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River CruiseRiver Cruise

 Lisbon & the Douro Valley

 
4.6 stars(7 reviews)
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202520262027
Duration
11 days
From per person
$3,995 $3,695
Tour code
DOR26
Mobility Rating 2
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Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Uncover the timeless beauty of Portugal on this enchanting vacation, visiting Lisbon and Sintra before embarking on a seven-night cruise through the acclaimed Douro Valley 

 Travel to Lisbon and explore Sintra's palaces on a Portuguese voyage of discovery before embarking on a seven-night Douro cruise. Drifting through golden valleys and past enchanting towns and wine estates, our cruise reveals the best of this river, stopping at wonderful ports en route.   

We set sail from Porto, tracing the Douro's path. Visit the golden city of Salamanca, discover Baroque architecture in Lamego, indulge in wine at local quintas and spend time in medieval Guimarães - each stop offering a take on the beauty of the Douro Valley. 

Unforgettable Experiences

Tour Lisbon's colorful streets
Tour Lisbon's colorful streets
Discover the fascinating history of Portugal's capital on a guided tour that includes a ride on a vintage tram as we explore Lisbon, admiring the city’s ornately tiled buildings as the route unfolds.
Savor scenic Porto
Savor scenic Porto
 Explore the UNESCO-listed World Heritage city of Porto - renowned for its port wine and picturesque location on the Douro - and its historic landmarks like the Clerigos Tower and Porto Cathedral.
Visit Mateus Palace – a Baroque masterpiece
Visit Mateus Palace – a Baroque masterpiece
 Uncover the historic grandeur of Mateus Palace, a stunning Baroque-style 18th-century mansion near Vila Real that boasts beautiful gardens and a grand interior with opulent rooms. 
Soak up the grandeur of Salamanca
Soak up the grandeur of Salamanca
 Admire the golden city of Salamanca, with its ancient cathedrals and age-old UNESCO sites which stand as testaments to its rich heritage, before experiencing a traditional Spanish lunch.
Spend a morning in Lamego
Spend a morning in Lamego
 Enjoy a guided tour of Lamego, seeing its impressive Baroque cathedral and its historic center adorned with ornate churches and elegant squares.
Uncover the treasures of Guimarães
Uncover the treasures of Guimarães
 Venture amongst the medieval buildings of Guimarães, a picturesque city known as the “birthplace of Portugal,” and see its beautifully preserved medieval old town, historic churches and charming squares.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1 Arrival in Portugal’s capital, Lisbon

 Your vacation begins today as you arrive in Portugal, a nation famous for its explorers, making it the ideal destination for a river cruise adventure on the golden Douro River. Make your own way to our four-star hotel in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal - a delightful stop before our cruise, with its rich culture and colorful houses contrasting the deep blue sea and white beaches. 

  After checking into our hotel for the first of three nights and meeting the Tour Manager and travel group, you can take some time to relax in your comfortable accommodation or walk around near our hotel, getting acquainted with this vibrant city. This evening, we kick off our journey with a welcome drink at the hotel and our first dinner together in the on-site restaurant. Overnight Lisbon.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2 Exploring Lisbon 

Our excursion today takes us on a tour of Portugal's intriguing capital city. As a special touch, our excursion includes a ride in a specially chartered tram from the 1930s and 40s. Guided by an expert, we uncover the colors of Lisbon and the history of its streets, squares and boulevards. We finish in the waterfront district of Belém, famous for its pastries and grand villas. Here, we stop at one of the local shops to sample authentic Belém egg tarts. 

  The remainder of the day and evening are yours to explore the city at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of one of Europe's oldest cities, wander the cobblestone streets or experience the soulful melodies of Fado music at a cozy tavern. You could end your sightseeing by heading to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte - a unique spot with incredible panoramic views over the city. For lunch and dinner, Lisbon has an excellent selection of restaurants serving everything from traditional Portuguese favorites to international cuisine. Overnight Lisbon.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY3 The grand palaces of Sintra 

 After having breakfast at our hotel, we walk to Lisbon's train station to travel to the beautiful town of Sintra, located up in the hills behind Lisbon. Once a favorite summer retreat for the Portuguese royals, Sintra is filled with a selection of summer palaces in all shapes and hues.    

Enjoy time at leisure to discover the history and people behind the magnificent buildings lining the streets of this fairytale town. Marvel at Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, and explore the lush gardens at Monserrate Palace, savoring panoramic views. During your visit, you may also like to wander about Sintra's historic center, where you can sip Portuguese coffee at one of the many quaint cafes. 

  We return to Lisbon by train this evening, arriving in time for drinks at the hotel and dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight Lisbon.

*Please note: to enter Pena Palace it is necessary to book in advance.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4 To Porto, where we join our cruise ship

 Leaving Lisbon this morning, we set out on a rail journey through the Portuguese countryside to the historical city of Porto on the northern coast. This destination sits on the banks of the Douro River with its buildings stacked up the hillsides and alluring bridges and history lining the riverbanks, making it a lovely beginning point for our cruise.   

Upon arrival, a coach transfers us to the waterfront, where our floating hotel awaits to welcome us aboard. After getting settled in your cabin, take some time to explore the ship's layout and get acquainted with its amenities. This evening, we enjoy an official welcome with a drink before our first three-course dinner onboard.    

After, we set out on a panoramic evening coach tour of Porto. We see the preserved areas of the city - a UNESCO World Heritage site - and hop off the coach at the São Bento railway station, where we admire its magnificent azulejos before returning to our ship. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY5 Discovering Porto and Régua 

 This morning, we begin to discover the soul of Porto on a guided tour. We wander its winding streets, steeped in centuries of history. Admire townhouses adorned with intricate azulejos, the ornate details of regal churches and the iconic iron bridge - an emblem of the city's industrial prowess and architectural ingenuity.    

We also visit a wine cellar to sample the city's famous port wine, hearing tales of the region's viticultural legacy and the meticulous craftsmanship behind every drop. From the luscious sweetness of Tawny to the robust complexity of Vintage, each sip unveils a distinct character.     

Rejoining our ship for lunch onboard, we begin our cruise along the Douro. Enjoy the river's picturesque landscapes en route to Régua, a picturesque town that is rich in history and culture and surrounded by terraced slopes.     

After docking this evening, we enjoy drinks, a three-course dinner and entertainment onboard. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6 The delights of Mateus Palace and Gardens

 Another Portuguese attraction lies ahead this morning as we disembark our ship and make our way by coach to Mateus Palace, one of the most beautiful and astonishing houses in northern Portugal. This 18th-century masterpiece is a delight, with a classic Italianate exterior, beautifully adorned interiors and lush gardens. Our visit includes time to explore the grand halls and carefully preserved rooms of the palace, and then we enjoy time at leisure to explore the property's chapel and winery, which dates to the 16th century.  

  Returning to our ship in time for lunch, we spend the afternoon cruising through astounding scenery to Vega de Terrón on the border with Spain. This evening, we enjoy a three-course dinner and a colorful display of music and dance during an onboard flamenco performance. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7 The golden city of Salamanca 

 Soak up the changing views as we venture by coach into Spain and through the countryside to the golden city of Salamanca in the Castille y Léon region today. Known as the academic capital of Spain, this ancient city boasts an impressive array of sandstone university buildings and, founded in 1218, is the country's oldest and most prestigious center of learning. 

  On arrival, you can delve into its attractions on one of two optional excursions. The first is a guided city tour showcasing the highlights of Salamanca, including the House of Shells, Plaza Mayor and other magnificent buildings.  

Afterward, there is a free afternoon to wander at leisure and discover the city's hidden gems. You might like to continue admiring the architecture of this ancient location or explore Salamanca's culinary side while perusing the Central Market. We return to the ship this evening for drinks and a three-course dinner onboard. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8 The renowned Porto wine route

 We begin our cruise back downstream through scenic landscapes to Ferradosa today. Spend some time relaxing in the ship's lounge or have a seat on one of the loungers on the sun deck, admiring the views while the route unfolds.    

After having lunch on the ship, we discover the wines of Portugal on an excursion along the Porto wine route. Our excursion takes us to São Salvador do Mundo and São João da Pesqueira, two small towns set amongst the vineyards on the Rio Torto valley. We also visit a local quinta, where we indulge in a tasting of some of the region's finest ports.   

  We rejoin our ship in Pinhão this evening and indulge in an evening to remember. Filled with delicious food and wonderful company, tonight's Gala dinner is an opportunity to celebrate our Portuguese journey of discovery. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY9 Baroque splendor in Lamego

 Our day begins with a morning tour in the picturesque village of Lamego, renowned for its stunning cathedral. Standing at the heart of the village, the cathedral is a breathtaking example of Baroque architecture. But the real highlight of this masterpiece is the 700 steps leading up to its doors, beautifully decorated with cheerful white and blue tiles.    

We return to our ship in time for lunch and then enjoy a relaxing afternoon and evening of sailing. Our route takes us back to Porto, where we began our cruise, providing an encore look at the small towns and breathtaking scenery lining the Douro as we approach our final port of call. This evening, we enjoy a three-course dinner and Fado-themed entertainment, offering another taste of Portuguese culture. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY10 Exploring Porto and Guimarães

 The morning is yours to have breakfast onboard and explore Porto at your leisure. Having spent the last few days on the Douro, you might like to get a new perspective of its beauty - and that of Porto - while riding the Gaia Cable Car. You could also revisit favorite sites from our previous tour or find a spot to sit in one of city's squares, soaking up the atmosphere while enjoying a coffee.    

After lunch on the ship, we visit the charming medieval city of Guimarães, known for its well-preserved 10th-century buildings, vibrant squares and picturesque castle gardens. A guided tour presents the city's most enticing sights and history before we return to our ship later this afternoon.    

Tonight, a three-course farewell dinner and traditional folk entertainment onboard offer the perfect conclusion to our time in Portugal. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY11Homeward bound

 Today marks the final day of our adventure in Portugal. Having experienced Lisbon's lively ambiance and Sintra's gorgeous summer palaces and explored destinations along the stunning Douro River, including Porto, Régua, Salamanca, Pinhão, Lamego and Guimarães, our vacation comes to a close this morning.

We say goodbye to our wonderful crew and disembark our ship for the final time in Porto, from which you are free to make your way home at leisure.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Ship Information

See more details about this tour's ship.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin USU | Vacations by Rail

Situated on the highest deck possible, these cabins enjoy the best views on board with panoramic windows and a private terrace allowing you to make the most of the passing landscapes. Also included are tea & coffee making facilities, a choice of double or twin beds, a flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin UDS | Vacations by Rail

Situated on the highest deck possible, these cabins enjoy the best views on board with panoramic windows allowing you to make the most of the passing landscapes. Also included are tea & coffee making facilities, a choice of double or twin beds, a flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin MSU | Vacations by Rail

These cabins sit on the middle level of the ship and feature panoramic windows as well as tea & coffee making facilities, a double bed, flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin MDS | Vacations by Rail

These cabins sit on the middle level of the ship and feature panoramic windows as well as tea & coffee making facilities, a choice of double or twin beds, flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin MDA | Vacations by Rail

These cabins sit on the middle level of the Cyrano de Bergerac and feature panoramic windows as well as a French balcony, tea & coffee making facilities, a choice of double or twin beds, flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin MDC | Vacations by Rail

These cabins sit on the middle level of the Cyrano de Bergerac and feature panoramic windows as well as a French balcony, tea & coffee making facilities, a choice of double or twin beds, flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

MS Gil Eanes Cabin LDS | Vacations by Rail

Situated on the main deck of the ship, these cabins have windows (which can't be opened), tea & coffee making facilities, a choice of double or twin beds, a flat-screen television, individual climate control, an en-suite bathroom with shower and W.C, a hairdryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.

Reviews

4.6 stars4.6 / 5 · 7 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (4)
  2. 4 stars
    (3)
  3. 3 stars
    (0)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (0)

COONEY, KEVIN M

5 stars

Submitted 02 Jul 2023

Beautiful river, friendly and knowledgeable staff. Interesting excursions.

Collected by Trustpilot

Robert Shellenbarger

5 stars

Submitted 28 Jun 2023

Cruise and on board service was excellent.

Collected by Trustpilot

BAILLIE, SUZANNE GREENE

5 stars

Submitted 28 Jun 2023

It was a great cruise - fabulous scenery, food, decor. Great staff in every department.

Collected by Trustpilot

DIANE C.

5 stars

Submitted 27 Jun 2023

The Lisbon and Douro River Cruise tour exceeded my expectations in every way. Our local tour guide in Lisbon was very professional, pleasant and knowledgeable. Lisbon is dynamic, historic, clean, friendly and contemporary. The Douro River Cruise was perfectly executed. The ship, Douro Serenity, was comfortable, efficient, delicious, entertaining, and professionally staffed. I didn't want the trip to end.

Collected by Trustpilot

RICHMAN, AL

4 stars

Submitted 20 Sep 2023

The scenery on the cruise was amazing, the boat was nice but rooms were a little small? The food while there was plenty left a lot to be desired. We left the boat to go out to eat once and would have done several more times if there was a restaurant near where we docked.

Collected by Trustpilot

Marlene Lee

4 stars

Submitted 19 Sep 2023

The Douro river cruise is beautiful. Vineyards undulate along the river banks

Collected by Trustpilot

Show all 7 reviews
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