Join your elegant ship in the Roman city of Porto, the home of Port wine, to cruise along the Douro, one of the most scenic rivers in Europe lined with steep hills and terraced vineyards.
See the sights of Porto during an exciting guided tour, and enjoy a stroll around the beautiful 12th-century walled hilltop village of Castelo Rodrigo. A highlight of this cruise is Salamanca in Spain, a historic UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful Spanish cities. The centre is dominated by its two imposing cathedrals and the university which dates back to the 13th century. You'll experience a traditional flamenco show during your time here.
Discover the ornate Mateus Palace and beautifully-landscaped gardens, before enjoying dinner at Quinta da Pacheca, an 18th century manor house which was the first quinta to bottle wine under its owner's name. Visit the spectacular Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies Church and learn how port wine is produced at a typical Portuguese quinta. A full day in Oporto is the perfect end to this discovery of Portugal's Port wine region.
RT187 Operated by Riviera Travel
.
The Douro and Salamanca Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Porto (Portugal)
Fly from the UK to Lisbon or Porto where a coach will take you to the ship. The dedicated crew will welcome you aboard ensuring you settle in to your first class floating hotel.
Day 2 - Porto
This morning, join a guided tour of the city, before returning to the ship for lunch. Enjoy scenic cruising upstream along the Douro.
Day 3 - Castelo Rodrigo
Navigate a series of locks along the Douro cruising into the rural territory towards the Spanish border. This afternoon visit Castelo Rodrigo, a charming 12th century walled village whose church was a resting place on the pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela.
Day 4 - Salamanca (Spain)
Today visit Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Salamanca is dominated by its two cathedrals and Spain's oldest university founded in 1215. Join a guided tour, then over lunch enjoy a traditional flamenco show.
Day 5 - Mateus Palace (Portugal)
After a scenic morning of cruising, visit the beautiful gardens of the famous Mateus Palace. This evening, dinner is at an 18th-century manor house, Quinta da Pacheca, overlooking the River Douro.
Day 6 - Lamego
Enjoy a short drive to Lamego for a visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies church. You'll then head to a typical Portuguese quinta to learn how the port wine is produced. Following the Captain's Dinner this evening, there will be a traditional Portuguese folk music performance on board.
Day 7 - Porto
Originally Roman, Porto's wealth is derived from its knowledge of the sea routes to India. Enjoy a tour and tasting at one of the best-known port wine cellars. Later, spend time at leisure.
Day 8 - Porto - UK
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight back to the UK.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.