8 Days Douro River Valley | Porto to Porto

An extraordinary journey designed for culturally curious travelers.

As you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port. Explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, home to iconic rabelo boats, cutting-edge cuisine and a thriving art scene. Wind your way through the dramatic landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Douro Valley, heading ashore to visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them. See the famous university of Salamanca, Spain, visit the mountaintop village of Castelo Rodrigo, and discover historic Guimarães. There’s no better way to discover Europe’s best-kept secret than this scenic and all-inclusive river cruise!

DAY 1  PORTO (EMBARK)

Arrive in Porto, the port city at the mouth of the Douro.

DAY 2  RÉGUA, PINHÃO

Today is all about wine, which has been cultivated in the Douro River Valley since ancient Roman times. Get a crash course on the history of Port during your visit to the Douro Museum. Later, partake in a choice of excursions, including a tasting at a prestigious Port wine estate or a vineyard hike with a wine tasting at a local quinta.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

DAY 3 PINHÃO, POCINHO, VEGA DE TERRÓN

Go medieval today at Castelo Rodrigo, both the name of a hilltop castle as well as the village that surrounds it. The view from the top is incredible and the village is a charming place to ramble, relax and replenish. Alternatively, lace up your hiking boots and unleash your inner Indiana Jones with an up-close gander at some prehistoric carvings at an archaeological park.

DAY 4  VEGA DE TERRÓN (SALAMANCA), BARCA D’ALVA

Today, you can visit the historic university town of Salamanca—the “Golden City”—famous for its sand-colored buildings and abundance of churches. Feel the centuries fall away as your ship winds its way through the pristine, dramatic UNESCO-protected landscapes of the Douro River Valley.

DAY 5  BARCA D’ALVA, RÉGUA

Discover the wonders of a special town right in the gateway of the Douro Valley, Lamego. Later, enjoy a Night Out with dinner at a local quinta.

DAY 6  RÉGUA , PORTO (BRAGA)

Discover the oldest town in Portugal today on a visit to Braga, where 2,000 years of history mingle with a youthful modern culture.

DAY 7  PORTO

Portugal’s second city (after Lisbon), Porto gave its name to the nation’s most famous export, Port wine, and to the nation itself. Today, choose to explore Portugal on foot or by panoramic drive.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

DAY 8  PORTO (DISEMBARK)

If your cruise/tour package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Porto Airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension

Madeira Island Pre-Cruise Extension

Madeira beckons visitors looking for a blissful island escape with its temperate climate, beautiful natural environment, and unique local culture. Stay at the incredible Savoy Palace hotel and venture out to take in the island’s dramatic landscapes—from towering peaks to dense forests, all surrounded by a deep blue ocean.

• 3 nights at the Hotel Savoy Palace (or similar)
• Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Flavored Funchal Walking Tour
• Private Fine Dining Experience
• Madeira Island Discovery Tour
• English-speaking expert
• All transfers