Meet the Experts
29 December
Setting sail from Porto
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal's second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance. Porto is best known as the home of the country's most famous export, port wine, but there's a lot more to this characterful city than getting sloshed; the crumbling historic centre, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's a fascinating district to wander around. Porto also serves as the gateway to the spectacular Douro valley, a landscape of verdant vineyards where the city's famous wine is produced.
Our tip
There are a number of port producers that offer tours and tastings, and we can highly recommend Graham’s.
30 December
Portugal: Régua
Peso da Régua (Régua for short) is the main river port for the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley, and is the perfect base for exploring the port-wine region. Nearby attractions include the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus, with its intricate furnishings and beautiful gardens, and the important pilgrimage site of Lamego.
31 December - 1 January
Portugal: Vega de Terron, Portugal
2 January
Portugal: Pinhão
The pretty little town of Pinhão, situated on a bend in the Douro, is all about one thing: wine. The surrounding hills are covered in vineyards, and you’ll have ample opportunity to sample a variety of tipples, including the region’s most famous product, port.
3 January
Portugal: Régua
Peso da Régua (Régua for short) is the main river port for the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley, and is the perfect base for exploring the port-wine region. Nearby attractions include the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus, with its intricate furnishings and beautiful gardens, and the important pilgrimage site of Lamego.
4-5 January
Arriving in Porto
Don't miss
Walking over the Luís I Bridge for beautiful views over the city and river, and if the steep approach looks a bit much there’s a cable car to help on the South Bank.
Your home from home
Custom built to operate on Portugal’s dramatic Douro river, the eco-friendly AmaVida and AmaDouro have comfortable staterooms and a wonderful main restaurant with an al fresco dining option.
What we love
Excellent accommodation on the Lisbon and Porto Decks boasts comfortable outside balconies and all staterooms and suites have a well finished modern décor. The Sun Deck offers seating as well as the heated swimming pool, ideal for a refreshing dip!
| Capacity | 102 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 30 European Staff |
| Style | Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere |
|
Inclusions |
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| Year Built | 2013 (AmaVida) / 2019 (AmaDouro) |
| Length | 260 feet |
| Breadth | 37 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Porto
In the heart of the city the excellent InterContinental Porto - Palacio das Cardosas overlooks the Avenida dos Aliados and is a short walk from Bolhão Market, Ribeira District and the Clérigos Church.
See more of Portugal
For a taste of wild Portugal, set forth to Peneda Geres National Park.
