Riviera Travel Gastronomy of the Douro

• Guided tour of a famous port producer in Porto, including tastings
• Visit Castelo Rodrigo and taste the almond products it is famed for
• Enjoy traditional food at two historic Quintas
• Have dinner at a local restaurant in Lamego
• See a traditional Spanish market before having tapas in Salamanca

• 7nts onboard a 5-star ship
• Return flights and transfers
• Full board inc. complimentary tea & coffee onboard
• 9 visits & tours
• Services of an expert cruise director

Day 1: Arrival in Porto

Arrive in Porto and transfer to the ship

Day 2: Mateus Palace Gardens & Qunita da Pacheca

After leaving Porto, a morning talk introduces Portugal’s diverse cuisine, encompassing fish, meat, cheese, spices, and fruits, shaped by centuries of culinary influence.

Have lunch on board before visiting the grounds of Mateus Palace in Peso da Régua, known for its iconic Mateus Rosé bottle. In the evening, head to Quinta da Pacheca for dinner, offering dramatic river views and a chance to explore the historic estate, the region’s first quinta to bottle wine in 1738 under owner Mariana Pacheco Pereira. Spend the night moored in Régua.

Day 3: Castel Rodrigo

Relax during breakfast with panoramic views of the changing Douro landscape, once a wild river tamed by dams and locks. Indulge in Portuguese Pastel de Nata treats, learning their history and preparation.

Cruise though rural landscapes, enjoying onboard facilities like the sun deck pool or catching up on reading. Savour local vinho verde and explore the exceptional Portuguese wine list. In the afternoon, visit the 12th-century walled village, Castelo Rodrigo, sampling regional delights and traditional fare. Experience the opening of a celebratory vintage port wine using port tongs.

Day 4: Salamanca

Crossing into Spain, you’ll explore Salamanca, hailed as one of Spain’s top gastronomic cities. Salamanca features two cathedrals and the oldest Spanish university, founded in 1218. Explore its ornate cathedrals, medieval streets, and the 18th-century Plaza Mayor. Discover the local marketplace for fresh produce and indulge in a lunch of notable Spanish tapas.

Returning to Portugal, your on-board dinner will showcase a tempting array of traditional Portuguese dishes.

Day 5: Quinta da Avessada & Pinhão

In port wine territory, terraced vineyards replace lush hillsides, showcasing a warmer, drier Mediterranean landscape. Disembark and visit Quinta da Avessada in Favaios, renowned for Moscatel de Favaios. Learn about the wine’s origins and savor a traditional Douro Valley lunch featuring Portuguese delicacies.

Returning to the ship, the ship moors overnight in the wine town of Pinhão. Explore the picturesque town, known for its white buildings and terracotta roofs. Visit the charming train station adorned with azulejos, depicting Pinhão’s grape harvest history.

Day 6: Lamego

After breakfast, a short drive brings you to historic Lamego, known for Portugal’s sparkling wine, Raposeira, and its 12th-century reclamation from the Moors. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies atop a baroque staircase offers panoramic views; try the local bôla, a savory bread with meats and cheeses, accompanied by regional sparkling wine.

Returning to the ship, enjoy a chef-prepared lunch as the ship departs for Leverinho. Relax on the sun deck or read in the lounge. The evening brings the Captain’s Dinner, featuring regional specialties and a vibrant performance of traditional Portuguese folk music.

Day 7: Porto

Explore Porto’s rich history with a guided tour and visit renowned port wine producers like Cálem, Sandeman, Graham’s, and Ferreira. Indulge in a port tasting paired with complementary snacks. After onboard lunch, discover Porto’s terraced streets, cobbled alleyways, and historic landmarks.

The evening brings a final dinner served onboard. Reflect on the Douro’s splendours in the lounge, perhaps with a glass of port.

Day 8: Return home

After breakfast, transfer to the airport at the appropriate time for your flight home

MS Douro Splendour

Fact File

• Currency: Euro
• Flight time: 2 hrs 30 mins to 3 hrs
• Language: Portuguese
• Time zone: GMT
• Country: Portugal

*All transfer times listed are approximate, and dependent on traffic.