“The trip on the River Douro was absolutely amazing. There was so much to do every day and the evening entertainment was great. The culinary experience was absolutely marvellous. We will definitely be using Uniworld again.”
– Christopher Lee
Bem-vindo! This hearty welcome envelopes you as you embark on a cruise down the Douro River Valley, noted by UNESCO for its 2,000 years of wine-making and its “cultural landscape of outstanding beauty.” As the only place in the world that can legally produce port wine, the region abounds with wine-producing farms called quintas offering private tastings. Porto is synonymous with port wine but also offers visitors awe-inspiring architecture while other ports of call along the river boast castles and monasteries.
There are so many ways to embrace the enchanting towns tucked along the Douro River. Feel the centuries unfold as Porto’s medieval alleys snake through UNESCO-designated neighborhoods enclosed by 14th-century walls. Head off the beaten path and explore Castelo Rodrigo whose brooding 13th-century remains continue to stand watch over the village. Witness the astonishing prehistoric carvings etched into Côa Valley’s Archaeological Park walls. Marvel at Lisbon’s Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO-recognized site of Moorish and Gothic designs with imposing spires, carvings, tombs, and ornate arches.
Portugal may share a border with Spain but their cuisines are each distinctly their own. While it’s true that many of their menus have a lot in common—fresh, seasonal ingredients and similar dishes like Portugal’s arroz de pato and Spain’s paella, their use of spices sets them apart. Portuguese cooks favor hot chili peppers called piri piri and, with 1,115 miles of Atlantic coastline, seafood is the star on most menus. Bacalhau, or cod, is a particular favorite, and the Portuguese have invented hundreds of different ways to prepare it, from baking it in cream sauce to frying it into delicious bolinhas (aka “marbles”).
The Douro Valley is Portugal’s most beloved wine trail. A mecca for wine aficionados, you’ll be treated to tastings of red and sparkling wines and, of course, port. We visit traditional quintas that offer an authentic taste of this world-renowned elixir. Drink in its history in the quaint village of Barca D’Aliva with a tour and tasting at a boutique winery that’s the oldest quinta in the Douro River Valley, or set out on a vineyard hike through the hills in pretty Pinhão to a family-owned quinta where Port samples await.
Follow the Douro River through Portugal to cruise past quaint villages and acres of shore-hugging vineyards gently kissed by the sun. The Douro River Valley is UNESCO-designated for its “outstanding beauty,” which comes as no surprise if you spend any time sailing through the steeply terraced mountains rising from the river banks. Grape vines, silver-green olive leaves, and almond orchards are perfectly arrayed to catch the sunlight, promising a flavor and bounty unique to this corner of the world.
When to go: We sail all of our Portugal-Spain cruises between April and November. In spring and summer, the vineyards that adorn the Douro River Valley come alive in graduated shades of green while a joyous riot of red and gold colors greet you in the fall.
How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You may participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.
Avg. Temp. 58º F / 14º C
Avg. Temp. 68º F / 20º C
Avg. Temp. 72º F / 22º C
Avg. Temp. 52º F / 11º C
Euro (EUR, €)
Central European Time (CET)
Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Portuguese
230V supply voltage
Plug type F
Verified reviews by
“The trip on the River Douro was absolutely amazing. There was so much to do every day and the evening entertainment was great. The culinary experience was absolutely marvellous. We will definitely be using Uniworld again.”
– Christopher Lee
“This was the best river cruise we have ever taken. It was the perfect combination of relaxation and historical excursions. The river valley is just stunningly beautiful and we absolutely feel in love with Porto and it's welcoming people.”
– Elizabeth Hallford
“Remarkable scenery, wonderful, relaxing cruise and interesting side ventures. Particularly enjoyed the petroglyph tour, Douro Valley wine museum, and dinner at the winery.”
– James Fisher
“The cruise ship was top notch. The scenery was just beautiful. The people of Portugal are just so kind and thoughtful, always trying to please.”
– Barbara Cassidy
Porto to Lisbon | 11 days
Following the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port and explore ...
Ship: S.S. São Gabriel
Countries: Portugal, Spain
River: Douro
4.3/5 (430 reviews)
From €3,999 per person
Porto to Porto | 8 days
As you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port....
Ship: S.S. São Gabriel
Countries: Portugal, Spain
River: Douro
4.3/5 (132 reviews)
From €3,299 per person
Bordeaux to Lisbon | 18 days
The Southern European climates and historic towns of both Bordeaux and Portugal are as complimentary as their palettes—expect bold reds and excellent dessert wines, from Sauternes to Port....
Ships: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. São Gabriel
Countries: France, Portugal, Spain
Rivers: Dordogne, Douro, Garonne
From €7,469 per person