DETAILS
The romantic Douro River winds through northern Portugal, creating a landscape of sculpted hills and terraced vineyards. Cruise from medieval Barca d’Alva to Porto, a delightful mosaic of scarlet and gold architecture. Pass by storybook villages and pastoral countryside while gliding through one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions. Taste locally produced olives, almonds, breads, and cheeses, and of course, port—the famous sweet, fortified wine for which the area is known. Along the way, learn about the Alto Douro’s winemaking history, witness beautiful Portuguese tile artwork, and explore charming villages with stories to share.
- Pricing from
- $4,044
Reserve early and SAVE!
- Trip Type
- Group Travel Tour, International River Voyages
- Departure Dates
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Nov 6, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
AmaVida Exclusively Chartered, Deluxe River Boat
PRE-EXTENSION OPTION – Madrid | 4 days, 3 nights
Salamanca, Spain | Madrid City Tour
POST-EXTENSION OPTION – Lisbon | 4 days, 3 nights
City Tour | Fado Performance | Queluz Palace
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Linda Harper
Linda was on the NTHP National Main Street program’s management team working with over 200 communities. As the director for Exchange Programs for the Countryside Institute she provided oversight for communities in 3 counties to implement sustainable environmental and economic programs. Her time as the Board Chair and Executive Director of Historic Congressional Cemetery saw the property go from being listed on the NT’s 11 Most Endangered to being listed as a National Landmark with a $4M endowment. Most recently she served as the CEO for Cultural Tourism for Washington, DC promoting the embassies, monuments, arts and neighborhoods as an integral part of the city’s economic development plan. Her background in historic preservation, cultural tourism and community engagement will help each traveler better understand the flavor and significance of our stops along the way.
A non-refundable administrative fee of $300 per person will apply for all cancellations received more than 7 days after booking and before other fees take effect at 120 days:
120 days $300 per person admin fee after 7-day grace period from booking
120 – 91 days 25% of full invoice fare
90 – 61 days 50% of full invoice fare
60 – 31 days 75% of full invoice fare
30 – 0 days 100% of full invoice fare
Separate airfare Terms & Conditions apply
TOUR MAP
ITINERARY
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day 1
Depart home city
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day 2
Madrid, Spain
Arrive in Madrid, Spain. Transfer to the deluxe, historic Wellington Hotel & Spa. Settle in and spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure, and make your own plans for lunch and dinner
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day 3
Madrid/Salamanca/ Barca d’Alva, Portugal/ Embark River Boat
On a scenic drive to Salamanca, pass charming villages, olive groves and farms. What began as a prehistoric community evolved into an ancient Roman settlement and university town (the world-famous university was founded in 1218). Called Spain’s “Golden City,” Salamanca boasts historic buildings in a mix of architectural styles, many made of gold-colored sandstone. Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant, then embark on a city tour. Transfer to Barca d’Alva and embark the deluxe AmaVida. This evening, join your fellow passengers for the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.
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day 4
Barca d’Alva
Join a walking tour through the medieval streets of Castelo Rodrigo, a tiny, fortified village built in 1296. From the castle itself, enjoy spectacular views of the valley and the red-roofed stone houses of the village. Enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. The river boat travels from Barca d’Alva to Pinhão this afternoon. Spend time on deck watching the beautiful green and gold hills, terraced vineyards and tiny villages glide past.
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day 5
Pinhão
Stroll to the charming Pinhão Railway Station, famous for its lovely azulejos — distinctive blue-and-white, hand-painted tiles. The azulejos depict scenes of local significance — quintas (vineyards), winemakers, folk culture and local landscapes. Next, enjoy an authentic, delectable dining experience complete with traditional Portuguese music at a family-run quinta. Explore the quinta’s museum, which showcases the fascinating history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region — complete with tastings.
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day 6
Régua
Explore Mateus Palace and Gardens on a guided tour. The Baroque façade is well known, as it is pictured on the Mateus rosé wine label. The palace is brimming with antiques and artwork; the gardens boast formal beds, topiaries and statues; the captivating Cedar Tunnel is an aromatic and memorable highlight. After lunch, visit the ancient and picturesque town of Lamego, which produces wines, fruit and smoked meats. Stroll the cobblestoned streets and the town’s wide boulevard, lined with cafes and market stalls. Lamego is home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, set on a spectacular hilltop. The church is accessed by a Baroque double staircase of 686 steps and nine terraces, decorated with statues, azulejos and urns. The views at the top are spectacular! End the day with a tasting of local specialties and wines.
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day 7
Entre-Os-Rios
Spend the morning on deck watching the beautiful scenery gliding by, or enjoying the ship’s amenities. Dock in Entre-Os-Rios and lunch at a local quinta. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, ideally located between two rivers. Take in the rolling landscapes and beautiful views; meander the cobbled streets, admiring historic churches and architecture.
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day 8
Porto
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the Porto Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments, and Liberty Square, the town’s main plaza, ringed with shops and cafés, connecting the historic and modern parts of the city. Don’t miss the São Bento Railway Station, one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. Admire the 22,000 incredible azulejos. This afternoon, indulge in a final Douro Valley port tasting. You will have a choice on how you arrive — by motorcoach or via a scenic hike.
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day 9
Porto
Enjoy some free time today to stroll the cobbled lanes of Porto’s UNESCO-designated Ribeira (Riverside) district, with its narrow streets winding past shops and cafés. Stop in at the 14th-century Church of São Francisco. Marvel at the grand 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, built to impress potential investors. And of course there are plenty of shops and markets to search for that perfect souvenir. This evening, join your fellow passengers for a Farewell Reception and Dinner.
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day 10
Porto/Disembark/ Return to Home City
Following breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Everything you need to know about the tour
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