Itinerary

Day 1 Lisbon, Portugal

Welcome to the capital city of Portugal. Upon arrival, private transfer by a luxury car, Mercedes or Audi, with an English-speaking driver. Accommodation in Lisbon.

Day 2 Lisbon, Portugal

After a relaxing breakfast,  joint to a small group shared walking tour to visit the best of Lisbon (3h). Starting in Lisbon city center, get to know the heart of both the old and new Lisbon. Take a look at the Obelisk in the Restauradores Square, which commemorates the Restoration of Portugal's independence from Spain in 1640. Marvel at the intricate Neo-Manueline architecture of the old Central Train Station. Learn about the Carnation Revolution of 1974 as you visit the Carmo Square, the very place where Portugal's old dictatorial regime fell after 48 years. Walk through the elegant neighborhood of Chiado, with its old cafes, boutiques, theatres and bookstores. Wander through the old maze of small squares and narrow alleyways of the Moorish neighborhood of Alfama, where time seems to have stopped a thousand years ago. Stop for wine tasting and a tapa. Finish up in the Comercio Square, formerly the entrance hall of the city, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful squares. Free afternoon on your own to continue exploring the city. Accommodation in Lisbon

Day 3 Lisbon - Obidos - Nazare - Porto, Portgual

After a relaxing breakfast, embark on an enriching journey accompanied by your English-speaking private driver from Lisbon to Porto. Along the way, firstly you will enter the charming walled town of Obidos, where cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and colourful village, creates an enchanting medieval ambiance. Then, continue your way towards Porto and stop in the breathtaking coastal beauty of Nazare, famed for its towering waves and vibrant fishing culture. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from the Miradouro do Suberco, and learn about the legendary giant waves that have made Nazare a heaven for surfers and ocean enthusiasts. Continue your trip to Porto, where the driver will drop you off directly at your hotel. 

Welcome to Porto, Portugal's second city. Built on the hills overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, this bustling city is the capital of the Northern region. The city was named by the Romans for its port, which was an integral link to Lisbon. It's World Heritage-listed for its 2,000-year history and many well-preserved buildings and monuments. 

Accommodation in Porto.

Day 4 Porto, Portugal

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast this morning before you  join a private half-day city tour (4h) with an English-speaking guide and private vehicle. Explore the historic center of this UNESCO World Heritage city. Stroll through the picturesque Ribeira district along the Douro River, with its colorful facades and lively riverside ambiance, learning about the city's trading legacy and maritime past and crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for panoramic views. Visit the 'Palacio da Bolsa' (tickets included), a neoclassical masterpiece and former stock exchange, where the lavish Arab Room still hosts official state receptions. Continues with exterior visits to key landmarks such as the Sd Cathedral and the Cldrigos Tower (tickets not included), as well as panoramic stops at Avenida dos Aliados and the Sao Bento Railway Station, renowned for its beautiful azulejo tile panels. Free afternoon to relax or continue exploring Porto at your own pace. Accommodation in Porto.

Day 5 Porto

This morning, after breakfast, transfer to the pier to begin your unforgettable Douro River cruise.

Your friendly crew are ready to welcome you on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Settle into your luxurious suite and prepare for this evening, when you can enjoy a performance of traditional Fado music to toast the journey ahead.

Day 6 Porto > Pinhao

Relax as your Scenic Space-Ship meanders its way through the spectacular Douro Valley towards Pinhao. Admire the beaty along the steep riverbanks lined with terraced vineyards and majestic quintas as you cruise along the Douro River. 

This afternoon you'll dock in Pinhao, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional Pport wine. Look out for the charming riverside train station decorated with azulejos (hand-painted tiles) depicting the annual grape harvest. There's also an opportunity to try your hand at painting your own azulejos at a workshop.

Day 7 Pinhao > Barca D'Alva

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, witness traditional handicraft being made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calcada, where you'll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Day 8 Barca D'Alva > Pocinho

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Salamanca full day excursion: Enjoy a full day excursion to Salamanca. Known as the 'golden city' for its sandstone architecture, Salamanca is famous for its university. On this tour you'll visit the city's two cathedrals, visit a market to sample local delicacies and have free time to explore and have lunch at your leisure.

Freixo de Espada a Cinta with silk museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada a Cinta, the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand. Visit a silk museum before returning to the ship for lunch.

Day 9 Pocinho > Regua

Wake in the village of Pocinho, which was established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887.  It's a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.

Scenic Freechoice: 
Explore your way with one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Coa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Coa 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; you'll also enjoy a pre-historic workshop.

Village life in 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, the largest of the riverside towns and 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.

Day 10 Regua > Porto

Awake in Regua. 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 include visiting one of the most beautiful towns in northern Portugal, exploring an enchanting palace or kayaking along a scenic river.

Scenic Freechoice: 
Choose from this morning's Scenic Freechoice activities:

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. Your tour will culminate at the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption.

Kayaking along the Pinhao River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide past impressive landscapes via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro River.

Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. The stunning imposing palace sits behind an ornamental pond, where the silhouette reflects to mirror the regal design.

This afternoon your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship will make its way back to Porto in time for your magnificent Scenic Enrich event.

Scenic Enrich
Classical concert in São Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to São 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.

Day 11 Porto

Scenic Freechoice: 
Choose from todays Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. After your guided tour, perhaps take the time to explore the historic Bolhao Markets during your free time.

Excursion to Guimaraes: Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved World Heritage-listed city and explore the Ducal Palace. You will 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. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.

Day 12 Porto

Your cruise concludes this morning in Porto. Disembark and take with you lifelong memories of a remarkable journey across Portugal.

Make your own way to airport for your departure flight. End of your unforgettable journey in Portugal.

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 our terms and conditions.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of December 2024 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from CITY and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.