Overview
Portugal’s Douro River elegantly meanders its way through beautiful Port wine countryside, a pristine setting of dramatic gorges, steeply terraced vineyards, and traditional wine farms called quintas. Your journey on this unspoiled river features explorations of the historic cities of Porto, Lamego, and Spain’s “golden city” of Salamanca, plenty of wine tastings and regional culinary treats, an unforgettable meal at a centuries-old monastery, and much more.
The entire crew of the AmaVida deserve a big thank you, especially cruise manager Mariana, who was wonderful, enthusiastic, very friendly, and helpful.
— Pat S., North Oaks, MN
Note: This cruise is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as agent in booking your reservation with the ship operator. The itinerary, lecturers, and all other arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line.
Itinerary
CRUISE PROGRAM
Porto to Porto Itinerary
Day 1
Porto / Embarkation
Embark your cruise in Porto. Gather on board tonight for your Welcome Dinner.
Day 2
Porto / Entre-Os-Rios
The colorful city of Porto blends the best of old and new, which you can discover on an escorted tour of the historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments, 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. If you prefer something more active, you can go on a guided hike and then enjoy a Port wine tasting. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Portuguese dinner with your fellow travelers in Entre-Os-Rios at a local quinta—a country estate—for a truly authentic culinary experience.
Day 3
Régua / Pinhão
Travel to picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in all of Portugal, where you’ll go to the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). The shrine features a staircase of nearly 700 steps, beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, which you can climb on an optional guided hike. Later, you'll have the opportunity to sample local traditional specialties, such as bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham, presunto, a type of dry-cured ham, and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine, followed by a visit to the formal Episcopal Palace Museum. In the afternoon, savor the flavors of Portugal’s renowned fortified wine, vinho do porto, made exclusively in the Douro Valley. Top off the day at a local quinta where you can sample authentic Port wine.
Day 4
Barca D’alva
Enjoy the scenery of the Douro River as you cruise to Barca d’Alva, where you'll visit Castelo Rodrigo, a small fortified village perched high on a hilltop with centuries-old walls, steep narrow streets, and fantastic views. You can also opt for a hike up to the charming village. While there, be sure and taste some locally grown produce.
Day 5
Vega de Terró, Spain / Salamanca
Drive to Salamanca, an architectural treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built of golden sandstone, Salamanca is known as a “living museum,” and you will have an opportunity to step back in time to the Middle Ages during your escorted tour, which includes the city’s elegant university buildings, the New Cathedral, the intriguingly decorated House of Shells, and the Plaza Mayor. Enjoy lunch in town, along with a traditional flamenco show.
Day 6
Pinhão / Régua
An exclusive experience is in store for you today as you enjoy a traditional lunch at the beautiful Quinta da Avessada, along with local entertainment. Quinta da Avessada has a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, and you’ll have time to learn about the various stages of wine production as well as taste different varieties.
Day 7
Régua / Porto
Visit the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus and its colorful gardens. Inside the house, you’ll see interesting furnishings, paintings and a ceiling of intricately carved wood. The gardens here are considered some of the most beautiful in Portugal. Relax on the ship as you take in the beautiful scenery on your way to Porto. Enjoy a free afternoon in Porto to explore the city.
Day 8
Porto / Disembark
Your cruise comes to an end as you prepare for your homeward flight.
ADD ON A PRE-CRUISE LISBON LAND PROGRAM
Additional 3 nights in Lisbon pre-cruise from $900
Day 1
Arrive in Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive in Lisbon and check into your hotel. The remainder of the day and evening is free to explore on your own.
Day 2
Lisbon
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon sprawls across several hills along the Tagus River. Your city tour visits Belem Tower and the spectacular 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery. You will also see the Discoveries Monument, the city’s most famous monument, built in honor of Portugal’s greatest maritime explorers. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the city’s other top sights, such as the Castle of São Jorge or the Santa Justa Elevator that overlooks the castle, river, and Rossio Square.
Day 3
Lisbon / Sintra
Enjoy a morning excursion to Serra de Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal, a favorite summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for more than 500 years. Long an inspiration for artists and poets, Lord Byron once called it “perhaps the most delightful [village] in Europe.” High up on a rocky peak, you will tour the Castelo da Pena, a wonderful fairytale castle dating from Portugal’s Romantic period. Afterwards, enjoy a wine tasting or time on your own
Day 4
Lisbon / Porto / Embarkation
Check out of your hotel and board a motorcoach to Porto. On your way, stop at Tomar and take in the Castle and Covent of the Order of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a brilliant work of 12th- to 16th-century architecture. In Porto, embark on your ship.
