Explore Peso da Régua: Where River Views and Wine Roads Begin

In the heart of the Douro Valley, Peso da Régua is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those captivated by stunning landscapes. As the capital of Port wine, this Portuguese city is the ideal starting point for a Douro Valley wine tour, offering access to UNESCO-listed vineyards, historic quintas, and unforgettable river cruises along the Douro. Whether you’re here to sample world-class wines, uncover the rich history of Port production, or simply take in the terraced hillsides, Peso da Régua promises a memorable and authentic experience.

Top things to do in Peso da Régua

Visit the Douro Museum

The Douro Museum is an essential stop for anyone looking to understand the rich history and evolution of winemaking in the Douro Valley. Set within a beautifully restored manor house, the museum offers an immersive journey through the region’s cultural and viticultural heritage. With interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and guided tastings, it provides a deeper appreciation of the traditions that have shaped this UNESCO-listed landscape. A must-visit for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Walk over the Régua Bridge (Ponte Metálica)

Take a stroll across the historic metal bridge that spans the Douro River. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the valley, the train station, boats gliding along the water, and the vine-covered hillsides. It’s especially beautiful at sunset — perfect for a photo stop or a quiet moment.

Take a Douro River Cruise

A Douro River cruise offers one of the most captivating ways to admire the valley’s iconic terraced vineyards. Whether aboard a traditional rabelo boat or a modern vessel, travelers are treated to sweeping views of a landscape shaped by centuries of winemaking, now proudly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruises between Peso da Régua and Porto vary in length, from short scenic trips to full-day journeys, some including passage through the river’s dramatic locks. Many itineraries also feature stops at local quintas, where guests can discover winemaking traditions firsthand and enjoy guided tastings. Whether at sunrise, when the golden light bathes the hills, or at sunset in tranquil silence, a Douro cruise is a truly unforgettable way to experience the soul of this remarkable wine region.

Experience a special lunch in the vineyards

Wine and food are inseparable in the Douro Valley, and the surrounding wineries near Peso da Régua offer unforgettable vineyard lunches that bring this harmony to life. Rooted in the region’s rural traditions, the local cuisine showcases robust, time-honored flavors made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Delight in cabrito assado (slow-roasted kid goat) or savor the depth of posta à Mirandesa, a perfectly grilled beef cut. For dessert, indulge in local specialties like bolo de mel (honey cake) or rebuçados da Régua, the town’s beloved handmade candies. Each dish is a tribute to the Douro’s rich culinary identity—best enjoyed with a glass of the region’s wine and a panoramic vineyard view.

Taste the wines of Quinta do Tedo

L’Atelier do Porto is an extension of what you can find at Quinta do Tedo. Located in Cais da Estação – Peso da Régua, it is an ideal urban bar for creating memories while tasting award-winning premium wines – signed by Winemaker of the Year Jorge Alves, with guided tastings and wine tastings, olive oil, cheeses and charcuterie boards. A place often full of wine enthusiats in the end of the day, perfect for enjoying a tasting with a wonderful view on the river, book your experience now!

Discover amazing local wines at Libatio

Tucked away in the historic heart of Peso da Régua, Libatio, a family-owned wine bar offers a unique tasting experience in a beautifully preserved wine cellar. Surrounded by towering wooden vats and thick stone walls, you’ll step into a space that breathes the soul of the Douro. The wine list highlights exceptional local producers, from bold reds to elegant whites and aged Ports. Whether you’re just discovering Douro wines or deepening your appreciation, the intimate setting and knowledgeable staff make Libatio a must-visit for an authentic and atmospheric tasting.

Enjoy a Porto tasting at Mateus & Sequeira Vinhos 

Mateus & Sequeira Vinhos – Tapas & wine bar is a space designed to showcase the best of Porto wine with a view over the Douro River.

Best Things to do around Peso da Régua

Explore the UNESCO-listed Upper Douro Vineyards

Situated in the heart of the Douro Valley, Peso da Régua has long been a key hub in the history of Portuguese winemaking. In 1756, the Marquis of Pombal established the world’s first regulated wine region here, creating the controlled designation of origin for Port wine. Today, the Douro continues to enchant visitors with its dramatic terraced vineyards and deep-rooted traditions. If you’re wondering what to do in Douro Valley, exploring Peso da Régua and its surroundings is a must. Within just a 30-minute drive, you can delve into the viticultural heritage of the Upper Douro, visit some of the region’s oldest wine cellars, and experience firsthand the craftsmanship behind Portugal’s most iconic wines.

Visit the City of Lamego and its Sanctuary

About 20 minutes from Peso da Régua, the city of Lamego is crowned by the magnificent Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, a Baroque masterpiece accessible via a grand staircase adorned with fountains and obelisks. This iconic pilgrimage site draws thousands of visitors each August during its annual festivities. Beyond its religious heritage, Lamego also charms with its historic cathedral and local museum, which offers insight into the city’s rich past. While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding Lamego wine tours, where you can discover elegant wines and the traditions that define this corner of the Douro Valley. For more information, explore our dedicated guide to the things to do in Lamego.

Explore Amarante

Just 37 miles from Peso da Régua, the town of Amarante offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy. Set along the banks of the Tâmega River, this charming town is known for its iconic stone bridge and the striking Church of São Gonçalo, both surrounded by a lively historic center filled with traditional shops and cafés. Amarante is also a gateway to the Vinho Verde wineries of the region, where you can discover fresh, crisp wines unique to Portugal’s northern terroir. Whether you’re strolling through cobbled streets, tasting local sweets like papos de anjo, or enjoying a glass of Vinho Verde with a view, Amarante makes for a rich and rewarding day trip from the Douro Valley.

Don’t miss our local’s team guide on the best way to visit Amarante.

Explore Vila Real and the Casa de Mateus

Less than 45 minutes north of Peso da Régua, the city of Vila Real invites you to explore its charming streets and striking granite monuments. A highlight of any visit is the iconic Casa de Mateus, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece surrounded by manicured gardens and towering cypress trees. Inside, you’ll find a remarkable collection of paintings, tapestries, and period furnishings that reflect the elegance of a bygone era. While in the area, be sure to experience a Vila Real wine tasting, celebrated for its character and connection to the rich traditions of the Douro region.

Check out our guide on the best things to do in Vila Real.

Travel Along the Douro Railway Line

Taking the train along the Douro River is a unique experience that delves into the history of the Portuguese railway. This emblematic railway line was created to connect vineyards and facilitate export for wine traders. Today, it offers a spectacular journey through blossoming valleys and listed vineyard landscapes.

Good to Know Before Visiting Peso da Régua