I'm torn between doing my own arrangements and joining a small group tour for a day trip from Porto to Pinhao. I'm not overly interested in wine, so a winery tour is a marginal consideration. I'm more interested in the scenery, a lovely meal, possibly some walking/hiking and a short trip on the river. If I were to make my own tour, I would travel between the cities via train. Is the scenery along the road (via car) that much more beautiful that it would be worth joining a group tour? Other pros/cons for either a do-it-yourself day trip or joining a small group?
Thanks! Jennifer
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1826 posts
I’ve done it both ways and each have their advantages. The advantage of doing it yourself is you skip the winery tours if that’s not your thing and get to choose your restaurant.
But, it was very nice to sit back and have someone else navigate the day on the small group tour. But the group tour would not give you time for hiking as it’s pretty packed and is a long day.
I think you will likely enjoy it either way, especially if you go at a time when the vines are green. It’s a lovely area.