Places we visited were great with friendly staff. Views while in the bus are amazing and Living Tours staff are very friendly
Javier
United StatesSep 2024
5/5
We highly recommend you do the wine tour to the Douro Valley... it was well organized, very informative and educational. We enjoyed the lunch served and wine tasting experience. Our guide Sergio was the best! He took care of everyone and made sure we were all comfortable. Thank you, Sergio
Gordon
CanadaJun 2023
5/5
Our TukTuk driver, Alex, was excellent. His English was great, and he was very knowledgeable able the tour he took us on. He made our experience very worthwhile. The boat was also good.
Gheorghiu
RomaniaApr 2023
5/5
The guide tour was very nice and waited for us, although we arrived late at the pick up point because of the rain. After this initiatic trip, it was very easy for us to find and visit every landmark of the city.
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
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
Enjoy Douro Valley flavors with tastings at 2 vineyards, explore Amarante, and sail the Douro River in Pinhão.
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: The UNESCO-listed Douro Valley from Porto with visits to two renowned vineyards, exclusive tastings, a traditional lunch, and a scenic river cruise in Pinhão. The trip takes you along the famed N222 route, considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
You’ll get: AC mini-bus transfers, free time to explore Amarante, stop at Sabrosa for a vineyard tour and lunch, a 60-min cruise, and a guided tour of a family-run vineyard with tastings.
Amarante: Stroll through this picturesque historic town known for its baroque architecture, the iconic São Gonçalo convent, and delicious pastries.
Pinhão: Go on a scenic Douro River cruise and make a quick stop at the São Cristovão Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of the terraced vineyards.
Upgrades: Opt for a small group tour for a more personalized experience, complete with hotel transfers and a visit to one renowned vineyard for tastings and lunch.
Inclusions
10-hour classic Douro Valley tour from Porto
Round-trip AC mini-bus transfers from a central pick-up point
English, Spanish, Portuguese, or French-speaking tour guide
Guided tour of one or two family-owned vineyards (as per option selected)
3 tastings per vineyard
60-minute Douro River cruise in Pinhão
Portuguese lunch at a vineyard with local blends pairing
Small group tour of 8 with an English-speaking guide specialized in the Douro Valley (as per option selected)
Round-trip AC mini-van hotel transfers (as per option selected)
Free guided city walking tour (any time after the experience)
What’s not allowed
Food & beverages, alcohol, smoking, bikes, drugs, feeding animals, fireworks, and explosive objects are not allowed in this experience.
Due to operator restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair and pram/strollers accessible.
Additional information
Every booking includes a complimentary Porto city walking tour in English or Spanish, after your experience. The free tour runs twice daily, at 9:30am and 4:30pm, departing from R. de Mouzinho da Silveira.
Vegetarian and gluten-free meal options are available upon request before the tour.
Visits to estates, restaurants, and other services are subject to third-party availability and may be shared with other groups.
The schedule and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice.
Children under 6 years old must remain under the full supervision and responsibility of their parents.
In the event of rain, activities will continue as planned or suitable alternatives will be provided, subject to availability.
This experience may include craft beverages. Availability is subject to age restrictions and local laws. Please carry a valid ID. Drink responsibly.
#
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Fewer travelers, deeper Douro experience—explore the top Douro viewpoints with a guide.
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: Portugal’s Douro Valley. Enjoy a more personal and immersive adventure with an expert local guide and tastings at family-run vineyards, and a 60-minute Douro River cruise.
You’ll get: Small group tour of 8, two vineyard visits with three tastings each, traditional lunch at an estate with curated pairings, and mini-van hotel transfers.
Douro River cruise: Glide through the heart of the valley on a scenic 60-minute river cruise, soaking in panoramic views of terraced vineyards and rolling hills as you sail along this iconic waterway.
Amarante: Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of a picturesque riverside town known for its Romanesque architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Inclusions
Small group tour of 8
10-hour tour of Douro Valley
Round-trip AC mini-van hotel transfers
English-speaking tour guide
Guided tour of two family-owned vineyard estates with tastings
60-minute Douro River cruise in Pinhão
Portuguese lunch at a vineyard with local blends pairing
Free guided city walking tour (any time after the experience)
Exclusions
Other meals and drinks
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Just for you and your group! Big flavors, cellar produce, and estate treats await on this private tour!
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: The heart of the Douro. Journey from Porto through charming ancient villages, visit a renowned estate for exclusive tastings, and top it all off with a picturesque 60-minute river cruise in Pinhão, all led by expert local guides.
You’ll get: Private guided tour, mini-van hotel transfers, access to two vineyards with regional drink tastings, traditional lunch, and Douro River cruise.
Amarante: Meander through cobbled streets lined with historic architecture in this quaint, heritage-rich town nestled along the Tâmega River.
São Leonardo da Galafura: Marvel at sweeping vistas of vineyards, mountains, and the sparkling Douro River from one of the valley’s most iconic viewpoints.
Upgrades: History buffs can enjoy an intimate private tour with guided visits to two family-owned estates with tastings included and cultural insights.
Inclusions
10-hour full-day private tour of Douro Valley
Round-trip AC mini-van hotel transfers
English, Spanish, Portuguese, or French-speaking tour guide
Guided tour of one or two vineyards
Three local tastings per vineyard
60-minute Douro River cruise in Pinhão
Portuguese lunch at a vineyard with local blends pairing
Free guided city walking tour (any time after the experience)
What’s not allowed
Oversized luggage, large bags, and suitcases are not allowed on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Additional information
If you need the vegetarian and gluten-free meal options, please inform before the tour starts.
The itinerary, schedules, and included services (such as estates, restaurants, and river cruises) are subject to change without prior notice due to local circumstances or third-party availability.
Children and minors are under the full responsibility of their parents or guardians throughout the experience.
A complimentary Porto city walking tour in English and Spanish is included with every booking, and can be done after your experience.
Note: Your guide and transport are exclusive, while vineyard visits, cruise, and lunch are shared with others.
This experience may include craft beverages. Availability is subject to age restrictions and local laws. Please carry a valid ID. Drink responsibly.
#
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Visit historic villages that most Douro tours skip, plus a tasting experience and a cruise.
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: The Douro Valley in an air-conditioned mini-bus, with guided visits to centuries-old villages rarely included in standard tours. Wander cobbled streets with an expert guide, learn the stories behind historic landmarks, and experience life in Portugal’s terraced countryside.
You’ll get: Round-trip transfers, a guided tour of Amarante, a 3-course lunch, 60-min Pinhão river cruise, and a guided visit to a renowned vineyard with 3 regional pours tasting.
Amarante: Visit the historic town of Amarante and marvel at the views from São Leonardo da Galafura, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the world..
Pinhão: Cruise along the Douro River, soaking in vineyard-draped hillsides, followed by a guided visit and tasting at a traditional Douro Valley estate.
Upgrades: Choose a private tour for up to 8 guests for a more intimate experience, with lunch near the São Leonardo viewpoint featuring homemade local specialties.
Inclusions
10-hour historic tour of the Douro Valley and the ancient villages
Round-trip AC mini-bus transfers from a central pick-up point (as per option selected)
Expert French, Spanish, Portuguese, or English-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Guided tour of Amarante and Galafura viewpoint
60-minute Douro River cruise
Guided tour of a vineyard with 3 tastings
3-course lunch at a panoramic or traditional restaurant (as per option selected)
Private tour of a group of 8 (as per option selected)
Round-trip AC mini-van hotel transfers (as per option selected)
Free guided city walking tour (any time after the experience)
What’s not allowed
Pets are not permitted on this experience.
Oversized luggage, large bags, and suitcases are not allowed.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments.
Additional information
Tours are usually conducted in one language, but a second language may be used.
Children under 6 years old are the full responsibility of their parents.
Tour services (vineyards/estates, restaurants, etc.) depend on third-party availability and may include other groups.
Schedules and itineraries may change without prior notice due to weather, traffic, or local circumstances.
Every booking includes a complimentary Porto city walking tour in English or Spanish, after your experience. The free tour runs twice daily, at 9:30am and 4:30pm, departing from R. de Mouzinho da Silveira.
#
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Day Trips
NaN
Classic Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
Enjoy Douro Valley flavors with tastings at 2 vineyards, explore Amarante, and sail the Douro River in Pinhão.
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: The UNESCO-listed Douro Valley from Porto with visits to two renowned vineyards, exclusive tastings, a traditional lunch, and a scenic river cruise in Pinhão. The trip takes you along the famed N222 route, considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
You’ll get: AC mini-bus transfers, free time to explore Amarante, stop at Sabrosa for a vineyard tour and lunch, a 60-min cruise, and a guided tour of a family-run vineyard with tastings.
Amarante: Stroll through this picturesque historic town known for its baroque architecture, the iconic São Gonçalo convent, and delicious pastries.
Pinhão: Go on a scenic Douro River cruise and make a quick stop at the São Cristovão Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of the terraced vineyards.
Upgrades: Opt for a small group tour for a more personalized experience, complete with hotel transfers and a visit to one renowned vineyard for tastings and lunch.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
10 hr.
Guided tour
Transfers included
Hotel pickup
Day Trips
NaN
Small-Group Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
Fewer travelers, deeper Douro experience—explore the top Douro viewpoints with a guide.
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: Portugal’s Douro Valley. Enjoy a more personal and immersive adventure with an expert local guide and tastings at family-run vineyards, and a 60-minute Douro River cruise.
You’ll get: Small group tour of 8, two vineyard visits with three tastings each, traditional lunch at an estate with curated pairings, and mini-van hotel transfers.
Douro River cruise: Glide through the heart of the valley on a scenic 60-minute river cruise, soaking in panoramic views of terraced vineyards and rolling hills as you sail along this iconic waterway.
Amarante: Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of a picturesque riverside town known for its Romanesque architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
10 hr.
Guided tour
Transfers included
Hotel pickup
Day Trips
NEW
Private Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
Just for you and your group! Big flavors, cellar produce, and estate treats await on this private tour!
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: The heart of the Douro. Journey from Porto through charming ancient villages, visit a renowned estate for exclusive tastings, and top it all off with a picturesque 60-minute river cruise in Pinhão, all led by expert local guides.
You’ll get: Private guided tour, mini-van hotel transfers, access to two vineyards with regional drink tastings, traditional lunch, and Douro River cruise.
Amarante: Meander through cobbled streets lined with historic architecture in this quaint, heritage-rich town nestled along the Tâmega River.
São Leonardo da Galafura: Marvel at sweeping vistas of vineyards, mountains, and the sparkling Douro River from one of the valley’s most iconic viewpoints.
Upgrades: History buffs can enjoy an intimate private tour with guided visits to two family-owned estates with tastings included and cultural insights.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
10 hr.
Guided tour
Transfers included
Hotel pickup
Day Trips
NaN
Historic Douro Valley Guided Tour with 1-Hour Pinhão Cruise, Traditional Lunch & Tastings
Visit historic villages that most Douro tours skip, plus a tasting experience and a cruise.
Starting point: From Porto City Center
Full day out to: The Douro Valley in an air-conditioned mini-bus, with guided visits to centuries-old villages rarely included in standard tours. Wander cobbled streets with an expert guide, learn the stories behind historic landmarks, and experience life in Portugal’s terraced countryside.
You’ll get: Round-trip transfers, a guided tour of Amarante, a 3-course lunch, 60-min Pinhão river cruise, and a guided visit to a renowned vineyard with 3 regional pours tasting.
Amarante: Visit the historic town of Amarante and marvel at the views from São Leonardo da Galafura, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the world..
Pinhão: Cruise along the Douro River, soaking in vineyard-draped hillsides, followed by a guided visit and tasting at a traditional Douro Valley estate.
Upgrades: Choose a private tour for up to 8 guests for a more intimate experience, with lunch near the São Leonardo viewpoint featuring homemade local specialties.