3 day itinerary for Douro Valley

Itinerary

The Douro Valley is a stunning destination, known for its breathtaking landscapes, terraced vineyards, and charming villages. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that balances easy hiking, scenic views, and delicious dining experiences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Pinhão

Morning:

• Arrival in Pinhão: Start your adventure in the picturesque village of Pinhão, which is often considered the heart of the Douro Valley. Check into a cozy guesthouse or a charming hotel with river views.
• Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Pinhão’s Café. Try their local pastries and a strong Portuguese coffee to kickstart your day.

Mid-Morning:

• Hiking Trail: After breakfast, take a gentle hike along the Pinhão River Trail. This easy trail offers stunning views of the river and vineyards. It’s about 4 km round trip and should take you around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Lunch:

• Restaurant with a View: Head to Restaurante Rabelo for lunch. It’s a lovely spot with a terrace overlooking the river. Try the local specialties like grilled fish or the famous “Francesinha” sandwich.

Afternoon:

• Wine Tasting: After lunch, visit one of the local wineries, such as Quinta do Bomfim. Enjoy a guided tour and tasting session, where you can savor some of the region’s best Port wines.

Evening:

• Dinner: For dinner, make a reservation at Castas e Pratos. This charming restaurant is set in a former railway station and offers a fantastic menu with local ingredients. The views of the river at sunset are simply magical!

## Day 2: Scenic Villages and Easy Hiking

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or at a local café.
• Visit to Lamego: Take a short drive to the town of Lamego (about 30 minutes). Explore the beautiful Lamego Sanctuary and its stunning staircase.

Mid-Morning:

• Hiking Trail: From Lamego, embark on the Caminho do Côa trail. This easy hike offers beautiful views of the valley and takes about 2 hours. Don’t forget your camera!

Lunch:

• Charming Restaurant: After your hike, enjoy lunch at Restaurante O Pátio in Lamego. The terrace has lovely views, and the menu features traditional Portuguese dishes at reasonable prices.

Afternoon:

• Explore Lamego: Spend some time wandering around Lamego, visiting the local shops and perhaps the Lamego Museum to learn more about the region’s history.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to Pinhão and dine at D.O.C., a restaurant by chef Rui Paula. It’s a bit more upscale but offers a fantastic tasting menu with a view of the Douro River. Make sure to book in advance!

## Day 3: Relaxation and River Cruise

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• River Cruise: Treat yourself to a scenic Douro River cruise. Many companies offer 1-2 hour cruises that provide a unique perspective of the valley’s beauty. It’s a relaxing way to soak in the views!

Lunch:

• Riverside Dining: After your cruise, have lunch at Restaurante Vale do Douro. It’s a charming spot with a lovely terrace and delicious regional dishes.

Afternoon:

• Hiking Trail: Post-lunch, take a short hike on the Caminho dos Vinhos trail, which is easy and offers stunning vineyard views. It’s a great way to wrap up your hiking adventures in the valley.

Evening:

• Final Dinner: For your last dinner, consider Quinta da Pacheca. This winery has a restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the vineyards. Enjoy a delightful meal paired with their wines, and reflect on your wonderful trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to explore the Douro Valley at your own pace.
• Reservations: Make reservations for restaurants and wine tastings in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Pack Accordingly: Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and a light jacket for the evenings, as it can get cooler.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in the Douro Valley! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the region. Safe travels! 🍷🌄