Cruise Advice
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Sailing from Portugal
Ports
8 Ports
31 August
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.
1 September
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.
1 September
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.
2 September
Portugal: Barca d’Alva
3 September
Spain: Salamanca
Vega de Terrón is the drop-off point for excursions to Salamanca, a beautiful UNESCO-listed city built from golden sandstone. The baroque-style Plaza Mayor is one of the most magnificent squares in Spain, while other highlights include the twin-towered cathedral and the unusual House of Shells.
4 September
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.
4-5 September
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.
5-7 September
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 sail Portugal’s beautiful Douro River, Viking’s Douro Ships offer the same high standards as their Longships, with state-of-the-art engineering and streamlined Scandinavian interiors.
What we love
With an elegant yet intimate design, the atmosphere on board is delightfully relaxed yet with a touch of refinement. The Restaurant, where all meals are served, has panoramic windows, as does the lounge which is really the heart of the ship. On the sundeck there is a shaded sitting area, al fresco dining areas, swimming pool, putting green and even an organic herb garden.
| Capacity | 106 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 36 Staff |
| Style | Understated, elegant on board environment where you can relax after an enriching day of shore excursions. |
| Inclusions |
|
| Length | 262 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.
