Cruise into one of Europe's most striking and natural regions, the Douro River. Explore the quaint villages amongst the breathtaking rolling hills and vineyard slopes of the beautiful Douro Valley.
As you cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley, learn about the region's fascinating wine production history and naturally indulge in wine tasting while onboard your River Cruise ship.
.png)
Ready to experience a Douro river cruise? Enquire today!
.png)
Boarding your River Cruise ship in Porto, why not head out to Caves Ferreira Port Wine Cellar? Founded in 1751, learn about (and taste) this over 250 years old port brand.
Also, while in Porto, wander around the historic city centre (UNESCO World Heritage Site), stopping for a cafe and pastel de nata whilst you indulge in some people watching.
Cross the border into Spain for the day, with your stop at Salamanca. The old quarter (UNESCO World Heritage Site) will take you back to the Middle Ages. The Casa de las Conchas (house of shells) is an amusing site, whilst the stunning 13th-century Salamanca university is a fantastic site to see.
Like the rivers of central Europe, the Douro River has plenty of scenic cruising. Marvel at the dramatic rock formations, picturesque terraced vineyards and stunning bridges and trestles as you cruise through the Douro Valley.
.png)
Start planning today! Speak to our expert river cruise team.
.png)
Cruise through the photogenic river valleys and vineyards before arriving at the pretty town of Pinhão, home to some of the best Port wine and Douro table wines. Walk through the local vineyards, admiring the stunning surroundings. Or take an excursion to a local historic Quinta, where you will find beautiful century-old wine-growing estates in the heart of the Douro wine region.
From Régua, visit the Mateus Palace, an impressive 18th-century Baroque building surrounded by landscaped French gardens. Or more commonly recognised by its famous Mateus Rosé wine, bottled in a flagon-shaped bottle.
Beyond the wine, enjoy the Gothic cathedral and ruins from the 12th century at Lamego Castle, 19th-century buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, excellent cafes and local markets. All accompanied by warm, friendly locals, excellent Portuguese cuisine and did we mention the wine?
.png)
Ready to experience a Douro river cruise? Get prices today!
.png)
Most popular river cruise lines offer full-board with some drinks, wine, beers, and soft drinks with your lunch and evening meal. In addition, you usually get at least one guided tour each day, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the many destinations you will visit along the Douro.
You'll also have an excellent range of staterooms to choose from, typically including:
There is also a different experience to be had throughout the four seasons. Cruise in the 'shoulder seasons' (March-May, November) to have things a little cooler, perfect for strolling around the vineyards. Catch the harvest season in September & October, where you may be lucky to see farm workers cutting the grapes and stomping them with their feet.
You can expect to 'experience' the destination during your Douro river cruise. Docking right in the heart of the town or city, learning about the history, local cultures and traditions. Plus, of course, experiencing some of the regional cuisines locally and onboard your river cruise ship.
.png)
Ready to experience a Douro river cruise? Get prices today!
Extending your cruise holiday with a land extension is popular whilst on a European River cruise, so you can see and experience more. Either done as pre-extension before you cruise or after as a post-extension, most River Cruise lines will provide the services of a host so that you can get the most from your extended stay.
Here are some of the Marvellous Escapes' top Douro Extensions:
.png)
Marvellous Escapes have access to an extensive range of river cruise operators.
We take the time to understand what you want from your river cruise holiday and give unbiased advice so that you get the perfect river cruise.
.png)
