Porto and the Douro River Valley Cruise Holiday

Porto, Salamanca, Douro River

Best time to travel

Apr - Oct

Ideal Length

8 nights

Perfect for

Couples

Prices from (incl. flights)

€4,799 pp sharing

At a glance

International return flights from Dublin to Porto
All private transfers.
7 nights’ luxury river cruise accommodation and one night pre-cruise accommodation in Porto.
Discover historic landmarks in the beloved cities of Porto and Salamanca.
From Portugal to Spain, indulge in exclusive experiences including a port wine tasting, guided heritage tour and a scenic vineyard hiking.

Let's plan your trip!

Introduction

Trace the Douro River through Portugal and Spain on this scenic river cruise, where you will escape to medieval towns, rolling hills and the vineyard-clad slopes of the Douro Valley. This journey promises a blend of enriching cultural and historical experiences, as well as sumptuous foodie adventures. Begin in Porto, enjoying port wine tastings and admiring its soaring bell towers and baroque churches. Take in the incredible panorama atop Castelo Rodrigo, tucked away in the picturesque highland ranges bordering Spain, before heading to the sand-hued “Golden City” of Salamanca, bathed in a radiant rose-coloured glow under the sun. If you’re seeking to elevate your travel experience, OROKO can arrange excursions and luxury accommodation in Porto before and after your cruise.

Click here to view all of our luxury holidays to Portugal.

Trip Overview

Depart from Dublin to Porto.

Upon arrival, your private driver will transfer you to your luxury hotel in Porto where you’ll spend one night. Enjoy some free time to explore the city, visiting its lively marketplaces, museums and landmarks.

Board your luxury vessel in Porto.

After checking in to your luxury cabin, discover Porto’s iconic landmarks on a selection of guided excursions. Make sure to make a stop at Bolhão Market, Porto’s iconic farmers market.

Learn about the region’s wine history.

Take part in onshore activities including a visit to the Douro Museum to learn about the evolution of Port production through the centuries. Alternatively, venture to Lamego to delve into its heritage while indulging in sparkling wines.

Step back in time to medieval charm at Castelo Rodrigo, a hilltop castle and its surrounding village.

Offering breathtaking views, set off on a guided walk to the castle and treat your palate to a selection of local delicacies, including honey, almonds, olive oil and cheeses.

Cross the border into Spain.

Arrive in Salamanca, known as the “Golden City”, famous for its sand-coloured buildings and abundance of churches. Walk through the Plaza Mayor and visit historic landmarks including the New and the Old Cathedral.

Journey to a local quinta, the oldest in the Douro River Valley.

Witness a landscape sculpted by centuries of winemaking. Explore the estate’s modern facilities, including stainless steel and oak vats, before enjoying a port tasting with panoramic river views.

Discover Guimarães, hailed as the birthplace of Portugal.

Renowned for its immaculately preserved architecture, the captivating Old Town has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. In the evening, sit down to a special Captain’s farewell dinner.

Disembark in Porto.

Disembark your luxury river cruise in Porto. Privately transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Tailoring your holiday

OROKO Itineraries are created with you in mind and no two are the same. These can be used to help plan your trip - or we can design a completely different itinerary to suit you.

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Accommodation

Where to rest your head

Looking for the best accommodation? We've got the contacts

Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace

The historic Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace is just a short stroll from Paris Galleries Street and Bolhao Market, in the heart of Porto.

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S.S. Sao Gabriel

The S.S. Sao Gabriel captures the very essence of the stunning Douro River Valley. Adorned with beautiful azulejo tilework, polished wood and vibrant colours reminiscent of Portugal, it radiates an effortlessly stylish ambience.

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What people are saying

The whole engagement from start to finish with OROKO is possibly the best experience we have had for a holiday. The trip to Sorrento marked a special occasion and OROKO put together an itinerary that gave us the perfect balance between organised trips and time to experience Sorrento on our own time. The OROKO App is the go-to for all information and documentation relating to your trip. If your objective is to sit back and have your trip professionally arranged with your guidance I can definitely recommend OROKO to do this on your behalf.

Donal, Sorrento, 2022