Piccolina

Hi everyone

I've heard alot about this train ride so I'm planning to fit it into my 2 night stay in Duoro Valley. We'll be basing in Mesao Frio which is about 30 mins west of Regua

Is it necessarily to pre-purchase the train tickets to/from Regua to Pocinho?

Pocinho is end of the line - is it a good place to end the ride or better to turn around somewhere en route?

Similarly, should I start at Regua to Pinhao?

I was thinking to start the train ride mid morning (after breakfast at hotel) and chug along. What's a good place for a lunch stop and then hopefully hop back on the train? Or is it better just to do the entire ride and then lunch?

Thank you!!

MmePerdu

I was just looking at google maps for this very thing yesterday so will be interested in hearing the answers, too.

Piccolina

Mmeperdu -

FYI, I tried to pre-book the train tickets but it says not available for booking.

neckervd

"Is it necessarily to pre-purchase the train tickets to/from Regua to Pocinho?"
No, it's a regional line and only non Europeans could get the idea to prebook.
https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/pt/consultar-horarios

Pocinho bound trains leave Rede train station at 9am, 11am and 3pm, arrive at Pocinho 1 1/2 hrs later and turn back at 11.11, 13.21 and 17.21.

It's up to you to know what you want to do at Pocinho.
Some people visit the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, others the Aquafix waterpark. Some others go by 14.30 bus to Miranda de Douro in order to board the 17.00 boat for the spectacular Arribes del Duero cruise, sleeep at Miranda and go then either back to Portugal or proceed into Spain.
http://www.duerodouro.org/espacio-de...iental-arribes

Piccolina

Thank you neckervd.

I might just take the 9am and then take the 11.11 return!

Piccolina

Is there plenty of parking at the Regua train station to drop off the car?

neckervd

Why do you want to drive up to Regua if you can board the train at Rede?