Spain and Portugal Delights with Douro River Cruise

Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Get to know your fellow travellers at a welcome reception. Stay Two Nights: Le Méridien Barcelona

Enjoy a Signature Experience this morning. Afterwards, take a panoramic tour of the city, including a drive along Passeig de Gràcia, where you will see the facades of many of Antoni Gaudí's emblematic buildings. You'll also see the exterior of the towering Sagrada Família. This evening, come together to share a welcome dinner. (B/D)

Signature Experience - Before-Hours Visit to Casa Vicens Begin your day with an exclusive before-hours visit to Casa Vicens, the first house designed by Gaudí. Situated in the Gràcia neighbourhood of Barcelona, Casa Vicens is Gaudí's first major project and a brilliant example of his unique architectural style.

Farewell Barcelona as you board your train to Madrid. Upon arrival, art lovers will rejoice with a visit to the Museo del Prado. Here, explore the extensive collection of artworks, including many of the finest paintings from the former Spanish Royal Collection and pieces by Velazquez. Stay Two Nights: Madrid, VP Plaza España Design or similar (B/D)

Madrid's iconic landmarks take centre stage today as a guided tour leads you through the Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park and the vibrant Plaza Mayor. The evening is free for you to explore. (B)

This morning, wander through the narrow streets of Toledo on a guided stroll that brings the city's rich history to life. Afterwards, continue your journey south to Córdoba. Stay Two Nights: Córdoba, Hotel Hospes Palacio del Bailío (B/D)

This morning, set out on a guided tour of Córdoba. Visit the impressive Mosque - Cathedral of Córdoba and the historic Jewish Quarter. Delight in the unique architecture of the city, influenced by a melting pot of cultures and religions. Later, enjoy time at leisure to explore more of this fascinating destination. (B)

Today, visit an authentic Spanish olive estate and sample some of the finest olives that are used to produce Spain's world-famous olive oil. Then, continue to Granada, where a spectacular Signature Experience awaits you in the evening. Stay Two Nights: Granada, Palacio de Santa Paula, Autograph Collection or similar (B/D)

Signature Experience - Flamenco Show and Tapas In a local gypsy cave, feel the passion of a flamenco show as you graze on tasty tapas.

Explore the World Heritage-listed Alhambra on a guided tour. Part fortress, part palace, the Alhambra is a masterpiece of Moorish art and architecture that encapsulates Andalusian history. See the restored Lion Fountain and roam the Nasrid Palace complex. (B)

Travel to Ronda and embark on a guided exploration of this mountaintop town set above a deep gorge. Revel in the beauty of its vistas. Later, continue to the Andalusian capital of Seville, where you'll savour dinner this evening. Stay Two Nights: Seville, Hotel Colón Gran Meliá or similar (B/D)

Set out on an exploration of this enchanting city, visiting the Royal Alcázar of Seville, Seville Cathedral and La Giralda tower. (B)

Enter Portugal and head to the sun-drenched Algarve coast, a region renowned for its dramatic coastline and striking rock formations. Stay Two Nights: Algarve, Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort (B/D)

This morning, discover Ria Formosa National Park on a local boat trip. Then, take the remainder of the afternoon to enjoy the facilities at your resort. Relax by the pool or perhaps indulge in a spa treatment. (B/D)

Journey to Lisbon today and enjoy free time on arrival. Stay Three Nights: Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade or similar (B)

Set off to see the sites of Lisbon by riding the city's iconic tramcars and visiting the Old Town. Pay a visit to the World Heritage-listed Jerónimos Monastery, a symbol of Portugal's power and wealth during the Age of Discovery. Built in 1502 by King Manuel I, the monastery commemorates Vasco da Gama's voyage to India. Tonight, join your fellow travellers to share a special dinner. (B/D)

As soon as you get your first glimpse of Serra de Sintra, prepare to gasp. Mountains roll from each direction and every peak is as memorable as the last. Visit King Ferdinand II's ingenious Park and National Palace of Pena before enjoying free time to explore Sintra. Take the chance to have lunch at your leisure, then soak up the sea breeze as you return to Lisbon via the coastal route. Since it's your final night here, you might like to try one of the local restaurants for dinner. (B)

Travel through Portugal's countryside, then discover the medieval city of Coimbra, home to the country's oldest and most famous university. Board your river ship and settle in with a welcome dinner. As you embark on an illuminations cruise around Porto, your river ship has the best vantage point to take in the city's iconic sights. Stay Seven Nights: MS Estrela (B/D)

The choice is yours when it comes to the sightseeing activities on offer today. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a Signature Experience tonight. (B/L/D)

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.

Set sail this morning through the Douro Valley on your way to Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, choose your sightseeing activity. (B/L/D)

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.

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. (B/L/D)

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.

After enjoying the sightseeing experience of your choice, relax on board your ship as you cruise to Pinhão. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice - Lamego Tour Set among hills adorned with vineyards in the Alto Douro region, Lamego is a charming city. On a guided tour, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample a local specialty, 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.

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. (B/L/D)

On a tour of the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, you'll stop to visit the castle ruins. Return to the ship, where you'll savour a delectable dinner. During your final night on board, your thoughts drift ahead to Spain as you cruise to your next exciting destination. (B/L/D)

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. Stay: Madrid, VP Plaza España Design (or similar) (B)

Today, your spectacular journey comes to an end. Following breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport. (B)