Lisbon to Madrid via the Douro

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Arrive in Madrid

   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.

2. 2

   Madrid

   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.

3. 3

   Madrid

   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 – Museo del Prado

   Admire the beautiful art displays at the Museo del Prado. 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. 
4. 4

   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.

5. 5

   Pochino

   Step ashore and embark on your chosen tour in Pocinho.

   Freedom of Choice - Côa Parque Museum 

   Set within a dramatic landscape where the Prehistoric Art of the Côa Valley meets the Douro Wine Region, the Côa Museum offers a compelling journey through more than 30,000 years of human creativity. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum pairs striking contemporary architecture with stories of the ancient rock engravings of the surrounding valley and houses Portugal’s most extensive library dedicated to rock art. Inside, immersive and interactive exhibitions provide rare insight into the symbolism, artistry and enduring mystery of prehistoric life.

   Freedom of Choice - Côa Archaeological Park Rock Art

   Nestled on a serene river beach along the right bank of the Côa River, Penascosa offers a rare glimpse into the artistic legacy of our earliest ancestors. Your journey begins in the charming village of Castelo Melhor before continuing by 4WD along a scenic dirt track, winding through almond and olive groves for approximately six kilometres. As the most visited site in the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, Penascosa captivates visitors with its peaceful setting and breathtaking vistas, while the Palaeolithic engravings etched into the rocks reveal the extraordinary richness and creativity of Côa art.

   Tonight, gather for a delectable farewell dinner on board.

6. 6

   Pinhão, Régua

   Visit Pinhão Railway Station, known as one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal. Built in the 19th century, it has tiled walls that depict the production of port. You’ll then visit a local quinta. Later, be awed by the breathtaking landscapes unfolding before you as your ship cruises through the heart of the Douro Valley region to Régua. Soak up the serenity of this enchanting setting as you glide past terraced vineyards and lush, rolling hills.

7. 7

   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 Palácio de Mateus

   Embark on a trip to Palácio 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 the Lamego municipality, the prestigious estate dates back to the 16th century and features 75 hectares of vineyards.
8. 8

   Entre-os-Rios

   Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising through the Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. While you sail, you may wish to join a hands-on tile-painting experience in the Main Lounge. Discover the traditional craft of azulejos, the blue tiles that adorn Portugal’s towns and cities. Learn about the vibrant colours, intricate patterns and storytelling that define this distinctive, world-renowned art form.

   On arrival, choose your sightseeing option.

   Freedom of Choice – Traditional Village Visit

   Wander through a charming Schist village, tucked into the rolling hills of Penafiel. Admire the warm golden stone houses and meandering narrow streets, carefully restored using traditional methods, and soak in the rhythms of authentic Portuguese village life. Discover hidden courtyards and experience the timeless character of a community that has preserved its heritage for generations.

   Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting

   Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family estate crafting wines in the Vinho Verde region since the 1870s. Meander through the lush vineyards and learn the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages. Conclude your visit with a curated tasting of fine wines paired with artisanal cheeses, savouring the flavours that define this historic estate.
9. 9

   Entre-os-Rios, Porto

   Arrive in the charming city of Porto in the afternoon. Explore Porto’s 16th-century Old Town and take a cable car ride before enjoying a Signature Experience in the evening.

   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.
10. 10

    Porto

    Spend a full day discovering Porto, beginning in the morning as you set out on your chosen sightseeing activity. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. On your final evening on board, take in Porto from a privileged vantage point as your ship glides along the river, revealing the city's sights and landmarks illuminated in the evening light.

    Freedom of Choice — Portuguese Tart Cooking Class

    Put on your baker's apron for a hands-on class devoted to Portugal’s most beloved sweet, the pastéis de nata. Guided by a renowned chef, discover the secrets behind its delicate, flaky pastry and silky custard filling as you take part in the preparation process yourself. As the tarts emerge warm from the oven, savour your freshly baked creation, perfectly paired with a glass of Portuguese port.

    Freedom of Choice – Port Tasting

    Visit Vila Nova de Gaia, home to Porto's famous Port wine cellars. Here, you'll visit Taylor's Port, established over three centuries ago, it stands as one of the oldest founding Port houses in the region. Take a guided tour of the recently renovated 300-year-old cellars, learn about its history and production today, followed by a tasting.
11. 11

    Porto, Disembark Ship, Coimbra, Lisbon

    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.

12. 12

    Lisbon

    Set off to see the sites of Lisbon. Pay a visit to the World Heritage-listed Jerónimos 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. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of Pastel de Nata, Portugal's famous custard tart, as well as a tasting of Portuguese salt cod fritters. Tonight, join your fellow travellers to share a special dinner.

13. 13

    Lisbon, Sintra

    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.

14. 14

    Depart Lisbon

    Following breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport.

    **This itinerary may change due to weather, local conditions, or operational requirements.*

Accommodation

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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