Favaios might seem like just a quiet village, but it’s actually a fantastic spot for a memorable lunch experience. Its scenic vineyards, traditional food, and wine culture make it a perfect place to combine sightseeing with a delicious meal. We love the Porto: Douro Valley Day Trip with Lunch and Favaios Village because it offers a well-rounded day that covers stunning scenery, a river cruise, and hands-on activities like bread making. If you’re after a blend of culture, nature, and great food, this trip is a winner. Want to see what it’s all about? Check it out here.
We also included a more comprehensive, private-style experience — the Douro Valley: 2 Wineries, Lunch & Boat. While more expensive, it’s perfect for wine lovers wanting to explore multiple estates and enjoy a relaxed, personalized day. Both options highlight Favaios’ charm but cater to slightly different tastes and budgets.
Below, we detail each tour, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
1. Porto: Douro Valley Day Trip with Lunch and Favaios Village
At number 1 on our list, this guided day trip from Porto combines several classic Douro Valley experiences, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking variety. The tour includes a Douro River cruise, a visit to the Wine Village of Favaios, and a hands-on bread-making workshop, which adds a fun, authentic touch. The day begins at Estação São Bento, with a scenic train journey that offers fantastic views of the landscape—an enjoyable alternative to a bus ride. Once in the valley, you’ll visit Casal de Loivos for a breathtaking viewpoint, giving you a perfect photo op.
The highlight is a lunch at a local winery, where regional foods are paired with Douro wines, including Ports. The guide shares insights about traditional bread making, and the visit to Favaios is both scenic and educational. With a solid 4.8 out of 5 rating from 11 reviews, it’s clear this tour delivers on quality and atmosphere. Guests appreciate the small-group setting, the delicious lunch, and the personalized approach. One reviewer notes, “Lunch was delicious and more than enough,” and the small train ride was a real highlight. The tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, engaging day with a mix of sightseeing and hands-on experiences.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded adventure combining scenic views, cultural activities, and delicious regional cuisine—perfect for first-timers and those wanting a full Douro experience in one day.
2. Douro Valley: 2 Wineries, Lunch & Boat
At number 2, this tour offers a more intimate look at the Douro’s winemaking scene. For around $217, you get visits to two distinct wineries — Favaios and Foz Tua — with guided tastings at each. The day begins with a transfer to Favaios, where you’ll tour the winery and indulge in food and wine tastings that showcase the region’s rich Douro DOC wines and Ports.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of wine tastings paired with regional foods, and the chance to enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Douro River. The itinerary is flexible, with plenty of time to explore the vineyards and absorb the scenic drives through UNESCO-listed landscapes. Guests who enjoy wine will appreciate the visits to Favaios and Foz Tua estates, where they learn about local production methods. The tour’s value lies in its focus on wine, regional cuisine, and the scenery, making it ideal for connoisseurs or couples seeking a luxurious day out.
While reviews are not available, this tour’s structure suggests a more tailored experience, perfect if you want a more exclusive, wine-focused day. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of walking and wine tasting, and who prefer fewer group activities and more personalized attention.
Bottom Line: For wine enthusiasts who want to visit two distinctive wineries, enjoy regional food, and relax on a scenic boat ride, this tour offers great value and a more private experience.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Favaios
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. The Porto: Douro Valley Day Trip with Lunch and Favaios Village is perfect for those who want a full day of sightseeing, local cuisine, and cultural activities, especially if you enjoy combining train rides, cruises, and hands-on workshops. It’s well-suited for first-timers and families.
If your priority is wine and scenic drives, then the Douro Valley: 2 Wineries, Lunch & Boat offers a more relaxed, wine-focused day. It’s excellent for couples or experienced wine lovers seeking a more personalized experience.
Practical tips: Book early, especially during peak seasons, and consider your fitness level — both tours involve some walking and outdoor exploration. Think about whether you prefer a structured group experience or a more intimate, private tour.
In sum, Favaios offers two very different but equally compelling lunch experiences. The first appeals to those seeking a diverse, activity-packed day with cultural stops and hands-on activities. The second caters to wine aficionados looking for a relaxed, premium experience with tastings and scenic drives. Whichever you pick, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s flavors and landscapes. Don’t delay — these tours fill up fast, especially in good weather, so plan ahead and secure your spot early.
