Call free on: 0800 471 4754
Monday to Saturday: 9am to 7pm
- Overview
- Day by Day
- See Your Ship
- Prices & Departures
- We Recommend
Douro Delights with Madrid
From £4,345 pp
Cruise the stunning Douro River as you traverse the world’s oldest wine region. Rambling vineyards and native farms cling to the steep sides of the Douro Valley, creating an incomparable backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions.
What’s Included:
- Return scheduled flights from the UK
- Home-to-airport transfers by private car. *Conditions apply, please enquire at the time of booking
- One night hotel accommodation and 7 nights on river ship MS Estrela
- Unique cultural experiences in up to 11 towns, villages and cities
- Insider Experiences
- A total of 22 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages
- Visit Palácio da Bolsa for a cocktail reception, followed by a traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall
- Cruise Director and expert local guides
- Overseas transfers, port charges and tipping
Fly from the UK to Porto and transfer to your river ship. Your ship has the best vantage point to see the sights as you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto.
Day 2 - 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 Exploration
Explore 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 — Cooking Demonstration
Porto is famous for its delectable cuisine, and you can discover its culinary heart with a visit to a traditional restaurant for a cooking demonstration.
Freedom of Choice — Active Walking Tour of Porto
Set 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 Bolsa
Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.
Day 3 - Porto, Entre-os-Rios
Set sail this morning through the Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, choose your sightseeing activity.
Freedom of Choice – Guimarães Tour
Explore the historic city of Guimarães with a tour of its well-preserved buildings and attractions. Admire the medieval architecture in the city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting
Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family business that has been producing wine in the Vinho Verde wine region since the 1870s. Explore the gardens and round off the day with a sampling of wine and cheese.
Day 4 - Régua
Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising to Régua. Once you’ve arrived, visit the Douro Museum, which provides an incredible insight into the culture of the Douro Valley wine region.
Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and tasting with 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.
Day 5 - Régua, Pinhão,
After enjoying the experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you sail to Pinhao.
Freedom of Choice
On a tour of Lamego, you’ll visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local speciality, Bola de Lamego. Otherwise, you might like to take a trip to Palacio 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 featuring on the bottle labels of Mateus Rose wine.
Day 6 - 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.
Day 7 - Barca d’Alva, Vega de Terron
On a tour of the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, stop to visit the castle ruins. Returning on board, enjoy a delicious dinner. Your thoughts will be fixed on Spain during your final night on board.
Day 8 - Vega de Terron, Disembark Ship, Salamanca, Madrid
Disembark your ship and say goodbye to life on board. Hit the road and travel to the ancient 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.
Day 9 Depart Madrid
Fly from the UK to Madrid, you’ll be taken to your hotel to settle in.
Stay: Madrid, Petsana Plaza Mayor
Hit the road and travel to the ancient city of Salamanca for a tour. You’ll see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to Vega de Terron. Board your river ship and settle in with a welcome dinner.
Day 3 - Vega de Terron, Pinhão
On a tour of the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, you’ll stop to visit the castle ruins. Return to your ship and enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing to Pinhão, where your ship will dock overnight.
Day 4 - Pinhão, Régua
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. You’ll then visit a local quinta. Later, be awed by the breathtaking landscapes unfolding before you as your ship cruises through the heart of the Douro Valley region to Régua. Soak up the serenity of this enchanting setting as you glide past terraced vineyards and lush, rolling hills.
Day 5 - Régua
Enjoy a full day in Régua, where you’ll have a choice of sightseeing options before a special Signature Experience.
Freedom of Choice – Tour Lamego
Set among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming town. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local speciality, Bola de Lamego.
Freedom of Choice – Visit Palácio de Mateus
Embark 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.
Signature Experience – Lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
Visit Quinta da Pacheca for a traditional lunch and tasting with 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.
Day 6 - Entre-os-Rios
njoy a relaxing morning cruising through the Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, choose your sightseeing option.
Freedom of Choice – Tour Guimarães
Explore the historic city of Guimarães with a tour of its well-preserved buildings and attractions. Admire the medieval architecture in the city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Freedom of Choice – Winery Tour and Tasting
Visit Quinta da Aveleda, a family business that has been producing wine in the Vinho Verde wine region since the 1870s. Explore the gardens and round off the day with a sampling of wine and cheese.
Day 7 - Entre-os-Rios, Porto
Arrive in the charming city of Porto in the afternoon. Explore Porto’s 16th-century Old Town and take a cable car ride before enjoying a Signature Experience in the evening.
Signature Experience – Fado performance in Palácio da Bolsa
Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.
Day 8 - Porto
Spend a full day discovering Porto. Set out on your chosen sightseeing activity in the morning before enjoying the afternoon at leisure. During your final night on board, your river ship offers the best vantage point to take in the city’s beautiful sights as you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto.
Freedom of Choice – Cooking Demonstration
Porto is famous for its delectable cuisine and you can discover its culinary heart with a visit to a traditional restaurant for a cooking demonstration.
Freedom of Choice – Port Tasting
Visit Vila Nova de Gaia, home to Porto’s famous Port wine cellars. Here, you’ll visit Taylor’s Port, which was established over three centuries ago and is one of the oldest founding Port houses. Take a guided tour of the recently renovated 300-year-old cellars followed by a Port tasting.
Day 9 - Disembark Ship, Depart Porto
Be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to the UK.
MS Estrela, a brand-new purpose designed Douro River ship launched in 2024.
Custom-built to cruise along the majestic Douro River, the MS Estrela has been designed to reflect the beauty of the region, with natural light and a distinctly Southern European ambience.
- Outdoor social spaces include a Sun Deck featuring a large swimming pool and an outdoor bar, plush lounge seats, sun beds and a putting green.
- Onboard entertainment includes Portuguese folk music and an informative history lesson.
- The main restaurant showcases Portuguese and international flavours, or you can opt for a lighter meal in the ship’s lounge, or dine alfresco.
- French Balcony suites feature an electric slide down window, allowing you to bask in the glorious landscapes.
Onboard Features & Facilities
- Sun deck with 360-degree views, shaded sitting area, bar & putting green
- Sun deck pool
- Open seating Restaurant
- Observation lounge and bar with panoramic windows, and forward outside terrace
- Lift from lower to upper accommodation decks
- 24hr tea and coffee station
- Air conditioned throughout
Accommodation & Amenities
60 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 144 – 250 ft². Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.
Owners’ Suite
250 ft² – Upper Deck
- Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
- Private bathroom with shower enclosure, wash basin & loo
- Hotel style beds with fine cotton bed linen
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- Safe, mini-fridge & radio
- Wardrobes with hanging space shelves and drawers
- Euro plug sockets with USB A & C
French Balcony Junior Suite – Cat S
194 ft² – Upper Deck
- Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
- Private bathroom with shower enclosure, wash basin & loo
- Hotel style beds with fine cotton bed linen
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- Safe, mini-fridge & radio
- Wardrobes with hanging space shelves and drawers
- Euro plug sockets with USB A & C
French Balcony Staterooms – C, B, A & P
157 ft² – Cat P & A Upper – Cat B & C Main Deck
- Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
- Private bathroom with shower enclosure, wash basin & loo
- Hotel style beds with fine cotton bed linen
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- Safe, mini-fridge & radio
- Wardrobes with hanging space shelves and drawers
- Euro plug sockets with USB A & C
Cat D, E & F
170 ft², 157 ft² & 144 ft² – Lower Deck
- Smaller Fixed Window
- Private bathroom with shower enclosure, wash basin & loo
- Hotel style beds with fine cotton bed linen
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- Safe, mini-fridge & radio
- Wardrobes with hanging space shelves and drawers
- Euro plug sockets with USB A & C
MS Estrela – Deck Plan
| Depart | Ship | Embark | From |
|---|
| Apr 16 | MS Estrela | Porto | £4595 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4595 | Was £5095 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4695 | Was £5195 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5545 | Was £6045 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6045 | Was £6545 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6395 | Was £6895 |
| Apr 22 | MS Estrela | Madrid | £4595 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4595 | Was £5095 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4695 | Was £5195 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5545 | Was £6045 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6045 | Was £6545 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6395 | Was £6895 |
| May 14 | MS Estrela | Porto | £4745 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4745 | Was £5245 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4845 | Was £5345 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5445 | Was £5945 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5695 | Was £6195 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6195 | Was £6695 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6545 | Was £7045 |
| May 20 | MS Estrela | Madrid | £4595 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4595 | Was £5095 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4695 | Was £5195 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5545 | Was £6045 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6045 | Was £6545 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6395 | Was £6895 |
| Jun 11 | MS Estrela | Porto | £4595 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4595 | Was £5095 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4695 | Was £5195 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5545 | Was £6045 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6045 | Was £6545 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6395 | Was £6895 |
| Jun 17 | MS Estrela | Madrid | £4349 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4349 | Was £4849 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4449 | Was £4949 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5049 | Was £5549 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5299 | Was £5799 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £5799 | Was £6299 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6149 | Was £6649 |
| Jul 9 | MS Estrela | Porto | £4345 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4345 | Was £4845 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4445 | Was £4945 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5045 | Was £5545 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £5795 | Was £6295 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6145 | Was £6645 |
| Jul 15 | MS Estrela | Madrid | £4345 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4345 | Was £4845 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4445 | Was £4945 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5045 | Was £5545 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £5795 | Was £6295 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6145 | Was £6645 |
| Aug 27 | MS Estrela | Porto | £4595 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4595 | Was £5095 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4695 | Was £5195 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5545 | Was £6045 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6045 | Was £6545 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6395 | Was £6895 |
| Sep 2 | MS Estrela | Madrid | £4595 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4595 | Was £5095 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4695 | Was £5195 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5295 | Was £5795 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5545 | Was £6045 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6045 | Was £6545 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6395 | Was £6895 |
| Sep 24 | MS Estrela | Porto | £4745 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4745 | Was £5245 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4845 | Was £5345 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5445 | Was £5945 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5695 | Was £6195 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6195 | Was £6695 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6545 | Was £7045 |
| Sep 30 | MS Estrela | Madrid | £4745 | SAVE £500 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat F | Lower Deck | 145 ft², Fixed Windows | £4745 | Was £5245 | |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 156 ft², Fixed Windows | £4845 | Was £5345 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5445 | Was £5945 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 162 ft², French Balcony | £5695 | Was £6195 | |
| Cat S | Upper Deck | 194 ft², French Balcony | £6195 | Was £6695 | |
| MS Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 237 ft², French Balcony | £6545 | Was £7045 |
Lisbon Extension available. Price on application
Why Choose This Cruise?
APT’s included excursions go beyond the ordinary with small group tours exploring the culture and traditions of the places you visit as well as the main sights. Real destination enrichment and deeper understanding is already included in the cost of your cruise.
