Enticing Douro (Smithsonian Journeys)

Arrive in Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that straddles the Douro River. Board the ship in the Vila de Gaia district, known for its historic port houses. After time to get settled, gather for a festive welcome reception and dinner on board. In the evening, enjoy the illuminated landscapes of Porto on a scenic cruise aboard your ship (D)

Excursions:

• After breakfast, disembark the ship and transfer the airport for your flight home. (Meals: B)
• Porto Illuminations cruise

The gateway to Portugal's UNESCO-designated Alto Douro Wine Region, Régua became an important stop in the wine trade as early as the 1700s. Sit down to a traditional Portuguese lunch at a nearby quinta, or country estate, sampling culinary specialties from the region.

In the afternoon, tour Casa Mateus, an 18th-century baroque manor house surrounded by some of the most spectacular gardens in Portugal. Or choose to discover the works of famous Portuguese modernist and contemporary artists at the Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum, housed within a former monastery. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

• Lunch at a local quinta
• Mateus Palace & gardens visit OR De Souza Cardo Museum – Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive Visit Coa Archaeological Park with a guided tour of the Coa Museum- Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive

A morning excursion brings you to the Côa Valley Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where hundreds of panels of Paleolithic rock art were discovered during the construction of a dam in the 1990s. Dating back to between 5,000 and 20,000 years ago, the engraved figures depicting animals illustrate that the site was continuously inhabited for millennia. Examine this prehistoric art and learn more about the early humans who created it as you tour the site's museum with a guide.

Alternatively, meander through the picturesque lanes of Castelo Rodrigo, a fortified hilltop village, or opt to hike up to the village, enjoying stunning views of the Douro Valley along the way. Stay the night docked just across the border on the Spanish side of the Douro. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

• Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare

Travel into Spain on a day trip to Salamanca, an ancient town built of golden sandstone that is home to one of Europe's oldest universities. Step back in time during a guided tour of the old town, where the history of the city is told in architecture that ranges from Gothic and Moorish to Renaissance and baroque. Stroll through the impressive Plaza Mayor, framed by graceful arcades, and see elegant university buildings and the New Cathedral.

Then step inside the Palacio de Monterrey, a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture appointed with period furnishings and renowned works of art. Meet the ship back in Portugal this evening. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

• Salamanca excursion with Palacio de Monterey – Smithsonian Exclusive

Soak up the beauty of the Douro River Valley as you cruise between vineyard-striped hills to the picturesque village of Pinhão. Savor Portuguese cuisine and delight in local entertainment during lunch at a quinta. Later, learn about the signature fortified wine for which the region is known and enjoy a port wine tasting. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

• Lunch at a local quinta
• Local quinta wine tasting

Travel to Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, an 18th-century shrine set atop a zigzagging staircase of nearly 700 steps. Arrive at the church by road—or opt to climb the stairs instead on a guided hike—and admire its stunning azulejos, or traditional blue-and-white tiles. Descend to the heart of the town to sample local specialties, such as savory, filled pastries called bôlas de Lamego; presunto, or cured ham; and espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Sail back to Porto this evening. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

• Lamego tour and Bôlas tasting OR Holy Staircase hike and Bôlas tasting

Spend the day discovering this colorful waterfront city and its an exciting blend of old and new architecture built along the banks of the Douro. On a guided tour of the historic quarter, a World Heritage Site, visit the cathedral and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its elaborate azulejos depicting scenes from Portuguese history.

Delve into local culture at Serralves, a contemporary art museum and park designed by Pritzker-winning architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, and stop at the astonishing Casa de Música, a concert hall and masterpiece of contemporary design. Those seeking a more active excursion can join a guided hike today. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

• “City of Bridges” tour OR Porto hike OR Enhanced Port City Tour – Smithsonian Exclusive
• Port Wine Cellar Tasting