Douro Discovery

Day 1  Porto, Portugal
Fly to Porto, transfer to MS Estrela and set sail along the spectacular Douro River for a sunset cruise as you meet your fellow travellers.

Day 2  Régua, Lamego & Pinhão
Take part in a Portuguese language class to learn some essential phrases while sailing towards Régua. Upon arrival, visit the picturesque village of Lamego and the elaborately decorated baroque cathedral, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. Sample one of the town’s famous specialities, Bola de Lamego, a delicious smoked ham roll. Later, continue to Pinhão and enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner at a quinta (winery).

Day 3  Vega de Terrón, Spain & Castelo Rodrigo, Portugal
Sail across the border into Vega de Terrón, Spain. Spend some time at leisure before joining an included excursion to Castelo Rodrigo, a tiny village atop a hill, overlooking both Spain and Portugal with well-preserved ruins, an impressive castle and a magnificent stone statue of Santiago Matamoros.

Day 4  Salamanca, Spain & Barca d’Alva, Portugal
Set off for the glorious Spanish city of Salamanca, known as one of the most beautiful in the country. Marvel at the sandstone buildings and the impressive city square before enjoying a fiery flamenco show and lunch. Afterwards, travel back across the border to Barca d’Alva where your ship along with a delicious Portuguese barbecue dinner.

Day 5  Pinhão & Régua
Today, join an excursion to the Gardens and Palace of Mateus. Discover the beauty of this 18th Century palace before rejoining your ship in Régua.

Day 6  Régua & Entre-os-Rios
This morning, head to a local quinta, boasting incredible views over the Douro Valley and take part in a tasting of local port wine, Portugal’s most famous tipple. Afterwards, continue to the quaint riverside town of Entre-os-Rios. Spend the afternoon exploring this gorgeous town at your leisure.

Day 7  Porto
Return to Porto after breakfast and enjoy a guided tour of the city, taking you past the city’s iconic sights before visiting a local port winery. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring at your own pace, perhaps stopping by at a boutique to buy souvenirs, before a final farewell dinner on board in the evening.

Day 8  Disembark in Porto and fly home

Your Ship: Operated by Travelmarvel, part of the APT Travel Group, MS Estrela has been custom designed and built specifically for cruising along the Douro. Named after the Portuguese for ’star’, enjoy comfortable accommodation, a sun deck complete with a refreshing pool to soak up the passing scenery, and fantastic dining throughout.