Embark on an 8-day cruise to and from Porto aboard the Scenic Azure. Experience the essence of Portugal on a comprehensive cruise through the Douro Valley aboard the Scenic Azure. This journey offers an in-depth look at the region’s culture, history, and landscapes. Explore historic cities, visit centuries-old villages, and engage with local traditions. Highlights include guided tours, regional wine tastings, kayaking on the Pinhao River, and a visit to Salamanca. Sample authentic cuisine, learn about the legacy of port wine, and discover architectural landmarks that reflect Portugal’s rich past. This itinerary combines cultural immersion with comfort, delivering a seamless blend of exploration and relaxation.
Highlights
Explore Porto’s vibrant heritage and UNESCO-listed old town
Admire Douro River views and Pinhao’s terraced vineyard hills
Visit Provesende village and taste regional specialties onsite
Discover Salamanca’s cathedrals and Spain’s third-oldest university
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Welcome to Porto, Portugal’s vibrant second city, perched on the hills above the Douro River’s mouth. Also known as Oporto, this dynamic urban center is the capital of the Northern region and was named by the Romans for its strategic port, once a vital connection to Lisbon. Celebrated for its 2,000-year legacy and rich architectural heritage, Porto is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Step aboard your ship, where your attentive crew is ready to welcome you. Unwind in your elegant suite and join your fellow guests for a cocktail reception this evening as you toast the unforgettable journey ahead.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise aboard your ship as it winds through the scenic Douro Valley en route to Pinhao. Take in the striking views of steep riverbanks lined with terraced vineyards and historic quintas that define this iconic landscape.
This afternoon, arrive in Pinhao, one of the most picturesque stretches of the Douro River. Surrounded by renowned vineyards, this village is at the heart of port wine production. Be sure to spot the beautifully tiled Pinhao railway station, featuring traditional azulejos illustrating the region’s annual grape harvest.
This morning, you have the special opportunity to visit the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you can enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.
Salamanca Full-Day Excursion: Known as the ‘golden city’ for its honey-colored sandstone architecture, Salamanca is famous for its university, which is the third oldest in the world, founded in 1218. Salamanca is a vibrant place with a young population – around one-fifth of its residents are students. It’s home to two cathedrals, one dating to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you can see on today’s guided tour. You can also visit a market to taste local delicacies such as olives, cheese and smoked ham, and you can have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.
Freixo de Espada a Cinta with Silk Museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta, a town with a curious name that translates to ‘ash tree girded with sword’. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century, then tied his sword to an ash tree before having a rest, hence the unusual name. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you can visit a silk museum before returning to the ship for lunch.
Wake in the village of Pocinho. There’s not much to the village, which was established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, though it’s a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley. Perhaps savor a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler before heading off for the day.
Freechoice
Coa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal, housed in a contemporary building designed to blend into the landscape. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through original artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you can also enjoy a pre-historic workshop.
Tastes of the Coa Valley: Visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.
This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Regua, perhaps enjoy a regional port wine in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or spend some time in your suite. Many have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Douro.
Regua is the largest of the riverside towns and is an excellent base for exploring the Douro Valley. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century.
Awake in Regua, where the ship has remained docked overnight. Why not ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite if you would like a slower start to the day?
Explore the Douro Valley today with a choice of excursions that including visiting one of the most beautiful towns in Northern Portugal, exploring an enchanting palace or kayaking along a scenic river.
Freechoice
Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous port wine. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Your tour will culminate at the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the cathedral is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. You can have the option to take a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of local produce.
Kayaking along the Pinhao River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide past impressive landscapes of terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling estates via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro.
Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Built in the first half of the 18th century, the former family home features rooms with original furniture and ornately carved ceilings; a library that contains one of the first illustrated editions of Os Lusiadas, Portugal’s most significant epic poem; and a manicured garden dotted with statues, hedges, a cypress tunnel and reflective ponds.
This afternoon your luxurious ship will make its way back to Porto in time for your magnificent Scenic Enrich event.
Enrich
Classical Concert in Sao Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to Sao Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has gilded interiors and breathtaking altars. All guests will be seated in the church for a performance of classical music.
Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto is both hip yet opulent, where street art adorns ancient city walls and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colorful tiles.
Freechoice
Guided Tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture, history and food of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. Located in the heart of the city, this 19th-century neoclassical building boasts stunning architecture and intricate detail, including the Arab Room, adorned with stunning Moorish-inspired decorations and with a ceiling made entirely of gold leaf. After your guided tour you have ample free time so why not explore the Bolhão Markets? This historic market has been in operation since 1914 and offers visitors a glimpse into the local food and culture. It’s a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
Excursion to Guimaraes: Fondly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage-listed city and explore the Ducal Palace, which dates to the 15th century and displays an historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics, weapons and more. You can also have free time to explore the city on your own.
Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.
Day 8: Porto | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Disembark after a farewell breakfast this morning transfer to Porto airport for your onward journey.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to the terms and conditions.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$10,990
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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Standard Suite E
172ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
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Standard Suite D
172ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
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Balcony Suite C
215ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Riverview Suite C1
183ft2. The Riverview Suite is located on the Sapphire Deck with a retractable sun lounge to ensure a great view. They have a spacious layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
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Balcony Suite BB
215ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Balcony Suite B
215ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Junior Balcony Suite BJ
247ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire Deck, have a private full-length balcony complete with a sun lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.
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Balcony Suite PA
215ft2. Located on the Diamond Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Balcony Suite P
215ft2. Located on the Diamond Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Junior Balcony Suite RJ
247ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Diamond Deck, have a private full-length balcony complete with a sun lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.
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Royal One-Bedroom Suite RP
At 420ft², this is the largest suite on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with a sun lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower.
Notes
All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.
Initial deposit is $700, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Visa or Mastercard. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
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