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Relax in beautiful Porto

Unforgettable Douro

Roundtrip Porto - Example 11 Day Cruise aboard Scenic Azure
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Embark on an 11-day cruise to and from Porto aboard the Scenic Azure. Explore Portugal's Douro River, where centuries-old towns maintain their traditions and culture amid changing times. This cruise offers insight into authentic regional life—from craftsmen practicing time-honored trades to genuine cuisine rooted in local heritage. Journey through key destinations, including Vega de Terron, with its Spanish influence, and historic Lamego, the birthplace of port wine. Visit renowned vineyards where wine has been cultivated for generations on the Douro's terraced banks. Experience a mix of iconic landmarks and lesser-known sites, with time to relax while enjoying the dramatic valley scenery.
Stroll through SalamancaVineyards in Douro Valley, PortugalExplore historic PortoCruise through vibrant PortoThe famed vineyards of the Douro valleyRelax in beautiful Porto
Highlights
  • Explore Porto’s vibrant historic center and bold Roman roots
  • Admire Gaia’s dynamic skyline from a scenic cable car ride
  • Wander Guimaraes’ medieval streets and storied regal past
  • Visit Regua’s compelling museum and panoramic valley views
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Porto | Embark

Welcome to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city and the capital of the northern region. Perched on the hills above the Douro River’s mouth, Porto—also known as Oporto—was named by the Romans for its strategic port, once a vital trade route to Lisbon. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 2,000-year legacy and exceptionally preserved architecture.

Your Scenic crew will be waiting to welcome you aboard your ship. Settle into your elegant suite and join your fellow guests this evening for a cocktail reception to mark the start of your journey.

Day 2: Porto

Wake in Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that gave Portugal its name. Steeped in history yet brimming with youthful energy, Porto balances tradition with modern flair—where vibrant street art enlivens centuries-old walls and historic buildings clad in intricate, colorful tiles.

Freechoice

Guided Tour of Porto:
Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. Located in the heart of the city, this 19th-century neoclassical building boasts stunning architecture and intricate detail, including the Arab Room, adorned with stunning Moorish-inspired decorations and with a ceiling made entirely of gold leaf. After your guided tour you have ample free time so why not explore the Bolhão Markets? This historic market has been in operation since 1914 and offers visitors a glimpse into the local food and culture. It’s a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Active Tour of Porto Including Cable Car: Walk from the ship to board a rabelo (a traditional wooden cargo boat). Travel from Porto to Gaia (or Vila Nova de Gaia) where you take a cable car ride to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, Sao Bento railway station, and the bustling street of Rua das Flores.

Decorative blue tiles are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon, you can learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop.

Day 3: Entre-os-Rios | Regua

Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. From here, set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the ‘cradle of Portugal’.

Freechoice

Paiva Walkways:
Explore nature at its finest on an active hike along the Paiva River. A wooden walkway snakes its way down a rocky hillside in Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark comprising a mountainscape carved by rivers, and the longest suspended pedestrian bridge in the world, at 520 meters long. This active tour requires a high degree of fitness due to a large number of stairs, uneven terrain and a walking distance of approximately 4 kilometers.

Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.

Excursion to Guimaraes: Fondly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage-listed city and explore the palace, which dates to the 15th century and displays an historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics, weapons and more. You can also have free time to explore the city on your own.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Regua, 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. Upon arrival this afternoon you can enjoy a visit to the excellent Douro Museum. 

Learn about the history, culture and traditions of the region of the Douro Valley at Douro Museum. It’s set in a fully restored 18th century building that once housed The Company, which was responsible for the demarcation of Douro wines, as well as being a place where wines and winemaking tools were stored. After the museum visit, enjoy a drink of local port or port tonic on the terrace overlooking the magnificent Douro Valley.

Day 4: Regua

This morning join you fellow guests for an excursion to the Varosa Valley, the first demarcation region of sparkling wine. Visit the charming village of Tarouca where you explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. Walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal’s first toll bridge spanning the Varosa River which was built during the 14th and 15th centuries.
(Please note: The Monasterty St. John of Tarouca is closed on Monday’s and will be replaced with a Vila Real visit with Tasting at Casa Lapão)

Freechoice

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. Your tour will culminate at the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the cathedral is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town center. You can have the option to take a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of local produce.

Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Built in the first half of the 18th century, the former family home features rooms with original furniture and ornately carved ceilings; a library that contains one of the first illustrated editions of Os Lusiadas, Portugal’s most significant epic poem; and a manicured garden dotted with statues, hedges, a cypress tunnel and reflective ponds.

Port Wine Blending Class: Ever wanted to know how an oenologist creates their beautiful blends? Well today you can find out. Visit Quinta de Pacheca and marvel at the glorious vineyards and old cellar before taking a hands on workshop where you can learn about the blending process.

Day 5: Regua | Vega de Terron

Today, enjoy a relaxing day on board, as you sail towards Vega de Terron.

Spend the morning soaking up the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the Douro scenery rolling during a full day cruise through the Douro Valley’s Vinhateiro wine growing region. A World Heritage-listed Site, Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years. In fact, its impeccable port wines have been world-famous since at least the 18th century.

Day 6: Vega de Terron | Salamanca

Wake this morning in the city of Vega de Terron, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It’s a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you can have the opportunity to explore today.

Freechoice

Salamanca Full-Day Excursion:
Known as the ‘golden city’ for its honey-colored sandstone architecture. Salamanca is home to two cathedrals, one dating to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you can see on today’s guided tour. You can also visit a market to taste local delicacies such as olives, cheese and smoked ham, and you can have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Freixo de Espada a Cinta with Silk Museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you can visit a silk museum.

Day 7: Pocinho | Pinhao

Wake in the village of Pocinho, established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.

Freechoice

Coa Valley Museum:
Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through original artefacts and digital technology; on your visit, enjoy a pre-historic workshop.

Tastes of the Coa Valley: Visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.
 
This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards  Pinhao.

Day 8: Pinhao

Wake this morning in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional port wine.

This morning, transfer to 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, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calcada, where you can enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.
 
Freechoice

Kayaking along the Pinhao River:
Explore this beautiful region as you glide past impressive landscapes of terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling estates via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro.

Quinta Vineyard Hiking: Take a guided hike through the breathtaking vineyards of Quinta in the Douro Valley. Enjoy stunning views across the Douro River, learn about the winemaking process and sample some of their wines.

Quinta Tasting: Visit Quinta da Roêda estate for a tasting of the region’s most famous export. On a guided walking tour, learn the secrets of the vineyard. Finish in the estate’s visitors’ center, housed in the old stables that have been restored in traditional Douro style, the perfect location for a tasting of port wines.

Day 9: Pinhao | Porto

Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to sail along the spectacular Douro River. Your ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you can experience an exclusive classical concert tonight.
 

Enrich

Classical Concert in Sao Francisco Church:
From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to Sao Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has an alter decorated with intricately carved wood swathed in gold. All guests will enjoy a performance of classical music.

Day 10: Porto

Wake in Porto, ready for a day of unique experiences, whether that be a ride on a traditional boat, playing a round of golf or sampling wine in one of the most famous cellars in the city.

Freechoice

Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise:
Take a coach to Aveiro, a city resplendent in Art Nouveau architecture and famed for its canals. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and cruise the waterways in a brightly colored moliceiros flat-bottomed boat.

Round of golf: Golfing enthusiasts will have the opportunity to tee off here in Porto, a city known for its top golf courses. Play 6 holes at the Quinta do Fojo Golf club, one of Porto's most popular courses. Quinta do Fojo is a spectacular course set in a walled estate which houses gardens, lakes, woods and a historical Manor House, founded in 1714. This activity is for experienced golfers only and to participate guests must bring their 'Golf Handicap Certificate'. If this is not provided you can't participate in this Scenic Freechoice activity. It is recommended that participants bring sunscreen and a hat with them.

Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Travel to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of Porto’s most famous cellars, Cockburn’s Port. Enjoy a guided visit and a tasting.
 
This afternoon, you can have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your ship this evening for a farewell dinner.

This evening, take an illumination cruise through Porto to see the city lit up at night, including the bridges that span the Douro.

Day 11: Porto | Disembark

Disembark after breakfast this morning transfer to Porto airport for your onward journey. 

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 the terms and conditions.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Azure

vitality pool
Sun deck
Panorama bar

Dates & Prices

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  • May 16, 2025from $15,790
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Deal available

Deals

Special Deals 27517
Book your Scenic Eclipse cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $2000 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to GP, OP, OT, SB, SA, S or P cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $250 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Scenic Eclipse Cruises

Special Deals 27518
Book your Scenic River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,500 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD, RS or RJ cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Scenic River Cruises

Per person starting at
$14,990
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Select a Date
Standard Suite E
172ft2. Standard Suites 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.
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Standard Suite D
172ft2. Standard Suites 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.
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Balcony Suite C
215ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Riverview Suite C1
183ft2. The Riverview Suite is located on the Sapphire Deck with a retractable sun lounge to ensure a great view. They have a spacious layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
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Balcony Suite BB
215ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Balcony Suite B
215ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Junior Balcony Suite BJ
247ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire Deck, have a private full-length balcony complete with a sun lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.
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Balcony Suite PA
215ft2. Located on the Diamond Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Balcony Suite P
215ft2. Located on the Diamond Deck these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive sun lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
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Junior Balcony Suite RJ
247ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Diamond Deck, have a private full-length balcony complete with a sun lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.
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Royal One-Bedroom Suite RP
At 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 a sun lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.
Included
  • 10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 10 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wifi
  • Porterage
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Complimentary beverages
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
  • Passport or Visa fees
  • All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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