The Douro Valley by train

Stretching from Porto to the small town of Pocinho, the Douro Line (or Linha do Douro) is one of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys cutting through the heart of Portugal’s renowned wine country. The historic route traces the mighty Douro River, winding past steep terraced vineyards, small villages and craggy cliffs. Until 1984, the line connected all the way to Salamanca but now terminates at Pocinho. It’s a prime day trip for visitors to Porto, offering the chance to slow down, stop off en-route and soak up the region’s unique landscapes (maybe with a glass of famous regional wine).

Justin Owers

Inside the Douro Line train carriage.

The Douro valley train

Covering a distance of 160km, the Douro Line takes about 3h 20m each way and many travellers opt to enjoy the journey as a day trip from Porto. From São Bento station, there are four direct trains per day with limited stops (or changes). Starting early is advised if you want to hop off the train along the way. The direct 09:20 service is the best option to get you to Pocinho, with a stop to explore Pinhāo for a few hours, before returning to Porto in the evening. If you don't mind a change or two, then check timetables for other less direct services (including from Porto Campanhā).

Tickets are affordable, with prices for a single ticket from Porto to Pinhāo typically costing under €15. The service isn’t usually crowded and tickets have unlimited availability (they don’t sell out), so you can buy them at the station on the day. As there are no seat reservations on the service, turn up early for the best seat. Top tip: sit on the right side for river views leaving Porto, then the left from Ferradosa to Pocinho. If you do want your tickets in advance, you can purchase them and check timetables at www.cp.pt, then either print them or show them on your phone.

With retro carriages reminiscent of a Wes Anderson film, the train is photogenic inside and out. While it’s not a luxury service, it’s still comfortable. Expect simple seating and large windows that let you take in the passing scenery. Facilities are limited, there are toilets but no catering so it’s best to pack snacks and water for the ride. There are no power outlets or Wi-Fi, but that’s part of the charm—disconnect and watch the world roll by.

Benjamin Smith

Douro Line map. CC BY-SA 4.0.

The Douro Line journey

Departing from Porto’s historic São Bento Station, famous for its azulejo-tiled walls depicting scenes from Portugal’s history, the train follows the Douro River as it leaves the city. It makes its way through urban areas before temporarily leaving the river behind for the countryside at Porto Campanhã station. After rejoining the river at Pala, the landscape transforms into a patchwork of vineyards that cling to steep hillsides. This is the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world.

One of the first notable stops is Peso da Régua, roughly halfway along the line on the river’s south bank. Historically a hub for shipping port wine, Régua now has a few points of interest for travellers. The Museu do Douro (Douro Museum), housed in an 18th-century mansion, provides insight into the region’s winemaking heritage through interactive exhibits and archives. The town has plenty of cafés for a quick break, such as Cafe Alameda in the Jardim da Alameda dos Capitāes, with river views. If you’re not in a rush, a short stroll along the riverbank is worth your time. This is also the best point for a river cruise if you want to take to the water for a different perspective on the valley, with numerous providers sailing between Peso da Régua and Pinhāo in 1h 50m.

Justin Owers

View from the picnic spot in Pinhāo.

Further along is Pinhão, arguably one of the highlights of the journey and the best place to break your journey for a leisurely lunch. The station itself is a destination, featuring traditional azulejo tiles that depict scenes of the Douro Valley harvest. From here, you can enjoy lunch at a riverfront eatery like Veladoura, or visit nearby quintas (wine estates) to sample local port wines. Quinta do Bomfim, Quinta das Carvalhas and Quinta do Noval are the most accessible estates, offering tours and tastings within walking distance of the station (remember to book any tours in advance!). Another highlight, recommended by Justin from Byway’s Concierge team, is a small picnic spot with a fancy wine bar. It’s located halfway up the hill from the station, with views of the river, terraced hills and the Pinhāo bridge. Use the what3words address, ‘//copper.jingle.soundset’, to find it.

Beyond Pinhão, the line becomes increasingly remote, with fewer stops and even more dramatic views. Considered the most beautiful part of the line, the river narrows, and sheer cliffs rise on either side, The train often runs just feet from the water, sidling along the riverbanks for an intimate view of the Douro. At Ferradosa, the train crosses a bridge (one of 35 along the whole route) to the south bank of the river. If you continue to Pocinho, you’ll reach the end of the line—a quiet, unassuming town. While there’s not much to see in Pocinho itself, you have the chance to stretch your legs before catching the 17:12 service back to Porto, arriving in time for dinner.

Justin Owers

The Douro Line train travelling alongside the river.

The Douro Line journey with Byway

In our trips, the Douro Line is a suggested activity featured for stays in Porto as tickets are easy to get on the day, giving you the flexibility to take the trip when you like. It’s also part of this Douro Line trip on the final day in Porto, before continuing to Vigo. This is a long day that might not suit everyone and doesn’t give you much time for stop offs. If you’d like us to include a slower Douro Line route in your trip, please contact our Concierge team, who can check the availability of overnight stays in Pinhāo (or elsewhere).