Douro Delights with Lisbon and Madrid

Douro Delights with Lisbon and Madrid

About This Cruise

Includes return flights from the UK. Begin in the historic city of Lisbon before boarding your seven-night Douro River cruise. Taste port in Porto, visit a family-owned quinta in Entre-os-Rios and explore castle ruins in Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. End in the Spanish capital of Madrid.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

MS Estrela

Departure Date

12 April 2027

Cruise Line

APT Guided Tours & River Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Portugal

Lisbon

Olá and welcome to Portugal. Once you’ve arrived in Lisbon, you’ll be taken to your hotel to settle in. Our welcome reception this evening is the perfect chance to meet your fellow travellers.

Portugal

Lisbon

Set off to see the sites of Lisbon. Pay a visit to the World Heritage-listed Jerónimos Monastery, a symbol of Portugal’s power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. Built in 1502 by King Manuel I, the monastery commemorates Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of Pastel de Nata, Portugal's famous custard tart, as well as a tasting of Portuguese salt cod fritters. Tonight, join your fellow travellers to share a special dinner.

Portugal

Lisbon

As soon as you get your first glimpse of Serra de Sintra, prepare to gasp. Mountains roll from each direction and every peak is as memorable as the last. Visit King Ferdinand II’s ingenious Park and National Palace of Pena before enjoying free time to explore Sintra. Take the chance to have lunch at your leisure, then soak up the sea breeze as you return to Lisbon via the coastal route. Since it’s your final night here, you might like to try one of the local restaurants for dinner.

Portugal

Sintra

As soon as you get your first glimpse of Serra de Sintra, prepare to gasp. Mountains roll from each direction and every peak is as memorable as the last. Visit King Ferdinand II’s ingenious Park and National Palace of Pena before enjoying free time to explore Sintra. Take the chance to have lunch at your leisure, then soak up the sea breeze as you return to Lisbon via the coastal route. Since it’s your final night here, you might like to try one of the local restaurants for dinner.

Portugal

Lisbon

Travel through Portugal’s countryside, then discover the medieval city of Coimbra, home to the country’s oldest and most famous university. Board your river ship and settle in with a welcome dinner. As you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto, your river ship has the best vantage point to take in the city's iconic sights.

Portugal

Coimbra

Travel through Portugal’s countryside, then discover the medieval city of Coimbra, home to the country’s oldest and most famous university. Board your river ship and settle in with a welcome dinner. As you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto, your river ship has the best vantage point to take in the city's iconic sights.

Portugal

Porto

Travel through Portugal’s countryside, then discover the medieval city of Coimbra, home to the country’s oldest and most famous university. Board your river ship and settle in with a welcome dinner. As you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto, your river ship has the best vantage point to take in the city's iconic sights.

Portugal

Porto

The choice is yours when it comes to the sightseeing activities on offer today. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a Signature Experience tonight.Freedom of Choice — Porto ExplorationExplore Porto’s 16th-century Old Town and take a scenic cable car ride, savouring panoramic views of the city below. Then, indulge in a tasting of the city’s famous port wines and sample the rich flavours of the region.Freedom of Choice — Portuguese Tart Cooking ClassPut on your baker's apron for a hands-on class devoted to Portugal’s most beloved sweet, the pastéis de nata. Guided by a renowned chef, discover the secrets behind its delicate, flaky pastry and silky custard filling as you take part in the preparation process yourself. As the tarts emerge warm from the oven, savour your freshly baked creation, perfectly paired with a glass of Portuguese port.Freedom of Choice — Active Walking Tour of PortoSet out on an active walking tour of Porto through the medieval streets and the old harbour quarter of Ribeira. Stroll through cobbled streets and discover neighbourhoods of colourful 18th-century houses and quaint eateries.Signature Experience — Palácio da BolsaHead to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.

Portugal

Porto

Sail this morning through the sun-soaked Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, set out on your sightseeing activity.Freedom of Choice – Traditional Village VisitWander through a charming Schist village, tucked into the rolling hills of Penafiel. Admire the warm golden stone houses and meandering narrow streets, carefully restored using traditional methods, and soak in the rhythms of authentic Portuguese village life. Discover hidden courtyards, and experience the timeless character of a community that has preserved its heritage for generations.Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and TastingVisit Quinta da Aveleda, a family estate crafting wines in the Vinho Verde region since the 1870s. Meander through the lush vineyards and learn the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages. Conclude your visit with a curated tasting of fine wines paired with artisanal cheeses, savouring the flavours that define this historic estate.

Portugal

Entre-os-Rios

Sail this morning through the sun-soaked Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, set out on your sightseeing activity.Freedom of Choice – Traditional Village VisitWander through a charming Schist village, tucked into the rolling hills of Penafiel. Admire the warm golden stone houses and meandering narrow streets, carefully restored using traditional methods, and soak in the rhythms of authentic Portuguese village life. Discover hidden courtyards, and experience the timeless character of a community that has preserved its heritage for generations.Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and TastingVisit Quinta da Aveleda, a family estate crafting wines in the Vinho Verde region since the 1870s. Meander through the lush vineyards and learn the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages. Conclude your visit with a curated tasting of fine wines paired with artisanal cheeses, savouring the flavours that define this historic estate.

Portugal

Régua

This morning, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Régua. While you sail, you may wish to join a hands-on tile-painting experience in the Main Lounge. Discover the traditional craft of azulejos, the blue tiles that adorn Portugal’s towns and cities. Learn about the vibrant colours, intricate patterns and storytelling that defines this distinctive, �world-renowned art form. On arrival in Régua, visit the Douro Museum, which provides an incredible insight into the culture of the Douro Valley wine region.Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da PachecaVisit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and wine tasting, enjoying views over the Douro River and Régua. Situated in the village of Cambres in the Lamego municipality, the prestigious estate dates back to the 16th century and features 75 hectares of vineyards.

Portugal

Régua

After enjoying the sightseeing experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you cruise to Pinhão.Freedom of Choice – Lamego TourSet among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming city. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local specialty, Bola de Lamego.Freedom of Choice – Visit Palácio de MateusEmbark on a trip to Palácio de Mateus, located near the city of Vila Real. Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni played a pivotal role in the palace’s construction in the 18th century. The palace is also well known for being featured on the bottle labels of Mateus Rosé wine.

Portugal

Pinhão

After enjoying the sightseeing experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you cruise to Pinhão.Freedom of Choice – Lamego TourSet among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming city. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local specialty, Bola de Lamego.Freedom of Choice – Visit Palácio de MateusEmbark on a trip to Palácio de Mateus, located near the city of Vila Real. Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni played a pivotal role in the palace’s construction in the 18th century. The palace is also well known for being featured on the bottle labels of Mateus Rosé wine.

Portugal

Pinhão

Visit Pinhão Railway Station, known as one of the most beautiful railway stations in Portugal. Built in the 19th century, its tiled walls depict the production of port. Venture to a local quinta, then be treated to a captain’s farewell dinner in the evening.

Portugal

Pocinho

Step ashore and embark on your chosen tour in Pocinho. Freedom of Choice - Côa Parque Museum��Set within a dramatic landscape where the Prehistoric Art of the Côa Valley meets the Douro Wine Region, the Côa Museum offers a compelling journey through more than 30,000 years of human creativity. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum pairs striking contemporary architecture with stories of the ancient rock engravings of the surrounding valley and houses Portugal’s most extensive library dedicated to rock art. Inside, immersive and interactive exhibitions provide rare insight into the symbolism, artistry and enduring mystery of prehistoric life.Freedom of Choice - Côa Archaeological Park Rock ArtNestled on a serene river beach along the right bank of the Côa River, Penascosa offers a rare glimpse into the artistic legacy of our earliest ancestors. Your journey begins in the charming village of Castelo Melhor before continuing by 4WD along a scenic dirt track, winding through almond and olive groves for approximately six kilometres. As the most visited site in the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, Penascosa captivates visitors with its peaceful setting and breathtaking vistas, while the Palaeolithic engravings etched into the rocks reveal the extraordinary richness and creativity of Côa art.Tonight, gather for a delectable farewell dinner on board.

Spain

Vega de Terrón

Step ashore and embark on your chosen tour in Pocinho. Freedom of Choice - Côa Parque Museum��Set within a dramatic landscape where the Prehistoric Art of the Côa Valley meets the Douro Wine Region, the Côa Museum offers a compelling journey through more than 30,000 years of human creativity. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum pairs striking contemporary architecture with stories of the ancient rock engravings of the surrounding valley and houses Portugal’s most extensive library dedicated to rock art. Inside, immersive and interactive exhibitions provide rare insight into the symbolism, artistry and enduring mystery of prehistoric life.Freedom of Choice - Côa Archaeological Park Rock ArtNestled on a serene river beach along the right bank of the Côa River, Penascosa offers a rare glimpse into the artistic legacy of our earliest ancestors. Your journey begins in the charming village of Castelo Melhor before continuing by 4WD along a scenic dirt track, winding through almond and olive groves for approximately six kilometres. As the most visited site in the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, Penascosa captivates visitors with its peaceful setting and breathtaking vistas, while the Palaeolithic engravings etched into the rocks reveal the extraordinary richness and creativity of Côa art.Tonight, gather for a delectable farewell dinner on board.

Spain

Vega de Terrón

Disembark your ship and say goodbye to life on board. Travel to the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca for a tour. You’ll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to your hotel in Madrid. Tonight is yours to spend as you please.

Spain

Salamanca

Disembark your ship and say goodbye to life on board. Travel to the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca for a tour. You’ll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to your hotel in Madrid. Tonight is yours to spend as you please.

Spain

Madrid

Disembark your ship and say goodbye to life on board. Travel to the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca for a tour. You’ll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to your hotel in Madrid. Tonight is yours to spend as you please.

Spain

Madrid

Today, you’ll enjoy the chance to tour Spain’s vibrant capital, including visits to the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. This evening, savour a farewell dinner.

Spain

Madrid

Choose how you want to spend your time in Madrid today.Freedom of Choice – Madrid Food TourLearn all about the traditional sights, smells and flavours of delectable Spanish cuisine on a culinary tour of the capital’s best food spots.Freedom of Choice – Museo del PradoAdmire beautiful displays of art at the Museo del Prado. Relish the museum’s collection of artwork from iconic Italian and Flemish artists, such as Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens and Bosch.Freedom of Choice – Santiago Bernabéu StadiumIf you’re a sports fan, you're sure to enjoy a visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the second largest stadium in Spain and home to the Real Madrid Football Club.

Spain

Madrid

It's time to say goodbye to Spain as you are transferred from your hotel to the airport.

Overview

Includes return flights from the UK. Begin in the historic city of Lisbon before boarding your seven-night Douro River cruise. Taste port in Porto, visit a family-owned quinta in Entre-os-Rios and explore castle ruins in Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. End in the Spanish capital of Madrid.

Suite

Owner's Suite

Stay in an Owner's Suite to experience expansive dual-aspect views of the Douro from your sizeable French balcony and large sitting area. Enjoy a deluxe queen-size bed, a spacious en suite bathroom and amenities including personal climate control, a flat screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Cabin Category: OS | Deck: Upper Deck | Cabin Size: 22 sq m

Balcony

French Balcony Suites

Indulge in extensive views of lush riverscapes from the comfort of your French Balcony Suite. Featuring an electric slide-down window, feel the fresh breeze on your face.

Cabin Category: CT, B, P | Deck: Middle and Upper Deck | Cabin Size: 15 sq m

Outside

Window Staterooms

Relax in a Window Stateroom situated on the lower deck. Enjoy amenities including a premium en suite bathroom, personal climate control, a flat screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Cabin Category: E | Deck: Lower Deck | Cabin Size: 14.5 sq. m

regional

Dining

Celebrate Local Produce

Tantalise your tastebuds with flavours from Portugal and the Meditteranean. Opt to dine in the ship's contemporary lounge or make the most of the outdoors with alfresco dining on the exterior deck.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Rejuvenate in the sun

Relax on board the MS Estrela and take in beautiful surrounds from the Sun Deck. Rest by one of the largest pools on the Douro and treasure the passing landscape. Treat yourself to a drink from the outdoor bar and recline on a plush chair.

Lounge

Lounge

Custom-built to embrace the natural light of the sun-drenched Douro Valley, relax in the lounge accompanied by a cocktail or book. Recline on a plush couch as you watch the spectacular scenery drift by from the comfort of your climate-controlled position.

Sun Deck

Outdoor Lounge

The MS Estrela offers many spaces to relax on board as a ship designed to maximise your comfort. On the Sun Deck, recline by the pool on a plush sun bed and watch the gorgeous landscapes glide by with a drink in hand.

Musicians

Onboard Entertainment

Enjoy nights of wine, song and dance with onboard entertainment including Portuguese folk music. Uncover knowledge about the local culture with immersive history lessons and engaging talks with experts.

Reception

Lobby

The Lobby can be found on the Upper Deck.