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Cruise along the scenic Douro river

Barcelona to Lisbon & Secrets of the Douro

Barcelona - Lisbon - Example 14 Day Cruise aboard Emerald Radiance
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Embark on a 14-day river cruise with stays in Barcelona aboard the Emerald Radiance. Explore the historic Gothic Quarter and the magnificent architecture of Sagrada Familia. Transfer to Porto to join your river cruise ship and navigate the Douro River. Visit the traditional Portuguese villages of Pinhao, Pocinho, and Regua along your route. Taste authentic port wine at regional vineyards and admire terraced hillside landscapes. Cross the Spanish border to walk through the ancient university city of Salamanca. View the stunning Renaissance architecture of Plaza Mayor before returning to your vessel. Conclude the river cruise portion of your journey in Porto before traveling further south. Pause in the charming towns of Nazare and Obidos to view historical municipal landmarks.
Sagrada Familia Cathedral in BarcelonaTerraced vineyards of the Douro River ValleyGet to know vibrant BarcelonaPorto Cityscape, PortugalStroll through SalamancaCruise the beautiful Douro riverPortuguese city on the riverCruise along the scenic Douro river
Highlights
  • Tour Barcelona to admire the architecture of La Sagrada Familia
  • Discover Salamanca to view the stunning Casa de las Conchas
  • Visit Castelo Rodrigo to walk the narrow streets of the old town
  • Wander Obidos to explore charming whitewashed houses and alleys
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.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Barcelona

Welcome to the vibrant city of Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s magnificent Catalonia region. Upon arrival, expect a seamless transfer directly to your comfortable hotel to begin a fully included three-night stay. Here, take the time to relax at leisure or seize the opportunity to discover the municipal wonders entirely at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the lively local atmosphere by wandering through historic streets, exploring bustling local markets, or taking a peaceful stroll along the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. This magnificent gem truly offers captivating experiences for every traveler. As evening approaches, gather alongside fellow guests and the dedicated tour director to share a convivial welcome drink, perfectly setting the stage for a remarkable Spanish adventure.

Day 2: Barcelona

  • 1 Breakfast
Immerse yourself in the captivating sights of Barcelona during your fully included morning tour. As the afternoon approaches, choose to participate in an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion to delve deeper into the regional culture, or simply continue exploring this magnificent city entirely at your own pace.

Included Excursion
Guided city tour of Barcelona 
Today’s guided city tour will combine panoramic views and fascinating walking tours among the most important sights and landmarks in Barcelona, highlighting striking masterpieces of Modernism and the genius of acclaimed Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí. Admire the iconic La Sagrada Família – the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world – and the striking Casa Milà residence, from the outside. Soak up the buzz as you stroll along lively Las Ramblas Avenue, taking time to sample delicious local appetisers and Barcelona’s signature dish, Tapas. 

Day 3: Barcelona

  • 1 Breakfast
The many charms of Barcelona are yours to explore at leisure today, with a full day of independent discovery at your fingertips. Consider revisiting the stunning La Sagrada Família, one of Gaudí's greatest creations, and admiring the Basilica’s unique architectural design. Or stroll through the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s cultural hub, taking in the centuries of history. You might also like to spend time at Montjuïc, Barcelona’s famous hill, where you can marvel at the beautiful gardens and panoramic city views. Be sure to sample plates of delicious tapas at a lively local café, or savor the iconic Spanish dish, paella, at a beachside restaurant. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan a wonderful day in Barcelona.

Day 4: Barcelona | Porto | Embark

This morning, after breakfast, be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight to Porto, leaving with treasured memories of your wonderful stay in captivating Barcelona. In Portugal’s historic city of Porto, embark on your luxury river cruise.

Day 5: Porto | Pinhao

Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of cruising through the World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area builds on two millennia of wine-producing history, and viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape, with small, sleepy villages surrounded by dozens of terraced vineyards. A highlight will be seeing Carrapatelo, the deepest lock in Europe.

EmeraldPLUS
Portuguese cooking demonstration on board
Learn how to make the iconic Portuguese sweet treat Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts) during an on board cooking demonstration. The expert chef will share the story and traditions behind this signature dish and involve guests in an immersive experience.

Day 6: Pinhao | Vega de Terron

A hidden gem just a few hours from Porto, Pinhão (pronounced ‘Pin-yow’) is a tiny village in the heart of the Douro Valley, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful countryside. It’s a place to take things slowly, sip local Port wine, explore hiking trails, or relax and soak up the charms of Portugal. 

Included Excursion
Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
Visit the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard, set on the hills surrounding the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce using traditional viticulture methods. Enjoy tasting their famous Port wine and learning about how they blend traditional viticulture methods with modern technology to create a seamless process. Alternatively, join a guided walk through their vineyards, stopping to admire the beautiful surrounds.

EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak experience in Pinhão
Embark on a kayak excursion along the Pinhão River, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley. Glide slowly past patchwork farmland, terraced vineyards and sprawling estates as you traverse this tranquil tributary of the Douro. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided active walk through the vineyards
Enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire the surroundings and the views over the Douro River. There are several different possibilities for hiking, to be adopted according to the fitness and desires of the group. Afterwards, join the group for the wine tasting. 

Day 7: Vega de Terron | Salamanca

Just across the Spanish border, Vega de Terrón is at the junction of the Douro and Águeda rivers. It’s the gateway to the ancient city of Salamanca, known as the ‘Golden City’ for its stunning Renaissance architecture built from Villamayor sandstone, which glows golden, pink, and ochre at sunrise and sunset. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Salamanca
Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans and Moors. Set out on a walking tour, which includes exploring the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. You can also have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells, and Salamanca’s university, one of the oldest universities in Europe, dating back to 1218.

EmeraldPLUS
Tuna music band in Salamanca
The tradition of ‘tuna music’ dates back to the 13th century, arising from poor university students who would sing in the streets to raise money for their tuition. It showcases a powerful tradition of academic and social life in Spain, with performers dressing in distinctive clothing, including capes with colorful ribbons to represent their school. Enjoy a performance of this unique music from a local group.

Day 8: Pocinho | Regua

The tiny village of Pocinho is around 30km (18.64 miles) from the Spanish border, surrounded by river and mountains. This isolated spot has a population of just a few hundred, with its white-walled and red-roofed buildings all but blending into the landscape. Nearby, museums and archaeological sites will take you deeper into Portugal’s history. 

Included Excursion
Tour to Castelo Rodrigo
Visit the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo, a small, fortified village perched high on a hilltop. Uncover the secrets of its history, admire its 16th-century walls and walk down charming, narrow medieval streets. Later, try some typical local products and enjoy some free time to explore on your own. 

EmeraldPLUS
Port wine cocktail lesson on board
Return to your Emerald Star-Ship for lunch, then enjoy a Port wine cocktail lesson as you cruise down the river. Port wine became popular in the 17th century and is created by adding brandy to wine during fermentation, resulting in a strong, sweet, high-alcohol style that can be used in many delicious combinations.

Day 9: Regua | Porto

Get an insight into Portuguese life in Régua, a busy town that sits at the western edge of the Port wine growing region. It is steeped in winemaking culture and has been an important trading and transport center since the 18th century. Backed by the stunning Serra do Marão mountains, it promises dramatic scenery and a welcoming atmosphere.

Cruise to Porto in the afternoon, where you remain docked overnight, allowing you to explore this vibrant city after dark.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lamego
On today’s included excursion, visit the marvelous Baroque village of Lamego, a place that has been shaped by Portugal’s devout Catholic faith and centuries of winemaking. Nestled among the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, the elegant town is infused with Baroque style. Stop to admire the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town. Its hundreds of zigzagging stairs are decorated with tiled friezes and climb out of a tailored garden resplendent with a variety of trees. 

EmeraldPLUS
Rural lunch at a local quinta
Enjoy a rural lunch at a local Quinta, a famous wine estate in the Douro, which is certain to be a highlight of your trip. A traditional meal will be served and beautifully accompanied by local entertaine

EmeraldPLUS
Mosaic tile painting lesson on board
Colorful painted tiles, called azulejos, are everywhere in Portugal. Learn about their origins, place in Portuguese culture and how they are created during a mosaic tile painting workshop on board. This hands-on experience will immerse you in Portuguese artistic traditions. You even get to take home your azulejos as a souvenir.

EmeraldACTIVE
Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
From the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, an important pilgrimage site on a hill above Lamego, walk down 686 cobbled steps to reach the center of the village. This Baroque, zig-zag staircase offers spectacular views and is lined with small chapels and shrines dedicated to various saints and martyrs. 

Day 10: Porto

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating and eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its export of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbor, waiting to take their produce across the water.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Porto
Your included coach tour of the coastal city will introduce you to its highlights, from the bustling waterfront to its colorful buildings and iconic bridges. It will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. 

EmeraldPLUS
A cruise through Porto
This evening, a charming evening cruise will shine a different light on Porto's skyline. 

EmeraldPLUS
Guided active walk in Porto
For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, this active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals. Cross the old iron bridge back to Porto city to admire the Porto Cathedral and visit the Old Town and São Bento railway station. 

Day 11: Porto | Disembark | Lisbon

  • 1 Breakfast
This morning, disembark your luxury Emerald Star-Ship and travel south, following the coast of the sparkling Atlantic, with an included visit en route to charming Nazaré and Óbidos, before arriving in Lisbon, the delightful Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s beauty has captivated people from around the world for centuries, and your included three-night stay in a centrally located hotel is certain to leave you captivated too.

Included Excursion
Visit to Óbidos
For today’s included excursion, en route from Porto to Lisbon, you first visit the enchanting town of Nazaré, known for its traditional fishing culture and fresh seafood, as well as the largest waves in Europe. Afterwards, proceed to the medieval small town of Óbidos. Here, your local tour guide will lead you through the town's charming, whitewashed houses and narrow alleys.

Day 12: Lisbon

  • 1 Breakfast
Soak in the sights of Lisbon on your included morning tour. Later, you may continue exploring the city at leisure. Your tour director will be available to help you plan your day.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lisbon
Today, you can enjoy an enthralling guided tour of Lisbon’s city center and glimpse the iconic sight of yellow trams traveling swiftly through tree-lined boulevards. Enjoy a visit to Jerónimos Monastery, a World Heritage-listed site and one of the most prominent examples of late Gothic Manueline architecture in Portugal.

Day 13: Lisbon

  • 1 Breakfast
The cobbled alleyways and ancient ruins of Lisbon are yours to explore at leisure today, perhaps stopping to learn about Lisbon’s long and storied history and the Pombaline architecture that took hold following the Great Lisbon Earthquake. Alternatively, you may choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion.

Day 14: Lisbon

  • 1 Breakfast
This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare for your transfer to the airport, taking treasured memories of the golden city and illustrious vineyards with you.

 

Ship/Hotel

Emerald Radiance

Emerald Radiance Exterior

Emerald Radiance

A 112-passenger cruise ship custom-built to sail through the famed Douro River, Emerald Radiance provides a luxurious passage through the beautiful lands of northern Portugal. From sun-soaked vineyards to ancient ruins, your journey through this captivating land is complemented by the features and amenities of this boutique Star-Ship.
Emerald Radiance Atrium
Emerald Radiance Restaurant
Emerald Radiance Pool

Dates & Prices

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Deals

Special Offer 31925
Book now and enjoy a savings of up to 40% off the full fare pricing. This promotion is available on select 2026-2027 departure dates and is valid for new bookings made between July 20 and August 3, 2026. Deposit is required at the time of booking. For sailings outside of 10 months, full payment is due 10 months prior to departure. For sailings within 10 months, full payment is due within 30 days of booking or at standard final payment date, whichever occurs first.

Additionally, solo travelers can take advantage of a free single supplement. Please note that this offer excludes the following categories: Owners Suite (SA), Grand Balcony Suite (S), Riverview Suite (RA), Emerald Panorama ( AP) or Single Stateroom (ES) categories.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for more details.

Code: SUMMERBF
Applies to Aug 25, 2027 departure
Special Offer 31926
Book now and enjoy a savings of up to 40% off the full fare pricing. This promotion is available on select 2026-2027 departure dates and is valid for new bookings made between July 20 and August 3, 2026. Deposit is required at the time of booking. For sailings outside of 10 months, full payment is due 10 months prior to departure. For sailings within 10 months, full payment is due within 30 days of booking or at standard final payment date, whichever occurs first.

Additionally, solo travelers can take advantage of a free single supplement. Please note that this offer excludes the following categories: Yacht Suite (Y), Terrace Suite (T), Deluxe Balcony Suite (S) or Owners Suite (SA) categories.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for more details.

Code: SUMMERBF
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Per person starting at
$8,010 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Emerald Radiance stateroom
Emerald Stateroom (F)
153ft² (14.3m²), 4 cabins located on the Rivera Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Picture window, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat-screen TV, and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance stateroom 2
Emerald Stateroom (E)
160ft² (14.9m²), 4 cabins located on the Rivera Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Picture window, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat-screen TV, and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance stateroom3
Emerald Stateroom (D)
170ft² (15.8m²), 2 cabins located on the Rivera Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Picture window, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat-screen TV, and infotainment system.
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
160ft² (14.9m²), 14 cabins located on the Vista Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system,, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance panorama 1
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
160ft² (14.9m²), 6 cabins located on the Vista Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system,, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Radiance panorama2
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (R)
188ft² (17.5m²), 2 cabins located on the Vista Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
160ft² (14.9m²), 18 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance panorama balcony
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (P)
170 ft² (15.8m²), 2 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Indoor balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance Owners one bedroom suite
Owner's One Bedroom Suite (SA)
285ft² (26.5m²), 2 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Private balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.
Emerald Radiance riverview suite
Emerald Riverview Suite (RA)
300ft² (27.9m²), 2 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, Private balcony with open-air system, En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers, Flat screen TV and infotainment system.

Notes

Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
Included
  • 13 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 13 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Choice between Emerald Plus and Emerald Active Excursions
  • Wifi
  • Complimentary Wine, Beer and Soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises Tour Manager
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Travelers are urged to arrange comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may occur during the tour

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