Day 1: Arrive Porto, Embark Ship
Arrive in Porto and transfer to your purpose-built river ship. The MS Estrela has the best vantage point to take in the city's incredible sights as you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto.
Stay: Seven Nights, MS Estrela
Daily: Dinner
Day 2: Porto
The choice is yours when it comes to the sightseeing activities on offer today. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a Signature Experience tonight.
Freedom of Choice — Porto Exploration
Explore Porto’s 16th-century Old Town and take a scenic cable car ride, savouring panoramic views of the city below. Then, indulge in a tasting of the city’s famous port wines and sample the rich flavours of the region.
Freedom of Choice — Portuguese Tart Cooking Class
Put on your baker's apron for a hands-on class devoted to Portugal’s most beloved sweet, the pastéis de nata. Guided by a renowned chef, discover the secrets behind its delicate, flaky pastry and silky custard filling as you take part in the preparation process yourself. As the tarts emerge warm from the oven, savour your freshly baked creation, perfectly paired with a glass of Portuguese port.
Freedom of Choice — Active Walking Tour of Porto
Set out on an active walking tour of Porto through the medieval streets and the old harbour quarter of Ribeira. Stroll through cobbled streets and discover neighbourhoods of colourful 18th-century houses and quaint eateries.
Signature Experience — Palácio da Bolsa
Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Porto, Entre-os-Rios
Sail this morning through the sun-soaked Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, set out on your sightseeing activity.
Freedom of Choice – Traditional Village Visit
Wander through a charming Schist village, tucked into the rolling hills of Penafiel. Admire the warm golden stone houses and meandering narrow streets, carefully restored using traditional methods, and soak in the rhythms of authentic Portuguese village life. Discover hidden courtyards, and experience the timeless character of a community that has preserved its heritage for generations.
Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting
Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family estate crafting wines in the Vinho Verde region since the 1870s. Meander through the lush vineyards and learn the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages. Conclude your visit with a curated tasting of fine wines paired with artisanal cheeses, savouring the flavours that define this historic estate.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Régua
This morning, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Régua. While you sail, you may wish to join a hands-on tile-painting experience in the Main Lounge. Discover the traditional craft of azulejos, the blue tiles that adorn Portugal’s towns and cities. Learn about the vibrant colours, intricate patterns and storytelling that defines this distinctive, world-renowned art form.
On arrival in Régua, visit the Douro Museum, which provides an incredible insight into the culture of the Douro Valley wine region.
Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and wine tasting, enjoying views over the Douro River and Régua. Situated in the village of Cambres in the Lamego municipality, the prestigious estate dates back to the 16th century and features 75 hectares of vineyards.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Régua, Pinhão
After enjoying the sightseeing experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you cruise to Pinhão.
Freedom of Choice – Lamego Tour
Set among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming city. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local specialty, Bola de Lamego.
Freedom of Choice – Visit Palácio de Mateus
Embark on a trip to Palácio de Mateus, located near the city of Vila Real. Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni played a pivotal role in the palace’s construction in the 18th century. The palace is also well known for being featured on the bottle labels of Mateus Rosé wine.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Pinhão
Visit Pinhão Railway Station, known as one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal. Built in the 19th century, its tiled walls depict the production of port. Venture to a local quinta, then be treated to a captain’s farewell dinner in the evening.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Barca d’Alva, Vega de Terron
On a tour of the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, you’ll stop to visit the castle ruins. Return to the ship, where you'll savour a delectable dinner. During your final night on board, your thoughts drift ahead to Spain as you cruise to your next exciting destination.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Vega de Terron, Disembark Ship, Salamanca, Madrid
Disembark your ship and say goodbye to life on board. Travel to the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca for a tour. You’ll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to your hotel in Madrid. Tonight is yours to spend as you please.
Stay: Three Nights, Madrid, VP Plaza España Design (or similar)
Daily: Breakfast
Day 9: Madrid
Today, you’ll enjoy the chance to tour Spain’s vibrant capital, including visits to the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. This evening, savour a farewell dinner.
Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Madrid
Choose how you want to spend your time in Madrid today.
Freedom of Choice – Madrid Food Tour
Learn all about the traditional sights, smells and flavours of delectable Spanish cuisine on a culinary tour of the capital’s best food spots.
Freedom of Choice – Museo del Prado
Admire beautiful displays of art at the Museo del Prado. Relish the museum’s collection of artwork from iconic Italian and Flemish artists, such as Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens and Bosch.
Freedom of Choice – Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
If you’re a sports fan, you're sure to enjoy a visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the second largest stadium in Spain and home to the Real Madrid Football Club.
Daily: Breakfast
Day 11: Depart Madrid
It's time to say goodbye to Spain as you are transferred from your hotel to the airport.
Daily: Breakfast
