Douro Delights - Madrid to Porto

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Portugal's picturesque Douro Valley with our exclusive cruise deal. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the region as you glide along the tranquil waters of the Douro River. Enjoy luxurious accommodations aboard a modern river cruise ship equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and memorable voyage.

Madrid, 16 Oct 2024 to Porto, 24 Oct 2024

Your Ship: MS Estrela

We are delighted to be launching the MS Estrela, a brand-new purpose designed Douro River ship setting sail in 2024. 

Experience life on board your brand-new river ship, the MS Estrela. Custom-built to cruise along the majestic Douro River, the MS Estrela has been designed to reflect the beauty of the region, with ample natural light and a distinctly Southern European ambience.

• Outdoor social spaces include a Sun Deck featuring a large swimming pool and an outdoor bar, plush lounge seats, sun beds and a putting green.
• Onboard entertainment includes Portuguese folk music and an informative history lesson.
• The main restaurant showcases Portuguese and international flavours, or you can opt for a lighter meal in the ship's lounge, or dine alfresco.
• French Balcony suites feature an electric slide down window, allowing you to bask in the glorious landscapes.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Madrid

Once you've arrived in Madrid, you'll be taken to your hotel to settle in. Stay: Madrid, Petsana Plaza Mayor

Day 2: Madrid, Salamanca, Vega de Terron, Embark Ship

Hit the road and travel to the ancient city of Salamanca for a tour. You'll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to Vega de Terron. Board your river ship and settle in with a welcome dinner. Stay Seven Nights: MS Estrela (B/L/D)

Day 3: Vega de Terron, Barca d’Alva

On a tour of the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, you'll stop for to visit the castle ruins. Return to your ship and enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing to Pinhao, where your ship will dock overnight. (B/L/D)

Day 4: Pinhao, Regua

Visit the Pinhao Railway Station, known as one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal. Built in the 19th century, its tiled walls depict the production of port. You'll then visit a local quinta.

Later, your ship will sail to Regua. (B/L/D)

Day 5: Regua

Enjoy a full day in Regua where you'll have a choice of sightseeing before a special Signature Experience. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:

On a tour of Lamego, you'll visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local speciality, Bola de Lamego. Otherwise, you might like to take a trip to Palacio de Mateus, located near the city of Vila Real. Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni played a pivotal role in the palace's construction in the 18th century. The palace is also well known for featuring on the bottle labels of Mateus Rose wine.

Signature Experiences:

Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and tasting with views over the Douro River and Regua.

Day 6: Entre-os-Rios

Enjoy a relaxing sailing morning through the Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, choose your sightseeing option. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:

Explore Guimaraes, where the evolution of medieval settlement is on show during a tour. Alternatively, visit Quinta da Avelada, a family business that has been producing wine in the Douro region since the 1870s. Explore their gardens, and tie off the day with a sampling of wine and cheese.

Day 7: Entre-os-Rios, Porto

Arrive in Porto in the afternoon. Explore Porto's 16th-century Old Town and take a cable car ride before sampling a few selections of port. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:

Tonight you'll head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional Fado performance in the Arabian Hall.

Day 8: Porto

On your final night on board, your river ship has the best vantage point to see the sights as you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:

Visit a traditional restaurant for a cooking demonstration, or set off on foot on an active walking tour through the medieval streets and the old harbour quarter of Ribeira.

Day 9: Disembark Ship, Depart Porto

Be transferred to the airport. (B)

During your cruise, you'll have the opportunity to explore charming riverside towns, visit historic vineyards, and sample some of the finest wines produced in the region. Indulge in delicious cuisine featuring local flavors and specialties, expertly prepared by our onboard chefs.

As you sail through the stunning landscapes of the Douro Valley, you'll be treated to panoramic views of terraced vineyards, rolling hillsides, and quaint villages nestled along the riverbanks. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, our Douro river cruise deal offers the perfect blend of experiences for travelers of all interests.

Don't miss this chance to discover the beauty and charm of the Douro Valley in style. Book your cruise today and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe's most captivating regions.

All fares are displayed in Australian Dollars and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.