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Nestled between the picturesque curves of the Atlantic and the historical charms that unfold throughout its cities and villages, Portugal stands out as an exceptional tourism destination. The country, deeply rooted in a rich heritage and driven by warm hospitality, offers a tourism experience that exceeds expectations, captivating visitors with a touch of elegance and authenticity.

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Douro

THE BEST EXPERIENCES IN THE DOURO

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION TO PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY

Where to stay
booking hotels and houses
Porto World Heritage
The most beautiful city in Portugal
The Historical Train
Offering a nostalgic journey
Douro haute cuisine
The best selection of Restaurants!
Vale do Côa
Discover prehistoric rock
Presidencial Train
A luxurious and exclusive experience
Tours in Douro
Portugal's most emblematic and beautiful region
Alto Douro Vinhateiro
Historic vineyards and scenic beauty.
Activities
How to get around in the Douro

Douro History

CARETOS DE PODENCE
PATRIMÓNIO CULTURAL IMATERIAL DA HUMANIDADE
FUNDAÇÃO EÇA DE QUEIROZ
Divulgação e promoção do Escritor
MUSEU DO PÃO E VINHO
The History of Moscatel Wine and Favaios Bread
FUNDAÇÃO CASA DE MATEUS
MUNUMENTOS VALE DO VAROSA
TONGOBRIGA
Área Arqueológica do Freixo
MUSEU DO DOURO
Região Demarcada do Douro
MUSEU DA VILA VELHA
Exploring the Heritage of Vila Real
MUSEU E PARQUE DO CÔA
ESPAÇO MIGUEL TORGA
Estudar e divulgar a obra poética e literária
MUSEU DE LAMEGO
Um museu para todos
PALÁCIO DA BOLSA
A Jewel of Porto's Architectural Heritage
SANTUÁRIO DOS REMÉDIOS

THEMATIC TOURS

Lazer in the Douro

WINE VILLAGES ROUTE
Caminho dos Monges
ROTA DA NACIONAL 2
ROTA DOS VINHOS VERDES
ROTA DAS TASCAS DO DOURO
ALMOND BLOSSOM ROUTE
ROTA DO ROMÂNICO
ROTA NORTE
ROTA DOS TÚNEIS
VIEWPOINTS ROUTE
ROTA DO VINHO DO PORTO E DOURO
ROTA TERRA FRIA
ROTA DA FILIGRANA

Douro History

Douro Valley

The Douro Valley, located in northern Portugal, is one of the oldest and most beautiful wine regions in the world. Its history is rich and intertwined with the development of viticulture and winemaking in the region.

Ancient History
– Pre-Roman and Roman Era: The cultivation of vines in the Douro region dates back to at least the Roman period. The Romans recognized the region’s potential for wine production and began developing the terraces that are still a distinctive feature of the landscape today.

Middle Ages
– Monastic Influence:During the Middle Ages, Cistercian monks played a significant role in improving viticulture techniques. They established monasteries and vineyards, contributing to the spread of winemaking knowledge and practices.

Early Modern Period
– The Birth of Port Wine: The Douro Valley is most famous for its production of Port wine, which began to gain prominence in the 17th century. English merchants, in particular, were instrumental in popularizing Port wine. The Methuen Treaty of 1703 between Portugal and England allowed for the easier trade of Portuguese wines to England, boosting the Port wine industry.

18th Century
– Demarcation of the Douro Region: In 1756, the Marquis of Pombal, a powerful Portuguese statesman, established the Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro, which regulated wine production and trade. He also demarcated the Douro wine region, making it one of the first demarcated wine regions in the world. This helped to control the quality and authenticity of Port wine.

19th Century
– Phylloxera Crisis: Like many European vineyards, the Douro Valley was devastated by the phylloxera plague in the late 19th century. This tiny insect destroyed vast amounts of vineyards, leading to economic hardship. Recovery was slow, but grafting European vines onto resistant American rootstocks eventually revitalized the industry.

20th Century
– Technological Advancements: The 20th century saw significant advancements in winemaking technology and techniques, improving the quality and consistency of Douro wines. The region also began to diversify its production, making not just Port but also high-quality table wines.
– UNESCO World Heritage Site:** In 2001, the Douro Valley was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its cultural landscape, which reflects the long tradition of viticulture and the human effort to transform and adapt the land.

Modern Day
– Continued Innovation: Today, the Douro Valley is renowned for both its traditional Port wines and a variety of excellent red and white table wines. The region continues to innovate and attract wine enthusiasts from around the world, contributing to Portugal’s reputation as a leading wine producer.

The Douro Valley’s history is a testament to the enduring relationship between its people and the land, marked by centuries of cultivation, struggle, and triumph in the art of winemaking.

Overview of the Douro

The Douro region is a notable area in northern Portugal, renowned for its stunning landscapes, terraced vineyards, and the majestic Douro River that winds through it. This region is famous for its production of port wine and has a rich cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for both Portuguese and international visitors. The Douro Valley's picturesque scenery and mild climate add to its charm and allure.

https://bucketlistportugal.com/

The Douro region is characterized by its terraced vineyards, steep hillsides, and the winding Douro River, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. The region also features charming villages, historical sites, and lush valleys in the interior.

The Douro Valley has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, similar to the Algarve. The region is known for its long, sunny days, ideal for viticulture.

The Douro Valley is renowned as a prominent wine-producing region, particularly famous for its port wine. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, classified as csa in the Köppen climate system. This translates to warm summers and mild winters. The average high temperature is 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit) in January and February, rising to 31 degrees Celsius (88 degrees Fahrenheit) in July and August.

Portuguese culture

Portugal possesses an extremely rich and diverse culture, shaped by its long history and the various peoples who occupied its territory (Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Lusitanians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors), as well as its significant role during the Age of Discoveries. This heritage has left a lasting impact, with Portuguese culture and language still playing important roles in various parts of the world, particularly in Brazil and some African countries.

For those who seek more than just a scenic wine tour, the Douro region offers a wealth of cultural activities. The region boasts a rich cultural heritage, including ancient wine estates (quintas), historic villages, Romanesque churches, baroque mansions, monasteries, and the historic city of Porto with its medieval Ribeira district. In this article, you can read more about Portuguese culture in the Douro.

Portugal possesses an extremely rich and diverse culture, shaped by its long history and the various peoples who occupied its territory (Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Lusitanians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors), as well as its significant role during the Age of Discoveries. This heritage has left a lasting impact, with Portuguese culture and language still playing important roles in various parts of the world, particularly in Brazil and some African countries.

For those who seek more than just a scenic wine tour, the Douro region offers a wealth of cultural activities. The region boasts a rich cultural heritage, including ancient wine estates (quintas), historic villages, Romanesque churches, Baroque mansions, monasteries, and the historic city of Porto with its medieval Ribeira district. In this article, you can read more about Portuguese culture in the Douro.

Portuguese Traditional Dance

There is a traditional dance in the Douro region known as “Rancho Folclórico.” This dance is part of the region’s rich cultural heritage and is often performed at local festivals, parties, and celebrations.

Rancho Folclórico

– Origin: Rancho Folclórico groups are dedicated to preserving and promoting the folk traditions of various regions of Portugal, including the Douro.
– Characteristics: The dances are accompanied by traditional music played with instruments such as the concertina, accordion, Portuguese guitar, and various types of percussion.
– Costumes: Participants wear traditional costumes that reflect the clothing worn by local inhabitants in the past. These costumes can vary depending on the specific group and sub-region within the Douro.
– Types of Dance: Typical dances include the “vira,” “malhão,” and “chula,” which are lively dances often involving formations in circles or lines, with coordinated movements among the dancers.

Fado Music

Fado Music in the Douro

Fado originated in Lisbon and is one of the most significant traditions of the Portuguese capital. However, people from all over Portugal resonate with fado and identify with its soulful melodies. Fado captures the essence of Portuguese culture better than any other artistic expression. In 2011, UNESCO declared fado a World Heritage, recognizing its cultural importance. Since then, fado has grown in popularity and is performed throughout the country and internationally.

In the Douro region, you can enjoy fado music in various local venues. Traditional towns like Peso da Régua and Lamego often feature fado performances as part of their cultural and entertainment programs. Many wine estates (quintas) and local restaurants also host fado nights, allowing visitors to experience this deeply emotional and uniquely Portuguese music while enjoying the region’s famous wines and stunning landscapes.

The Portuguese People

Portugal has a population of about 10 million people, with around 200,000 residing in the Douro region. The population density is approximately 60 inhabitants per square kilometer, but it is unevenly distributed across the region. For example, the more urbanized areas like Peso da Régua and Vila Real have a higher density, while the rural and mountainous areas have a much lower population density.

The people of the Douro are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards foreigners, including the significant immigrant communities from various countries and the many tourists who visit the region. Portuguese people love to converse, sharing knowledge and stories with people from different countries. To learn about the daily life and habits of the local people, visit a vineyard, a local market such as the municipal market of Lamego, or sit at a terrace in the pedestrian areas of a town and observe the locals in their environment.

Religion in the Douro

In terms of religion, there is religious freedom in Portugal and no connection between state and religion. Most Portuguese people are Catholic, a religion that is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture. However, most Portuguese people in the Douro do not regularly attend church and are quite tolerant of other religions. Traditionally, there are religious processions in most villages and towns of the Douro. Perhaps the best example is the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios procession in Lamego, which is held every year in September. Below you can see a picture of this famous procession.

Portuguese Food in the Douro

Douro cuisine is influenced by the river and the land, with typical dishes including:

Fish and Seafood:
– Dourada grelhada (grilled sea bream): Freshly caught from the Douro River and grilled to perfection.
– Peixe do rio (river fish): Various species of fish from the Douro River, often cooked in traditional stews.

Meats:
– Posta à Mirandesa: A succulent beef steak typical of the Trás-os-Montes region.
– Cabrito assado (roast kid): A popular dish during festive occasions.

Sweets:
– Toucinho do céu: A rich almond and egg yolk cake.
– Pão de Ló de Margaride: A traditional sponge cake from the Douro region.

Drinks:
– Wine: The world-famous port wine produced in the Douro Valley.
– Vinho do Douro: Red, white, and rosé wines from the region, known for their high quality.

Portugal is a country rich in flavors and culinary variety. To help you make the most of your culinary experience, here are some tips on what to try as soon as you set foot on Portuguese soil. From desserts to drinks, Portuguese cuisine will delight your taste buds. When you are in the Douro, the local food will be one of the many highlights of your stay. We’ll cover different types of food you should try in the Douro. How about discovering some delicious traditional Portuguese dishes now?

Soup
In Portugal, soup is a cherished dish, enjoyed as both an appetizer and a main course. There are several varieties of soup to try in the Algarve. One popular choice is **Caldo Verde**, which means green soup. It’s made with local ingredients, olive oil, and cabbage, resulting in a delicious, healthy, and hearty dish. Another must-try is **Sopa da Pedra**, which translates to stone soup. Despite its unusual name, it is quite tasty and a substantial meal! The best places to savor these soups are small, family-run restaurants and taverns, where recipes are handed down through generations.

The legend of Sopa da Pedra tells of a poor monk who arrived at a house and asked the owners for a pot and water to make soup. He took a smooth stone from his bag and placed it in the pot. He then asked for a bit of salt and chouriço (spicy sausage) to enhance the flavor. Next, he inquired if they had anything to thicken the soup, and the curious hostess provided beans and potatoes. In the end, the monk thanked them for their kindness, cleaned the stone, put it back in his bag, and left. And this is the story of how Sopa da Pedra was born.

Fish
Given Portugal’s deep connection with fishing and history, there is a wide variety of fish dishes to try. Two of the most typical fish dishes are made with codfish and sardines. In Portugal, codfish is prepared in every conceivable way. For example, you might want to try **Pastéis de Bacalhau** (codfish cakes). These are made with eggs, shredded codfish, onion, and parsley, all mixed together and fried into small oval shapes. They are extremely tasty, whether served cold or warm, and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main dish!

Codfish
Codfish is also highly appreciated when boiled with vegetables and potatoes as a side dish. Another popular dish is **Bacalhau à Brás**, made with fried potatoes, codfish, and parsley mixed together with eggs.

 

 

 

Sardines
As for sardines, they are enjoyed in various ways, with the most famous preparation being grilled sardines. For instance, grilled sardines are a highlight at the Sardine Festival in Portimão.

Whether you prefer cooking these dishes at home or enjoying them in a local setting, you can easily find fresh ingredients at local markets. For an authentic experience, consider dining at a small family-run restaurant or chop-house to savor these traditional dishes while soaking in the cultural atmosphere.

Meat
Portugal is renowned for its meat dishes. One example is **Enchidos**, a diverse group of smoked sausages filled with various ingredients. A notable type of meat is **barrosã**, originating from the north of Portugal, known for its rich flavor and texture. Among the enchidos, the most famous are the **Alheiras de Mirandela**. These sausages are made from a mix of pork and bird meat, wheat bread, lard, and oil. Although the description might not sound tempting, one bite will likely change your mind instantly.

There’s one more thing you should definitely try: Francesinhas! They’re one of the most typical plates and it was created in Porto. It’s a type of sandwich, with various types of meats and enchidos inside and topped with cheese. This goes in the oven to grill the cheese and warm the meat. Finally it is covered by an orange sauce made of beer, port wine and tomato. They are usually served with fried potatoes. Look for the most traditional-looking restaurant or chop-house and enjoy one of these marvelous dishes!

Desserts
Portugal boasts many traditional desserts, with some unique to the Algarve, such as **bolinhos de amêndoa**, **folar Algarvio**, and **Dom Rodrigos**. Bolinhos de amêndoa are made from almonds and egg yolks and are wrapped in colorful aluminum foil. If you want to try something typically Portuguese, we highly recommend **pastéis de nata**, **ovos moles de Aveiro**, **arroz doce**, and **queijo da serra**.

Pastéis de nata
Pastéis de nata are small custard tarts that are highly appreciated worldwide. The original pastéis de nata come from Lisbon and are called pastéis de Belém. These pastries are filled with a sweet, creamy custard and are usually served with a sprinkle of cinnamon and/or powdered sugar. You can find pastéis de nata throughout the Algarve.

Arroz doce

Arroz Doce is another traditional dish. Many Portuguese people have memories of their grandmothers cooking Arroz Doce with love for them. Arroz Doce means ‘sweet rice’. It is mainly composed of rice, milk and a bit of sugar. After being cooked, it has to spend some time in the refrigerator. It is served with cinnamon (for those who like it), what makes it one of the favourite desserts among Portuguese people.

Queijo da Serra
If you’re looking to try something handmade and traditional, Queijo da Serra is an excellent choice. This cheese is produced from sheep’s milk in Serra da Estrela, the main mountain range in Portugal, located in the northern part of the country. Queijo da Serra has a strong flavor and a creamy texture, often described as “amanteigado,” which means buttery. It is only produced during the colder months.

If you visit the Algarve, you might consider taking a trip to Serra da Estrela to taste this cheese and enjoy skiing. Queijo da Serra is typically served with bread and handmade marmalade, creating a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors. This combination offers one of the best gastronomic experiences you can find in Portugal.

Fruits

The Douro region is home to a great variety of amazing, tasty fruits. For example, you can find many vineyards, olive trees, and almond trees in the Douro. So you can always have a delicious and healthy lunch consisting of local olives, almonds, grapes, and handmade bread.

Portuguese Wine

Portugal is renowned for its diverse and high-quality wines, with a winemaking tradition that dates back to ancient times. The country’s varied climate and geography contribute to the unique characteristics of its wines. Here are some key highlights of Portuguese wine:

Wine Regions

1. Douro Valley: Famous for producing Port wine, the Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world. It also produces excellent red and white table wines.

2. Alentejo: Known for its robust red wines and increasingly popular white wines, the Alentejo region offers a wide variety of styles due to its diverse terroir.

3. Dão: Located in central Portugal, this region produces elegant and full-bodied red wines, primarily from the Touriga Nacional grape.

4. Vinho Verde: This region in the northwest produces light, refreshing, and slightly effervescent white wines, perfect for warm weather.

5. Lisboa: Surrounding the capital, this region offers a mix of red and white wines, benefiting from the coastal climate.

6. Setúbal: Known for its fortified Moscatel wines, Setúbal also produces some excellent red and white wines.

Famous Portuguese Wines

1. Port: A fortified wine from the Douro Valley, Port is sweet and typically enjoyed as a dessert wine. It comes in several styles, including Ruby, Tawny, and Vintage.

2. Madeira: Another fortified wine, Madeira comes from the island of Madeira. It ranges from dry to sweet and is known for its longevity and unique aging process.

3. Vinho Verde: These young wines are light, crisp, and slightly fizzy. They are typically made from the Alvarinho, Loureiro, and Trajadura grape varieties.

4. Touriga Nacional: This grape is considered the flagship of Portuguese red wines, producing rich and aromatic wines, especially from the Douro and Dão regions.

5. Alentejo Reds: Known for their full-bodied and fruit-forward profile, these wines are made from grape varieties such as Aragonez, Trincadeira, and Alicante Bouschet.

Wine Culture

Wine is an integral part of Portuguese culture, often enjoyed with meals and during social gatherings. Wine tourism is also growing, with many wineries offering tastings and tours, allowing visitors to experience the rich history and craftsmanship behind Portuguese wines.

Pairing Portuguese Wine

– Port Wine: Pairs well with blue cheese, dark chocolate, and rich desserts.
– Vinho Verde: Excellent with seafood, salads, and light appetizers.
– Alentejo Reds: Complements grilled meats, stews, and hearty dishes.
– Dão Reds: Ideal with lamb, game, and robust cheeses.

Portugal’s wine diversity offers something for every palate, from light and refreshing whites to rich and complex reds, and distinctive fortified wines. Whether you’re exploring the vineyards in person or enjoying a bottle at home, Portuguese wine provides a taste of the country’s rich heritage and innovative spirit.

The Douro is a notable region in northern Portugal. The Douro Valley, particularly known for its wine production, stretches along the Douro River. This river, originating in Spain, flows westward across northern Portugal to its outlet in Porto. In total, the Douro region covers an area of about 18,000 sq km. In this article, you can read all about the geography of the Douro.

Key Locations in the Douro:

– Porto: The gateway to the Douro Valley, known for its historic Ribeira district, port wine cellars, and landmarks like the Dom Luís I Bridge.
– Peso da Régua: A central hub for the Douro wine region, offering access to vineyards and quintas (wine estates).
– Lamego: Famous for its baroque Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, historic churches, and vibrant local culture.
– Pinhão: Known for its stunning landscapes, terraced vineyards, and the beautiful Pinhão railway station with its azulejo tile panels.
– Vila Real: The capital of the Vila Real District, known for the Mateus Palace and its beautiful gardens.
– São João da Pesqueira: One of the oldest municipalities in the region, rich in wine history and offering breathtaking views of the Douro Valley.

Enjoy exploring the diverse geography and cultural landmarks of the Douro region!

Borders

The Douro region has three significant natural borders:

– The Atlantic Ocean to the west, where the Douro River meets the sea near Porto.
– The Douro River itself, which flows from east to west, originating in Spain and creating a natural border along its course through the region.
– A series of mountain ranges to the north and south, including the Marão and Montemuro mountains, which help define the boundaries of the Douro Valley and separate it from other regions of Portugal.

How to Get Around in the Douro

Traveling in the Douro is easy and offers a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you prefer public transport, car rentals, or guided tours, there are many ways to explore this beautiful region. Below is a complete guide on how to get around in the Douro, including timetables and costs.

Car

Traveling through the Douro region by car is the easiest and fastest way to explore the cities and vineyards. Many remote quintas and viewpoints are only accessible by car. The Douro region has two main roads to reach the major towns and tourist spots:

1. Highway A4: This is the fastest route but requires a toll. Most rental cars are equipped with an electronic device that registers your drive on the A4, with the costs automatically charged by the rental company.

2. National Road N222: This road is free of charge and offers a more scenic route. If you prefer a more relaxed drive and enjoy the landscape, this is the best option.

Renting a car

If you didn’t drive to the Douro with your own car, we recommend that you rent a car. This is more expensive than traveling by public transport, but if you value speed and freedom over costs, then renting a car is a great way to travel and move around in the Douro. There are several different car rental companies in the Douro, each with their pros and cons. If you want to read about the pros and cons of each car rental company, we have a separate article for you.

Public Transport

  • Trains: The Douro railway line is one of the most scenic train routes in Portugal, running from Porto to Pocinho and offering breathtaking views of the river and vineyards. Trains are a cost-effective and picturesque way to travel through the region.
    • Timetables and Costs: Trains run regularly, with more frequent services during peak tourist seasons. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station, with prices varying depending on the distance traveled.
  • Buses: Buses connect many towns and villages in the Douro, providing access to more remote areas not served by the train. They are generally affordable and reliable.
    • Timetables and Costs: Bus schedules vary, so it’s best to check local listings or visit the bus station for the most up-to-date information. Tickets are usually inexpensive.

Guided Tours

  • Wine Tours: Many companies offer guided wine tours that include visits to vineyards, wine tastings, and meals. These tours often provide transportation, making them a convenient option for those interested in the region’s famous wines.
    • Costs: Prices for guided tours vary widely, with options ranging from budget-friendly group tours to luxurious private experiences.
  • Boat Tours: Exploring the Douro River by boat is a unique way to see the region. Boat tours range from short river cruises to multi-day trips.
    • Costs: Prices depend on the length and type of the tour. Some tours include meals and wine tastings.

Tips for Travelers

  • Timetables and Planning: Always check the latest timetables and plan your journey in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons when transport can be busy.
  • Local Information: Visit local tourist information centers for maps, schedules, and recommendations tailored to your interests and budget.

Taxi

Taking a taxi is a comfortable and fast way to move around the Douro region. Especially if you don’t like to drive abroad, this is a great transportation option. Taxis operate day and night and can carry up to four passengers. If you order a taxi by phone, you can request a larger vehicle.

All taxis have a meter, and the cost depends on the distance and traffic. To give you an idea, the fare between the airport in Porto and the city center is between €20 and €30. This trip takes about 20 minutes. The price from the airport to Peso da Régua is about €75. This trip takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the traffic.

Uber

Uber has conquered the transportation market worldwide and is quite popular in the Douro region as well, among both tourists and locals. It is an easy option to move around the towns. A main benefit is that you don’t need cash at hand, as the costs are automatically charged to your credit card. Another benefit is that you see the price upfront, allowing you to accept the rate or not.

Hospitals in the Douro region

Hospitals in the Douro region

There are three main hospitals in the Douro region: in Vila Real, Peso da Régua, and Lamego. These hospitals can provide serious medical assistance and emergency care. In addition, there are some smaller emergency care facilities in several places in the Douro. Furthermore, there are many health clinics and pharmacies in the Douro that can assist you with all kinds of non-emergency medical help. If you have had an accident or witnessed an accident and an ambulance is required, the emergency number to call is 112.

Addresses and phone numbers of hospitals in the Douro

If you are in need of medical aid and you can reach a hospital by yourself, these are the addresses and telephone numbers of the three main hospitals in the Douro:

Hospital of Vila Real
Rua dos Hospitais, 5000-508 Vila Real
+351 259 300 500

Hospital of Peso da Régua
Rua da Ferreirinha, 5050-220 Peso da Régua
+351 254 320 200

Hospital of Lamego
Avenida Egas Moniz, 5100-190 Lamego
+351 254 609 600

Practical tips

The hospitals will probably ask you for your European Health Insurance Card and perhaps your passport as well. If you can, bring both of them. However, if you need help that is not covered by your insurance, be prepared to pay directly at the medical clinics and dental practices. Also, be aware that the fees outside regular hours are considerably higher. Furthermore, it is good to know that most doctors and medical specialists in the Douro region speak English.

Private hospitals

You can also find private hospitals in the Douro region. These hospitals focus on innovation, technology, and service. For example, they have a cardiovascular intervention unit that offers a wide range of non-invasive tests and interventions. There is also a rehabilitation and accident unit for all types of acute and chronic conditions. You can find private hospitals in Vila Real and Lamego. Below you can find the addresses and phone numbers.

Hospital da Luz Vila Real

In the Douro region, you can also find the private Hospital da Luz in Vila Real. This hospital is known for its innovation, technology, and high-quality service. It offers a wide range of medical services, including a cardiovascular intervention unit and a rehabilitation and accident unit for various acute and chronic conditions. Here are the details:

Hospital da Luz Vila Real
Avenida da Noruega, 5000-508 Vila Real
+351 259 309 400

 

Hospital da Trofa Vila Real

In the Douro region, you can also find the private Hospital da Trofa in Vila Real. This hospital is renowned for its innovation, technology, and high-quality service. It offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including specialized units for cardiovascular intervention and rehabilitation for various acute and chronic conditions. Here are the details:

Hospital da Trofa Vila Real
Avenida do Regimento de Infantaria 13, 5000-660 Vila Real
+351 259 330 700

Police in the Douro region

There are two types of police in the Douro: the GNR and the PSP. In this article you can read what the difference is between the two. Below you can also find the addresses and phone numbers of the different police stations in the Douro. In case of you need the police immediately, you should call the emergency number 112.

Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR)

The National Republican Guard (in Portuguese: Guarda Nacional Republicana or in short GNR) is the national gendarmerie force in Portugal. Basically, GNR is the military police force and GNR personnel are soldiers. The GNR deals with maintaining public order and all safety matters. They have jurisdiction over the majority of Portugal, except the larger cities, which fall under the jurisdiction of the PSP. If necessary, the GNR can hand over cases to the PSP. Still, you will find a GNR

Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP)

In addition to the GNR, there is the Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP). The PSP is the civil police force of Portugal. They focus on large urban areas and airports. In addition, they secure major events, do traffic policing, crime investigations and are responsible for firearms licensing.

Exploring the Douro Region

The Douro region offers a perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and culture, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.

Most of the Douro’s vineyards and scenic spots are well-maintained, with clear signage indicating the paths and quality of the facilities.

At tourist sites, it’s common to find wine-tasting sessions, guided tours, and terraces where you can enjoy a drink or a meal overlooking the stunning landscapes. For a quieter experience, avoid the peak summer months (July and August) when the region receives the highest number of visitors.

Currency in the Algarve

The currency in Portugal, including the Douro, is the euro. It was introduced in 2002. One euro is divided into 100 cents, and there are 7 euro banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros. In addition, there are 8 coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 euro coins. Each euro country has a specific symbol on one side of all coins. In Portugal, all coins display the royal seal of Dom Afonso Henriques.

Payment in shops and restaurants

Most shops and restaurants in the Douroe accept debit and credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard and American Express. However, there are some smaller shops and restaurants that do not accept any cards. Chances are you will come across a shop during your holiday that doesn’t accept any cards. That is why it is recommended to always have some cash on hand in the Douro.

ATMs

In the Douro you can find plenty of ATMs, both from international operating banks such as Santander and from Portuguese banks such as Caixa Geral de Depósitos. Some ATMs have an MB sign, which is an abbreviation for Multibanco. Here you can withdraw money from your bank account or creditcard. Beware that your card/bank may have a withdrawal amount limit. Also beware that there may be charges for using your card abroad. The charged amount depends on which bank you are using. However, you will always be informed of the charges before they are actually charged.

Douro  2024

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