Are you searching for the ultimate Douro River cruise? Rambling vineyards and charming native farms cling to the steep sides of the Douro River Valley. Together, they create an incomparable backdrop for one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions. In fact, this breathtaking area is proudly known as Port country, which stands as the world’s oldest demarcated wine region.
During this unforgettable journey, you will sail roundtrip from Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges.” Furthermore, you will visit Regua, the true capital of the valley. Afterward, you will marvel at the UNESCO-designated “Golden City” of Salamanca. Ultimately, you can taste exquisite wines from historic wineries and soak up the genuine beauty of this unadulterated landscape. Experience the true essence of quiet luxury and slow travel with The H Group Travel Agency.
Day 1: Porto embarkation
Board the ship for your Enticing Douro cruise
Day 2: regua
Lamego Tour or Holy Staircase Hike and Dinner at local quinta
Travel to picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in all of Portugal, where you will go to the Nossa Senhora dos Remedios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies) The Shrine features a staircase of nearly 700 steps, beautfifully beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, which the more active adventurer will want to climb on a guided hike. Afterwards, head to a local quinta for a deliciouse dinner
Day 3: Vega de Terron
Castle Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare or Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare
In the morning, spend time soaking up the beauty of this picturesque port before you visit Castelo Rodrigo, a small fortified village perched high on a hilltop with centuries old walls, steep narrow streets and fantastic views. You can opt to hike up to the village you wish with a more active exploration.
day 4: vega de terron
Salamanca Excursion
Drive to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built of golden sandstone, Salamanca is known as a “living museum” and you will have an opportunity to step back in time to the Middle Ages during your escorted tour, which includes the city’s elegant university buildings, the New Cathedral, the intriguingly, decorated House of Shells and Plaza Mayor
day 5: Pinhao
Local quinta wine tasting and Quinta da Roeda Dinner
Spend time soaking up the beauty of the Douro River as you cruise to Pinhao. Here, you may visit a local vineyard for a port wine tasting. Join a specialist from the vineyard on a private tour of the wine cellars, as exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemakeing methods and to taste the vineyard’s specialty wines. Afterwards, be treated to an exclusive dinner at Quinta da Roeda. Nestled in the heart of the Douro Valley, this historic estate is celebrated for its centuries-old vineyards and iconic terraced landscapes.
Day 6: Regua
Mateus Palace & garden visit
This tranquil village offers an authentic slice of Douro River life. Today, visit the Baroque style Palacio de Mateus and its gardens. Inside the house, you will see interesting furnishings, paintings and a ceiling of intricately carved wood. The gardens here are considered some of the most beautiful in Portugual.
Day 7: Porto
“City of Bridges” tour or Porto hike, Port Wine tasting and Porto illumination cruise
The colorful city of Porto blends the best of old and new, which you can discover on an escorted tour of the historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Cathedral, on of the city’s oldest monuments, and the Sao Benito Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. If you prefer to get more active, you can go on a guided hike. In the afternoon, you will also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugual’s most renowned contributions to the world of wine. When the sun sets, enjoy the illuminated landscapes of Porto a a scenic cruise aboard your ship.
Day 8: Porto
Disembarkation
Disembark the ship and prepare for your flight home.