Porto to Douro Valley Train Guide | Stations & Schedules

Ready to swap city noise for vineyard views? The Porto to Douro Valley train delivers a front-row seat to Portugal’s most breathtaking landscapes. From Porto to Régua and Pinhão, glide past terraced hills, sparkling rivers, and charming villages, all without lifting a finger. Wine stops, river cruises, and photo ops await, making this train ride the ultimate Douro adventure.

Why take the Porto to Douro Valley train?

Riding the Douro Valley train gives you a front-row seat to landscapes you won’t see from any road. Terraced vineyards, winding rivers, and quaint villages unfold outside your window as the train glides along the Douro.
On the Douro Valley train from Porto, you can relax completely. No traffic, no navigation, just smooth travel along the way.
With the Porto to Régua train and the train from Porto to Pinhão, you get direct access to these charming towns without the hassle of driving or finding parking.
Historic stations like Régua and Pinhão add extra character to the journey. This is a chance to soak up local culture before even leaving the platform.

See Douro Valley directions from Porto

Why Pinhão and Régua are the perfect Porto Douro Valley train stops

When exploring the Douro Valley by train, Pinhão and Régua steal the show. They both charm with postcard-perfect views and are your practical gateways to vineyards, cruises, and breathtaking river views.

Pinhão Train Station

Iconic features: Step off the Porto to Pinhão train and you’re greeted by one of Portugal’s most photogenic railway stations. Its hand-painted azulejo tiles tell stories of the valley’s vinemaking heritage, making it a mini art gallery right by the Douro River.
Scenic setting: The station sits right on the riverbank, giving travelers instant postcard-worthy views of terraced vineyards. Perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the Douro Valley’s charm.
Travel experience: Small, intimate, and charming, the Pinhão Train Station gives a slow-travel vibe. Arriving here feels like stepping into a storybook village where every corner is a photo opportunity.

Explore travel options to get to Porto to Pinhão

Régua Train Station

Iconic features: Serving as the main gateway on the Porto to Régua train, this larger station blends classic Portuguese architecture with practicality, reflecting its historical role as a hub for trade and travelers in the Douro Valley.
Scenic setting: A bit inland but still scenic, Régua Train Station offers easy access to riverside walks, local viewpoints, and docks, making it an ideal base for exploring the valley without wasting time.
Travel experience: Efficient and well-connected, Régua makes hopping on the Douro Valley train hassle-free. Its larger layout handles more passengers smoothly, perfect for day-trippers or anyone continuing further into the valley.

Plan with the Douro Valley map

Porto to Douro Valley train route

Starting point: São Bento Station | Find on Maps

Ending point: Pinhão Train Station | Find on Maps

Travel time: Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the train type and stops

The Porto to Pinhão train departs from São Bento Station, famous for its azulejo-tiled hall. The train snakes along the Douro River, passing terraced vineyards, medieval villages, and riverfront quintas. Some trains are part of the Comboios de Portugal regional service, offering large panoramic windows perfect for capturing the valley’s beauty.

Pro tip: Trains to Pinhão usually depart from the lower-numbered platforms. So, arrive early to find your carriage easily.

Starting point: São Bento Station | Find on Maps

Ending point: Régua Train Station | Find on Maps

Travel time: Approx. 2 hours, depending on the service and number of stops.

The Porto to Régua train follows much of the same Douro River route, with terraced vineyards and river bends visible from the carriage windows. Régua, the gateway to the Douro, offers charming streets, historic stations, and access to some of the valley’s best quintas.

Pro tip: Régua-bound trains can fill quickly, especially during weekends. Position yourself near the middle carriages to avoid bottlenecks at doors.

Frequently asked questions about Porto to Douro Valley train

How do I reach the Douro Valley by train from Porto?

Board at São Bento Station or Campanhã Station and hop on a regional or InterRegional service. Both the Porto to Régua train and the Porto to Pinhão train offer scenic views of the Douro River and vineyards.

How long does it take to get to Régua and Pinhão?

The Porto to Régua train takes roughly 2 hours, while the Porto to Pinhão train journey lasts about 2.5–3 hours.

Which stations should I use for day trips?

For a shorter day trip, Régua is ideal due to its central location and easy access to estates. For a full-day scenic adventure, Pinhão is perfect with its riverside charm and cruises.

How frequently do trains run, and which is best for scenic views?

Trains generally depart every 1–2 hours from São Bento.

Can I combine train travel with tours or river cruises?

Absolutely! Both Pinhão and Régua stations are close to grape estates, quintas, and river docks. Plan your train arrival to match cruise or tour schedules for a seamless Douro Valley experience.