Douro river cruise

Take a cruise upriver (the cost starts at €15 (although they can be slightly cheaper if paired with a different activity) and takes about 50 minutes. Cruises run from 10:00 to 18:30, with sailings every 30 minutes for most operators. There are multiple river cruise operators and you can purchase a ticket from every tourist service and office in the Sao Bento area, or potentially from the wharf itself. Many of the cruises are themed around seeing the various bridges and river-adjacent facilities. You may also choose a day-long cruise starting at €70 to or from Régua, with one way of the journey completed by bus (included in the price). This tour states at 08:00 and returns at 17:00 or 18:00. Go at least as far as Pinhão — the landscape is absolutely stunning. If you choose to do this in the summer, don't forget your factor 30 sunscreen! Look for cruises based on the Vila Nova de Gaia wharf (the same side as the port wine caves), as some of them may offer discounts for cave tours or port wine purchases.

• outdoors