Delightful Douro & Spectacular South of France
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour that takes you through the heart of Portugal and France, exploring the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of these enchanting regions. From the bustling streets of Porto to the serene vineyards of the Douro Valley, and from the medieval charm of Avignon to the culinary delights of Lyon, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and luxurious comfort aboard the Scenic Space-Ship. Indulge in exquisite cuisine, explore historic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the beauty of each destination, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Included
17 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 17 dinners
Airport transfers outside Australia are included
Onboard accommodation
Scenic Azure: Royal Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite, Scenic Sapphire: Royal Owner's Suite ,Royal Suite ,Royal Panorama Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite
Scenic cruise director
All sightseeing and activities stated as included.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Porto
- Porto - Arrival day
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- Museu de Santa Maria de Lamas
- Miradouro da Vitória
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Welcome to the vibrant city of Porto, where your luxurious journey begins. Nestled along the Douro River, Porto is a city rich in history and culture, offering stunning views and a warm welcome. Settle into your luxurious suite aboard the Scenic Space-Ship and enjoy a cocktail reception as you toast to the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Cruising to Pinhão
- Porto
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- Douro Museum
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Relax as your Scenic Space-Ship meanders through the picturesque Douro Valley, a region renowned for its terraced vineyards and majestic quintas. This afternoon, dock in the charming village of Pinhão, where you can explore the quaint riverside train station adorned with azulejos, capturing the essence of the annual grape harvest.
Day 3 – Day 3: Discovering Provesende
Day 3: Discovering Provesende
- Jardim da Carreira
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Today, venture to the charming village of Provesende, perched on a plateau with breathtaking views of the rolling landscape. Stroll through the village, visit the historic church, and explore the old bakery. Delight in a tasting of traditional bola at the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada.
Day 4 – Day 4: Freechoice Excursions
- Salamanca
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- Freixo de Espada à Cinta Cooperative Winery
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Choose your adventure today with Scenic Freechoice excursions. Explore Salamanca, the 'golden city,' renowned for its historic university and vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, visit Freixo de Espada à Cinta, a village steeped in legend and home to Portugal's only handcrafted silk museum.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Pocinho and Regua
- Peso da Régua
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- Carrascalinho Lookout
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Wake in the tranquil village of Pocinho, the gateway to the Douro Valley. Choose between a visit to the Côa Valley Museum, showcasing paleolithic rock art, or a tasting of local delicacies at Casa Painova. This afternoon, cruise towards Regua, the largest riverside town, famous for its Port wine production.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discovering Lamego and Mateus Palace
- Peso da Régua
- Lamego
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- Museu de Lamego
- Lamego Cathedral
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Awake in Regua and embark on a journey to Lamego, a town nestled among terraced vineyards. Explore its Baroque architecture and visit the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. Alternatively, visit the exquisite Mateus Palace, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, before returning to Porto for a classical concert at Sao Francisco Church.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Porto and Guimarães
- Porto
- Guimarães
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- Bridge Park
- Castle of Guimarães
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Wake in the vibrant city of Porto, a blend of history and modernity. Enjoy a guided tour of the city's cultural landmarks, including the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. Alternatively, visit Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, and explore its UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites.
Day 8 – Day 8: Flight to Lyon
- Porto
- Lyon
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Bid farewell to Porto as you board an included flight to Lyon, where your next adventure begins. Upon arrival, board the luxurious Scenic Sapphire for a 10-night cruise along the Saône and Rhône Rivers, exploring the heart of France.
Day 9 – Day 9: Cruising to Chalon-sur-Saône
- Lyon
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- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
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Sail along the Saône River towards Chalon-sur-Saône, a charming town known for its half-timbered houses and Gothic cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and choose from Scenic Freechoice experiences, including a guided tour of Beaune and Les Hospices or a visit to a local Burgundy wine estate.
Day 10 – Day 10: Exploring Tournus
Day 10: Exploring Tournus
- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
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Arrive in Tournus, a town with a rich Roman history. Choose from Scenic Freechoice experiences, including a visit to the historic Château de Cormatin or a truffle tasting with a local farmer. Alternatively, enjoy a cooking class at the renowned restaurant of Georges Blanc.
Day 11 – Day 11: Discovering Tournon
Day 11: Discovering Tournon
- Train de l'Ardèche
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Explore the riverside village of Tournon, known for its terraced vineyards and enchanting castle. Choose from Scenic Freechoice experiences, including a walking tour of Tournon, a hike through the vineyards, or a guided cycling tour along the Rhône River.
Day 12 – Day 12: Exploring Avignon
- Avignon
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- Palais des Papes
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Cruise towards Avignon, the City of the Popes, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant arts scene. Choose from Scenic Freechoice options, including a guided walking tour of the historic city walls and the Pope's Palace or an excursion to the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard.
Day 13 – Day 13: Discovering Provence
- Avignon
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- Le Sentier des Ocres
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Explore the enchanting region of Provence, known for its vineyards and lavender fields. Choose from Scenic Freechoice options, including a visit to the picturesque village of Gordes and Senanque Abbey or a wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Day 14 – Day 14: Exploring Arles and Les Baux
- Avignon
- Arles
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- La Tour
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Arrive in Arles, a city rich in Roman history and inspiration for Vincent Van Gogh. Choose from Scenic Freechoice options, including a guided tour of Arles' Roman ruins or a visit to the medieval village of Les Baux and the Carrières de Lumières.
Day 15 – Day 15: Discovering Viviers
- Arles
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- Sautadet Falls
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Explore the medieval town of Viviers, known for its rich heritage and architecture. Choose from Scenic Freechoice experiences, including a walking tour of Viviers or an exploration of the Ardèche Nature Park and the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum.
Day 16 – Day 16: Cruising to Lyon
- Lyon
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Sail towards Lyon, the gastronomic heart of France. Enjoy the scenic views from your luxury suite and indulge in regional cuisine. This evening, experience an exclusive acapella choir performance at the grand Trinity Chapel.
Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring Lyon
- Lyon
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- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Discover the culinary delights and historical treasures of Lyon. Choose from Scenic Freechoice experiences, including a guided tour of Lyon's hidden traboules and Notre Dame de Fourvière or a silk painting workshop. Spend the afternoon exploring the cobbled streets and sampling local dishes.
Day 18 – Day 18: Departure from Lyon
- Lyon - Departure day
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After a delightful farewell breakfast, bid adieu to Lyon as your unforgettable journey comes to an end. Reflect on the memories made and the experiences shared as you depart for home.
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