Experience the Magic of Portugal’s Douro Valley
Emerald Cruises takes you on a luxury river adventure
“Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley”
Porto to Porto | Departing: June – October 2027
Prepare to fall in love, as you journey through the stunning Douro Valley on an 11-day, 10-night luxury cruise aboard one of Emerald Cruises & Tours’ world-class Star-Ships – Emerald Radiance and, new for 2027, Emerald Nova. Live the dream as you embark on your “Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley” adventure.
Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Porto, Guimaraes and Salamanca, enjoying wine tastings and local traditions, plus active options like guided hikes and kayaking. These are just some of the highlights.
Imagine the pleasures of a stroll through terraced vineyards and signature wine tastings in historic quintas. Explore the ‘golden city’ of Salamanca on a full-day guided tour. Kayak the tranquil Pinhão River through vine-clad hills. Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. Learn to cook traditional Pasteis de Nata and paint azulejo tiles on board. Emerald Cruises offer the ultimate in relaxation with overnight docking in every port, giving you more time to explore.
Here’s a taste of the heavenly itinerary you have to look forward to…
Day 1 Porto
Welcome to Porto, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. Your ship will remain docked here overnight, so you can go ashore to discover the city’s bustling nightlife.
Day 2 Porto
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto blends modern and historic architecture, with a UNESCO-listed centre. Join a panoramic city tour visiting Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, or an active walk ending at Bolhão Market.
Day 3 Porto – Entre Os Rios – Pinhão
Depart Porto early this morning and cruise to Entre Os Rios. This picturesque village sits at the meeting point of the Douro and Tâmega rivers. From here, you’ll visit UNESCO-listed Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal and home to the 15th-century Ducal Palace. Explore its historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics and weapons, and enjoy some free time to explore the city on your own before cruising to Pinhão. Enjoy an on-board Portuguese cooking demonstration, learning the art of Pasteis de Nata and tasting the vibrant flavours that define the region.
Day 4 Pinhão – Barca D’Alva
Pinhão is a peaceful village where vine-covered hills tumble down to the river and traditional quintas dot the landscape. Experience its charm with a visit to a local vineyard for a signature wine tasting or embark on a kayak excursion along the Pinhão River, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley.
Day 5 Barca D’Alva – Vega De Terron
From the quiet riverside outpost of Vega de Terrón, travel into Spain for a guided tour of Salamanca’s UNESCO-listed Old Quarter, wandering Plaza Mayor, Casa de las Conchas and one of Europe’s oldest universities. Dating back to the 13th century, tuna music began with university students singing in the streets to fund their studies; today, you’ll enjoy a lively performance of this historic tradition by a local group.
Day 6 Pocinho – Régua
Begin your day in the timeless riverside village of Pocinho before venturing to medieval Freixo de Espada à Cinta, where narrow streets, stone houses and historic squares reveal centuries of history and the charm of the Douro. Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise towards Régua. Learn how to mix delicious cocktails using traditional Port wine during an engaging on board demonstration.
Day 7 Régua
Experience lively Régua on a guided walking tour through its café-lined riverside and historic streets. Visit the Douro Museum to delve into the region’s winemaking heritage or alternatively join a leisurely guided bike ride through the Douro Valley. Enjoy a rural lunch at a local quinta, where a traditional meal is beautifully accompanied by local entertainers.
Day 8 Régua – Porto
Today, choose between an excursion to Amarante, exploring its Baroque architecture, winding old streets and traditional pastries along the Tâmega River, or an active Douro riverside walk near Régua past vineyards, rolling fields and open countryside with sweeping river views. Learn how to paint traditional azulejos, the colourful mosaic tiles you see decorating many buildings across Portugal. Relax on board this afternoon and take in the beautiful scenery as you cruise back to Porto.
Day 9 Porto
Today, you’ll explore Braga, the oldest city in Portugal on a guided tour through its historic centre. See the grand Sé de Braga Cathedral, built in the 11th-century, as well as its graceful plazas and centuries-old residences or descend the 577 steps of the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. Discover the art of olive oil in the Douro Valley or visit Quinta da Aveleda.
Day 10 Porto
Travel to Aveiro, known for its Art Nouveau architecture and pretty canals. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and cruise the waterways in a brightly coloured moliceiros flat-bottomed boat, followed by free time to explore. You might even visit a cork factory. This evening, enjoy a charming evening cruise shining a different light on Porto’s skyline.
Day 11 PortoAfter breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your Emerald Star-Ship and fellow guests. But you’ll have beautiful lasting memories of Portugal’s colourful façades and sweeping hilltop vineyards to take home with you. emeraldcruises.ca
