Portugal’s Palaces, Grand Gardens & Douro River Cruise

Welcome to Portugal. On your arrival in Lisbon, you will be transferred to your hotel. Settle in before enjoying a Welcome Dinner this evening.

Discover the exquisite Fronteira Palace today. Built by the 1st Marquis of Fronteira, the palace grounds are a masterpiece of Portuguese landscape design, whose fountains, statues, and azulejos exhibit its heritage of nobility and national pride. These gardens, classified as a National Monument, offer a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Portugal’s artistic and historical legacy. Afterwards we continue our journey north to Porto, passing through Portugal’s scenic heart. Upon arrival, embark MS Estrela, our river ship and home for the next seven nights.

This morning you may wish to explore Porto's Old Town and delight in its 16th-century buildings and Baroque churches. See the iron bridge built by Gustave Eiffel, then enjoy a tasting at a local port house in Gaia. Alternatively, choose to visit the garden of Parque de Serralves, one of Portugal’s finest private gardens. Afterwards, head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour, followed by a cocktail reception and traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.

Today visit Quinta da Aveleda, a renowned winery. The estate is also known for its parks and gardens, where rare species of trees can be found, while also showcasing its artistic follies.

This morning, disembark in Entre-os-Rios to spend time at Biscainhos Palace Museum, a delight for lovers of Baroque architecture. Experience what life must have been like for the Portuguese nobility during a tour inside the palace and along its tiered gardens, which are embellished with an abundance of flowerbeds and fountains. This afternoon, arrive in the sun-drenched town of Regua.

Today you have the choice to opt for a guided tour of Lamego, a charming city nestled among the vineyard-covered hills of the Alto Douro region. Visit the striking Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies and sample the local delicacy, Bola de Lamego. Otherwise, join an excursion to the elegant Palácio de Mateus, near Vila Real, a Baroque masterpiece designed in the 18th century, in part by Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni. The palace may be recognised from its placement on the Mateus Rosé wine label. After enjoying your choice of sightseeing, relax aboard the ship as we cruise toward the town of 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. Then venture to a local quinta, before being treated to a Captain’s Farewell Dinner this evening.

During a tour of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, we stop to explore the castle ruins. Return to the ship and savour a delectable dinner. We overnight in our final port, Vega de Terron.

Disembark MS Estrela and travel to the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca for a tour. See the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells before continuing to Madrid where our tour concludes at the post-tour hotel.