Douro, Porto and Salamanca River Cruise - MS Douro Splendour

7 nights - 28 Mar 2027

MS Douro Splendour| Holiday ID: 044940

Porto

Régua

Salamanca

Entre-os-Rios

Porto Porto Porto Porto Porto Régua Régua Régua Salamanca Salamanca Entre-os-Rios

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Lower Deck - Standard

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Middle Deck - Standard

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Upper Deck - Standard

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Upper Deck - Superior Balcony Suite

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Lower Deck - Standard

~~WAS £1899pp~~ From £1823PP

Middle Deck - Standard

~~WAS £2749pp~~ From £2639PP

Upper Deck - Standard

~~WAS £2949pp~~ From £2831PP

Upper Deck - Superior Balcony Suite

~~WAS £3449pp~~ From £3311PP

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Riviera Travel under ATOL number 3230

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Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

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THE
RIVER VOYAGES DIFFERENCE

Our sister brand RiverVoyages is Europe’s leading expert in river cruise holidays. Click here to view this itinerary in full and speak to our team of river cruise specialists, here to help you plan your perfect cruise along the world’s most scenic waterways. With access to exclusive offers and savings, we’re ready to help you plan every detail of your next river cruise holiday.

Itinerary

List Timeline

Porto

Arrival in Porto - Arrive in Porto and board your ship in the late afternoon. If you're here before then, enjoy free time in Porto.From the moment you board your quintessentially Portuguese ship in Porto, the welcoming crew are at your service. In no time you’ll be settled in and familia... Read More

Day 1

28 March 2027

Porto

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Day 2

29 March 2027

Régua

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Day 3

30 March 2027

Cruising the Douro River Portugal

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Day 4

31 March 2027

Salamanca

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Day 5

01 April 2027

Régua

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Day 6

02 April 2027

Entre-os-Rios

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Day 7

03 April 2027

Porto

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Day 8

04 April 2027

Porto

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Régua

Pinhão - One of the benefits of life aboard a river cruise is the sheer sense of relaxation it brings; our elegant ship slips its moorings during breakfast and we enjoy most of the day sailing. There is plenty of time for a spot of pampering in the on-board spa, or simply watch the seamles... Read More

Cruising the Douro River Portugal

Salamanca

Régua

Entre-os-Rios

Lamego - This morning after breakfast we take a short drive to historic Lamego, home of Portugal’s sparkling wine, Raposeira, and one of the first places to be reclaimed from the Moors in the 12th century. Situated atop the hill overlooking this lovely town is the ancient Sanctuary of Our... Read More

Porto

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

28 March 2027

Porto

29 March 2027

Régua

30 March 2027

Cruising the Douro River Portugal

Castelo Rodrigo - This morning, early risers can witness the ship’s graceful departure. Relax over a leisurely breakfast whilst the ever-changing scenery idly slips by through the restaurant’s superb panoramic windows. The Douro was once a wild river, notoriously challenging to navigate, especially for the traditional flat-bottomed boats, which often foundered in its waters. Today it has been tamed by a system of dams and locks, which have raised the water level to produce a topography reminiscent of Scotland’s lochs that enhances the valley’s charm.As we cruise into ever more rural territory towards the Spanish border, the river here is at its most peaceful. It’s the perfect time to take a refreshing dip in the Sun Deck pool – a rare treat on a cruise ship – or catch up on some reading, perhaps with a cool pre-lunch glass of vinho verde, the local, gently fizzy white wine. Portuguese wine is just outstanding, but production is low, so the best is rarely exported. Our on-board wine list includes some excellent regional wines, and the friendly and attentive restaurant staff will gladly guide you through them. Do experiment a little and you’ll be greatly rewarded.This afternoon we visit Castelo Rodrigo, a delightful 12th-century walled village tucked away in the picturesque highland ranges bordering Spain. Its church was a resting place on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela and it is said that Saint Francis himself stayed here. The views are simply stupendous, stretching across almost-deserted ochre hillsides.This evening after dinner we will see a celebratory vintage port wine opened in the traditional way, then head up on to the sun deck to listen to the unmistakable sound of crickets and breathe in the scents from the surrounding valley slopes that pervade the warm evening air.Personalise Your Holiday -Rock Art of the Côa Valley at Penascosa * Duration: 4hrs * Price: £76pp (2026) and £80pp (2027)The adventure begins as you arrive at Castelo Melhor, where you’ll meet your local guides and board 4x4 vehicles. As you travel along the dirt tracks, the landscape unfolds before you - rolling fields dotted with olive and almond trees stretch across the horizon, offering a glimpse into the traditional rural beauty of the region. The path leads you deeper into the countryside, where you’ll be taken on a short walk to find five ancient, engraved rocks, each one telling its own story of the past. After soaking in the historical wonders, you'll return to the ship, your heart full of memories of this unique experience. The valley can be very hot in the summer, you should prepare for high temperatures. Hats, sunblock, and lots of water are essential. There are some shaded areas at the site, but the rocks themselves are all exposed and you will be standing and walking in the sun.Optional excursion can be done instead of the excursion to Castelo Rodrigo and is available between May and September only.Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking. Space is limited, but minimum numbers also apply, so if not enough guests opt for this extra, it may not happen.

31 March 2027

Salamanca

Salamanca or Almeida - Today, you can choose between two options on how to spend your day. Today we have a guided tour of historic Salamanca, seeing its main sights. This is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this journey, regarded by many Spaniards as their nation’s most beautiful city. Founded by the Romans, who erected its 389-yard-long bridge, Salamanca is mostly built from local sandstone that emanates a gorgeous rose-coloured glow in the sunlight. Perched on a hill on a bend in the serene River Tormes, the city is a picture of tranquillity, but its history is turbulent, having been successively fought over by Hannibal, the Moors, then the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon.Salamanca is dominated by its two cathedrals and its university. Founded in 1218, the university is the oldest in Spain and was one of the civilised world’s most important seats of study for over 400 years. The Spanish Inquisition’s records are still kept here, and as early as the 16th century it boasted some 12,000 students. Seeing its immaculately preserved lecture halls with their vaulted ceilings, it’s easy to conjure an image of Christopher Columbus addressing the learned men of the day or legal experts constructing the international laws that originate here.On arrival in Salamanca, you are free to explore as you wish. You may choose to linger, admiring the ornate interiors of its cathedrals – the more recent dates from the 16th-century – or explore its tiny streets, medieval squares, traditional shops, gardens and marketplaces. The main square, the Plaza Mayor, was built in the 18th-century in Spanish Baroque style with colonnaded walkways all around at ground level, ideal for finding a shaded spot to sit and watch the locals pass by. We have a special treat over lunch, as we sample Spanish tapas accompanied by a traditional flamenco show.This afternoon we enjoy a guided tour of the city seeing the main sights, before we return to our ship.This morning, we journey to the historic fortified town of Almeida, one of Portugal's most impressive military strongholds. Positioned close to the Spanish border, Almeida played a pivotal role during the Peninsular War and remains remarkably well preserved today. Its distinctive 12-point star-shaped fortress, deep defensive trenches and imposing stone ramparts offer a fascinating insight into centuries of military history.On arrival, we'll enjoy an orientation walk with our tour escort, exploring the characterful streets and learning more about the town's strategic importance and extraordinary past. You'll then have some free time to wander at your own pace, perhaps taking in the views from the fortress walls or soaking up the atmosphere of this historic settlement.Later, we'll gather for lunch at the Hotel Fortaleza de Almeida, set within the town's impressive fortifications. After enjoying regional cuisine and local hospitality, we'll return to the ship, arriving back in the afternoon with time to relax onboard or watch the scenery drift by from the sun deck.

01 April 2027

Régua

Mateus Palace or Régua Douro Museum - With a morning spent sailing downstream, there's time to linger over another coffee after breakfast. Or perhaps, you'll take another opportunity to avail yourself of some of the ship’s range of excellent facilities – maybe a little gentle exercise in the fitness room before heading up on deck to appreciate the changing landscape in all its splendour as the river weaves its way between the lush hillsides.This afternoon, you have a couple of choices.After another superb lunch on board, we stop at the village of Folgosa, from where we visit the grounds of the splendid Mateus Palace and its sublime palace interiors. Anyone familiar with Mateus Rosé and its characteristic ‘squashed’ bottle will recognise the palace from the label. Whatever your opinion of the wine, it is an impressive 18th-century Baroque edifice, mirrored in its stunning pond, surrounded by landscaped French gardens.Alternatively, you can choose to stay on board and continue your journey down the river, sailing toward the charming town of Peso da Régua, where you'll arrive by mid-afternoon. Once ashore, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Douro Valley with a visit to the Douro Museum. Here, you'll explore captivating exhibits that bring the history of wine production to life, offering fascinating insights into the region's winemaking traditions and the storied past of port wine trading.This evening, we take the short drive to the 126-acre Quinta da Pacheca for dinner. It dates back to the 18th-century and is simply one of the most beautiful and distinguished properties in the region. It is also notable as being the first quinta – in 1738 – to bottle wine under the name of its owner, the aristocrat Mariana Pacheco Pereira. Here we'll stop for dinner accompanied by a selection of their wines, while enjoying dramatic views over the Douro.We are moored in Régua overnight.

02 April 2027

Entre-os-Rios

03 April 2027

Porto

Porto - Head up to the sun deck to enjoy a coffee whilst chatting with newly-made friends as our ship makes a graceful arrival in Porto once more, passing under the city’s spectacular bridges. On arrival, we enjoy a guided tour of Porto. Strategically overlooking the Douro as it empties into the Atlantic, Portugal’s second largest city was originally a Roman town, but its wealth derived from its knowledge of the sea routes to India, with fortunes made from trading spices, silks and other fine goods. Our tour unveils some of its major and more surprising sights. You have a couple of choices this morning. Embark on a panoramic coach tour that showcases both the major landmarks and some of Porto’s more surprising and hidden gems. Along the way, there will be a stop to explore the exquisite cathedral and the iconic São Bento station, where you can admire the beautiful tile work.For those seeking a more active adventure, this walking tour of Porto offers an unforgettable experience. We first cross the bridge and explore the charming Ribeira district. From there, we head along Rua das Flores to São Bento station and finally the majestic cathedral. We then cross the top of the famous Luis I Bridge, taking in the sweeping vistas of the city to the Jardim do Morro in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you'll be rewarded with incredible views. We then make our way back to the ship, with the city's characteristic hills adding a bit of challenge to this scenic and immersive tour. Porto is of course synonymous with wonderful port wine and all the famous port producers are here, such as Cálem, Sandeman and Ferreira, so a visit here would not be complete without a tour of one of them. After lunch on board, you’ll learn about this fortified wine’s fascinating history and its close British connections. Port is made from grapes still pressed in the traditional way – by feet – then lovingly matured, sometimes for decades, before you can enjoy its subtle flavours. Of course, you’ll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit.You’ll have the rest of the afternoon to explore the truly fascinating city; so perhaps return to the terraced streets of the old town and wander the sloping maze of winding, cobbled alleyways, soaking up the atmosphere whilst stopping to admire the lovely architecture, soaring bell towers, fine baroque churches, golden rooftops and beautiful tiles of this slice of traditional Portugal. Stop for a drink in a cosy café and be tempted by an array of delicious cakes and pastries – perhaps sample a pastel de nata, the traditional Portuguese custard tart.

04 April 2027

Porto

Return home - Flight time permitting, enjoy free time in Porto before your journey home.

Explore MS Douro Splendour

Main Restuarant

Heading down to the Main (middle) Deck you will find the chic restaurant where your comfort is assured in high-backed chairs at impeccably laid tables with pristine linen cloths and fine cutlery. Breakfast is a hot and cold buffet with a fine omelette station so your eggs are just how you like them – an early risers’ breakfast is also available in the lounge. Lunch is another deliciously fine array but if you fancy a simple salad instead then that’s available too or you may opt for a slightly more informal, lighter lunch either in the main lounge or up on the Sun Deck. The culinary highlight of the day though is the superb four-course dinner, served at your table by the most highly trained, attentive yet discreet waiting staff who will attend to your every need without hesitation.

Excursions

We are a well-travelled collective - made up of our guests as well as our team. We'll admit it - we're obsessed with travel.

But that's not our only interest. We also love architecture, history, the arts, and gastronomy - everything that makes a culture unique. And we plan our itineraries to ensure we're catering to those interests. Perfecting every excursion to ensure you get the most out of your onshore adventures.

Most days are filled with full or half-day excursions. Whether that's a city tour, an introduction to a brand-new town or a more in-depth visit to a specific landmark or attraction. You'll see the very best of every destination. Not just the legendary locations, we'll uncover the top-secret local spots too.

World-famous landmarks
You'll get to experience some world-famous destinations in the company of our passionate local guides. Sites like the Benedictine Melk Abbey on the Danube, spectacular Pont du Gard on the Rhône, Keukenhof Gardens - the world's largest flower gardens - on the Dutch Waterways and Cologne with its cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe.

A taste of your destination
Food has the uncanny ability to reveal the softer parts of the destination most tourists overlook. Recipes passed down through the generations slowly become ingrained within a culture, featuring fresh local produce and traditional cooking techniques. Our excursions often include delicious local produce perfected over centuries - sample cheese in Switzerland and chocolate in Germany (it's not a cruise for those watching their weight), wine tasting in the world-famous wine region of Burgundy and port in the port wine cellars of Porto.

For even more, why not choose one of our Gastronomy themed departures?

Authentic cultural experiences
Our river cruise itineraries deliver authentic and engaging moments to fully immerse you in the culture. You'll remember being seduced by the fiery passion of flamenco dancing after a cruise along the Douro. Hold on to that feeling of wonder you felt as you watch the glassblower creating the most beautiful vase out of a glowing mass. And tell the stories you heard during a Hungarian folklore show to your grandchildren at bedtime. The memory of these authentic cultural experiences will last a lifetime.

Boutique Gift Shop on MS Douro Splendour

Lounge and Bar

forward you will find the magnificent lounge and bar, the very heart of the ship, styled by a leading Portuguese designer – your holiday starts here! A well-stocked bar with friendly professional staff taking delight in attending to your every wish in sampling local wines or preparing whatever takes your fancy completes the convivial scene.

So just sit back and enjoy the stunning view from the magnificent panoramic windows as the ever-changing river scenery slips effortlessly by. When evening falls, the subdued lighting creates the most gentile ambience so unwind over a digestif or perhaps take a turn on the dance floor to the soothing tones of the resident musician. There really can be few holidays quite as relaxing as this!

Gymnasium

For something a little more energetic, you will find a small fitness room on the Lower Deck – ideal for working off the ship’s wonderful cuisine!

Sun Deck

Outdoor Pool
Sun Loungers

Upper Deck

Main Lounge
Main Bar
Shop
Reception
Upper Deck Cabins
Superior Balcony Suites
Deluxe Balcony Suites

Main Deck

Restaurant
Spa
Main Deck Cabins
Main Deck Stern Cabin

Lower Deck

Gymnasium
Lower Deck Stern Cabins (Sole Occupancy)
Lower Deck Cabins

Standard Cabin - Upper Deck on MS Douro Splendour

Standard Cabin - Middle Deck on MS Douro Splendour

Stern Standard Cabin - Middle Deck on MS Douro Splendour

Standard Cabin - Lower Deck on MS Douro Splendour

Stern Standard Cabin - Lower Deck on MS Douro Splendour

Standard Cabin - Upper Deck

The Upper Deck and Main (middle) Deck are 14 square metres (151 square feet) and have full floor to ceiling windows which slide down halfway so you can watch the stunning river scenery drifting past without leaving the comfort of your cabin!

Features

Individual climate control
Floor to ceiling windows with Juliet style balcony
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Tea and coffee making facilities
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes and hairdryer
EU plug sockets
Desk & chair
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

Deluxe Balcony Suites

If you really fancy treating yourself to a little more indulgence by taking your cruise to another level again, the MS Douro Splendour also boasts two Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Upper Deck. These suites are a huge 29 square metres (312 square feet), offering the ultimate in space and comfort during your cruise. Tastefully furnished with the same high quality fittings as the other cabins and suites with tea and coffee making facilities and bathrobes. Most of the additional space is devoted to the living area where you will really notice the difference as you relax in comfort on the sofa or elegant armchair in the most sumptuous of settings.

Plus, a further treat - there is a walk-in wardrobe for that added sense of luxury plus a larger bathroom with twin wash basins.The Deluxe Balcony Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows plus sliding doors extending on to a small private balcony with a table and two chairs. These really are the epitome of river cruise luxury and you will feel thoroughly spoilt!

Features

Individual climate control
Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Tea and coffee making facilities
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes and hairdryer
EU plug sockets
Table and chairs
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

Facilities

Queen or Twin Configuration
Lounge Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Free Wi-Fi
Safe
Hair Dryer
Desk
Suite Benefits
Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
Telephone
Air Conditioning