Riviera's stylish 262-foot MS Porto Mirante will accommodate just 120 guests in 60 staterooms and suites and will feature an atrium bar and lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, a restaurant, a fitness centre and a sun deck with a sky lounge, a bar and even a splash pool. Consider booking the Diamond or Ruby deck staterooms which will feature a sliding door leading to a French balcony, while the lower Emerald deck staterooms will have a picture window and a small seating area. All staterooms are equipped with double beds that can be converted to twin beds, a bathroom with rain shower, desk and chair, flat-screen TV, individually controlled air conditioning, coffee machine and other features designed to make you comfortable and happy during your time on board.

Portugal’s once wild Douro river, has been tamed by a system of dams and locks into resembling a series of finger lakes similar to Scotland’s lochs, adding greatly to the Douro Valley’s stunning natural beauty and ambience and making your cruise vacation a calm, serene experience. Explore dramatic cliffs, lush hillsides covered with olive and almond trees, medieval walled villages, and fine vineyards growing more than 80 varieties of grapes. In fact, wine is never far away from the Douro river, and there are plenty of opportunities to try out authentic local favourites during your voyage. You’ll be spoilt for choice - whether it’s the sparkling Raposeira of historic Lamego, the familiar Rosé of Mateus Palace, or the fortified sweet wine, Port, typically served with cheese or dessert.

Highlights of the Douro Valley & Salamanca River Cruise
8-days Porto Roundtrip aboard MS Porto Mirante
July to October 2024

Your cruise will start and end in the coastal city of Porto, built by the Romans and made for exploring on foot. Enjoy the city's terraced streets, the stunning architecture, bell towers, baroque churches, and intricate tiles that are typical of traditional Portugal. A stop in Castelo Rodrigo, a 12th Century walled village and a gateway to Santiago de Compostela, world known for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, will bring you up close to the picturesque highland range bordering Spain. Another of the itinerary highlights is a visit to Salamanca, which was founded by the Romans and fought over by Hannibal, the Moors, as well as the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon. Enjoy a guided tour of Salamanca's two breathtaking cathedrals before sitting down to a lunch accompanied by a traditional flamenco show, followed by some free time to explore on your own. Your next stop is Pinhão, where you'll visit Quinta da Avessada - an estate renowned for its exquisite moscatel wines, where a traditionally cooked rustic lunch and wine awaits. Enjoy a guided tour of local history and wine-making traditions, while taking in views of this picturesque town, encircled by terraced hillsides.

A visit to the historic city of Lamego is next on your itinerary. Explore the manicured gardens of Mateus Palace, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal, an ancient Moorish castle, a Gothic cathedral and elegant 18th-century villas. Well known for its church, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, situated at the top of a beautifully tiled baroque staircase - you can climb the 686 steps to the top for stunning views of the city.

On your last day, explore Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal. The city is believed to be the hometown of Portugal's first King who was born in the Romanesque castle which overlooks the city from its hilltop. On your guided tour, you'll visit the Paço dos Duques de Bragança. Once the home of the first Duke of Braganza, the palace has been beautifully restored, and the preserved architectural treasures housed here tell the tale of this historic city. Alternatively, visit Vila Nova de Gaia for a port tasting experience. It's said that port was invented, almost by accident, when a pair of English brothers fortified Portuguese wine with grape brandy before taking it back to England in the late 1600s. You'll learn more about its fascinating history and production on your visits and, of course, you'll get the chance to sample various port styles during your visit.

Raise a Glass - NEW FOR 2024!

There's no better way to explore Europe than on a river cruise. Fall in love with some of the world's most scenic rivers, passing charming landscapes and cityscapes. Add to that a well-timed, well-chosen glass of wine or classic cocktail (best enjoyed at sunset, up on deck) – and the temptation becomes too great to resist.

In 2024, Riviera River Cruises will offer its new Superior drinks package free of charge on all 2024 European river cruise departures. With this drinks package, guests will be able to enjoy unlimited house wine, draft beer and a selection of soft drinks and juices at lunch, plus unlimited cocktails and mocktails, house spirits, mixers and more from 6 p.m. to midnight. Savour the views along the riverbank and toast your vacation with like-minded explorers after another fascinating adventure ashore.

Riviera River Cruises offers a total of 22 itineraries on 10 European rivers and waterways throughout the year, including exclusive departures for solo travellers with no single supplement and holiday season cruises. Its fleet of 11 ships is one of the youngest in Europe, with spacious staterooms and suites, and its cruises include fine culinary experiences, from hearty breakfasts to delicious four-course dinners featuring regional and international specialties, as well as expert-led excursions to iconic sights and hidden gems.

Space is still available on some 2023 itineraries and Christmas market cruises.

Contact your Travel Professional for details or visit here.