Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey before visiting some of Spain’s glorious cities.
Two iconic cities, Lisbon and Madrid, provide the perfect start and end to a grand journey through Portugal and Spain. Cosmopolitan Lisbon offers a treasure trove of Old World architecture and a wealth of stories about its famed explorers; and then there is the seaside town of Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal and a favorite summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for more than 500 years. Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey before visiting some of Spain’s glorious cities: the golden-hued city of Salamanca, the ancient walled city of Toledo, and cosmopolitan Madrid, renowned for its world-class museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars.
Flavors of Portugal & Spain
At A Glance
On our cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Embark your luxurious ship in Porto. This evening, meet your fellow passengers. (B,L,D)
| Day 2 | Porto | “City of Bridges” tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike and Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. (B,L,D)
| Entre-os-Rios | Dinner at Alpendurada Monastery |
|
After free time further exploring the colorful “City of Bridges,” the ship will sail to Entre-Os-Rios, where you’ll go to dinner at the centuries-old Alpendurada Monastery. Savor a pre-dinner glass of Port and the breathtaking view of the river from the terrace of the monastery before having a traditional “home cooked” meal. (B,L,D)
Enjoy an excursion to the Palacio de Mateus, located in the beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real. The interior of the house features various religious images and exquisite furniture, artwork and hand-wooden ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Régua | Lamego city tour and Bôlas tasting |
|
| | OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting |
|
Travel to picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in all of Portugal, where you’ll go to the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). The shrine features a staircase of nearly 700 steps, beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, which for the more active adventurer will want to hike. Concluding the walking and hiking tours, you will have the opportunity to sample local traditional specialties, such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Afterwards, you’ll go to the formal Episcopal Palace Museum. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Pinhão | Quinta de Avessada lunch |
|
| | Quinta do Sexio Port wine tasting |
|
Enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta da Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. The warm, spirited hospitality of this family-run Quinta is quite special as you will discover. Several family members play in a band, and while dining, they will entertain you. Quinta de Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. Later in the day, you’ll be treated to a wine tasting at the charming Quinta do Seixo. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Pinhão | Scenic sailing |
|
| Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline style windows. Prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Vega de Terrón | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Disembark your cruise in Vega de Terrón. (B)
| Day 1 | Vega de Terrón | EMBARKATION |
|
Embark your ship in Vega de Terrón and meet your fellow travelers on board. (D)
| Day 2 | Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
| Barca d’Alva | Quinta do Seixo (or similar) wine tasting |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White
Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers
spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a
walking tour through its medieval streets and see the
houses and establishments with 16th-century façade
and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more
active adventure there, you can hike up to the town.
At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites,
such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. Set sail to
Pinhão where you’ll be treated to a wine tasting at
charming Quinta do Seixo (or similar). (B,L,D)
| Day 3 | Pinhão | Mateus Palace and gardens |
|
| | Wine tasting and lunch at Quinta de Avesseda |
|
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and
gardens known as the Palacio de Mateus, located in the
beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real.
The interior of the house features various religious images
and exquisite furniture, artwork and hand-carved wooden
ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that
are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the
afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you’ll
enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience
complete with entertainment. Quinta da Avessada is also
a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the
history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so
you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine
production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Régua | Lamego tour and Bôlas tasting |
|
| | OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting |
|
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Caldas de Aregos | Caldas de Arego Vineyard hike |
|
| Entre-os-Rios | Dinner at Alpendurada Monastery |
|
Enjoy
a morning hike through the vineyards, and then set sail
along the scenic Douro River. Later in the day, savor a
pre-dinner glass of Vinho Verde wine from the terrace of
the centuries-old Alpendurada Monastery. This will be
followed by a traditional “home-cooked” meal. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Porto | “City of Bridges” tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike with Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. (B,L,D)
Enjoy a day at leisure. (B,L,D)
Disembark your cruise in Porto. (B)
| Day 1 | Lisbon | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Lisbon and check in to your hotel.
| Day 2 | Lisbon | “City of Seven Hills” tour |
|
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon stretches across several hills along the Tagus River. On your escorted tour, you’ll see Belem Tower, a fortified four-story tower made of limestone, and visit the Late Gothic Jerónimos Monastery, the burial place of many Portuguese kings and heroes. You will also taste a typical Portuguese pastry, Pastéis de Belém, before going to Discoveries Monument, built in honor of Portugal’s greatest maritime explorers. (B)
| Day 3 | Lisbon | Royal Sintra excursion |
|
Enjoy a morning excursion to Serra de Sintra, one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Portugal, a former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family and a source of inspiration for Lord Byron and generations of other artists and poets. Your guided tour includes a wine tasting and a view of the Pena National Palace, a fairy tale castle situated high on a rocky peak, followed by free time to explore on your own. (B)
| Day 4 | Lisbon | High-speed train to Porto |
|
Check out of your hotel and transfer via a high-speed train to Porto where you’ll board your ship. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Porto | “City of Bridges” tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike and Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. (B,L,D)
| Entre-os-Rios | Dinner at Alpendurada Monastery |
|
After free time further exploring the colorful “City of Bridges,” the ship will sail to Entre-Os-Rios, where you’ll go to dinner at the centuries-old Alpendurada Monastery. Savor a pre-dinner glass of Port and the breathtaking view of the river from the terrace of the monastery before having a traditional “home cooked” meal. (B,L,D)
Enjoy an excursion to the Palacio de Mateus, located in the beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real. The interior of the house features various religious images and exquisite furniture, artwork and hand-wooden ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Régua | Lamego city tour and Bôlas tasting |
|
| | OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting |
|
Travel to picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in all of Portugal, where you’ll go to the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). The shrine features a staircase of nearly 700 steps, beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, which for the more active adventurer will want to hike. Concluding the walking and hiking tours, you will have the opportunity to sample local traditional specialties, such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Afterwards, you’ll go to the formal Episcopal Palace Museum. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Pinhão | Quinta de Avessada lunch |
|
| | Quinta do Sexio Port wine tasting |
|
Enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta da Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. The warm, spirited hospitality of this family-run Quinta is quite special as you will discover. Several family members play in a band, and while dining, they will entertain you. Quinta de Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. Later in the day, you’ll be treated to a wine tasting at the charming Quinta do Seixo. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Pinhão | Scenic sailing |
|
| Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline style windows. Prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Vega de Terrón | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| | Full-day excursion with flamenco show and lunch |
|
Disembark the ship in Vega Terrón and board a motorcoach to Madrid. En route to Madrid, you’ll first stop in Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla y León region. You will have free time to explore on your own, followed by an escorted city tour that includes the New Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Afterwards be treated to a delicious lunch and Flamenco show. Later in the day, you’ll check into your hotel in Madrid. (B)
Discover the vibrant capital of Spain on your city tour that takes in all the top sights, including the elaborate Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel and Plaza Mayor. (B)
| Day 13 | Madrid | Toledo excursion |
|
Journey to the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Spain. The city is a treasure trove of artistic riches with its winding streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. As part of your escorted tour, you will visit the Cathedral of Toledo as well as the Synagogue Santa María La Blanca in the Jewish Quarter. (B)
| Day 14 | Madrid | Return flight home |
|
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (B)
| Day 1 | Madrid | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Madrid and check in to your hotel.
Enjoy a guided tour of Madrid, Spain’s capital since the Spanish Golden Age and now its largest city, a place with broad avenues, grand museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars. Known for its historic districts, art, music and epicurean delights, Madrid is a cosmopolitan metropolis with a vibrant nightlife scene. The city’s top landmarks include the elaborate Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor and such renowned art galleries as the Prado Museum and Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. (B)
| Day 3 | Madrid | Toledo excursion |
|
You’ll have an excursion today to the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Spain. The city is a treasure trove of artistic riches that once inspired Spanish Renaissance artist, El Greco, with its winding streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. As part of your guided tour, you will visit the Cathedral of Toledo (one of the world’s greatest Gothic structures) as well as the Synagogue Santa Maria La Blanca in the Jewish Quarter. (B)
| Day 4 | Madrid | Transfer to Salamanca |
|
| Salamanca | Full-day excursion with flamenco show and lunch |
|
| Vega de Terrón | EMBARKATION |
|
This morning, you will depart Madrid for an excursion to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla y León region. Your guided city tour includes the university buildings, Salamanca Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Afterwards, have lunch and be treated to a Flamenco show. Later, you will be transferred to Vega Terrón to board your river ship. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
| Barca d’Alva | Quinta do Seixo (or similar) wine tasting |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White
Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers
spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a
walking tour through its medieval streets and see the
houses and establishments with 16th-century façade
and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more
active adventure there, you can hike up to the town.
At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites,
such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. Set sail to
Pinhão where you’ll be treated to a wine tasting at
charming Quinta do Seixo (or similar). (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Pinhão | Mateus Palace and gardens |
|
| | Wine tasting and lunch at Quinta de Avesseda |
|
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and
gardens known as the Palacio de Mateus, located in the
beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real.
The interior of the house features various religious images
and exquisite furniture, artwork and hand-carved wooden
ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that
are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the
afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you’ll
enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience
complete with entertainment. Quinta da Avessada is also
a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the
history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so
you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine
production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Régua | Lamego tour and Bôlas tasting |
|
| | OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting |
|
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Caldas de Aregos | Caldas de Arego Vineyard hike |
|
| Entre-os-Rios | Dinner at Alpendurada Monastery |
|
Enjoy
a morning hike through the vineyards, and then set sail
along the scenic Douro River. Later in the day, savor a
pre-dinner glass of Vinho Verde wine from the terrace of
the centuries-old Alpendurada Monastery. This will be
followed by a traditional “home-cooked” meal. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Porto | “City of Bridges” tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike with Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. (B,L,D)
Enjoy a day at leisure. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Porto | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| | High-speed train transfer to Lisbon |
|
After disembarking your ship in Porto, take the train through the Portuguese countryside to Lisbon for your post cruise stay. (B)
| Day 12 | Lisbon | “City of Seven Hills” tour |
|
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon sprawls across several hills along the Tagus River. Your city tour includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll see the fortified Belem Tower and visit the spectacular Jerónimos Monastery, a Late Gothic-style structure. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your leisure, perhaps to visit the Castle of São Jorge or the Santa Justa Elevator that overlooks the castle, the river and Rossio Square. (B)
| Day 13 | Lisbon | Royal Sintra excursion with Pena
National Palace visit |
|
Enjoy a morning excursion to
Serra de Sintra, one of the most picturesque mountain
villages in Portugal, a former summer residence of the
Portuguese royal family and a source of inspiration for
Lord Byron and generations of other artists and poets.
Your guided tour includes a visit to the Pena National
Palace, a fairytale castle situated high on a rocky peak,
followed by free time. (B)
| Day 14 | Lisbon | Return flight home |
|
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (B)