absolutely Great Things to do in Cascais with Kids
