Unforgettable Douro

Portugal’s Douro River winds its way through towns that have somehow managed to preserve their distinctive culture, and way of life, while the world all around them has succumbed to change.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Bem-vindo

Welcome to Portugal. On arrival into Porto Airport you’ll be met and transferred to the luxurious Scenic Azure where a warm welcome awaits you from your crew. Tonight enjoy a welcome reception on board.

Day 2:

Porto > Entre-os-Rios

Today, discover the historic treasures of Porto, including a visit to Palacio do Bolsa. Then enjoy a relaxing afternoon of cruising as your luxury Scenic Space-Ship meanders its way to Entre-os-Rios.

Day 3:

Entre-os-Rios

Freechoice: Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and is dominated by the impressive Ducal Palace, which dates back to medieval times. It’s a great tour to kickstart your interest in this fascinating region. Alternatively, you could choose a tasting at the fairy tale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned regional sparkling wine producer. The incredible gardens alone make the excursion worthwhile. This afternoon, enjoy a blissful cruise to Regua.

Sundowners: After the doors close to the general public, you’ll get to soak in the expansive views of Regua’s surrounding vineyards at an exclusive cocktail event hosted on the beautifully manicured terrace of the Douro Museum. Savor a range of port wine varietals in the most wondrous setting - and be sure to try the Port Tonic.

Day 4:

Regua

Freechoice: Tour the elegant town of Lamego, with its many fine Baroque structures, or enjoy a guided visit of Mateus Palace, the historic icon depicted on the labels of Portugal’s famous Mateus rosé wine.

This afternoon, you’ll discover the captivating Varosa Valley and visit the charming village of Tarouca where you’ll get to explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. En route walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal’s first toll bridge, spanning the crystal clear waters of the Varosa River.

Day 5:

Regua > Vega de Terron

Today, enjoy a full day cruising the Douro Valley’s Vinhateiro wine growing region. World Heritage-listed Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years. In fact, its impeccable port wines have been worldfamous since at least the 18th Century.

Day 6:

Salamanca

Take your time absorbing the sheer architectural splendor of Salamanca, a city as visually striking as it is historically intriguing. Enjoy an included lunch accompanied by Tuna music entertainment performed by local students, followed by some free time where you can explore at will.

Day 7:

Pocinho > Pinhão

Over breakfast, you’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise to nearby Pocinho for our Côa Valley discovery.

Freechoice: Visit the awardwinning Côa Valley Museum and enjoy a pre-historic workshop. If you’re more adventurous at heart, take a canoeing excursion on the Sabor River. Alternatively, you could join the ‘Tastes of the Côa Valley’ excursion and visit Casa Painova for a sweet almond workshop and a tasting of their almond, olive and fruit products. This afternoon, enjoy your picturesque cruise to Pinhão.

Day 8:

Pinhão

Today you’ll visit the remarkable village of Provesende, resplendently 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 – including their local bakery, and the bar and its wonderfully eclectic collection of regional wares. This is a specially choreographed experience only open to Scenic guests. You’ll also visit the church for a special recital, and enjoy wine tasting at the restored manor house of Morgadio da Calçada. What better way to immerse yourself into the local culture.

Freechoice: Top off a truly unforgettable day with a visit to the estate of Quinta Bonfim for a tasting of their famous export. If you’re feeling energetic, you could also choose a walk through the hillside vineyard for a unique tasting among the vines.

Day 9:

Pinhão > Porto

Having spent the previous eight days discovering the treasures of the Douro, Varosa and Côa Valleys, enjoy an exclusive Douro Valley Wine Review, as well as on board activities, including a cork jewelry workshop. Alternatively, simply enjoy the beauty of the region as you cruise back into Porto.

Enrich: Enjoy a decadent fine dining experience accompanied by a traditional Fado music performance at the fabulous Burmester Cellars this evening. You can look forward to an evening at what is arguably Porto’s most historic wine cave, situated at the foot of the iconic Dom Luis I pedestrian bridge – a truly unforgettable experience, once again exclusive to Scenic guests.

Day 10:

Porto

Acquaint yourself with the local fishing industry by meeting the fishermen of Afurada village as they return to port with the day’s catch. Hear their tales of the sea in a local taberna where they’ll prepare their catch over an open fire, to be enjoyed with a chilled glass of wine. How hospitable.

Freechoice: Visit the oldest remaining Canning Factory in Porto for an insight into their 100-year-old family business. Or visit a local corking factory. Alternatively, walk the fragrant terraces of Cristal Gardens.

Day 11:

Porto

Your leisurely ten night cruise of Portugal’s Douro Valley concludes after breakfast and you’ll be transferred to Porto Airport with all your wonderful memories intact.

Testimonials

We had an amazing trip to Portugal - everything about it was just perfect. The accomodations, people, food, wine were all amazing - we couldn't ask for more. We had the perfect mix of planned tours and downtime - we were very happy with the attention to detail of our trip - there was absolutely nothing that we would have changed about it! Highly recommend!

Jill R, Portugal - 2023

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