Originally Posted by
Ilove2fly
Hi, My husband and I are planning to spend a few days in the Douro Valley. Our hotel is located in Pinhao. This is my first trip to Portugal and would like some recommendations from the experts.
1. Is it possible to take a boat ride from Porto to Pinhao or Peso da Regua and train back?
Yes. However, the boat ride up is an all-day affair. About 10 hours by boat. So the boats leave Porto early morning, 8 a.m. or so. Not sure how you plan on getting from your Pinhão hotel to Porto for the early morning boat departure.
2. Is it possible to hire a car/driver in Pinhao?
3. If hiring a driver is unrealistic or too expensive, how is the taxi situation? Will they pick up at various historical sites?
I am not sure what the difference is between a car/driver and a taxi. To me they are one and the same, and I think the people in Pinhão will think the same. Taxis exist in Pinhão and will meet all train and boat arrivals. You can then make arrangements with a taxi driver for your needs, including pickup at those historical sites.