Porto Six Bridges Panoramic Cruise
About this activity
Highlights
- D. Luis Bridge
- Ponte da Arrábida
- Ponte de São João
- Ponte do Freixo
- Ponte da Ribeira
Full description
Included / Excluded
- 50-minute guided river cruise
- Live commentary in English
- Panoramic views of Porto's six iconic bridges
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
Pass by: 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.
Pass by: 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.
Pass by: 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.
Pass by: 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.
Pass by: 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.
Pass by: 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.
Important information
Know before you book
- The cruise operates in English; consider booking a private tour for other language preferences.
- Food and beverages are not included; feel free to bring your own snacks or purchase them before boarding.
- The cruise is subject to weather conditions; check the forecast and contact the operator if uncertain.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for a boat ride.
- Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
- Arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- 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
Traveler reviews
A quiet, peaceful excursion
The cruise enabled us to see the beauty of the area away from the bustling tourist crowds.
Great, short excursion....
Great, short excursion. The recorded commentary gave facts and history of the bridges and significant buildings, provided in 4 languages. Sit near the front for unobstructed views.
Slightly Underwhelming
Too short but great views. Wouldn't have minded a longer tour. Felt like everyone was just going through the motions.
Lovely views
The 6 bridges tour is probably the 2nd best thing you can do in Porto. It is just magnificent. You see the city from a whole new perspective. It is my 2nd time doung it and if I cone back in the future I would do it again. The only thing it was troubling, was the meeting point. As there are multipke operators by the dock, it us difgicult to find tge correct obe. We were sent from one side to the other for almost 20 mins. Othee than that, it was great
This trip has no...
This trip has no commentary or information about the bridges or points of interest along the river. Very disappointing!
