Cruising Portugal's Douro River

Touch down in Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, and transfer to your hotel (on own). Once you’ve settled into your room, join us for welcome cocktails at 5:00pm—a chance to get acquainted with your fellow travelers and have an orientation meeting with your Tour Director. Tonight offers your first taste of legendary Portuguese hospitality over dinner at a neighborhood restaurant, where locals treat strangers like old friends. Ranked among the world’s most welcoming nations, Portugal will make you feel like you belong from the moment you arrive. (D)

Following a delicious breakfast at the hotel, embark on a half-day walking tour through Lisbon’s most captivating corners—many protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your guide leads you through the historic downtown, pausing at landmark after landmark: the striking Monument to the Discoveries with its modernist lines, the 16th-century Belém Tower standing sentinel over the harbor, and the breathtaking Church of the Monastery of Jerónimos, among Europe’s most magnificent, where explorer Vasco da Gama rests.

Take in sweeping Atlantic vistas from the grand Terreiro do Paço Square before wandering into Baixa’s maze of cobblestone lanes. Here, stop for Portugal’s irresistible Pastel de Nata—flaky custard tarts dusted with cinnamon that may just spark a new obsession if this is your first bite.

Suitably energized, continue to three iconic squares. First, Rossio, a Portuguese gathering place since medieval times, renowned for its undulating mosaic pavements, twin Baroque fountains, and the National Theatre. Then Figueira, where Lisbon’s main market brims with authentic crafts and Portuguese delicacies. Finally, Praça do Comércio, dominated by the proud equestrian statue of King José I. Throughout these plazas and the elegant Chiado neighborhood beyond, monuments, boutiques, and hidden gems await at every turn. (B)

Today ventures into the cooling, pine-scented hills of Serra de Sintra, one of Portugal’s most enchanting destinations. Tucked among the forested slopes lie whimsical palaces, elegant villas, and the weathered ruins of a Moorish castle waiting to be discovered.

Begin in Sintra’s old center, where colorful buildings line winding cobblestone streets. Meander through the tangled lanes, admiring graceful mansions and townhouses—some housing intimate museums—peeking into historic churches, and browsing intriguing shops and cafés that spill onto the sidewalks.

From town, ascend to the world-renowned Pena National Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of 19th-century Romanticism. Built in 1839 for Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, the palace dazzles with its vivid paint scheme: sunshine-yellow towers, red and white decorative battlements, and brilliantly colored terraces. Perched atop a hill and embraced by Pena’s lush forest, this is one of Europe’s most stunning yet underappreciated palaces.

Continue to the fairytale-like Pena National Park, where conical towers rise above a delightful jumble of halls and ballrooms. Portuguese royalty inhabited these rooms from the 1400s through the 1700s, each generation adding their own architectural flourishes to the fantasy.

Departing Sintra, follow the scenic route back to Lisbon along the Tagus River, the Iberian Peninsula’s longest waterway as it flows toward the Atlantic. A final highlight awaits at Cabo da Roca—mainland Europe’s westernmost point. Here, dramatic rocky cliffs plunge into the ocean on one side while the elegant “Portuguese Riviera” of Cascais stretches along the other. (B)

Today, we make our way to Porto for our 7-night cruise on the Douro River. Upon arrival in Porto, step aboard your five-star river cruise ship, the M/S Douro Splendour, where the attentive crew welcomes you from the first moment. Before long, you’ll be settled into your luxuriously appointed stateroom, discovering all the refined amenities this floating boutique hotel has to offer. (B,D)

River cruising offers a rare gift: unhurried relaxation. As our elegant ship slips quietly from its moorings during breakfast, the day unfolds at a leisurely pace on the water. Indulge in a treatment at the onboard spa, or simply claim a comfortable seat in the lounge and watch the riverbank scenery transform seamlessly before your eyes.

As we head toward Pinhão, We enter port wine country, where lush hillsides yield to the geometric beauty of terraced vineyards climbing the slopes. Inland from the Atlantic, the climate shifts noticeably—warmer, drier air settles over the landscape. The region takes on a Mediterranean character, its orangey, earthy tones replacing the verdant greens of the coast.

This afternoon brings a visit to a historic quinta, where you’ll trace the entire journey of wine production—from vine planting and harvest through fermentation, aging, and bottling. Naturally, no visit would be complete without sampling the estate’s finest offerings, so settle in for a tasting before heading back to the ship.

Tonight, we remain moored in Pinhão. (B,L,D)

Early risers this morning can watch the ship glide gracefully away from the dock. Linger over a leisurely breakfast while ever-shifting scenery drifts past the restaurant’s sweeping panoramic windows. The Douro was once a wild, treacherous river—notoriously difficult to navigate, particularly for traditional flat-bottomed boats that frequently capsized in its currents. Today, a system of dams and locks has tamed these waters, raising the river level to create a landscape reminiscent of Scotland’s lochs that only enhances the valley’s beauty.

As we cruise deeper into rural terrain toward the Spanish border, the river reaches its most tranquil stretch. It’s an ideal moment for a refreshing dip in the Sun Deck pool—a rare luxury on river vessels—or to settle into a lounger with a good book and perhaps a chilled glass of vinho verde, the region’s gently sparkling white wine. Portuguese wines are exceptional, yet production remains small, meaning the finest bottles rarely leave the country. Our onboard wine list showcases outstanding regional selections, and the friendly, knowledgeable restaurant staff are delighted to guide you through them. Be adventurous in your choices—you’ll be richly rewarded.

This afternoon brings a visit to Castelo Rodrigo, a delightful 12th-century walled village nestled in the scenic highland ranges along the Spanish border. Its church once offered refuge to pilgrims traveling the route to Santiago de Compostela—legend holds that Saint Francis himself rested within these walls. The views are breathtaking, sweeping across nearly deserted ochre hillsides that seem to stretch forever.

After dinner this evening, witness the ceremonial opening of a vintage port wine, performed in traditional fashion. Then ascend to the Sun Deck, where the unmistakable chorus of crickets fills the warm night air and the fragrant scents from the surrounding valley slopes drift across the water. (B,L,D)

Today’s guided tour explores historic Salamanca, one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites along this journey and widely considered Spain’s most beautiful city. Founded by the Romans, who built its impressive 389-yard bridge, Salamanca rises from local sandstone that glows a gorgeous rose-gold in the sunlight. Perched on a hill where the serene River Tormes bends, the city appears tranquil today, though its history tells a different story—successively contested by Hannibal, the Moors, the Duke of Wellington, and Napoleon.

Two cathedrals and a legendary university define Salamanca’s skyline. Established in 1218, the university is Spain’s oldest and served as one of the civilized world’s most important centers of learning for over four centuries. The Spanish Inquisition’s records remain housed here, and by the 16th century, some 12,000 students walked its halls. Standing in the immaculately preserved lecture rooms beneath vaulted ceilings, it’s easy to imagine Christopher Columbus addressing assembled scholars or legal minds drafting the international laws that originated within these walls.

Upon arrival, you’re free to explore at your own pace. Linger inside the cathedrals—the newer dating from the 16th century—admiring their ornate interiors, or wander the narrow streets, medieval squares, traditional shops, gardens, and bustling marketplaces. The centerpiece Plaza Mayor, built in 18th-century Spanish Baroque style, features colonnaded walkways encircling the square at ground level—perfect for claiming a shaded table to watch local life unfold. Over lunch featuring classic Spanish dishes, enjoy a spirited flamenco performance.

Following your guided tour of the city’s main attractions this afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore at leisure. Perhaps visit Casa Lis, an Art Nouveau and Art Deco museum housing over 2,500 exquisite pieces. Or linger inside the cathedrals—the newer one dating from the 16th century—marveling at their ornate interiors. Alternatively, lose yourself in Salamanca’s narrow lanes, medieval squares, traditional shops, gardens, and vibrant marketplaces. The magnificent Plaza Mayor, built in 18th-century Spanish Baroque style, encircles the square with colonnaded walkways at ground level—the ideal spot to claim a shaded table and watch local life unfold.

Return to the ship for another excellent dinner this evening. (B,L,D)

The morning is spect cruising and relaxing on the Douro. The Douro River Valley is one of Europe’s most photogenic river valleys and the topography has prevented the building of extensive riverside roads.  Following another superb lunch aboard, we stop at the village of Folgosa for a visit to the magnificent Mateus Palace and its exquisite interiors. Anyone familiar with Mateus Rosé will instantly recognize the palace from its distinctive bottle label. Regardless of your feelings about the wine itself, the palace is a stunning 18th-century Baroque masterpiece, perfectly mirrored in its ornamental pond and surrounded by elegant French-style gardens.

Alternatively, you may remain aboard and continue your leisurely journey downriver toward the charming town of Peso da Régua, arriving by mid-afternoon. Once ashore, delve into the Douro Valley’s rich heritage at the Douro Museum. Engaging exhibits bring the history of wine production vividly to life, revealing fascinating insights into the region’s winemaking traditions and the storied legacy of port wine trading.

This evening, a short drive brings you to Quinta da Pacheca for dinner. Sprawling across 126 acres, this 18th-century estate ranks among the region’s most beautiful and distinguished properties. It also holds historical significance as the first quinta—in 1738—to bottle wine under its owner’s name, the aristocrat Mariana Pacheco Pereira. Settle in for dinner paired with a selection of the estate’s finest wines while soaking in dramatic views over the Douro Valley.

Tonight, we remain moored in Régua. (B,L,D)

This morning after breakfast, a short drive takes you to historic Lamego, home of Portugal’s sparkling wine, Raposeira, and one of the first territories reclaimed from the Moors in the 12th century. Crowning the hill above this lovely town stands the ancient Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, its monumental stairways adorned with beautiful azulejos—Portugal’s characteristic hand-painted ceramic tiles.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, tackle the 686 steps descending from the sanctuary to the town below, rewarded with sweeping views at every turn. Take your time—pause along the way to admire elegant fountains, intricate mosaics, and meticulously manicured hedges. As you wander this enchanting town, discover layers of history and beauty: an ancient Moorish castle, an exquisite Gothic cathedral, and graceful 18th-century villas that define its character. For a leisurely afternoon, stroll the Avenida, Lamego’s grand tree-lined boulevard, where you can sip tea at an open-air café and browse the vibrant market stalls. 

By the time you return to the ship, the chef and his team will be putting the finishing touches on another delicious lunch, ready to be served as we set sail for our next destination.

After lunch, head to the Sun Deck to soak in the ever-changing tapestry of Douro views—or settle into the lounge with a good book and a cup of tea. Following tonight’s dinner, enjoy a colorful performance of traditional Portuguese folk music by a local cultural group.

Head up to the Sun Deck with a coffee in hand, chatting with newfound friends as the ship glides gracefully back into Porto, passing beneath the city’s spectacular bridges.

Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of Porto. Strategically positioned where the Douro meets the Atlantic, Portugal’s second-largest city began as a Roman settlement but built its wealth through mastery of sea routes to India—fortunes made trading spices, silks, and other precious goods. As you explore Porto, wind through the labyrinthine alleys of the old town, pausing to admire striking architecture up close while discovering both iconic landmarks and unexpected hidden treasures.

Begin by crossing the bridge into the enchanting Ribeira district. From there, follow Rua das Flores to São Bento station with its famous azulejo-covered halls, and continue to the majestic cathedral. Next, traverse the upper deck of the iconic Luís I Bridge, taking in sweeping city vistas as you make your way to Jardim do Morro in Vila Nova de Gaia, where spectacular panoramic views await. The return journey to the ship navigates the city’s characteristic hills—adding a touch of challenge to this scenic and immersive tour.

Porto is synonymous with exceptional port wine, and all the famous producers—Cálem, Sandeman, Ferreira—call this city home. No visit would be complete without touring one of their historic lodges. After lunch aboard, discover the fascinating story of this fortified wine and its deep British connections. Port begins with grapes pressed in the traditional way—by foot—then carefully aged, sometimes for decades, before revealing its subtle, complex flavors. Naturally, you’ll sample various port styles at the tour’s conclusion.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore this truly captivating city. Perhaps return to the terraced streets of the old town, wandering the sloping maze of winding cobbled alleyways. Soak up the atmosphere while admiring lovely architecture, soaring bell towers, ornate Baroque churches, golden rooftops, and beautiful azulejo tiles that define this slice of traditional Portugal. Duck into a cozy café and be tempted by an array of delicious cakes and pastries—perhaps another pastel de nata, Portugal’s irresistible custard tart.

This evening brings the Chef’s Dinner, a truly memorable experience showcasing exquisite regional specialties, expertly presented by the restaurant staff under the maître d’s watchful eye. Afterwards, settle into the lounge to chat late into the evening, reflecting on the splendors of the remarkable River Douro—over a glass of port, naturally. (B,L,D)

After breakfast, It’s time to bid farewell to your crew and transfer to the airport (on own) to begin your journey home. (B)