Taking a river cruise through Douro right now? Wonderful! A river cruise through the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine regions, is a wonderful experience. The Douro river flows from Spain in the east, across northern Portugal to the western city of Porto on the Atlantic coast.
Douro River Cruises
Many companies offer multi-night cruises up the river, all the way to the Spanish border, which makes it such an easy way to explore various portuguese cities along the river – Porto included.
Days on a cruise slip by as easily as drinking a port wine… but then your stomach starts growling and you realize: it’s time to eat! Most river cruise lines offer various meals a day. You can gather at linen-covered tables and toast with amazing portuguese wines. There’s always a friendly crew available to offer the leisure of lunch onboard and, in-between courses, you can enjoy the beauty of the cities from the deck.
But eating in the same dining room can grow tiresome, right? That’s why we suggest you step off the riverboat to sample local foods and drinks and mingle with locals at Porto restaurants and local wine bars.
Dock and dine in Porto. Where, you asked?
It depends. The river cruise boats are located on the banks of Douro in various parts of the city. On one side of the Douro River, there is the historic center of Porto; and on the other side of the river, sits Gaia. Your boat could either be docked on the Gaia side (across the bridge) or in Porto. If you are looking for a restaurant that is easy to get to either by walking or taking an Uber from the riverboat docks, stick with us as we share with you our roundup of 4 great spots to dock and dine in Porto.
If your ship docks on Gaia’s quay
The Yeatman
Ricardo Costa, the Chef, has no fewer than 2 Michelin stars under his belt. Many define his cuisine as “sophisticated Portuguese cuisine”. If you want to know more about him, we invite you to read this conversation between Taste Porto and Ricardo Costa.
Besides food and wine, The Yeatman is a luxury wine hotel and spa; and a landmark in the world of luxury hotels. At the Yeatman restaurant, wines are also sold by the glass – this means that you can create your own pairings if you’d prefer not to go with what your sommelier recommends. And now, look at these extraordinary views of Porto!
The Blini
A warm and cozy place in Vila Nova de Gaia, with a stunning view overlooking Porto city on the opposite side of the Douro River. Pescatarians will be in their element as it’s all about the fish here. Don’t leave without sampling the crab mousse appetizer and the seafood platter.
If your ship docks on Porto’s quay
Antiqvvm
Right at the heart of the city, Antiqvvm is an icon of fine dining with a breathtaking view. The menu is a bold reinterpretation of traditional portuguese flavors and it is definitely worth a stop. Chef Vítor Matos knows what he is doing! Don’t leave without sampling the red mullet with cauliflower and sea urchin sauce. Reservation is highly recommended.
Intrigo
It is quite a climb to get to this restaurant, but believe us when we say that is totally worth it. Stunning views over the Douro river, impeccable service, food beautifully cooked and presented. Intrigo is a food lover’s dream come true! Moreover, you can’t leave the restaurant without sampling their homemade bread – to die for!
There you have it: our roundup of 4 great spots to dock and dine in Porto.
Are your taste buds craving more Portuguese flavors, fellow foodie?
Are you ready to discover and taste other lesser-known local traditional dishes & wines while in Porto? You might think of joining our Downtown Food Tour. Guided by our passionate local host, you will experience the Porto that tourists rarely see, taste important elements of our cuisine, and learn about the history, architecture, and culture while walking the streets of our beloved city. Book your spot today on our Porto Food Tour!
Cheers!
Taste Porto Foodie Team
