Delightful Douro

Delightful Douro

About This Cruise

The soul of Portugal

From windswept seaside meanderings to the astonishing beauty of the Douro Valley, this is a journey of contemplation and elegance.

In Porto, board the luxurious Scenic Azure, which will transport you through the hidden gem that is the Douro Valley. Days will be spent immersed in the proud history and culture of a unique land that still retains many of its centuries-old traditions.

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Scenic Azure

Departure Date

12 October 2026

Cruise Line

Scenic

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Portugal

Porto

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. Your friendly crew are ready to welcome you on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.

Portugal

Porto

Relax as your Scenic Space-Ship meanders its way through the spectacular Douro Valley towards Pinhão. 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 Pinhão, 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.

Portugal

Pinhão

Relax as your Scenic Space-Ship meanders its way through the spectacular Douro Valley towards Pinhão. 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 Pinhão, 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.

Portugal

Pinhão

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 Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Portugal

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 Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Portugal

Barca d’Alva

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.Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta: A town with a curious name that translates to ‘ash tree girded with sword’. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century, then tied his sword to an ash tree before having a rest, hence the unusual name. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit the local silk museum to gain a better understanding of this local tradition before visiting a local Quinta (estate) for some tasting of regional produce. After this excursion you will return to the ship for lunch.

Portugal

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.Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta: A town with a curious name that translates to ‘ash tree girded with sword’. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century, then tied his sword to an ash tree before having a rest, hence the unusual name. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit the local silk museum to gain a better understanding of this local tradition before visiting a local Quinta (estate) for some tasting of regional produce. After this excursion you will return to the ship for lunch.

Portugal

Pocinho

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:Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum, the largest open-air Paleolithic rock art site in the world. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal and is a contemporary building designed to blend into the landscape. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you’ll enjoy a pre-historic workshop.Village life in the Côa Valley: Visit the small village of Freixo Numão, a traditional village that has been lived in for centuries. Learn about local life before visiting Casa Painova estate, see the family home and enjoy a demonstration on how sugared almonds are produced. Learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds and local products.This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Régua, 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.

Portugal

Régua

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:Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum, the largest open-air Paleolithic rock art site in the world. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal and is a contemporary building designed to blend into the landscape. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you’ll enjoy a pre-historic workshop.Village life in the Côa Valley: Visit the small village of Freixo Numão, a traditional village that has been lived in for centuries. Learn about local life before visiting Casa Painova estate, see the family home and enjoy a demonstration on how sugared almonds are produced. Learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds and local products.This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Régua, 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.

Portugal

Régua

Awake in Régua. 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. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Start your tour at the stunning Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the Sanctuary is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. If you are feeling active walk down the staircase or journey down via coach before some tasting some local produce at a nearby Bodega before enjoying some free time to explore the town.Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide past impressive landscapes via kayak on the Pinhão 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 EnrichClassical 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.

Portugal

Porto

Awake in Régua. 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. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Start your tour at the stunning Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the Sanctuary is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. If you are feeling active walk down the staircase or journey down via coach before some tasting some local produce at a nearby Bodega before enjoying some free time to explore the town.Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide past impressive landscapes via kayak on the Pinhão 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 EnrichClassical 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.

Portugal

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 Palácio da Bolsa. After your guided tour, perhaps take the time to explore the historic Bolhão Markets during your free time.Excursion to Guimarães: 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.

Portugal

Porto

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

Overview

The soul of Portugal

From windswept seaside meanderings to the astonishing beauty of the Douro Valley, this is a journey of contemplation and elegance.

In Porto, board the luxurious Scenic Azure, which will transport you through the hidden gem that is the Douro Valley. Days will be spent immersed in the proud history and culture of a unique land that still retains many of its centuries-old traditions.

Suite

Royal One-Bedroom Suite

At 39m²/420ft², this is the largest suite on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*.
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

Suite

Riverview Suite

Located on the Sapphire Deck this stylishly decorated suite features a full-length Scenic Sun Lounge system, but does not include an external balcony. This suite also includes a private bathroom with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

Suite inclusions

  • Luxury queen size slumber bed with pillow menu
  • Scenic Sun Lounge
  • Marble bathrooms with luxurious bathroom amenities
  • Complimentary mini bar
  • Mac-mini infotainment system with complimentary movies on demand
  • Hairdryer, alarm clock, telephone, In room safe
  • International power sockets
  • Luxury bathrobe and slippers
  • Nordic walking sticks

Suite

Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites, located on the Diamond Deck, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen-sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, your all weather balcony at the press of a button
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive/Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues Personalised butler service for every suite
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Daily pressing for two pieces of clothing
  • In-suite breakfast with early morning tea and coffee services available
  • Daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

Suite

Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Personalised butler service for every suite
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Early morning tea and coffee
  • Beverage service in your suite
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe
  • Shoeshine and valet service.

Outside

Standard Suite

Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Personalised butler service
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Early morning tea and coffee
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Shoeshine and valet service
  • Nightly turndown service
  • In-suite safe.
classic

Crystal Dining

Enjoy à la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Crystal Dining. Available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises, this main restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with local delicacies. 

italian

Portobellos

With up to only 32 guests an evening, the exclusive and intimate Portobellos or L’Amour showcase sumptuous regional specialities. The delectable five-course menu features either Italian, French or Portuguese cuisine (depending on your cruise location), paired with elegant wines, and is available on all European river cruises.

casual

River Café

Offering a casual dining experience, you can enjoy all-day grazing options, light snacks and tasty treats to suit your schedule. The River Café is available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises.

room

In-Suite Dining

Choose to dine in the comfort of your luxurious suite, while taking in the incredible views and enjoy included room service throughout your cruise.  

Exclusive

Table d'Or

Featuring a six-course degustation, the exclusive Table La Rive on our European river cruises offers an intimate dining experience for only 10 guests per evening. Guests staying on the Diamond Deck for 10 nights or longer, as well as Royal and Junior Suite guests staying for up to nine nights, will be invited by our Executive Chef.

casual

Riverview Terrace

Perfect for light bites or afternoon refreshments, Riverview Terrace is our Sun Deck lounge and bar area, where you can enjoy snacks and drinks during the day. Combined with our all-inclusive service, this is the ideal spot to unwind with a glass of your favourite tipple as the wonders of the Douro drift by.

Bar, Lounge

Panorama Lounge & Bar

Enjoy local entertainment, chat with new friends or peruse our extensive drinks list at Panorama Lounge & Bar. As the main lounge area on board Scenic Azure, this is where you can relax and enjoy a stimulating evening on the river.

Sun Deck

The Sun Deck

Soak up the Portuguese sunshine from the Sun Deck – a spacious, open-air lounge and leisure area where you’ll spend much of your downtime on board. With deck chairs, Vitality Pool, café and games area, it’s perfect for a slice of alfresco living during your Douro river cruise.

Reception

Reception

Located at the heart of Scenic Azure, the reception area is a place to get help and advice during your river cruise; it’s also the meeting point for excursions and events. Whatever you need, our helpful crew are always on hand to help.
Shop

Gift Shop

Pick up those all-important essentials or a gift for loved ones back home at Scenic Azure’s on board gift shop. You’ll find it near the reception.
Bar

All Inclusive Beverages

Sit back and enjoy a beverage of your choice while cruising spectacular waterways, at your leisure. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or a full-bodied wine – the choice is yours.

You will enjoy:

  • Unlimited complimentary premium international beverages^, including international wines, beers and spirits
  • Full in-suite mini bar, restocked daily
  • Refillable water bottle for all onshore excursions
  • An extensive range of specialty teas and espresso coffees
  • This selection is available all day, every day.

*Exclusive invitation for Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests cruising for 10 nights or more, or Royal and Junior Suite guests for 9 nights or fewer.

^All beverages are included except a very small number of fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.

Observation Point

Wheelhouse

This is where our crew pilot your luxury Space-Ship, navigating the meandering passage of the Douro from Porto to the Spanish border. Stop by during your cruise for a glimpse behind the scenes.
Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

Vitality Pool

Soak up the Portuguese sunshine from the Sun Deck – a spacious, open-air lounge and leisure area where you’ll spend much of your downtime on board. With deck chairs, Vitality Pool, café and games area, it’s perfect for a slice of alfresco living during your Douro river cruise.

Spa

Wellness Area

Maintain your wellness routine at our state-of-the-art gym, morning stretching classes^ with the Wellness Coach or rejuvenating spa treatments*. Exercise on the walking track on the Sun Deck or take a dip in the Vitality Pool.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

With Scenic Azure’s dedicated Fitness Area, you’ll be able to continue your fitness regime on a Douro river cruise. Kitted out with a range of exercise equipment, including cardio and weight machines, it’s a great place to stay active on your travels.
Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

For those who like to walk off their lunch or simply admire the view, the walking track is a place to stretch your legs during your time on board. Circling the perimeter of the ship, it’s ideal for taking in all the Douro’s magnificent vistas.