Table Of Content
CroisiEurope, Scenic, Viking, Uniworld and Emerald fully own and operate their ships. The premier times to visit the Douro are in springtime, May and June, and then again during harvest season -- in fall months of September and October. The Douro has a long cruise season, typically beginning in late March and running into November, though Viking has sailings into December. If you’re curious about Douro River cruises, here’s everything you need to know. For the safety of our passengers, the captain and crew of the boat may decide to modify the navigational itinerary. Join us for a guided tour of Porto followed by a wine tasting session in the cellars at Vila Nova de Gaïa.
The stunning Douro Valley
Still, be prepared, as the most interesting places to visit are not accessed by simply walking off the gangway. Pinhao is usually a segue to excursions in places like Quinta do Seixo where guests taste port and learn how it was made. Salamanca is an absolute highlight of a Douro cruise, as it's one of the most gorgeous cities in Spain and is historical, dating back to the Roman Empire much like Porto.
Popular Cruise Ships
Tauck's European river cruise guide will help you find the right Danube, Rhone, Rhine, Seine or Douro river cruise for you. Find interesting Douro River facts – from key cities along its banks to history, culture, cuisine and more. It makes sense to talk about this room the most because it’s simply so beautiful when you move it along the Douro. For the best value pricing, shoulder season months, like March to early May and then again in November, offer the cheapest fares, but weather can be cool and rainy. Mid-July through August is another good time for snagging deals; the region can be very hot then. Arrival times at ports of call and the order of the excursions can change.
Avalon Alegria Review: Is a Portugal Douro River Cruise for You?
As one of Europe’s most picturesque rivers, the Douro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its terraced vineyards, historic Quintas (estates), and charming villages. A cruise along the Douro offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled beauty. A Douro River cruise is a journey of discovery, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
A world of experiences
One of the most iconic features of the Douro Valley is its terraced vineyards, which were first planted by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. These vineyards not only produce some of the world’s finest wines but also create a stunning backdrop that adds to the region’s charm and character. Whether you are a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Douro River Cruising has something to offer every traveler. Join us as we explore this captivating destination and discover why a cruise along the Douro is a journey unlike any other. Our Portugal cruises uncover one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned wine regions. Cruise the Douro River through ancient wine estates, passing barcos rabelos laden with casks en route to Porto and Lisbon.
Company Information
A cruise adventure starting in Porto is a great way to see Douro. The most popular time for tours from Porto is July, which has the most cruise departures. The good news is the scenery is just gorgeous and varies throughout the region, so there's a lot to look at. The motor coaches are new, clean and comfortable (with bathrooms onboard, if necessary).
Explore the delights of the Douro
Next stop will be Regua, where you'll dive into the region's history and winemaking traditions. You'll also cross the border into Spain, for an exciting trip to remarkable Salamanca. For wine connoisseurs, the Port Wine Route will be heaven on earth.
Avalon Alegria brings happiness to Portugal's Douro - Travel Weekly
Avalon Alegria brings happiness to Portugal's Douro.
Posted: Sat, 30 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
You'll wrap up your vacation with stops in Lamego, Guimarães, and the charming village of Afurada—destinations packed with cultural heritage, gorgeous architecture, and genuine friendliness. During a cruise in Portugal, you will be able to explore incredibly majestic sites such as the Vila Real and the gardens of the manor house of Solar de Mateus. The Douro Valley is home to delicious treasures and will take you along the Port wine route.
We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore. The only motor coaches you may see on the twisting winding roads are those from your own ship, though the river is getting busier as more river lines add ships.
The ancient city of Porto is one of the most historic in Europe, dating back to the Roman Empire, and its old town is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vila Nova de Gaia lies across the Douro from Porto, and is best known for the port houses that stud its mountainside. For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices. Find the best European river cruise for you with top-reviewed itineraries navigating all the major waterways from Tauck.
For those who love being "at sea" on the river, there's plenty of time spent cruising. Whether you are exploring the terraced vineyards, sampling the region’s famous wines, or simply relaxing on deck and taking in the scenery, a Douro River cruise promises an unforgettable experience. One of the highlights of a Douro River cruise is the opportunity to indulge in the region’s rich culinary traditions and world-renowned wines. The Douro Valley is famous for its port wine production, a sweet, fortified wine produced in the region for centuries.
Nestled in the heart of Portugal, the Douro River meanders through a landscape of breathtaking beauty, offering a unique and enchanting cruising experience. Douro River Cruising has gained popularity in recent years, attracting travelers seeking a blend of rich history, stunning scenery, and world-class wines. For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests.
As you sail along the river, you will be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites that line its banks. A typical itinerary includes visits to charming towns and villages along the river, such as Porto, Régua, Pinhão, and Barca d’Alva. These ports of call offer opportunities to explore historic sites, sample local cuisine, and of course, enjoy wine tastings at renowned vineyards. Climb aboard an unforgettable cruise through the magnificent Douro Valley, where each port of call promises captivating adventure and enriching discoveries. Get ready for breathtaking scenery, history-laden locations, and unique experiences in this emblematic region. You'll begin your journey in the lively city of Porto, which oozes an exceptional charm and captivating atmosphere.
In the last decade, Douro River cruises have become increasingly popular. Lines sailing this Portuguese-Spanish waterway include AmaWaterways, APT, A-ROSA, CroisiEurope, Scenic, Uniworld, Viking River Cruises and Emerald Waterways. Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates, and event invites. Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.
Cruise from Lisbon to Leverinho via Coimbra, Porto, Vila Real and Salamanca, you will discover the magnificent cities along our cruise. You will visit Porto and its famous wine route as well as Lisbon. The Portuguese capital has managed to find the subtle balance between its past heritage and modernity and will seduce you with its beautiful panoramas. Additionally, there are themed cruises available, such as wine-themed cruises that focus on the region’s famous port wine production, or culinary cruises that highlight the delicious gastronomy of the Douro Valley. In addition to its natural beauty, the Douro Valley is also home to a wealth of wildlife, including birds of prey, otters, and even the occasional wild boar. Whether you are exploring the vineyards on foot or simply relaxing on deck, the Douro Valley never fails to impress with its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
We'll visit its unusual cathedral and its famous university dating back to 1218, making it one of the oldest in the world. We'll return on board after our tour and enjoy an evening of entertainment. Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Porto, the gateway city, is one of Portugal’s best, with a UNESCO World Heritage riverside Old Town and multiple wineries offering a taste of port.
No comments:
Post a Comment