Douro Delights

Beginning in spectacular Porto, cruise the stunning Douro River as you traverse the world’s oldest wine region. Rambling vineyards and native farms cling to the steep sides of the Douro Valley, creating an incomparable backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions. Conclude your journey with a visit to Salamanca and Madrid in Spain.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Porto, Embark Ship

Arrive in Porto and transfer to your purpose-built river ship. The MS Estrela has the best vantage point to take in the city's incredible sights as you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto.

Day 2: Porto

The choice is yours when it comes to the sightseeing activities on offer today. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a Signature Experience tonight.

Freedom of Choice — Porto Exploration

Explore Porto’s 16th-century Old Town and take a scenic cable car ride, savouring panoramic views of the city below. Then, indulge in a tasting of the city’s famous port wines and sample the rich flavours of the region.

Freedom of Choice — Portuguese Tart Cooking Class

Put on your baker's apron for a hands-on class devoted to Portugal’s most beloved sweet, the pastéis de nata. Guided by a renowned chef, discover the secrets behind its delicate, flaky pastry and silky custard filling as you take part in the preparation process yourself. As the tarts emerge warm from the oven, savour your freshly baked creation, perfectly paired with a glass of Portuguese port.

Freedom of Choice — Active Walking Tour of Porto

Set out on an active walking tour of Porto through the medieval streets and the old harbour quarter of Ribeira. Stroll through cobbled streets and discover neighbourhoods of colourful 18th-century houses and quaint eateries.

Signature Experience — Palácio da Bolsa

Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.

Day 3: Porto, Entre-os-Rios

Sail this morning through the sun-soaked Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, set out on your sightseeing activity.

Freedom of Choice – Traditional Village Visit

Wander through a charming Schist village, tucked into the rolling hills of Penafiel. Admire the warm golden stone houses and meandering narrow streets, carefully restored using traditional methods, and soak in the rhythms of authentic Portuguese village life. Discover hidden courtyards, and experience the timeless character of a community that has preserved its heritage for generations.

Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting

Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family estate crafting wines in the Vinho Verde region since the 1870s. Meander through the lush vineyards and learn the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages. Conclude your visit with a curated tasting of fine wines paired with artisanal cheeses, savouring the flavours that define this historic estate.

Day 4: Régua

This morning, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Régua. While you sail, you may wish to join a hands-on tile-painting experience in the Main Lounge. Discover the traditional craft of azulejos, the blue tiles that adorn Portugal’s towns and cities. Learn about the vibrant colours, intricate patterns and storytelling that defines this distinctive,
world-renowned art form.

On arrival in Régua, visit the Douro Museum, which provides an incredible insight into the culture of the Douro Valley wine region.

Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da Pacheca

Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and wine tasting, enjoying views over the Douro River and Régua. Situated in the village of Cambres in the Lamego municipality, the prestigious estate dates back to the 16th century and features 75 hectares of vineyards.

Day 5: Régua, Pinhão

After enjoying the sightseeing experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you cruise to Pinhão.

Freedom of Choice – Lamego Tour

Set among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming city. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local specialty, Bola de Lamego.

Freedom of Choice – Visit Palácio de Mateus

Embark on a trip to Palácio de Mateus, located near the city of Vila Real. Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni played a pivotal role in the palace’s construction in the 18th century. The palace is also well known for being featured on the bottle labels of Mateus Rosé wine. 

Day 6: Pinhão

Visit Pinhão Railway Station, known as one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal. Built in the 19th century, its tiled walls depict the production of port. Venture to a local quinta, then be treated to a captain’s farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 7: Pocinho, Vega de Terron

Step ashore and embark on your chosen tour in Pocinho.

Freedom of Choice - Côa Parque Museum

Set within a dramatic landscape where the Prehistoric Art of the Côa Valley meets the Douro Wine Region, the Côa Museum offers a compelling journey through more than 30,000 years of human creativity. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum pairs striking contemporary architecture with stories of the ancient rock engravings of the surrounding valley and houses Portugal’s most extensive library dedicated to rock art. Inside, immersive and interactive exhibitions provide rare insight into the symbolism, artistry and enduring mystery of prehistoric life.

Freedom of Choice - Côa Archaeological Park Rock Art

Nestled on a serene river beach along the right bank of the Côa River, Penascosa offers a rare glimpse into the artistic legacy of our earliest ancestors. Your journey begins in the charming village of Castelo Melhor before continuing by 4WD along a scenic dirt track, winding through almond and olive groves for approximately six kilometres. As the most visited site in the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, Penascosa captivates visitors with its peaceful setting and breathtaking vistas, while the Palaeolithic engravings etched into the rocks reveal the extraordinary richness and creativity of Côa art.

Tonight, gather for a delectable farewell dinner on board.

Day 8: Vega de Terron, Disembark Ship, Salamanca, Madrid

After breakfast on board, disembark your ship and bid farewell to life on board. Travel to Salamanca for a guided tour of this splendid ancient city. Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World-Heritage-listed site, featuring the University of Salamanca, Spain's oldest, and the House of Shells, before continuing to your hotel in Madrid. Tonight is yours to spend as you please.

Day 9: Depart Madrid

Today, your spectacular journey comes to an end. Following breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport.