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Best Porto to Amarante Tours

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Terraced vineyards in the Douro Valley, Portugal, during summer, known for Portuguese port wine production.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+
Carmen Regina Lamas
AR

Carmen

Argentina
Oct 2025
5/5
Beautiful the place and the tour, from the first moment we were made to feel very comfortable. We went as a family. The guide (Maru) very kindly guided us in relation to the place and knew about the wines we tasted. The food was delicious and the boat ride was beautiful. I highly recommend it.
Alan

Alan

Sep 2025
5/5
Firstly, don’t waste your time, like I did, analysing all the numerous, different company, price offerings to tour the Douro Valley. If it’s cheap, it’s cheap for a reason! You get what you pay for!
Vanessa

Vanessa

Aug 2025
5/5
I did this tour with Tiago, which was a great guide! He was all the time explaining to us facts about the wine, Porto area or simply Portugal, even when he was driving he explained every place we were driving through, which I appreciated very much! The landscape was breathtaking!! And it was even better with Tiago's soundtrack :) It was a great day and I would recommend it to everyone! My only remark is the lunch, which I think it was quite poor, it would be great to have some salad and fish.
Charise

Charise

Aug 2025
5/5
My family and I had a wonderful time on the Douro Historical tour, with our guide Thiago and our driver Dario. We enjoyed the sites as well as the guides enthousiasme and knowledge of the sites.
Spencer LeBlanc
CA

Spencer

Canada
Oct 2025
5/5
I was one of two people out of roughly 40 in our group whom were on the boat by themselves. Yet, not only did the crew and staff go out of there way to make me feel extra accommodated (trust me I was spoiled!) but I also spent the trip with quality company with the other gentleman who was by himself. Anyhow, the trip was one to remember that is for certain! Beautiful views on the entire river. And, many drinks, and great food. Definitely was worth every penny and more!
Evelyn

Evelyn

Dec 2025
4/5
The day started very early. It was a great idea to add the transfer from the hotel to the pier. Quick, comfortable and they even took the suitcases because we stayed at Pinhao and that's why Living Tours gave us a discount when we contacted in the chat. At the beginning, I confess that we were sleepy because we arrived the night before. But the ascension of the first dam made the adrenaline to skyrocket. Wonderful and scary! Impressive engineering works. The day was very good and sunny, so we were (me, my sister and my mother) some time on the deck, but then the sun got really strong and we decided to go back inside the boat, which is very spacious and comfortable. Shortly after lunch was served. We are vegetarian and Living Tours managed to provide us with a vegetarian lunch. The boat staff was very friendly and almost everyone spoke English so communication was easy. We arrived at Pinhao after passing more impressive dams and the beautiful landscapes of the Douro and the crew even helped us get the suitcases of the boat and into the taxi! Thank you very much :)
Hugo

Hugo

Aug 2025
4/5
Sir, we booked a tour with a small bus last week and we enjoyed it IMMENSELY!!! This mainly due to the extreme care Mr Ricardo Rite(?) took with us!! In my life, I have seen much of the world, (England, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Hongkong, Taiwan, Japan, Hawaii, USA, Germany, Austria, Romania, Ceska, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Spain, France, Italy, Kenia, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, Tanger,Gibraltar and more)! But I 've NEVER met a guide like Ricardo! He was extremly friendly and his personal way of comunication to each of us was just fantastic. Whatever we wished, it was most professionally arranged by him. Please forward our deepest thanks to Mr Ricardo. The tour was the highlight of our holiday, thanks to him, you can be proud to have a guide like him!
Shiri

Shiri

Aug 2025
4/5
We had a great day with loving tours! We took the historical tour in Douro valley with the perfect guide Tiago/Pako/John.


Escape the city buzz for just a little over an hour, and you’ll find yourself in Amarante, a riverside gem bursting with history, charm, and seriously Instagrammable streets. Perfect for a one-day adventure, easy day trips let you stroll cobbled lanes, snap the iconic São Gonçalo Bridge, and taste sweet local pastries, all without stressing about travel.

Overview:

  • Distance from Porto: 55 km (34 mi)
  • Typical travel time: 1 hour by bus (fast, comfy, and scenic)
  • On-site visit duration: 4–5 hours to see the highlights
  • Cost range: Around €15–€25 for transport + meals
  • Best season: Spring and early fall for perfect walking weather; mornings to beat the crowds
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Porto’s city center or hotel pick-ups (based on your ticket)
  • Key attractions: São Gonçalo Bridge, Church of São Gonçalo, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum, riverside walks, and local pastry shops

What to expect on a day trip from Porto to Amarante

Young women enjoying a scenic bus ride in Albufera.
A tour guide giving info to tourists
Church of Sao Domingos and Monastery Sao Goncalo by the Tamega River in Amarante, Portugal.
Guests enoying wine tasting and lunch at Douro Valley
Tourists with guide admiring azulejo tiles on Porto walking tour.
1/5

Easy, scenic ride

Start your day with a stress-free pickup from your Porto hotel or central meeting point, then settle into a comfortable air-conditioned minibus or minivan. As you leave the city behind, watch the landscape unfold—rolling hills, vineyards, and the sparkling Douro River.

Guides who bring stories to life

Your expert guides aren’t just there to point out sights; they’re storytellers, historians, and local insiders rolled into one. From legends of São Gonçalo to quirky tales about the town’s bridges and riverside streets, every turn in Amarante comes alive with fascinating anecdotes.

Morning in Amarante

Arrive in this picturesque town just as the morning sun casts golden light across the São Gonçalo Bridge. Wander the streets lined with pastel-colored houses, peek into riverside cafés, and maybe grab a sweet pastel de nata or a local delicacy. The morning is yours to explore with plenty of photo opportunities and time to soak in the riverside vibe.

Beyond Amarante

Venture further into the breathtaking Douro Valley with a stop in Pinhão, surrounded by terraced vineyards. Drift along the Douro River on a traditional rabelo boat and complete the experience with a visit to a local vineyard, where you can taste world-famous wines and enjoy a leisurely traditional lunch, soaking in the flavors and views of this iconic region.

Tailor your adventure

Whether you prefer the camaraderie of a small group, the intimacy of a private tour, or a deeper dive into Amarante Porto’s history, there’s a choice for you. Historical tours reveal hidden stories and secret spots, while more flexible itineraries let you wander, snack, and snap photos exactly how you like.

Things to know before booking your day trips from Porto to Amarante

  • Most Amarante Porto day trips last around 10 hours, including transfers, lunch, and a Douro River cruise. Tours typically depart early in the morning from Porto, giving you a full day to explore Amarante and continue into the Douro Valley. Expect to return by early evening, leaving enough time to relax after a fun-packed day.
  • Travel in comfortable air-conditioned minibuses or minivans, depending on your group size and ticket type. These vehicles make it easy to reach scenic spots quickly and relax during transfers.
  • Choose a guide in the language of your choice to make the most of your experience. Historical tours offer rich stories about Amarante’s legends, bridges, and churches, while Classic tours let you explore the town at your own pace.
  • Private tours let you book the ticket exclusively for your group, with private transfers and guides, while small-group options provide a friendly, social experience. Some activities, like river cruises or vineyard visits, may still be shared with other small groups, but the overall experience remains intimate.
  • Porto to Amarante tours include lunch at a vineyard or traditional restaurant, featuring local flavors. If you need gluten-free or vegetarian meals, inform in advance to ensure their preferences are accommodated.

Plan your visit to Douro Valley

Which Porto to Amarante tour is right for you?

TourInclusionsTransfersGuideGroup sizeFoodBest suited forUpgrades/add-ons
Classic Douro Valley Tour

Free time to explore Amarante at your pace, guided tour of two vineyards, 3 wine tastings per vineyard, Douro River cruise

Round-trip AC mini-bus transfers from the meeting point

English, Spanish, Portuguese, or French-speaking tour guide

27

Lunch at a vineyard with wine pairing

Those who love to explore on their own, with wine estates as the star of the show

Small group tour with hotel transfers

Historic Douro Valley Tour

Guided tour of Amarante, Galafura viewpoint, and renowned vineyard with 3 tastings, Douro River cruise

Round-trip AC mini-bus transfers from the meeting point

English, Spanish, Portuguese, or French-speaking tour guide

27

3-course lunch at a panoramic restaurant

For history lovers keen on exploring ancient villages with a guide

Small group tour with hotel transfers

Small-Group Douro Valley Tour

Stops at Amarante, guided tour of two family-owned estates with tastings, Douro River cruise

Round-trip AC mini-van hotel transfers

English-speaking tour guide

8

Lunch at a winery with Portuguese dishes paired with Douro DOC wines

Travelers who prefer intimate, small-group experiences

Private Douro Valley Tour

Stops at Amarante with time to visit São Gonçalo Church, guided tour of Galafura viewpoint, one wine estate, three local wine tastings, Douro River cruise

Round-trip AC mini-van hotel transfers

English, Spanish, Portuguese, or French-speaking tour guide

Based on your group size; max: 8 guests

Traditional lunch near the viewpoint with homemade recipes

Those who want to travel with just their friends and family

Classic experience with two vineyard visits

Explore more, worry less!

Let expert guides handle transfers, tickets, and timing while you soak up Amarante’s charm. Insider tips and local stories make your day unforgettable.

Main stops on your Amarante day trip

São Gonçalo Church facade with bell tower in Amarante, Portugal.

São Gonçalo Church and Convent

Step inside this stunning Baroque church, dedicated to Amarante’s beloved patron saint. Marvel at ornate altars, intricate carvings, and centuries of history while your guide shares the romantic and mysterious legends surrounding São Gonçalo.

  • Recommended duration: 45–60 minutes
  • Included: Free entry
Bridge and Church of São Gonçalo in Amarante, Portugal, with river view.

Ponte de São Gonçalo

Amarante’s iconic bridge is a story in stone. Admire its elegant arches and the reflections over the Tamega River while your guide recounts tales of love, devotion, and local lore. A perfect place for a morning or golden-hour stroll.

  • Recommended duration: 20–30 minutes
  • Included: Free entry
Piping choux pastry onto a baking sheet

Amarante Market (Mercado de Amarante)

Wander through this lively market buzzing with local life. Sample fresh pastries, browse handmade crafts, or simply watch vendors in action. Don’t miss trying papos de anjo, a sweet local specialty that perfectly captures the flavor of the town.

  • Recommended duration: 30–45 minutes
  • Included: Free entry
Cais de Gaia and Ribeira District with Bishop's Palace in Porto, Portugal.

Riverside walks & cafés

Take a leisurely stroll along the Tamega River, pausing at riverside cafés for a coffee or local treat. Snap photos of colorful riverside houses, watch locals pass by, and feel the relaxed rhythm of Amarante’s charming streets.

  • Recommended duration: 45–60 minutes
  • Included: Free entry

More stops along the way

Douro Valley vineyards and river view from São Leonardo da Galafura viewpoint, Portugal.

São Leonardo de Galafura

Perched high above the Douro Valley, this viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of terraced vineyards and the winding river below. Perfect for a quick photo stop and to soak in the grandeur of the region.

  • Recommended duration: 20–30 minutes
  • Must-see: Sweeping Douro Valley landscapes and sunset views from the terrace
Hiker overlooking vineyards in Douro Valley during Provesende to Pinhão hike.

Pinhão

This picturesque riverside village is the gateway to a relaxing rabelo boat cruise along the Douro River, gliding past centuries-old wine estates and sun-drenched hillsides. Ideal for photographers and wine lovers alike.

  • Recommended duration: 1  hour
  • Must-see: Riverbanks lined with terraced vineyards, historic quintas, and iconic Douro landscapes
All you need to know about Pinhão boat tours
Parish church tower with red-tiled roofs in Sabrosa, Portugal.

Sabrosa

A charming hilltop town with quaint streets, traditional architecture, and rich local heritage. Explore the town center, admire regional crafts, and take in panoramic views over the Douro Valley.

  • Recommended duration: 30–45 minutes
  • Must-see: São Cristóvão Church, local artisan shops, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the valley

Your Porto to Amarante itinerary

  • Morning: Start your day with a scenic drive from Porto and arrive in Amarante just as the morning sun bathes the town in golden light. Wander cobbled streets lined with pastel-colored houses, peek into artisan shops, and visit the São Gonçalo Church and Convent.
  • Afternoon: Head deeper into the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. Pause at São Leonardo de Galafura for breathtaking panoramic views, then indulge in a traditional vineyard lunch featuring local cheeses, cured meats, and regional wines. 
  • Evening: Conclude your day in Pinhão with a gentle river cruise aboard a traditional rabelo boat. Drift past historic wine estates, sun-drenched hillsides, and charming riverside villages as the light softens. Sip a final glass of wine, capture the golden-hour glow, and enjoy a stress-free return to Porto.

Read more about all the Douro Valley highlights

Best time to visit Amarante

Person overlooking Douro River and vineyards from Quinta do Tedo viewpoint in Douro Valley.

Weather

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the sweet spots for Amarante weather. Mild temperatures, sunny skies, and blooming landscapes make exploring a delight. Summer (July–August) can be hot and dry, perfect for riverside strolls, but tiring if you don’t enjoy the heat. Winters (November–February) are cooler with occasional rain, but the mist over the Tâmega River adds a touch of romance.

Know more
Musician playing saxophone

Events

June is Amarante’s biggest month, when the Festivities of São Gonçalo bring music, dancing, and traditional sweets to the streets. In August, cultural fairs and summer festivals liven up the town, while December brings a cozy vibe with Christmas markets and nativity displays.

Women enjoying a meal at a cafe.

Crowds

Expect peak crowds in July and August, especially around São Gonçalo Church and the riverside cafés. Spring and autumn are far more relaxed, with plenty of room to wander cobbled streets at your own pace. Winter sees the fewest visitors, making it a quiet and budget-friendly time to visit.

How to get from Porto to Amarante

Minivan transfer service

The smoothest way to reach Amarante is with pre-arranged round-trip transfers. Step into a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus or private van right from your Porto hotel or a central pickup point, and leave the maps and schedules behind. No parking headaches, no missed buses—just a seamless journey to and from Amarante.

Recommended tours:

  • Classic Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
  • Small-Group Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
  • Private Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
  • Historic Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
Guests smiling during a bus transfer experience.

If you’re traveling light and on a budget, the Rede Expressos bus is the most straightforward DIY option. Departing from Campo 24 de Agosto terminal, it whisks you straight into Amarante’s center without transfers.

  • Best for: Budget travelers or solo explorers
  • Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Approx cost: €7–10 one way
  • Pros: Cheap, direct, plenty of departures daily
  • Cons: Fixed schedules and no commentary
Know more about Douro Valley directions
Family enjoying private car transfer with child leaning out window.

For ultimate freedom, rent a car and make the road trip part of your adventure. The A4 motorway takes you there in under an hour, but the real joy is in detouring through wine villages, stopping at viewpoints like São Leonardo de Galafura, or extending into the Douro Valley.

  • Best for: Independent travelers, photographers, or foodies who want to stop along the way
  • Travel time: 50 minutes direct (longer if you stop)
  • Approx cost: €30–50 per day + tolls and fuel
  • Pros: Flexibility, freedom, hidden gems off the tourist path
  • Cons: Parking in Amarante can be tricky; drivers can’t fully indulge in wine tastings

Helpful tips for Porto to Amarante day trips

  • Stop for breakfast on the way: Many tours pause in small cafés en route; try a cimbalino (espresso) and pastel for a true local start.
  • Don’t skip São Gonçalo Church: Beyond its beauty, locals tie ribbons on the railings for blessings. Join in for a small, authentic ritual.
  • Walk the old bridge twice: Cross in both directions—the views upstream and downstream give totally different moods for photos.
  • Market days add buzz: Wednesdays and Saturdays transform Amarante with open-air stalls full of produce, cheeses, and crafts. Perfect for browsing between stops.
  • Pastries with a legend: Try bolo de São Gonçalo, phallus-shaped cakes, and locals say it brings luck in love, and it’s only found here.
  • Save space in your bag: Amarante’s small shops sell hand-painted pottery and woodcraft. Light, authentic souvenirs that travel well.
  • Expect delays on return: Weekend traffic back to Porto can be heavier. Plan a relaxed evening without tight reservations.

Frequently asked questions about Porto to Amarante tours

How long is the Porto to Amarante day trip?

The guided day trips last around 10 hours, including transfers from Porto, guided walking tours in Amarante, vineyard visits, and stops like Pinhão. Expect early morning departures and evening returns.

What are the different transport options from Porto to Amarante?

On your own, you can rent a car (about 1 hour’s drive), take a regional bus, or arrange a private transfer. But tours offer the easiest option, air-conditioned minibuses with hotel/central pick-ups, no parking stress, and guided commentary along the way.

Do I need to book my Porto to Amarante day trip in advance?

Yes, especially in summer and during weekends. Seats are limited on minibuses, and vineyard restaurants require prior reservations. Booking a few weeks ahead guarantees availability.

Are meals included in the tour?

Many day trips include a three-course Portuguese lunch at a vineyard estate or local restaurant. Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are usually available, but it’s best to inform the operator in advance.

Can I visit other attractions beyond Amarante on this day trip?

Yes, several tours also stop at São Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint, Pinhão for a Douro river cruise, or Sabrosa.

Can I do Amarante Porto day trip on my own?

It’s possible by car or public bus, but you’ll need to navigate schedules, parking, and winery reservations yourself. Guided tours handle all logistics and ensure you don’t miss key spots.

What’s the best time of year to visit Amarante?

Spring and autumn bring pleasant Amarante weather and fewer crowds. Summer is lively but hotter, while winter is quieter with occasional rain, ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace.

Is it safe to travel from Porto to Amarante for a day trip?

Absolutely. Amarante is a safe, welcoming town. Traveling with a licensed guide ensures extra support and local insights.

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Eurostar train seats with table and window view.

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Terraced vineyards along the Douro River with N222 highway in Douro Valley, Portugal.

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Aerial view of Douro Valley vineyards and river from São Leonardo de Galafura viewpoint, Portugal.

Douro Valley vineyards