Douro Discovery Porto Return (2024)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 8-day journey through the sun-kissed landscapes of Portugal and Spain. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and culinary delights. From the vibrant art scene of Porto to the picturesque village of Lamego, the ancient ruins of Castelo Rodrigo to the sunlit sandstone buildings of Salamanca, every day brings a new adventure. Cruise along the spectacular Douro River, sample the region's finest wines, and indulge in traditional Portuguese and Spanish cuisines. This tour is designed to provide an unforgettable experience, combining luxury river cruising with enriching onshore excursions.
Included
20 meals - 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise
Enjoy a Flamenco show and lunch and be entranced by captivating Flamenco dancers
In Pinhao, enjoy a sumptuous dinner of traditional dishes and dessert at a picturesque local quinta
Explore 11 towns, villages and cities
Kick off your love affair with port in the sun-drenched city of Porto
MS Estrela
Transport included as stated in the itinerary
Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director and local guides
Seven nights on a brand-new river ship, the MS Estrela
Seven Nights, aboard your river ship the MS Estrela
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Porto
- Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Portugal! Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Porto. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your river ship. As the sun sets, join your fellow travellers and Cruise Director for a Welcome Reception, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Douro River.
Day 2 – Day 2: Cruising the Douro River - Lamego and Pinhao
- Peso da Régua
- Lamego
- Porto
- More
Start your day cruising along the Douro River, flanked by lush vineyards. Participate in a Portuguese language lesson on board. In the afternoon, explore the charming village of Lamego, visiting the baroque cathedral, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, and one of Portugal's finest museums. Don't miss the chance to taste the local delicacy, Bola de Lamego. The day concludes with an Insider Experience in Pinhao.
Day 3 – Day 3: Vega de Terron and Castelo Rodrigo
Day 3: Vega de Terron and Castelo Rodrigo
Today, we cross the border into Spain, docking at Vega de Terron. Enjoy some leisure time before embarking on an excursion to the hilltop village of Castelo Rodrigo. Explore the well-preserved ruins, the impressive castle, and the magnificent statue of Santiago Matamoros. After a day of exploration, return to your ship.
Day 4 – Day 4: Salamanca and Barca d'Alva
- Salamanca
- More
- Frog Salamanca
- More
Disembark in Vega de Terron and travel by coach to the stunning city of Salamanca in Spain. Marvel at the city's sunlit sandstone buildings, the majestic city square, and the ancient university. After your Insider Experience, return to Barca d'Alva, the last Portuguese village along the Douro. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese BBQ dinner on board.
Day 5 – Day 5: Régua and the Douro Museum
- Peso da Régua
- More
- Douro Museum
- More
Today, cruise from Barca d'Alva to Régua, enjoying a fascinating history lecture on board. Upon arrival in Régua, participate in an Insider Experience, followed by a guided tour of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Douro Museum to learn more about the region's rich history and culture.
Day 6 – Day 6: Gardens and Palace of Mateus and Entre-os-Rios
- Mateus
- Peso da Régua
- More
- Fundação da Casa de Mateus
- More
Join an excursion to the splendid Gardens and Palace of Mateus, a living museum owned by the Count of Vila Real. Discover the connection between this 18th-century palace and Mateus Rose wine. Later, continue to the riverside town of Entre-os-Rios. Enjoy free time to explore this vibrant town. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese folk music performance during the Captain's Dinner.
Day 7 – Day 7: Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto
- Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- More
Cruise back to the enchanting city of Vila Nova de Gaia. Upon arrival, join a tour of nearby Porto, visiting the city's most famous attractions and a local port winery for a tour and tasting. Spend the afternoon exploring Porto at your own pace. You may choose to visit a boutique for authentic souvenirs or explore the old-fashioned Bolhao food market. In the evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Porto
- Porto - Departure day
- More
After a final breakfast on board, you will be transferred to the airport in Porto for your onward journey. As this memorable tour concludes, you'll carry with you the unforgettable memories of the vibrant art, music, wine, and food of Portugal and Spain.
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