Cruise the stunning Douro River as you traverse the world’s oldest wine region. Rambling vineyards and native farms cling to the steep sides of the Douro Valley, creating an incomparable backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions.
Once you’ve arrived in Madrid, you’ll be taken to your hotel to settle in. Our welcome reception this evening is the perfect chance to meet your fellow travellers.
Today you’ll enjoy the chance to tour Spain’s vibrant capital, including visits to the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. This evening, savour a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Choose how you want to spend your time in Madrid today.
Freedom of Choice – Madrid Food Tour
Learn all about the traditional sights, smells and flavours of delectable Spanish cuisine on a culinary tour of the capital’s best food spots.
Freedom of Choice – Prado Museum
Admire beautiful displays of art at the Prado Museum. Relish the museum’s collection of artwork from iconic Italian and Flemish artists such as Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens, and Bosch.
Freedom of Choice – Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
If you’re a sports fan, you're sure to enjoy a visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the second largest stadium in Spain and home to the Real Madrid Football Club.
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.
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 Pinhão, where your ship will dock overnight.
Visit the Pinhão 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 Régua.
Enjoy a full day in Régua where you’ll have a choice of sightseeing options before a special Signature Experience.
Freedom of Choice – Tour Lamego
Set among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming town. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local speciality, Bola de Lamego.
Freedom of Choice – Visit Palacio de Mateus
Embark on 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 being featured on the bottle labels of Mateus Rosé wine.
Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and tasting with views over the Douro River and Régua. Situated in the village of Cambres in Lamego county, the prestigious property features 75 hectares of vineyards, dating back to the 16th century.
Enjoy a relaxing sailing morning through the Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, choose your sightseeing option.
Freedom of Choice – Tour Guimarães
Explore the historic city of Guimarães, where the medieval settlement is on show during a tour of its well-preserved buildings and attractions.
Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting
Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family business that has been producing wine in the Vinho Verde wine region since the 1870s. Explore the gardens and tie off the day with a sampling of wine and cheese.
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. Enjoy a Signature Experience tonight.
Signature Experience – Fado performance in Palácio da Bolsa
Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.
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.
Freedom of Choice – Cooking Demonstration
Porto is famous for its delectable cuisine and you can discover its culinary heart with a visit to a traditional restaurant for a cooking demonstration.
Freedom of Choice – Walking Tour of Porto
Set off on foot on an active walking tour through the medieval streets and the old harbour quarter of Ribeira. Stroll through the cobbled streets and discover neighbourhoods of colourful 18th – century houses and quaint eateries
Travel through Portugal’s countryside then discover the medieval city of Coimbra, home to the country’s oldest and most famous university. Continue to Lisbon and check in to your hotel.
Set off to see the sites of Lisbon by riding the city’s iconic tramcars and visiting the Old Town. Pay a visit to the World Heritage-listed Jeronimos Monastery, a symbol of Portugal’s power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. Built in 1502 by King Manuel I, the monastery commemorates Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India. Tonight, join your fellow travellers to share a farewell dinner.
As soon as you get your first glimpse of Serra de Sintra, prepare to gasp. Mountains roll from each direction and every peak is as memorable as the last. Visit King Ferdinand II’s ingenious Park and National Palace of Pena, before having free time to explore Sintra. Take the chance to have lunch at your leisure, then be guided by the sea breeze as you return to Lisbon via the coastal route. Since it’s your final night here, you might like to try one of the local restaurants for dinner.
Be transferred to the airport.
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APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.
Save up to $1,600 per person on Douro Delights with Madrid and Lisbon - now from $10,195 per person - Members save more (Member price now from $9,737 per person) - applicable to 14 July 2025 departure. Offer ends 31 October 2024 or until sold out.