ITINERARY

Day 1

FLY TO PORTO & EMBARK A-ROSA ALVA

Fly to Porto in Portugal and transfer to the A-ROSA ALVA in Vila Nova de Gaia for the start of your 7-night cruise. This evening, uncover the atmosphere of Porto after dark with an overnight stay in the city. Tonight, enjoy an included welcome dinner.

Day 2

RÉGUA & PINHÃO ARRIVE R É GUA 13.00, DEPART 14.00

Depart Porto after breakfast and sail to Régua, the largest city on the banks of the Douro. It’s so beautiful here even UNESCO have recognised it, claiming it as a World Heritage Site back in 2001. The Douro Museum is a fascinating first stop – you will find it set inside a restored wine warehouse and for wine afficionados there’s no better introduction to this region.

Arrive... PINHÃO

17.00

Pretty Pinhão is located at the heart of the famous port wine region. Sailing into the port here will be a true highlight of your journey. Circled by enchanting vineyards and quintas, the town and surrounding countryside are perfect for exploring on foot. Be sure to take a look at the Linha do Douro train station, which is decorated with richlycoloured azulejo tiles.

Included local dining experience. Set high above the Douro Valley and boasting panoramic vistas across the countryside, you’ll visit a typical local quinta this evening. Enjoy a tour of the vineyard and an authentic local dinner accompanied by their famous wines.

Day 4

Day 3

VEGA DE TERRON

DEPART PINHAO 13.00, ARRIVE 19.00

This morning, you will be treated to another included off-ship experience - the opportunity to enjoy port wine tasting at one of the finest Douro Valley estates, Quinta da Roeda.

We then continue to Vega de Terron, located on Portugal’s border with Spain at the confluence of the Douro and Agueda Rivers.

BARCA D’ALVA

DEPART VEGA DE TERRON 12.00, ARRIVE 12.30

A stone’s throw from the Spanish border, Barca d’Alva is a tiny speck on the map –but its main drawcard is altogether bigger: it’s the closest we’ll come to the ‘Golden City’ of Salamanca. Take an optional excursion to what is arguably Spain’s most beautiful locations. Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, a walk through Salamanca is like stepping into the history books.

Day 5

POCINHO & PINHÃO DEPART BARCA D’ALVA 09.00, ARRIVE POCINHO 11.15, DEPART 12.15, ARRIVE PINHÃO 17.30

This morning we visit the small town of Pocinho, most famous as the finishing point of the prettiest railway journey in this region. You can also opt for an excursion to the magnificent Castelo Rodrigo, located in one of Portugal’s most historically important villages.

Day 6

RÉGUA & PORTO

DEPART PINHÃO 07.00, ARRIVE RÉGUA 09.00, DEPART 14.00, ARRIVE PORTO 18.00

We return to Régua this morning. Take a walk to the popular viewing platforms São Leonardo da Galafura and São Salvador do Mundo and enjoy the panoramic views of the river landscape. Why not join an excursion to the Mateus Palace and Gardens, renowned for its rosé wine. Later, we continue sailing to Vila Nova de Gaia for Porto, arriving early evening.

Day 7

VILA NOVA DE GAIA (PORTO)

PORTO

More time to discover fascinating Porto. Visit a wine cellar and appreciate this famous tipple – it’s a must here! The atmospheric centre, the Ribeira, is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It’s a glorious maze of crumbling rainbow-coloured buildings presiding over winding cobbled streets. Tonight, enjoy an included farewell dinner.

Day 8

DISEMBARK VILA NOVA DE GAIA (PORTO)

Disembark after breakfast and be transferred to the airport for your return journey to the UK. Alternatively, add a few extra days in the city - ask for more details.

Douro Gourmet Cruise

Departing 4 October 2023 and 23 October 2024

Join expert chef’s for an exploration into Portuguese cuisine with cooking demonstrations, visit to markets and wonderful culinary experiences.

Festive Cruises

From the end of November and throughout December, Europe’s cities come alive with Christmas. Atmospheric Christmas markets line charming streets and grand squares. Twinkling lights festoon beautiful boulevards. The scent of pine trees and mulled wine fills the air. Join us on our fantastic selection of sailings across this period and expect deliciously festive dining and drinks, a relaxed, convivial atmosphere and spectacular destinations, all dressed for Christmas.