Set sail along the UNESCO-designated Douro River. Taste new wines from Old World villages and sample the flavors of Portuguese cuisine. Visit Castelo Rodrigo, the “White Village”; enjoy an immersive lunch at Quinta de Avessada in Pinhão; and see Lamego, one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites. Plus, enjoy two nights in Porto, the fascinating “City of Bridges.” Historic places, unspoiled beauty and distinctive wines are yours to be enjoyed as you savor the flavors of Spain and Portugal.
Two iconic cities, Lisbon and Madrid, provide the perfect start and end to a grand journey through Portugal and Spain. Cosmopolitan Lisbon offers a treasure trove of Old World architecture and a wealth of stories about its famed explorers; and then there is the seaside town of Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal and a favorite summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for more than 500 years. Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey before visiting some of Spain’s glorious cities: the golden-hued city of Salamanca, the ancient walled city of Toledo, and cosmopolitan Madrid, renowned for its world-class museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars.
COUNTRIES:
Portugal, Spain,Portugal, Spain,
RIVERS:
Douro
Flavors of Portugal & Spain
At A Glance
On our cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Board your river ship for your Flavors of Portugal & Spain cruise. (D)
| Day 2 | Porto | Porto City tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike and Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafés; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For a more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto; afterwards, indulge in a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
| Entre-os-Rios | Special dinner at local Quinta |
|
Enjoy a morning at leisure to take in more of Porto’s charm before cruising to Entre-Os-Rios, where you will enjoy a special Portuguese dinner at a local Quinta. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Régua | Lamego excursion |
|
You have a choice of two excursions. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). For active adventurers, you can hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Régua | Mateus Palace & Gardens excursion |
|
| Pinhão | Local quinta wine tasting |
|
Revel in a visit to Mateus Palace and Gardens, where you’ll admire beautiful 16th-18th century furnishings and hear the tale of Mateus Rose Wine. You’ll also have some time to stroll among the gardens, which feature perfectly manicured topiaries and an impressive cedar tunnel. Later, enjoy a wine tasting at a local quinta. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Pinhão | Pinhão Train Station hike |
|
| | Lunch at Quinta de Avessada |
|
This morning, hike to the 19th-century Pinhão Railway Station, once used to transport wine. Admire the more than 20 historic azulejos (hand-painted tiles) that depict various aspects of the town’s grape harvest. During the afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. Quinta da Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century façade and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you’ll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Vega de Terrón | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Your journey comes to an end in Vega de Terrón as you prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
| Day 1 | Vega de Terrón | EMBARKATION |
|
Board your river ship for your Flavors of Portugal & Spain cruise. (D)
| Day 2 | Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
| Barca d’Alva | Port wine tasting |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century façade and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you’ll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 3 | Pinhão | Mateus Palace and gardens |
|
| | Wine tasting and lunch at Quinta de Avesseda |
|
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and
gardens known as the Palacio de Mateus, located in the
beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real.
The interior of the house features various religious images
and exquisite furniture, artwork and hand-carved wooden
ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that
are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the
afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you’ll
enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience
complete with entertainment. Quinta da Avessada is also
a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the
history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so
you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine
production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Régua | Lamego tour and Bôlas tasting |
|
| | OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting |
|
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Caldas de Aregos | Caldas de Arego Vineyard hike |
|
| Entre-os-Rios | Special dinner at a local Quinta |
|
Enjoy
a morning hike through the vineyards, and then set sail
along the scenic Douro River. Later in the day, enjoy a special Portuguese dinner at a local Quinta. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Porto | “City of Bridges” tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike with Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the
Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafés; and the São
BentoRailway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll
also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For a more active
adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto;
afterwards, indulge in a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
Enjoy a day at leisure. (B,L,D)
Disembark your cruise in Porto. (B)
| Day 1 | Lisbon | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Lisbon and check in to your hotel.
| Day 2 | Lisbon | “City of Seven Hills” tour |
|
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon sprawls across several hills along the Tagus River. Your city tour includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll see the fortified Belém Tower and visit the spectacular Jerónimos Monastery, a late Gothic-style structure. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your leisure, perhaps to visit the Castle of São Jorge or the Santa Justa Elevator that overlooks the castle, the river and Rossio Square. (B)
| Day 3 | Lisbon | Royal Sintra excursion with Pena National Palace visit |
|
Enjoy a morning excursion to Serra de Sintra, one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Portugal, a former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family and a source of inspiration for Lord Byron and generations of other artists and poets. Your guided tour includes a wine tasting and a view of the Pena National Palace, a fairy tale castle situated high on a rocky peak, followed by free time to explore on your own. (B)
| Day 4 | Lisbon | Motorcoach to Porto |
|
Check out of your hotel and take a motorcoach ride through the Portuguese countryside. Stop in Tomar en route to Porto and visit its Templar knight castle, the walls of which envelop the elaborate Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating from the 12th century and boasting spectacular frescoes and azulejos (iconic blue painted tiles). Afterward, continue to Porto to embark for your cruise. (B)
| Day 5 | Porto | Porto City tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike and Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafés; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For a more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto; afterwards, indulge in a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
| Entre-os-Rios | Special dinner at local Quinta |
|
Enjoy a morning at leisure to take in more of Porto’s charm before cruising to Entre-Os-Rios, where you will enjoy a special Portuguese dinner at a local Quinta. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Régua | Lamego excursion |
|
You have a choice of two excursions. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). For active adventurers, you can hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Régua | Mateus Palace & Gardens excursion |
|
| Pinhão | Local quinta wine tasting |
|
Revel in a visit to Mateus Palace and Gardens, where you’ll admire beautiful 16th-18th century furnishings and hear the tale of Mateus Rose Wine. You’ll also have some time to stroll among the gardens, which feature perfectly manicured topiaries and an impressive cedar tunnel. Later, enjoy a wine tasting at a local quinta. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Pinhão | Pinhão Train Station hike |
|
| | Lunch at Quinta de Avessada |
|
This morning, hike to the 19th-century Pinhão Railway Station, once used to transport wine. Admire the more than 20 historic azulejos (hand-painted tiles) that depict various aspects of the town’s grape harvest. During the afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. Quinta da Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century façade and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you’ll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Vega de Terrón | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Salamanca | Full-day excursion with flamenco show |
|
Disembark the ship in Vega Terrón and board a motorcoach to Madrid. En route to Madrid, you’ll first stop in Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla y León region. You will have free time to explore on your own, followed by an escorted city tour that includes the New Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Afterwards be treated to a delicious lunch and Flamenco show. Later in the day, you’ll check into your hotel in Madrid. (B)
Discover the vibrant capital of Spain on your city tour that takes in all the top sights, including the elaborate Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel and Plaza Mayor. (B)
| Day 13 | Madrid | Toledo excursion |
|
Journey to the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Spain. The city is a treasure trove of artistic riches with its winding streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. As part of your escorted tour, you will visit the Cathedral of Toledo as well as the Synagogue Santa María La Blanca in the Jewish Quarter. (B)
| Day 14 | Madrid | Return flight home |
|
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (B)
| Day 1 | Madrid | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Madrid and check in to your hotel.
Enjoy a guided tour of Madrid, Spain’s capital since the Spanish Golden Age and now its largest city, a place with broad avenues, grand museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars. Known for its historic districts, art, music and epicurean delights, Madrid is a cosmopolitan metropolis with a vibrant nightlife scene. The city’s top landmarks include the elaborate Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor and such renowned art galleries as the Prado Museum and Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. (B)
| Day 3 | Madrid | Toledo excursion |
|
You’ll have an excursion today to the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Spain. The city is a treasure trove of artistic riches that once inspired Spanish Renaissance artist, El Greco, with its winding streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. As part of your guided tour, you will visit the Cathedral of Toledo (one of the world’s greatest Gothic structures) as well as the Synagogue Santa Maria La Blanca in the Jewish Quarter. (B)
| Day 4 | Madrid | Transfer to Salamanca |
|
| Salamanca | Full-day excursion with flamenco show and lunch |
|
| | Transfer to Vega de Terrón |
|
| Vega de Terrón | EMBARKATION |
|
Depart Madrid for an excursion to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla y León region. Your guided city tour includes the university buildings, Salamanca Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Afterwards, be treated to a flamenco show. Later, you will be transferred to Vega Terrón to board your river ship. (B,D)
| Day 5 | Vega de Terrón | Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare |
|
| | OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare |
|
| Barca d’Alva | Port wine tasting |
|
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century façade and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you’ll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Pinhão | Mateus Palace and gardens |
|
| | Wine tasting and lunch at Quinta de Avesseda |
|
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and
gardens known as the Palacio de Mateus, located in the
beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real.
The interior of the house features various religious images
and exquisite furniture, artwork and hand-carved wooden
ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that
are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the
afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you’ll
enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience
complete with entertainment. Quinta da Avessada is also
a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the
history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so
you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine
production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Régua | Lamego tour and Bôlas tasting |
|
| | OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting |
|
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Caldas de Aregos | Caldas de Arego Vineyard hike |
|
| Entre-os-Rios | Special dinner at a local Quinta |
|
Enjoy
a morning hike through the vineyards, and then set sail
along the scenic Douro River. Later in the day, enjoy a special Portuguese dinner at a local Quinta. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Porto | “City of Bridges” tour and Port wine tasting |
|
| | OR Porto hike with Port wine tasting |
|
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the
Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafés; and the São
BentoRailway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll
also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For a more active
adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto;
afterwards, indulge in a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D)
Enjoy a day at leisure. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Porto | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| | Motorcoach transfer to Lisbon |
|
After disembarking your ship in Porto, take a motorcoach ride through the Portuguese countryside. Stop in Tomar en route to Lisbon and visit its Templar knight castle, the walls of which envelop the elaborate Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating from the 12th century and boasting spectacular frescoes and azulejos (iconic blue painted tiles). Afterward, continue to Lisbon to check into your hotel. (B)
| Day 12 | Lisbon | “City of Seven Hills” tour |
|
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon sprawls across several hills along the Tagus River. Your city tour includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll see the fortified Belem Tower and visit the spectacular Jerónimos Monastery, a Late Gothic-style structure. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the city at your leisure, perhaps to visit the Castle of São Jorge or the Santa Justa Elevator that overlooks the castle, the river and Rossio Square. (B)
| Day 13 | Lisbon | Royal Sintra excursion with Pena
National Palace visit |
|
Enjoy a morning excursion to
Serra de Sintra, one of the most picturesque mountain
villages in Portugal, a former summer residence of the
Portuguese royal family and a source of inspiration for
Lord Byron and generations of other artists and poets.
Your guided tour includes a visit to the Pena National
Palace, a fairytale castle situated high on a rocky peak,
followed by free time. (B)
| Day 14 | Lisbon | Return flight home |
|
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (B)