Cruising down the Douro

Breakfast at the hotel. Head to the meeting point to set off on a half-day tour of Lisbon. Begin with a visit to the incredible Jerónimos Monastery, known for its incredible Manueline architecture and among the most visited sites in the city. Next, enjoy the National Coach Museum, home to a beautiful collection of horse-drawn carriages before making a photo stop at the emblematic Belém Tower. See the Monument of the Discoveries before exploring the heart of the city at Commerce Square, the largest in Lisbon. Visit the historic neighborhood of Alfama, famed for its fado music and finish the tour in Marques de Pombal Square. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Lisbon at your leisure and indulge in its vibrant nightlife and thriving restaurant scene! Alternatively, indulge in an optional dinner and fado performance.* Overnight stay in Lisbon. 

*Optional Dinner & Fado Show: Head to the historic neighborhood of Alfama to indulge in an evening of traditional Portuguese cuisine accompanied by the melancholic sounds of Fado music. Soak up the warm atmosphere and listen to the soft melodies of the Portuguese guitar as you experience the authentic musical heritage of Lisbon for yourself!

Please note: If the National Coach Museum is closed, the visit will be replaced by a tour of the Palace Nacional da Ajuda.

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the station to take a train to Porto. This beautiful city, located in the north of Portugal next to the mouth of the Douro River, is a very special place. Perhaps it is the air of decadence, or perhaps it is its elegant neighborhoods and stately villas in counterpoint with the narrow streets and old alleys that led UNESCO to declare this a World Heritage Site. Your time here today is short, but don’t worry–you’ll be back!

Transfer to the port and board the cruise from 3 to 4PM at the Douro Marina. After arrival formalities, take time to relax on board and explore your home for the next few nights. In the evening, meet the crew and enjoy a welcome dinner* with your fellow guests. Overnight on board.

*Optional drinks package: Guests have the option to add a comprehensive drinks package in the next step of booking, which will include unlimited mineral water, house wine, draught beer, juice, tea, and coffee (excluding specialty drinks) from 9AM to midnight. 

Enjoy full board for the duration of the cruise, meaning that there will be breakfast, lunch, and dinner service included every day on the boat through the final morning. After breakfast, depart in the direction of Pinhão. Take advantage of the hours on the water to admire the wonderful views that the Douro Valley offers. In the afternoon, arrive at Pinhão, a town considered the center of the Douro region. Many of the Port wine-producing estates are located here, some of which offer tours and lodging for tourists. Catch a glimpse of the railway station building, built at the end of the 19th century, whose interior is entirely covered with azulejo tile panels. Enjoy a night stopover in Pinhão, with an option to disembark* and visit a traditional estate. Dinner and overnight on board.

*Optional visit to Quinta Avessada with dinner: See the stunning views from the highest point in the region, surrounded by vineyards specializing in muscatel grapes. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy a hearty, traditional Portuguese meal accompanied by delicious local wine and live music.