Arrive in Porto and we transfer you to the port for embarkation. Explore the vessel and settle into your cabin, your home for the next eight days, before meeting the crew and fellow travelers. Your Evening is at leisure as your ship overnights in port tonight.
After breakfast on board, we’ll embark on a panoramic exploration of Porto, Portugal’s charismatic northern gem. Our journey begins with a drive across the iconic Dom LuÃs I Bridge, a striking feat of 19th-century ironwork that offers sweeping views of the Douro River and the city’s cascading hillsides.
Our first stop is the majestic Porto Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece dating back to the 12th century. From this hilltop perch, we descend into the atmospheric old town, where centuries-old houses in vivid hues line narrow, cobbled lanes.
In the heart of the city, we pause at São Bento railway station, a true artistic treasure where over 20,000 hand-painted azulejos tell stories of Portugal’s past in brilliant blue and white. Our tour continues past the iconic Clérigos Tower, once the tallest building in Europe and still a defining feature of Porto’s skyline.
We return to the ship in time for lunch, just as the ship prepares to depart Porto. Settle into a cozy spot on the upper deck as we begin a serene afternoon of scenic cruising along the Douro River. The landscapes unfold like a living postcard, with steep terraced vineyards, timeworn villages, and golden hills rolling beneath the sun.
A short operational stop in Leverinho punctuates our journey before we continue toward our evening destination. Tonight, we arrive in Folgosa, where the ship will remain docked for the night. It is a peaceful ending to a day filled with the beauty of the Douro River Valley.
As you enjoy breakfast on board, the ship quietly departs, gliding along the golden waters of the Douro River toward Pocinho. This morning invites you to relax and savor the serene scenery from the upper deck or the lounge, as the landscape unfolds into a tranquil panorama of terraced vineyards, rolling hills, and timeless stone villages.
After lunch on board, we arrive in Pocinho and disembark for an excursion to the remarkable Côa Valley Museum. A scenic drive takes us through the rugged beauty of the valley to this architectural gem, gracefully integrated into its natural surroundings. Since opening in 2010, the museum has become one of Portugal’s most acclaimed cultural landmarks.
Inside, you'll journey through millennia of human history. The museum highlights the region’s extraordinary collection of Paleolithic rock art, one of the most significant in Europe, brought to life through original artifacts and immersive digital presentations. It is a rare opportunity to connect with the creativity and spiritual life of our earliest ancestors.
After this fascinating visit, we return to the ship in Vega Terrón, where we remain docked overnight. Unwind this evening amid the peaceful charm of this picturesque riverside village on the Spanish border.
After breakfast on board, set out for an exploration of Salamanca, a city that shines as one of Spain’s greatest treasures. The journey begins with a scenic drive from Vega Terrón, rising toward the golden Castilian plateau. Along the way, olive groves, timeless stone walls, and quiet villages unfold like a living tapestry, revealing the heart of Spain’s countryside.
Upon arrival, the first taste of Salamanca is quite literal: Iberian ham, local cheeses, and pan con tomate introduce you to the region’s proud culinary traditions. From there, a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed old town reveals a city where history and vitality live side by side. Salamanca’s ancient university, ornate sandstone facades, and soaring cathedral, an extraordinary blend of nine centuries of artistry, speak of a cultural legacy that continues to inspire.
The city invites you to linger. Perhaps wander beneath the arcades of the magnificent Plaza Mayor, sip a coffee at a sunlit café, or simply lose yourself in streets where every stone tells a story. By afternoon’s end, you return to your river ship with a heart full of impressions, grand architecture, lively spirit, and the warm embrace of Spanish joie de vivre. As evening falls, dinner is served on board while the vessel sets sail toward Pochinho, where it will rest overnight, carrying you gently into the promise of tomorrow’s discoveries.
Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as the ship remains docked, allowing you to savor breakfast at your own pace. By mid-morning, we set sail for Pinhão, gliding through the heart of the Douro Valley. Settle into the rhythm of the river as terraced vineyards rise along the hillsides and whitewashed villages peek through the greenery. This tranquil stretch of cruising offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region. By midday, we arrive in the charming town of Pinhão.
Upon arrival, we set out to explore the magnificent Mateus Palace, a Baroque masterpiece and one of Portugal’s most iconic estates. Built in the early 18th century, this grand former residence offers a captivating glimpse into a world of aristocratic elegance. The palace’s ornate façade, adorned with decorative flourishes and graceful curves, hints at the splendor within.
Inside, you’ll discover richly decorated rooms filled with original furnishings and intricately carved ceilings. A highlight of the visit is the palace library, which houses rare volumes including one of the earliest illustrated editions of Os LusÃadas, Portugal’s national epic. Every room tells a story, reflecting the refined lifestyle of the noble family who once lived here.
Outside, the formal gardens offer a peaceful retreat. Stroll beneath the iconic cypress tunnel, admire classical statues, and pause beside reflecting pools that shimmer in the sunlight. With every step, you’re immersed in a landscape of timeless beauty and serenity.
Following your visit, return to the ship and enjoy time to relax before dinner. The ship remains docked in port this evening, providing a restful overnight stay in the riverside town of Pinhão.
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast on board as the ship departs from Pinhão. Settle in and enjoy a tranquil morning of scenic cruising along the majestic Douro River. The views are ever-changing, with terraced vineyards, sun-drenched hills, and charming villages unfolding as we make our way toward Régua.
Upon our midday arrival, we set out to visit the Casa dos Viscondes da Várzea, a gracious estate nestled in the heart of Portugal’s wine country. Surrounded by sweeping views of vineyard-covered hills, this elegant property offers a glimpse into the region’s rural traditions and refined charm.
Your experience continues with a guided tour of the estate’s vineyards. Walk among the vines and learn firsthand from dedicated winemakers about the heritage, techniques, and care that go into each bottle. This immersive exploration offers a deeper appreciation for the Douro Valley’s storied winemaking culture.
Return to the ship in the late afternoon and unwind as the sun sets over the river. Enjoy a relaxing evening on board. The ship remains docked in port this evening for an overnight stay in Régua.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board and settle in for another morning of scenic cruising as we depart Regua and sail to Entre-os-Rios. The Ship makes a brief mid-day stop in Entre-os-Rios where we will set out for our included tour to Guimaraes, the proud birthplace of Portugal, which has a fascinating history and a rich cultural heritage. Here, in this historic city, the heart of the early Portuguese kingdom beat, and its narrow streets and old buildings tell of times past and great events.
The impressive Ducal Palace rises majestically above the city and is a symbol of the royal splendor of days gone by. As the seat of the first king of Portugal, this palace is more than just a building - it is a testament to the royal power and cultural wealth of medieval Portugal.
During your visit to Guimarães, you have the unique opportunity to explore this well-preserved city, which is proud to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover the beauty of the historic buildings, which impress with their ornate details and antique elegance.
Let Guimarães whisk you away to another time, when knights and kings ruled Portugal, and experience the magic and enchantment of this historic pearl. You will rejoin the ship in Porto and enjoy one final night onboard. The Ship overnights in Port.
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard, then bid farewell to the crew of Porto Mirante as you disembark the ship and begin your journey to Lisbon. Our first stop will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and UNESCO Creative City of Literature: the walled city of Obidos. We continue our journey stopping for lunch in Nazare. After lunch, we continue our journey to Lisbon, arriving at the hotel in time to check in. You have the evening free to explore on your own.
After breakfast, set out on a Monumental Tour of Lisbon, where history, charm, and contemporary flair blend seamlessly. Stroll through the city’s winding cobblestone lanes, admire the colorful Moorish facades, and take in the energy of trendy, repurposed warehouses that now house galleries, cafes, and boutiques.
Highlights of your morning include visits to the Monument of the Discoveries, the iconic Tower of Belém, and the magnificent Jerónimos Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each stop reveals Lisbon’s deep maritime roots and rich architectural heritage. As the tour concludes, you’ll understand why Lisbon is celebrated as one of Europe’s coolest capitals.
The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to explore more of the city, relax in a scenic square, or savor local cuisine at your own pace.
After Breakfast, we depart for a full day tour through the picturesque landscapes of Queluz and Casais. Our first stop will be to the Queluz National Palace and Garden. Explore this masterpiece of 18th-century Portuguese Architecture and discover the opulence of the royal quarters and the romantic charm of the palace gardens. Next, we begin our journey to Cascais. Weather permitting, we will make a photo stop at Praia do Guincho before arriving in Cascais. Upon arrival, your guide will take you on an orientation walking tour of Cascais. Afterwards, you will have free time to enjoy Lunch on your own and to explore this beautiful city. We will depart for Lisbon in the midafternoon, arriving back to the hotel to unwind and get ready for tonight’s Farewell Dinner!
Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Then, bid adeus to your fellow travelers as you transfer to the airport for your journey home.
Take with you the unforgettable memories of your Douro Discoverer River Cruise and the vibrant charm of Lisbon, a journey filled with culture, beauty, and new friendships.
Note: While we make every effort to offer you the excursions mentioned in the itinerary, please note that changes may occur with little or without notice that are outside of our control, and we thank you in advance for your understanding and flexibility.Â
