Porto Six Bridges Panoramic Cruise on the Douro River
Description
The traditional six bridges cruise is more than a simple boat ride; in fact, it is an experience that everyone who visits Porto must try. The reason is really simple, the beauty, the climate, the sensations of being in the middle of two cities, and obviously, the magnificent views projected by the amazing six bridges which connect Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Porto, Heritage site by UNESCO, is special from the river making this cruise one the most beautiful and fantastic activities that Porto has to offer you, so get on board and appreciate this amazing boat trip.
Tour Options
Itinerary
There are six magnificent bridges that join the two banks of the Douro River. Have fun on the Six Bridges Cruise and get to know them! Classified as a National Monument the D. Maria Pia Bridge is a railway infrastructure that crosses the Douro River, connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it was once the largest iron arch bridge in the world and is considered one of his greatest masterpiece.
The Ponte Dom Luís I is a true icon of the city of Porto and a marvel of 19th century engineering. The Dom Luís I Bridge spans the River Douro between Porto on the north bank and Vila Nova de Gaia on the south bank.
The Arrábida Bridge is an arch bridge that crosses the Douro River, connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. It was built in 1963 as a response to the increasing flow of traffic and the need for alternative connections to the old bridges. At the time of its construction, the bridge had the largest reinforced concrete arch of any bridge in the world.
The São João Bridge was built to replace the D. Maria Pia Bridge, another iconic bridge in Porto. The São João Bridge has become an iconic landmark in the Porto skyline and an important transportation link between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Interestingly, during the construction of the bridge, archaeologists discovered the remains of a Roman road and a medieval shipyard on the site, providing valuable information about the history of the area.
The Freixo Bridge was inaugurated in September 1995 is a road bridge that connects Vila Nova de Gaia to Porto, over the Douro River. Of all the bridges connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, the Ponte do Freixo is the one that is furthest upstream from the Douro River.
The Infante Dom Henrique Bridge, also known as the Infante Bridge, is a road bridge connecting Vila Nova de Gaia to Porto, over the Douro River, in Portugal. Named in honor of Infante Dom Henrique (He was the main promoter of the Portuguese expansion, the so-called ''Portuguese Discoveries''), he was born in Porto, it is the newest bridge connecting Porto and Gaia.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- The cruise is under the responsibility of the cruise operator (subject to weather and navigation conditions)
- Third party services are subject to availability and may change without notice
- The cruise is panoramic and no guide or audio guide service is guaranteed
- There is a minimum of participants for the activity to run
- The opening hours of the Six Bridges Cruise are daily from 10:30am - 6pm April - September and from 11am - 4pm October - March
Reviews(920)
This was so easy to find and a beautiful way to see Porto! The bridges are gorgeous and being on the river looking up at the sights along the banks was relaxing and lovely! It was a perfect, quick way to prepare for a spritz!
It was quite good, a different way to see the river, to enjoy the views from another place, a little rest from so much walking, etc. All companies offer the same thing.
We were not able to redeem the booking voucher for tickets because the tour office closed early. The booking stated that the voucher could be redeemed for any cruise on our booking date. It also stated that the last cruise on the river was at 8:30 pm. We attempted to redeem the voucher at 6 pm, and the tour office was closed. We should receive a full refund because it was not disclosed that vouchers must be redeemed before 6 pm. We are very disappointed and would not recommend Viatour with this tour company.
Booked a couple of hours before using the ticket through Viator. Instructions to make our way to Ribeira. and a choice of two operators to take our ticket to, either Douro Acima or Tomaz do Douro. We chose the first but it was just the first one we came to. Showed our ticket and were told to come back in half an hour and where to wait and we were booked on the next sailing cruise. No hassle, simple to use. Boat was great, no need for headphones, six bridge info was narrated over the speaker in two languages. Clear info on the bridges but not too much to overwhelm. All in all a great boat ride. It is also cheaper to book in advance rather than at the quay side.
Great experience and nice cruise. Please remember to check in and pre select time before boarding the boat
The boat itself was pleasant but finding check in was remarkably difficult. The address given via Tripadvisor led randomly to a locked gate on a back street with a QR code that led to a spam website. There was thankfully a map that directed to the correct location on the quay. When we finally found the booth on the quay we were given a paper ticket but still had to produce our electronic one as well. Overall unnecessarily complicated. Whilst we saw the bridges and the view of Porto was delightful the actual tour was not good as the (pre-recorded) audio could barely be heard. Disappointing.
The trip is spectacular, the crew is super friendly and attentive. We recommend 100%, we will definitely repeat.
Enjoy views of Porto from the river. You can see all the bridges with their diverse structures from this vantage point. A quick but worth it ride.
A great 50 minute trip up and down the river Douro. To see the Bridges and the history. Interesting and enjoyable.
superb experience good communication and support
