Discover the Rivers of France & Portugal 2025|2026 - 15 Days (from Porto to Nice)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day journey through the heart of Portugal and France, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Porto, exploring the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley and its rich wine heritage. Sail through picturesque villages and ancient cities, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable sights. Transition to the culinary capital of Lyon, where you'll indulge in exquisite French cuisine and discover the region's rich history. From the medieval charm of Viviers to the Roman heritage of Arles, each day promises new discoveries and delightful experiences. With luxurious accommodations on board the Emerald Cruises Star-Ship and a carefully curated itinerary, this multi-day tour offers an unparalleled exploration of two of Europe's most captivating countries. Join us for an unforgettable journey filled with cultural enrichment, stunning scenery, and culinary delights.
Included
14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 14 dinners
Airport transfers outside Australia are included
14 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
14 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
Guided tour of Salamanca
Tour to Castelo Rodrigo
Guided tour of Lamego & Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary
Guided tour of Porto
Portuguese cooking demonstration on board
Port wine cocktail lesson on board
Tuna music performance
Rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
Mosaic tile painting lesson on board
Evening cruise through Porto
Guided active walk through the vineyards
Kayak experience in Pinhão
Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
Guided active walk in Porto
39 delectable meals including 14 breakfasts (B), 11 lunches (L), 14 dinners (D)
Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
Visit to the Hospices de Beaune
Guided tour of Lyon
Guided tour of Tournon
Guided tour of Viviers
Guided tour of Avignon
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
Cheese and olive tasting on board
Classical Concert in Avignon
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale
Guided bike tour of Lyon
Guided hike through the vineyards in Tournon
Canoeing excursion in Avignon
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Porto
- Porto - Arrival day
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Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Porto, where you'll be warmly welcomed at the airport and whisked away to your luxurious floating hotel, the Emerald Radiance. Settle into your comfortable cabin and prepare for an evening of culinary delights as you join your fellow travelers for a sumptuous dinner on board.
Day 2 – Day 2: Sailing Through the Douro Valley
- Porto
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- Douro Museum
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Relax on board as we embark on a full day of sailing through the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich wine-producing history. As you glide past sun-drenched vineyards and quaint villages, enjoy a Portuguese cooking demonstration and a delightful welcome dinner and cocktail reception.
Day 3 – Day 3: Vineyard Visits and River Adventures
Day 3: Vineyard Visits and River Adventures
- Quinta do Bomfim
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Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Quinta do Tedo vineyard, where you'll indulge in a wine tasting experience. Choose between a guided walk through the vineyards or a thrilling kayak excursion along the river. In the afternoon, sail towards Vega de Terrón, enjoying the serene views from the Sun Deck.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discover the Golden City of Salamanca
- Salamanca
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- Salamanca Cathedral
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Travel to the historic city of Salamanca, known for its golden sandstone architecture. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Quarter on a guided walking tour, visiting the iconic Plaza Mayor, Casa de las Conchas, and the ancient university. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of this captivating city.
Day 5 – Day 5: Medieval Charm of Castelo Rodrigo
- Peso da Régua
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- Castelo Rodrigo's Castle
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From Pocinho, journey to the medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo, where you'll explore its fortress history and sample local delicacies. Return to your ship for lunch and enjoy a Port wine cocktail lesson as you sail towards Régua, soaking in the picturesque scenery along the way.
Day 6 – Day 6: Baroque Beauty of Lamego
- Peso da Régua
- Lamego
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- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa
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Visit the charming village of Lamego, where you'll admire the stunning Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies. For the adventurous, descend the 686 steps to the main square. Enjoy a rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca and participate in a mosaic tile painting lesson, immersing yourself in Portuguese culture.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring the Charms of Porto
- Porto
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- Casino da Póvoa
- Casa da Música
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Discover the eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture in Porto. Your guided tour will include visits to the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo. For a more intimate experience, join an active walk through the city or enjoy a scenic cruise along the Douro River.
Day 8 – Day 8: Transition to Lyon
- Porto
- Lyon
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Bid farewell to Porto as you transfer to the culinary capital of France, Lyon. Settle into your new accommodations aboard the Emerald Liberte and prepare to explore a city renowned for its exquisite cuisine and rich cultural heritage.
Day 9 – Day 9: Art and History in Beaune
- Beaune
- Lyon
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Journey to the quaint village of Beaune, where you'll visit the historic Hospices de Beaune, now famous for its wine auctions. Enjoy the serene surroundings and indulge in a cheese and olive tasting on board as you return to your ship.
Day 10 – Day 10: Gastronomic Delights of Lyon
- Lyon
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- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Explore the culinary heart of France with a guided tour of Lyon, including a visit to the stunning Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Discover the city's rich history as you wander through its cobblestone streets, or opt for a guided bike tour to see the highlights from a different perspective.
Day 11 – Day 11: Cultural Heritage of Tournon
Day 11: Cultural Heritage of Tournon
- Train de l'Ardèche
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Delve into the cultural heritage of Tournon with a guided tour of the village and its 16th-century castle. For a more active experience, embark on a hike through the local vineyards, where you'll be surrounded by the beauty of the Rhône Valley's wine country.
Day 12 – Day 12: Medieval Wonders of Viviers
Day 12: Medieval Wonders of Viviers
- Orange Cathedral
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Step back in time as you explore the medieval town of Viviers, home to one of France's oldest cathedrals. Your guided walking tour will reveal the town's many historical monuments, each with its own story to tell.
Day 13 – Day 13: Historical Riches of Avignon
- Avignon
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- Remparts d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
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Discover Avignon's rich history on a guided tour, visiting the magnificent Palais des Papes and the ancient Pont d'Avignon. In the evening, enjoy a unique experience with a classical concert in this historic city, adding a touch of elegance to your journey.
Day 14 – Day 14: Roman Heritage of Arles
- Arles
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- Arles Amphitheatre
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Uncover the Roman and Romanesque heritage of Arles with a guided tour, including a visit to the ancient amphitheatre. Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh and explore the city's vibrant streets at your leisure. In the evening, savor a Provençal dining experience prepared by a top local chef.
Day 15 – Day 15: Farewell to France
- Arles
- Nice - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking in Arles. Transfer to the airport in Nice, taking with you cherished memories of the stunning landscapes, rich history, and delightful cuisine experienced throughout your tour.
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