4 minute read

PORTUGAL RIVER CRUISES

Step back in time and soak in the pristine beauty of the Douro Valley. Uncover the rich cultures, World Heritage-listed Sites and visit the ancient and intriguing city of Salamanca, just across the border in Spain. Marvel at the hilltop wine estates and be spoiled by the spectacular food and exquisite wines.

Ruggedly beautiful Douro Valley

Known as the Soul of Portugal, the Douro Valley is a hidden gem of Portugal. Experience the traditional culture and warm hospitality. The unique landscape will capture the imagination of all travellers.

Timeless villages

Step back in time in villages where the culture is rich and the people enchanting. Explore towns like Provesende and the medieval-style village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta, known for its exquisite handmade artisan silks.

Experience tradition and culture

Family and tradition run deep in Portugal and the perfect way to get an insight into these fascinating customs is by meeting the locals. Here you can learn culinary traditions and secret family recipes.

Cross the border to Salamanca

Discover the ancient city of Salamanca as you cross into Spain. Salamanca is renowned for the awe-inspiring cathedrals, medieval monasteries and one of Spain’s most prestigious market squares.

A Douro Valley, Portugal

Delightful Douro with Lisbon

The soul of Portugal

From windswept seaside meanderings to the astonishing beauty of the Douro Valley, this is a journey of contemplation and elegance.

In Porto, board the luxurious Scenic Azure, which will transport you through the hidden gem that is the Douro Valley. Days will be spent immersed in the proud history and culture of a unique land that still retains many of its centuries-old traditions.

11 Day Cruise Lisbon > Porto

Day 01 Lisbon

Welcome to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Western Europe with parts of the city dating back to the 8th century. This city delights with winding cobblestone lanes, colourful Moorish architecture and trendy converted warehouses. On arrival transfer to the Epic Sana Marques* Hotel.

Day 02

Lisbon f

This morning take part in a guided exploration, stopping to visit Jeronimos Monastery and to taste delicious Pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts).

Freechoice: Visit the Maritime Museum and learn the nautical history of this once dominant seafaring nation or climb to the hilltop town of Sintra and visit Palacio Nacional.

Meals: B

Day 03 Lisbon

Enjoy the day at leisure and explore this beautiful city.

Meals: B.D

Day 04

Lisbon > Porto

Your journey via Coimbra takes you to Porto where you’ll board the luxurious Scenic Azure.

Meals: B.D

Day 05

Porto > Regua

Enjoy on board activities such as traditional tile painting, or simply relax as your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship meanders its way to Regua where you’ll visit the Douro Museum. Learn about the culture, history and identity of the people living in this winegrowing region of the Douro Valley.

With magnificent views overlooking the Douro River, the Douro Museum is also the perfect location for a cocktail reception this afternoon.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 06

Regua > Vega de Terron f

Freechoice: Tour the elegant town of Lamego, with its many fine Baroque structures such as the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios and the Lamego Museum, or enjoy a guided visit of Mateus Palace, the historic icon depicted on the labels of Portugal’s famous Mateus rosé wine. Alternatively, you may choose to go kayaking along the Pinhão River. Enjoy the afternoon cruising the Vinhateiro wine region. A World Heritage-listed Site, Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 07

Vega de Terron f

Freechoice: Cross the Spanish border and take your time absorbing the architectural splendour of Salamanca, a city as visually striking as it is historically intriguing. From humble beginnings during the Iron Age to darker times, such as the economic crises and the War of the Spanish Succession, Salamanca has been shaped over time to become the fascinating beauty it is today. Explore the city on a guided tour before free time to explore further at your leisure. Alternatively, you may choose to visit the Portuguese village, Freixo de Espada à Cinta for a guided tour and visit to their silk museum. Freixo de Espada à Cinta is the only municipality where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 08

Pocinho > Pinhão f

Freechoice: Visit the award winning Côa Valley Museum and enjoy a pre-historic workshop. Alternatively, join the ‘Tastes of the Côa Valley’ excursion and sample some of the regions produce such as jams, marmalades and sugared almonds.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 09

Pinhão > Porto e

Visit the remarkable village of Provesende, showcasing the Portugal of yesteryear. Wander the atmospheric streets of this quaint village with the locals as they proudly introduce you to their way of life – an experience exclusive for Scenic guests.

Enrich

The beauty of São Francisco Church is sure to impress. The façade is a mixture of Gothic and Baroque architecture, while the interior glows with intricate wood carvings covered in gold. Witness a spectacular private concert in

12 Scenic Freechoice Excursions including 1 Active, Your Way

7 Moments, Masters & Music

3 Interactive Encounters these wonderful surroundings.

See pages 34-39 for details.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 10

Porto f

Freechoice: Discover the historic treasure of Porto including a visit to Palacio da Bolsa and Bolhão Market where you will taste delicious local produce or join a guided tour of Guimarães, the seat of the first King of Portugal and the Ducal Palace, which dates back to medieval times.

Truly

440km Cruised | 2 Countries |

Alternatively, you could choose a tasting at the fairytale property of Quinta da Aveleda. Located in the famous Vino Verde region and a renowned regional sparkling wine producer, the incredible gardens alone make the excursion worthwhile. This afternoon you have time to explore Porto at your leisure.

Meals: B.L.D

Day 11

Porto

Your cruise concludes after breakfast as you’re transferred to Porto airport.

Meals: B

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions on pages 136-139.

Extend

2024 Pricing And Special Offers

For the latest offers and up to date availability visit scenic.ca, call 1 866 689 8611 or contact your nearest Scenic Travel Advisor

Offers are subject to availability and not available on all departures and suites.^Except for a very small number of fine and vintage wines, Champagne and spirits. All prices per person, twin share, in CAD and include taxes and charges. *Hotel is indicative and subject to change. Single supplement available on application. For all terms and conditions please refer to pages 136-139 or visit scenic.ca/terms-and-conditions.