Table Of Content
If you are a resident of another country, please contact a French embassy or consulate to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit. Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance. A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation.
Why cruise with Emerald Cruises?
To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below. The majority of Douro river ships dock in the heart of Gaia, on the south side of the Douro River, across from Porto proper. Scenic and sister company Emerald Cruises have exclusive docking spots on the northern bank, in Ribeira. Some vessels (including Avalon Alegria) dock slightly farther out of town, so check before booking if you want to be right in the center.
Sample the bounty of the Douro Valley at Quinta do Portal
Cruise options also vary, with some cruises focusing more on cultural experiences and sightseeing, while others offer a more active itinerary with opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Although no longer used commercially, these iconic workhorses can still be seen plying the waters of the Douro today. Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates, and event invites. Raise a glass of port to the discoveries that await you in Portugal’s Douro Valley, a historic and renowned wine region in Europe. Experience the soulful, haunting melodies of fado music and admire the picturesque landscapes of the Portuguese countryside.
Emerald Radiance Cruise: Expert Review (2023) - Cruise Critic
Emerald Radiance Cruise: Expert Review ( .
Posted: Wed, 12 Jul 2023 16:11:31 GMT [source]
Douro Experience 2024 (9 destinations)
Douro River cruise lines transport passengers to the top, with the option to walk back down the 700 stairs and meet the bus. That's not the only quirk spotting you'll want to keep your eyes peeled for in Salamanca. At the old university building you can try and spot a frog -- said to bring students good luck -- hidden in the ornate facade. Salamanca shore excursions include lunch, usually with a flamenco show, and free time.
Tips for Douro River Cruising
One of the highlights of a Douro River cruise is the opportunity to witness the changing landscapes as you sail along the river. From the rugged beauty of the upper Douro Valley to the gentle slopes of the lower valley, each stretch of the river offers its own unique beauty and charm. There are 66 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 6 days up to 17 days. The most popular month for these cruises is July, which has the most tour departures. Explore the epicenter of the Douro Valley’s port wine production; sample local food. On the way back, there might be the chance to stop off at Pinhao's gorgeous railroad station.
If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker. We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen. Overall, Douro River cruises offer a diverse range of itineraries and options, ensuring that every traveler can find the perfect cruise experience to suit their interests and preferences.
Day by Day
The lobby is covered with azulejo tiles depicting historic scenes relating to port production. Some cruises overnight in Pinhao, giving time to explore the waterfront or walk up to the station. Gaia's waterfront and steep surrounding streets are a Douro River destination unto themselves.
Experience the Douro River with Tauck
Along with the mooring point at Vega de Terron, this is the gateway to the stunning medieval hilltop village of Castelo Rodrigo. Topped by the ruins of a medieval castle, the steep and narrow streets in town lead to the 13th-century church that's a stop on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. Designed by a pupil of Gustave Eiffel, it was the world’s longest iron arch bridge when it opened in 1886. It can be crossed by car, train or foot and links Ribeira with Vila Nova de Gaia, or simply Gaia. Gaia is your go-to neighborhood for exploring the famous Port wine cellars for which Porto is rightfully famous. This once-turbulent waterway was tamed by local civilizations over the centuries, so you'll find postcard-worthy scenery all around.
Portugal River Cruises
Our generously sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities, including a queen-size Scenic Slumber bed and pillow menu. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites on Scenic Azure feature our Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways - so you can relax and view Portuguese the way of life as you cruise by. For any cruises listed, Cruise Critic does not guarantee any specific rates or prices.
A cruise along the Douro offers the opportunity to explore this fascinating history and experience the rich culture of the region firsthand. The Douro River has a rich history dating back centuries, with evidence of human settlement along its banks dating back to the Paleolithic era. The river played a crucial role in the region’s development, serving as a vital trade route for transporting goods like port wine, olive oil, and grains. Explore the sunny Iberian Peninsula with world renowned cruise companies and set sail on the Douro river. Take in the charm of small riverside towns in Portugal's Vila Real district, while tasting local wines in the company of friends or family. Discover over 300 medieval castles in Spain's Castile and Leon mountainous region and unwind in Sintra with an unforgettable river cruise.
Some cruise lines run their shore excursions to Casa de Mateus from Pinhao, and most offer trips to wineries such as Sandeman to learn how port is made and enjoy a tasting. During a Douro River cruise, passengers can enjoy guided tours of local wineries, where they can learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of wines, including port, vinho verde, and Douro DOC wines. Some cruises also offer onboard wine tastings, where passengers can sample a selection of wines from the region.
That also means that you'll likely take buses up the steep valley slopes to places of interest along the way. Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of April 22nd, 2024. Furthermore, Cruise Critic makes no guarantees for availability of prices advertised on our site. To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot.
Whether you are a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Douro River Cruising has something to offer every traveler. Join us as we explore this captivating destination and discover why a cruise along the Douro is a journey unlike any other. Emerald Cruises specializes in providing a small cruise ship experience.
Harry Potter fans should head to the Lello bookstore in the Clerigos quarter. Rowling with the inspiration for the stairs at Hogwarts when she was an English teacher in Porto. The store charges an entry fee, refundable against the purchase of a book. You also can book tours that include a stop at Lello through our sister site, Viator. Read on for our guide to the best destinations along the Douro River in Portugal and get inspired to plan your next river cruise. Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates and event invites.
Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services – Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. Download, print or share deck plans and additional information for your vessel, such as specifications and cabin descriptions. Traditional Portuguese cuisine is simple and delicious yet flavourful and vibrant and as the country boasts over 500 miles of coastline, it is no surprise that seafood steals the spotlight here. Dinners are a long and leisurely affair and fish tacos and fresh clams go down a treat when paired with a glass of fine Portuguese wine. Sample the delicious ruby-colored fortified wine for which the city is known.
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