We'll leave for Porto's city center by coach. Our first stop will be a tour of St. Francis Church. A stone's throw from the Douro riverbank, it is among the most symbolic buildings in Porto. We'll then head over to see the inside of Bolsa Palace—also known as the Stock Exchange Palace—a magnificent, neoclassical mansion in the heart of the historic downtown. Built in the 19th century, the landmark is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is one of the most interesting landmarks to visit in Porto. We’ll ascend the magnificent marble and granite staircase to visit the Golden Room and the lavishly decorated Arab Room, where official receptions are still held. The next stop will be an azulejo tile workshop. The striking bright blue frescoes seen throughout the country are an art form that dates back to the Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The name comes from the Arabic word zellij, meaning polished stone. The blue and white tiles often depict flowers, animals, or historic events. This tour is a unique occasion to discover this age-long art form. We’ll return to the ship.
PLEASE NOTE
- Good walking shoes are recommended.
- Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.
- The order of the visits can change.
- Times are approximate.
We'll leave for Porto's city center by coach. Our first stop will be a tour of St. Francis Church. A stone's throw from the Douro riverbank, it is among the most symbolic buildings in Porto. We'll then head over to see the inside of Bolsa Palace—also known as the Stock Exchange Palace—a magnificent, neoclassical mansion in the heart of the historic downtown. Built in the 19th century, the landmark is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is one of the most interesting landmarks to visit in Porto. We’ll ascend the magnificent marble and granite staircase to visit the Golden Room and the lavishly decorated Arab Room, where official receptions are still held. The next stop will be an azulejo tile workshop. The striking bright blue frescoes seen throughout the country are an art form that dates back to the Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The name comes from the Arabic word zellij, meaning polished stone. The blue and white tiles often depict flowers, animals, or historic events. This tour is a unique occasion to discover this age-long art form. We’ll return to the ship.
PLEASE NOTE
- Good walking shoes are recommended.
- Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.
- The order of the visits can change.
- Times are approximate.
Cruises
This shore excursion is available for one or several cruises
Cruise and Hikes in The Douro Valley, A Nature Lover's Dream (port-to-port cruise)
PORTO - REGUA - PINHÃO - VEGA DE TERRON - Salamanca - BARCA D'ALVA - SENHORA DA RIBEIRA - FERRADOSA - PINHÃO - REGUA - BITETOS - PORTO
Embark on a cruise through the heart of authentic Portugal and explore beautiful and unspoilt areas such as the Douro Nature Park and the Portuguese vineyards. Our hiking and walking programs offer you the opportunity to contemplate the natural beauty of these magical places. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, this cruise is ideal for the nature and scenic enthusiasts.
From Portugal to Spain: Porto, the Douro Valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)
PORTO - REGUA - VEGA DE TERRON - BARCA D'ALVA - FERRADOSA - PINHAO - PORTO
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. 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. 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.
Lisbon, Porto and the Douro valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)
LISBON - COIMBRA - PORTO - REGUA - PINHAO - VEGA DE TERRON (Spain) - BARCA D'ALVA - SENHORA DA RIBEIRA - FERRADOSA - FOLGOSA - LEVERINHO - PORTO
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.
Discover Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley (port-to-port cruise)
LISBON - PORTO - REGUA - PORTO ANTIGO - PORTO - Guimarães - PORTO
Lisbon is a city of incomparable beauty, rich culture, and profound history. Fall under the spell of its pastel-colored homes, blue water, and yellow, retro streetcars. The Portuguese capital is a city that has crossed history with brilliance, perfect combination of a rich past that gives it its charm and attractive modernity. You will enjoy 3 days in Lisbon before joining the POB cruise in the heart of Portugal.
Porto, the Douro valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)
PORTO - REGUA - VEGA DE TERON (Spain) - Salamanca - SENHORA DA RIBEIRA - LEVERINHO - PORTO
Immerse yourself in the festive and warm atmosphere of Portugal and Spain where you will discover a unique way of life. You will visit Porto, a subtle mixture of modernity and history famous for its wine, or Salamanca and its cathedral, Spain's "golden city". It has a rich architectural, religious and gastronomic culture.
Porto and the Douro Valley (port-to-port cruise)
PORTO - REGUA - PORTO ANTIGO - PORTO - Guimarães - PORTO
Cruise in the heart of Portugal and the Douro Valley. You'll have the chance to explore Lamego, city rich in heritage and tradition, or Guimarães considered the beating heart of Portugal. You will also be amazed by the striking history of the tram museum in Porto or the Quaint Afurada.