Have questions? We're here.
Cruise the beautiful Douro river

Delightful Douro with Madrid

Porto - Madrid - Example 11 Day Cruise aboard Scenic Azure
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Douro River trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Talk with an expert
Embark on an 11-day cruise from Porto to Madrid aboard the Scenic Azure. Cruise the Douro River and explore Portugal’s renowned wine region. Visit local villages, meet welcoming communities, and sample regional specialties. Take in scenic views of terraced vineyards and taste iconic Port wine at its source. Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Douro Valley through guided tours, historic sites, and unique experiences, including kayaking along the Pinhao River. Visit the golden city of Salamanca, known for its well-preserved sandstone architecture and university legacy. Then, continue to Madrid for a four-day stay in Spain’s capital. Explore its royal landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant culinary scene. A seamless blend of river and land exploration through two of Iberia’s most iconic regions.
Stop in sunny SalamancaVineyards in Douro Valley, PortugalPorto Cityscape, PortugalSail across the heart of Porto vineyardsPortuguese city on the riverDouro River Vineyards, PortugalCruise along the scenic Douro riverCruise the beautiful Douro river
Highlights
  • Explore Porto’s UNESCO-listed heart and iconic riverside landmarks
  • Admire Douro Valley vineyards and hillside quintas near Pinhao
  • Visit Provesende’s church, manor house and traditional bakery
  • Discover Salamanca’s cathedrals and vibrant medieval old town
Activities
Places Visited
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.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Porto | Embark

Welcome to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, situated on the hills above the mouth of the Douro River. The Romans also referred to it as Oporto. This vibrant northern hub is renowned for its strategic port, which connects the region to Lisbon. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Porto boasts over 2,000 years of history and a wealth of well-preserved architecture and landmarks.

This afternoon, board your ship, where your welcoming crew will be ready to assist. Settle into your spacious suite and join fellow guests this evening for a cocktail reception to celebrate the start of your journey.

Day 2: Porto | Pinhao

Unwind as your ship makes its way through the striking Douro Valley en route to Pinhao. Take in the scenery along the steep riverbanks, where terraced vineyards and stately quintas stretch across the landscape.

This afternoon, arrive in Pinhao, a picturesque village nestled in one of the most scenic stretches of the Douro River. Surrounded by renowned port wine estates, Pinhao is known for its rich viticultural heritage. Don’t miss the iconic riverside train station, adorned with traditional azulejos illustrating the annual grape harvest.

Day 3: Pinhao | 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, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you can enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Day 4: Barca d’Alva | Pocinho

Freechoice
Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Salamanca Full-Day Excursion: Known as the ‘Golden City’ for its honey-colored sandstone architecture, Salamanca is famous for its university, which is the third-oldest in the world, founded in 1218. Salamanca is a vibrant place with a young population – around one-fifth of its residents are students. It’s 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 spend your free time exploring and enjoying lunch at your leisure.

Freixo de Espada à Cinta with silk museum: 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 that 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 can visit a silk museum before returning to the ship for lunch.

Day 5: Pocinho | Regua

Wake in the village of Pocinho. There’s not much to the village, which was established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, though it’s a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley. Perhaps savor a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler before heading off for the day.

Freechoice
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal, situated in a contemporary building that seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape. The museum provides a great introduction to the region’s Paleolithic rock art sites through original artifacts and digital technology. During your visit, you can also enjoy a prehistoric workshop.

Tastes of the Côa 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 Regua, perhaps enjoy a regional port wine in the Panorama Lounge & Bar, or spend some time in your suite. Many have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Douro.
Regua is the largest of the riverside towns and is 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.

Day 6: Regua | Porto

Awake in Regua, where the ship has remained docked overnight. 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.

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. 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 zigzag staircase decorated with traditional blue and white tiled mosaics, leading down to the town center. You can opt for a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of local produce.

Kayaking along the Pinhao River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective 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.

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.
This afternoon, your ship will make its way back to Porto in time for your magnificent Scenic Enrich event.
 
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 gilded interiors and breathtaking altars. All guests will be seated in the church for a performance of classical music.

Day 7: Porto

Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto is both hip and opulent, where street art adorns ancient city walls and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colorful tiles.
 
Freechoice
Explore the region with one of these morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture, history, and food of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palácio 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, in operation since 1914, offers visitors a glimpse into the local food and culture. It’s a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Excursion to Guimarães: 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 Ducal Palace, which dates to the 15th century and displays a historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics, weapons, and more. You can 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. Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate. A highlight of this tour is the enchanting gardens.

Day 8: Porto | Disembark | Madrid

  • 1 Breakfast
Board your included flight from Porto to Madrid and transfer to your hotel for your three-night stay in this magical city.

Day 9: Madrid

  • 1 Breakfast
There’s so much to discover in just a short time in Madrid, so spend this morning on a guided tour of the highlights. Begin in Madrid de los Austrias (the Austrian Quarter), the most historic area of the city, which dates back to the reign of the Habsburgs. Discover the iconic Plaza Mayor, a 400-year-old square surrounded by neat rows of brightly colored buildings; the impossibly picturesque Plaza de la Villa; and the bustling Plaza de la Paja, lined with restaurants and bars. Wander through the elegant Sabatini Gardens, built in front of the Royal Palace in the 1930s, and admire the formal garden, fountains, and statues. More classic fountains await in the leafy plaza near the famed Prado Museum, the 19th-century Cibeles and Neptuno fountains.

Freechoice
Today’s Scenic Freechoice:

Get artful at The Prado: The Prado Museum is renowned as one of the world's finest, with over 1,500 artworks on display from a collection of more than 7,000. See works from Spanish grand masters Goya and Velázquez as well as other prominent European artists like Rubens, Bosch, Rafael and more.

Explore the spectacular Royal Palace: Covering more than 135,000 square meters, Madrid’s exquisite 18th-century Royal Palace is the largest in Western Europe. Walk through the grand rooms and airy courtyards, admire the incredible artworks on the walls, and see the weapons and armor on display in the armory.

Day 10: Madrid

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Madrid is truly one of Europe’s most inclusive, engaging and entertaining cities, meaning there is something that appeals to every type of traveller. If the sun is shining (as it usually is), head for the lake at the center of El Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat to paddle lazily past the grand monuments, water features and leafy forest that line the shores.

There’s an excellent crop of museums and galleries where you can while away the day, like the Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Museo Lazaro Galdiano and the National Archaeological Museum. If you’d prefer to be able to buy the beautiful things on display, join the crowds at Gran Via, look for luxury labels in Barrio de Salamanca, or find vintage treasures in the Chueca and Malasaña districts. Foodies should make their way to the Mercado de San Miguel, a century-old cast iron covered market filled with the finest produce from all over Spain. The market draws more than 10 million visitors a year to sample meat, cheese, fruit, vegetables, ice cream and more.

Tonight, enjoy a special Spanish dinner with your fellow guests and toast a wonderful day of exploring.

Day 11: Madrid

  • 1 Breakfast
Madrid is famous for its nightlife, but the mornings can be just as special. Take some time on your last day for one last walk around the tranquil grounds of Sabatini Park, just a few minutes from your hotel, or sit at a pavement café for one last cup of strong Spanish coffee. 

After check out, transfer to the airport where you farewell Madrid, taking with you memories of an unforgettable 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

Scenic Azure

Scenic Azure was specifically designed for sailing the Douro River. Enjoy an all-inclusive luxury experience with just 96 guests onboard. The intimate and relaxed atmosphere, providing safe, luxurious passage atop the glistening waters of the Douro, Scenic Azure has set a new precedent in luxury river travel since launching in 2016. 
vitality pool
Sun deck
Panorama bar

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

List View | Calendar View
  • Oct 12, 2025from $15,620
  • Mar 30, 2026from $13,420
  • Apr 6, 2026from $13,420
  • Apr 23, 2026from $13,420
  • May 30, 2026from $14,420
  • Jun 26, 2026from $14,420
  • Jul 13, 2026from $13,795
  • Jul 30, 2026from $13,795
  • Oct 12, 2026from $13,420
  • Nov 8, 2026from $13,420
<Oct 2025>
SMTWTFS
2829301234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
2627282930311
Deal available
Private Deal

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
Holiday Deals 28346
Book your Scenic River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between June 23 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,750 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 or RS 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
Holiday Deals 28350
Book your Scenic Eclipse cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between June 23 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $4000 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
Per person starting at
$13,420
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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, 6 Lunches, 8 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

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle

Top Douro River Travel Destinations

Douro River Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Douro River

Douro River Trips by Duration

Douro River Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By

Jeff Rottschafer Adventure Life employee profile
Jeff R
Plan My Trip
We love travel, talk with an expert 1.800.344.6118
GOT IT!
We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue browsing the site if you're ok with this. For more info, please see our privacy policy.