France and Portugal Encounter 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the enchanting landscapes of Portugal and France, where history, culture, and breathtaking scenery await at every turn. Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Porto, where you'll be welcomed aboard a luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Cruise along the picturesque Douro River, exploring charming villages, historic sites, and world-renowned wine regions. As you sail into France, discover the culinary delights of Lyon, the artistic heritage of Arles, and the medieval charm of Conflans-Saint-Honore. Conclude your adventure in the iconic city of Paris, where you'll explore its famous landmarks and hidden gems. With a perfect blend of guided tours, exclusive experiences, and leisure time, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through two of Europe's most captivating countries.
Included
30 breakfasts, 27 lunches, 30 dinners
Airport transfers outside Australia are included
Accommodation is included
Scenic Azure: Royal Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite, Scenic Gem : Royal Suite ,Deluxe Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite, Scenic Sapphire: Royal Owner's Suite ,Royal Suite ,Royal Panorama Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Porto
- Porto - Arrival day
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- Miradouro da Vitória
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Begin your adventure in Porto, a city rich in history and culture, nestled along the Douro River. As you board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship, settle into your suite and enjoy a welcoming cocktail reception. This evening, toast to the exciting journey ahead in this vibrant city, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2 – Day 2: Porto Exploration
- Porto
- Maia
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- Luís I Bridge
- Bridge Park
- Convento dos Loios
- Bolsa Palace
- Casa das Artes
- Porto Cathedral
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Awake in the vibrant city of Porto, where history meets modernity. Choose between a guided tour of the city's cultural landmarks, including the stunning Palacio da Bolsa, or an active exploration featuring a cable car ride to the Dom Luis Bridge. In the afternoon, delve into the art of tile painting, a quintessential Portuguese craft.
Day 3 – Day 3: Douro Valley Adventures
- Peso da Régua
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- Douro Museum
- Parque Urbano de Santiago
- Praia da Madalena
- Bolsa Palace
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Set out from the charming village of Entre-os-Rios to explore the lush Douro Valley. Choose from a hike along the scenic Paiva Walkways, a wine tasting at Quinta da Aveleda, or a visit to the historic city of Guimarães. Later, relax on board as you cruise to Regua, where you can visit the Douro Museum and enjoy a taste of local port.
Day 4 – Day 4: Varosa Valley and Lamego
- Lamego
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- Museu de Lamego
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa
- Quinta do Jalloto - Family vineyards
- Piocas de Baixo
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Explore the Varosa Valley, starting with a visit to the Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca and the historic Ucanha Bridge. In the afternoon, choose between a tour of Lamego, a visit to the stunning Mateus Palace, or a port wine blending class at Quinta de Pacheca. Each option offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.
Day 5 – Day 5: Scenic Cruising
Day 5: Scenic Cruising
- Miradouro de Teixeirô
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Enjoy a leisurely day aboard your Scenic Space-Ship as you cruise through the picturesque Douro Valley. Relax on the Sun Deck, taking in the breathtaking views of the Vinhateiro wine-growing region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its world-renowned port wines.
Day 6 – Day 6: Vega de Terron and Salamanca
Day 6: Vega de Terron and Salamanca
- Salamanca Cathedral
- Arribes del Duero Natural Park
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Arrive in Vega de Terron, a charming town on the border of Portugal and Spain. From here, embark on a full-day excursion to Salamanca, known for its stunning sandstone architecture and vibrant university atmosphere. Alternatively, visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta and explore its unique silk museum.
Day 7 – Day 7: Pocinho and Côa Valley
Day 7: Pocinho and Côa Valley
- Castle Pinhel
- Carrascalinho Lookout
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Wake up in Pocinho, a village steeped in history. Choose to visit the Côa Valley Museum, where you'll learn about the region's paleolithic rock art, or enjoy a tasting of local delicacies at Casa Painova estate. In the afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhão, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Day 8 – Day 8: Pinhão and Provesende
Day 8: Pinhão and Provesende
- Quinta do Bomfim
- Piocas de Baixo
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Start your day in Pinhão, a picturesque village known for its exceptional port wine. Visit the charming village of Provesende, where you'll explore local traditions and enjoy a tasting of regional specialties. In the afternoon, choose between kayaking on the Pinhão River, hiking through vineyards, or a wine tasting at Quinta da Roêda.
Day 9 – Day 9: Return to Porto
- Porto
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- Saint Lawrence Church
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Sail back to Porto, where you'll have the afternoon to explore the city at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive classical concert at the historic Sao Francisco Church, a stunning venue with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
Day 10 – Day 10: Porto and Surroundings
- Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia
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- Aveiro Museum
- Buçaquinho Park
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Spend your day in Porto with a choice of activities: explore the canals of Aveiro, play a round of golf at Quinta do Fojo, or enjoy a wine tasting at Cockburn's Port in Vila Nova de Gaia. In the evening, return to your Scenic Space-Ship for a farewell dinner and an illumination cruise through Porto.
Day 11 – Day 11: Porto to Lyon
- Porto
- Lyon
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Bid farewell to Porto as you board an included flight to Lyon. Upon arrival, embark on the luxurious Scenic Sapphire for a 10-night cruise along the Saône and Rhône Rivers. Settle into your suite and prepare for the next leg of your journey through the heart of France.
Day 12 – Day 12: Chalon-sur-Saône and Beaune
- Beaune
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Sail towards Chalon-sur-Saône, a charming town in the Burgundy wine region. Choose from a guided tour of Beaune and the historic Les Hospices, a visit to a local estate for wine tasting, or a tour of the Photography Museum. Each option offers a unique insight into the region's rich heritage.
Day 13 – Day 13: Tournus and Surroundings
Day 13: Tournus and Surroundings
- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
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Arrive in Tournus, a town with a rich Roman history. Choose from a visit to the historic Château de Cormatin, a truffle tasting experience, or a cooking class at the renowned Georges Blanc Restaurant. Each activity offers a taste of the region's culinary and cultural delights.
Day 14 – Day 14: Tournon Exploration
Day 14: Tournon Exploration
- Train de l'Ardèche
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Discover the riverside town of Tournon, known for its terraced vineyards and historic castle. Choose from a walking tour of the town, a hike through the vineyards, or a cycling tour along the Rhône River. In the afternoon, enjoy a refreshing drink on the terrace of Tournon Castle.
Day 15 – Day 15: Avignon and the Popes' Palace
- Avignon
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- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
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Arrive in Avignon, a city steeped in history and culture. Choose from a guided walking tour of the city's medieval architecture, an excursion to the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard, or a kayaking adventure. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive classical concert and dinner at the magnificent Palais des Papes.
Day 16 – Day 16: Provence Exploration
- Avignon
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- Fort de Buoux
- Château de Grignan
- Le Sentier des Ocres
- Camp des Milles
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Explore the enchanting region of Provence, with options to visit the picturesque village of Gordes and Senanque Abbey, sample wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or discover the Lavender Museum and Roussillon. Alternatively, join a local chef for a market visit and cooking class on board.
Day 17 – Day 17: Arles and Artistic Heritage
- Arles
- Avignon - Departure day
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- Escattes Aventure
- Palais des Papes
- La Tour
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Discover the Roman history and artistic legacy of Arles, with options to explore the city's ancient ruins, visit the medieval village of Les Baux and the Carrières de Lumières, or learn about traditional Provencal recipes and cosmetics. In the afternoon, enjoy a painting class on board, inspired by the region's artistic heritage.
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