Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey before visiting some of Spain’s glorious cities: the golden-hued city of Salamanca, the ancient walled city of Toledo, and cosmopolitan Madrid, renowned for its world-class museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars.
April 1-13, 2027 | 13 Day Cruise/Tour
Itinerary
April 1 | Depart USA for Porto
Today, board your overnight flight to Porto, where your Portugal and Spain River Cruise Adventure begins!
April 2 | Porto
Upon arrival at the Porto airport, you’ll be met by your Universal Travel representative, and assisted with your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is for you to relax and recoup from your oversees flight.
Overnight: Porto
April 3 | Porto & Embarkation
This morning, after breakfast and check-out, set out to explore Porto aboard your private tuk-tuk (accommodating up to six guests). Navigate the city’s narrow streets, admire its iconic monuments, and uncover hidden gems that make Porto such a captivating destination. This comfortable and eco-friendly experience offers a relaxed and effortless way to discover the highlights of the “Invicta City.” Following your tour, enjoy free time for lunch and shopping before boarding the beautiful AmaVida, your elegant floating hotel for the next eight days. This evening, take in the illuminated beauty of Porto as you enjoy a scenic cruise along the river—an unforgettable introduction to your journey. (B,D)
April 4 | Porto
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. In the afternoon, you’ll also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. (B,L,D)
April 5 | Entre-os-Rios
Entre-os-Rios translates to “between the rivers,” and this small village is, quite appropriately, located at the confluence of the Tâmega and Douro rivers. For an authentic slice of Douro River life, enjoy a traditional “home-cooked” meal at a local quinta. (B,L,D)
April 6 | Régua
Discover the Baroque magic of Mateus Palace and Gardens. Inside, gaze at the beautiful 16th- to 18th-century furnishings that decorate the palace, as well as the distinctive paintings and a ceiling of intricately carved wood. Hear the tale of Mateus Rose Wine and spend some time exploring the palace’s magnificent gardens, considered some of the most beautiful in Portugal. (B,L,D)
April 7 | Régua-Pinhão
Venture to the town of Lamego, where you’ll see the “Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies” on a city tour or climb the 686-step “Holy Staircase,” beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, to the top on a guided hike. Whichever excursion you choose will conclude with a tasting of local specialties such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão, where a wine tasting will be waiting for you in a local quinta. (B,L,D)
April 8 | Pinhão
Embark on a leisurely walk to the charming Pinhão Rail-way Station, a stunning train station along the Douro Line, one of the most iconic rail journeys in Portugal. The station’s main building is revered for its 25 tile panels, all in shades of blue, that depict scenes from the Douro region. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta de Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. The warm, spirit-ed hospitality of this family-run quinta is quite special as you will discover. Several family members play in a band, and while dining, they will entertain you. Quinta de Aves-sada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
April 9 | Pinhão-Barca d’Alva
Begin the day with a scenic cruise through Pinhão on the way to Barca d’Alva. Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline style windows. Prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. (B,L,D)
April 10 | Vega de Terrón |Disembarkation | Salamanca | Madrid. !!! Long travel day!!!
Disembark the ship in Vega de Terrón and board a motorcoach to Madrid. En route to Madrid, you’ll first stop in Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla León region. You will have free time to explore on your own, followed by an escorted city tour that includes the New Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Later in the day, you’ll check into your hotel in Madrid for a three night stay. (B, L)
April 11 | Madrid
Discover the vibrant capital of Spain on your city tour that takes in all the top sights, including the elaborate Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel and Plaza Mayor. (B)
April 12, Madrid |Toledo
Journey to the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Spain. This remark-able city is a treasure trove of artistic riches, with winding streets and beautifully preserved medieval architecture. During your guided tour, visit the magnificent Cathedral of Toledo as well as the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, located in the historic Jewish Quarter. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
April 13 | Madrid to home
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (B)
Inclusions:
Roundtrip transportation to XNA
• Air from FSM or XNA to Porto & from Madrid back home
• Private motorcoach transportation throughout the land portion
Accommodations
• 1-night in Porto & 3-nights in Madrid 7-night luxury Douro cruise aboard the M/S AmaVida
Meals
• Daily breakfast throughout the program
• All lunches and dinners while onboard the cruise
• One night specialty dining at the chefs table
• Farewell dinner in Madrid
Sightseeing & Experiences
• Included shore excursions on each port (multiple excursions to choose from)
Additional Amenities
• Services of a professional Cruise Director during your cruise
• Gourmet cuisine
• Wine and beer served with lunch and dinner
• Daily sip & sail cocktail hour
• Daily entertainment and enrichment
• Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard the ship
Gratuities
• All driver & guide gratuities in Porto & and Spain
• Ship Service charges/ ship gratuity Porterage of one suitcase per person
• All local taxes, hotel taxes, and port charges
Service of a Universal Travel representative
An optional Travel Protection plan is available with coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, see enclosed product flyer for more information.
A valid passport is required on this itinerary and must be valid for at least 6 month after returning back to the USA.