A boat in Porto


This is a type of boat known as a Rabelo, floating on the Douro River in the Ribeira area of Porto, Portugal. These traditional cargo boats were originally used to transport barrels of Port wine from the wine producers in the upper Douro Valley to the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from the old Porto.

Popular Portugal


Get a taste of the real Portugal with this small group tour, runs by Backroads Touring, one of our favorite small group tour companies. Covering everything from cosmopolitan Lisbon to Porto’s medieval cobblestone streets, the itinerary includes a visit to the remote, natural gem of the Douro Valley, to Roman ruins, and to world-famous pilgrimage sites. Cruise the Douro River in a traditional-styled, but electric powered, rabelo boat. Be moved by the folk music of traditional Fado singers. Visit the magnificent UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon, and the Shrine of our Lady of Fatima in Batalha.


Most departures for this tour are already sold out, but there are still a few seats left for departures in June, September and October. Contact us for details.

Video Inspiration: Wander in Porto

Here's a little something to get your travel ideas flowing, a look at the city of Porto, Portugal.



Port wine on the Douro


View of the Douro River Valley from our hotel. Time for some Port.

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