Magical Douro Cruise
Magical Douro Cruise
Magical Douro Cruise
8 Days Starting in Porto, Portugal and ending in Regua, Portugal
Visiting: Porto, Pinhao, Barca de Alva, Regua
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 30
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Magical Douro Cruise" and explore the enchanting landscapes of Portugal. Begin your journey in Porto, the birthplace of port wine and a UNESCO World Heritage site, before sailing through the stunning Douro Valley. Visit historic towns like Regua, Pinhao, and Barca de Alva, each offering unique cultural and scenic experiences. Wander the medieval streets of Castelo Rodrigo, admire the formal gardens at Mateus Palace, and tour the charming town of Lamego. Enjoy superior accommodation aboard a luxurious cruise vessel with full board meal plans, on-board entertainment, and guided tours, making this an unforgettable river cruise adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival Porto Embarkation (-/-/D)
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Dinner
Upon arrival at Porto airport, transfer to the pier on your own. Check-in begins at 17:00hrs. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception with the captain and crew.
Overnight on board
Day 2: Porto - Caldas De Aregos (B/L/D)
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the morning on board the cruise enjoying on-board entertainment facilities. Perhaps you can join us for a guided tour of Porto, one of the oldest European centers, it is also known as the birthplace of port wine. It is a charming riverside community with a historic center that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can admire beautiful bridges, baroque cathedrals, and romantic architecture that lines its narrow, cobblestone streets. Ship will sail towards Caldas De Aregos
Overnight on board
Optional Excursion: Guided Tour of Porto - Price is Part of Excursion package
A unique opportunity to admire the city of Porto, you will love the old, preserved districts of this city of immense character, classed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Porto is not only a city rich in vestiges from a glorious past, but also the young-spirited, warm capital city of a region marked by its winemaking as well as its closeness to the ocean. During the tour, visit one of the wine cellars for a wine-tasting session and get a chance to taste the most popular wines of Porto. Return to the ship in the evening to board, enjoy your evening meals on board as your ship sails towards Caldas De Aregos.
Day 3: Caldas De Aregos - Pinhao (B/L/D)
Location: Pinhao
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your journey continues to Pinhao, a quaint little town surrounded by terraced hillsides that produce some of the best port wines, it is located on a particularly lovely bend of Douro. The sleepy little town holds little interest except for its delightful railway station which is beautifully decorated with hand-painted tiles. Perhaps enjoy a city tour of Pinhao or choose to take an excursion to Vila Real and the most beautiful Palace of Mateus.
Overnight on board
Optional Excursion: Guided Tour of Pinhao - Bookable only on board
Enjoy a guided tour of the sleepy town of Pinhao, a town synonymous with great Port wines and magnificent Table wines. Surrounded by the terraced hillside, located at the confluence of Pinhao and Douro rivers, wineries and their competing signs dominate the scene. Although the town offers little of architectural or historical interest, it has a delightful train station adorned with blue and white tiles, along with several large, very well-preserved hand-painted panels portraying historic scenes of the surrounding area, thus giving visitors a good idea of how the Douro looked before the dams were built and the river was made navigable.
Optional Excursion: Vila Real and Mateus Palace - Price is Part of Excursion package
Leave from Pinhão for Vila Real, where aristocrats built grand palaces during the 16th and 17th centuries. The architecture of the religious buildings is here extremely varied. Take a panoramic tour of the city by coach, followed by a tasting of the local pastry, Cristas de Galo. Then set out to explore Mateus Palace, the most beautiful and astonishing manor in all of Northern Portugal. The subtle mixture of granite, white walls and extravagance from the Age of Enlightenment such as ledges covered in statues and Baroque-style pilasters is a striking feature. Behind the manor is a delightful garden with box hedges, more statues, and a spectacular 115-foot cedar tunnel. After our tour, return to our ship in Regua or Pinhão.
Day 4: Pinhao - Barca De Alva (B/L/D)
Location: Barca de Alva
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning sail towards Barca D Alva, a quaint Portuguese river port near the Spanish border. This tranquil town is shadowed by mountains and surrounded by miles of gorgeous countryside filled with vineyards and orchards. Known for being one of the most typical localities in Portugal, it is a region of unique landscapes and is dominated by scores of Almond trees, which when blossom, give a typical white and pink hue to the village. This tiny port is your gateway to the Quinta do Seixo, a historic port wine–making facility typical of the Douro region.
Overnight on board
Optional Excursion: Excursion to Castelo Rodrigo - Price is Part of Excursion package
Explore one of the historical parishes of Portugal, with an excursion to Castelo Rodrigo, a small, fortified village perched high on a hilltop. Initially founded in 13th Century, it was renovated in 16th Century. Enjoy walking through the narrow and steep medieval streets. Among the sights is the Chafariz dos Pretos in the market square, a one-of-a-kind fountain decorated with striking black faces. In the olden days, it also stood on the route taken by the pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela. Legend has it that none other than St. Francis of Assisi spent the night here on his pilgrimage to the tomb of St. James.
Day 5: Barca De Alva- Pocinho (B/L/D)
Location: Barca de Alva
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Absorb the scenic surroundings of Barca D Alva or just enjoy the onboard entertainment facilities. Perhaps you can take a same-day excursion to the Spanish University town of Salamanca or take a walk through the village to explore its hidden charms. Early evening sail towards Pocinho, a quaint little village in North of Portugal. Perhaps you can choose to take a walk through the beautiful valley, visit Coa Valley Museum or see the impressive site of Pocinho Dam.
Overnight on board
Optional Excursion: Guided tour of Salamanca (lunch included) – Bookable only on board
Departure by coach towards Salamanca where you'll meet up with your guides. Since 1988, the Old Town of Salamanca has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The classified area extends to the major part of the city as it used to be until the middle of the 20th century and is responsible for its growing popularity. We'll visit the cathedral whose successive extensions created a mixture of styles going from late Gothic to Baroque, including Renaissance. Afterwards, we'll visit one of the world's oldest Universities which first opened in 1218. You'll enjoy lunch and be free to discover the city on your own. Return on board in Vega de Teron.
Day 6: Pocinho - Regua (B/L/D)
Location: Regua
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience the on-board entertainment and recreation facilities or just admire the beautiful coastline of Douro, as you sail to Regua, a town of ornamental carvings and tiled walls. It is the regions largest riverside town which grew into a major port-wine production region that thrives since the 18th century. It is also the place where world's first-ever demarcated region for wine production was set up. A base to explore the scenic vineyards, the town itself gives you many vantage points for jaw-dropping views of Douro Valley. Relax on board the ship, perhaps you can take an excursion to tour the city of Lamego.
Overnight on board
Optional Excursion: Excursion tour to the city of Lamego - Price is Part of Excursion package
Enjoy a late afternoon excursion to Lamego, a charming episcopal and commercial town where you'll get to discover the Nossa Senhora dos Remedios Sanctuary. This 18th-century church stands out with its white façade dominating a baroque staircase with 686 steps ending in a shrine built in the rocaille style and adorned with azulejos. The first stone was laid on February 14th, 1750 and gave way to the construction of a massive temple overlooking the city and providing a breathtaking view over the misty mountains of the surrounding landscape. Return on board in Regua.
Day 7: Regua - Porto (B/L/D)
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: on board
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your magical journey along the river Douro continues with your return to Porto. Enjoy the breathtaking views along the river and get lost in these beautiful valleys, green areas, and extensive vineyards. Arrive late in the afternoon at Porto. Perhaps you can go out to explore the city of Porto on your own or remain onboard to enjoy the onboard facilities.
Overnight on board.
Optional Excursion: Excursion tour to Guimarães – Bookable only on board
Enjoy an afternoon excursion to the Cradle of the Nation of Portugal Guimarães. Begin the tour of this university town on foot to discover its historical treasures. Get the chance to discover the Nossa Senhora de Oliveira Church (outdoors), the most important religious building in the city. The medieval heart of Guimarães is a labyrinth of lanes and picturesque plazas framed by 14th-century buildings. Continue to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a medieval estate and former residence of the first Dukes of Braganza with striking architecture. The palace is closed on May 1 and Easter Day.
At the end of your visit, return on board in Porto.
Day 8: Porto - (B/-/-)
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Breakfast
After you have enjoyed breakfast on board, you will disembark the river cruise in Porto at 9:00 am. You will then make your own way to the airport for your flight back home.
What's Included
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07 nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at listed Superior vessel
Enjoy a comfortable stay on a superior vessel with twin sharing accommodation for 7 nights.
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Full board meal plan while on board cruise
All meals are included while on board the cruise.
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Coffee/tea after lunch and dinner
Complimentary coffee and tea are provided after lunch and dinner.
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Welcome and farewell reception by the captain
Experience a warm welcome and a fond farewell reception hosted by the captain.
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On board entertainment
Enjoy various entertainment options available on board.
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Guided tour in Pinhao and visit to a traditional Quinta
Take a guided tour in Pinhao and visit a traditional Quinta.
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Services of an experienced and multilingual Cruise Manager and local tour guides
Benefit from the services of an experienced and multilingual Cruise Manager and local tour guides.
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Complimentary use of Swimming Pool
Enjoy complimentary access to the swimming pool on board.
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Luggage service between pier and cabin during embarkation and disembarkation
Luggage service is provided between the pier and your cabin during embarkation and disembarkation.
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All port and passenger taxes
All port and passenger taxes are included in the package.
What's Not Included
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Items of personal nature, tips and gratuities
Expenses of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.
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Arrival and departure transfers
Transfers to and from the airport are not included.
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Visa fees if applicable
Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.
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Items not mentioned as being included
Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style aboard a superior cruise vessel, with embarkation in Porto and disembarkation in Regua. Enjoy scenic river journeys and optional guided tours at various stops along the Douro River.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis aboard a luxurious cruise vessel, complete with full board meal plans, on-board entertainment, and complimentary use of the swimming pool.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the Magical Douro Cruise?
The tour includes 7 nights of superior accommodation on a twin-sharing basis aboard a luxurious cruise vessel. The accommodation comes with full board meal plans, on-board entertainment, and complimentary use of the swimming pool.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, all meals are included while on board the cruise. Additionally, complimentary coffee and tea are provided after lunch and dinner.
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What kind of entertainment can I expect on board the cruise vessel?
The cruise offers various on-board entertainment options, including a welcome and farewell reception hosted by the captain.
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Is there any guided tour included in the package?
Yes, the package includes a guided tour in Pinhao and a visit to a traditional Quinta. Additionally, there are optional guided tours available at various stops along the Douro River.
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What services are provided during embarkation and disembarkation?
Luggage service is provided between the pier and your cabin during embarkation and disembarkation.
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Are there any additional taxes or fees I should be aware of?
All port and passenger taxes, as well as all cruise-related taxes and fuel surcharges, are included in the package.
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What optional excursions are available during the cruise?
Optional excursions include a guided tour of Porto, a guided tour of Pinhao, an excursion to Vila Real and Mateus Palace, an excursion to Castelo Rodrigo, a guided tour of Salamanca, and an excursion tour to the city of Lamego.
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What is the itinerary for the first day of the cruise?
On the first day, you will arrive in Porto and transfer to the pier on your own. Check-in begins at 17:00 hrs, followed by a welcome reception with the captain and crew. You will spend the night on board.
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What happens on the last day of the cruise?
On the last day, after enjoying breakfast on board, you will disembark the river cruise in Porto at 9:00 am and make your own way to the airport for your flight back home.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
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If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
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Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.