Discovering the Douro

• 7-night cruise on board the Douro Serenity
• Porto
• Lamego
• Castelo Rodrigo
• Salamanca
• Mateus Palace & Gardens

Day 1: London – Porto

We meet today at the airport, where you and your group board your flight for Porto. Upon arrival in this fantastic Portuguese city, we are escorted by coach to our ship, the Douro Serenity. After settling into our cabins, we are welcomed with a cocktail. Later, we sit down to our first on-board meal, after which you are free to enjoy your first night on the ship.

Day 2 Lamego

Today, your ship docks at Regua. In the afternoon, pay a visit to Lamego, a picturesque village near the banks of the Douro for a guided tour. The cathedral is the centrepoint of Lamego, a remarkable example of Baroque architecture. Arguably more impressive however, are 700 steps which lead up to its doors, decorated as they are in cheerful white and blue tiles. Enjoy dinner at a local wine estate later.

Day 3 Castelo Rodrigo

Your ship sails to Barca d’Alva today where you dock. After lunch, embark on an excursion to the historical town of Castelo Rodrigo. This charming destination offers a look into the medieval past of Portugal and the Douro region, with a history that goes all the way back to the times of the Romans.

Day 4-5 Salamanca

Travel through the enchanting countryside to the golden city of Salamanca in the Castille y Léon region. Salamanca is the academic capital of Spain, and its educational prowess is evidenced in the glorious sandstone university buildings which make up one of the most prestigious centres of learning in the country.

Your tour here takes us to see these buildings, as well as the decorative House of Shells and the thriving Plaza Mayor. Enjoy free time afterwards before we sample a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant.Your entertainment during the meal is a dazzling flamenco show, as trained dancers demonstrate an iconic Spanish dance of passion and finesse. On our return to the ship, we take a BBQ dinner on the sun deck (weather permitting).

Day 5 is spent cruising through the stunning landscape to Peso de Regua, and you are at leisure on board. After dinner, sample some of the region’s vintage Port in an opening ceremony.

Day 6 Mateus Palace & Gardens

Pay a visit to the gorgeous Mateus Palace today and its stunning gardens. Located at the heart of the Vila Real region, this 18th century stately home is a delight to explore, with its classic, Italianate exterior, decorative interiors and beautifully manicured parks and gardens which lead up to the palace itself.

Day 7 Porto

Arriving into Porto this morning, you have a choice of excursions to explore this famous port city which heralds the point at which the Douro ends. Your first option is an insightful and engaging tour of the city both by coach and by foot. The tour takes you along the winding streets, cutting between the city’s superb architecture, historical townhouses, regal churches, and crossing the famous iron bridge.

Your second option is to travel to the nearby city of Guimarães. What sets Guimarães apart is its fantastically well-preserved medieval buildings, which date as far back as the 10th century. The city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the jewel in Guimarães’ crown is the imposing medieval fortress which watches over the city.

Day 8 Return Home

After your final breakfast, depart the ship for a transfer to the airport. Here you board your flight back to the UK, where your Portuguese adventure comes to an end.

A charming vessel which plies the waters of the elegant Douro in Portugal, the Douro Serenity offers a serene and comprehensive cruising experience from the decks of a superbly well-appointed ship. Built in 2017, the Serenity’s 4 decks hold 63 cabins and up to 124 passengers, alongside a wealth of amenities to make your time on board as enjoyable as possible. The majesty of Portugal’s favourite river is best seen from this floating hotel.

Relax back into the tasteful environs of your cabins, sample food straight from the destination in the panorama restaurant, take a dip in the on board swimming pool on the sun deck – this is cruising as it was always meant to be, memorable, fulfilling and packed full of opportunity.

Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don’t include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment’s notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote