Discover the Douro & Seine Rivers

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Welcome to Porto, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

You will remain docked in Porto overnight, allowing you to explore this vibrant city after dark.

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of cruising through the World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area builds on two millennia of wine-producing history, and viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape, with small, sleepy villages surrounded by dozens of terraced vineyards. A highlight will be seeing Carrapatelo, the deepest lock in Europe. 

EmeraldPLUS
Portuguese cooking demonstration on board
Learn how to make the iconic Portuguese sweet treat Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts) during an on board cooking demonstration. The expert chef will share the story and traditions behind this signature dish and involve guests in an immersive experience.

A hidden gem just a few hours from Porto, Pinhão (pronounced ‘Pin-yow’) is a tiny village in the heart of the Douro Valley, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful countryside. It’s a place to take things slowly, sip local Port wine, explore hiking trails, or relax and soak up the charms of Portugal. 

Included Excursion
Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
Visit the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard, set on the hills surrounding the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce using traditional viticulture methods. Enjoy tasting their famous Port wine and learning about how they blend traditional viticulture methods with modern technology to create a seamless process. Alternatively, join a guided walk through their vineyards, stopping to admire the beautiful surrounds.

EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak experience in Pinhão
Embark on a kayak excursion along the Pinhão River, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley. You’ll glide slowly past patchwork farmland, terraced vineyards and sprawling estates as you traverse this tranquil tributary of the Douro. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided active walk through the vineyards
Enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire the surroundings and the views over the Douro River. There are several different possibilities for hiking, to be adopted according to the fitness and desires of the group. Afterwards, join the group for the wine tasting. 

Just across the Spanish border, Vega de Terrón is at the junction of the Douro and Águeda rivers. It’s the gateway to the ancient city of Salamanca, known as the ‘Golden City’ for its stunning Renaissance architecture built from Villamayor sandstone, which glows golden, pink, and ochre at sunrise and sunset. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Salamanca
Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans and Moors. Set out on a walking tour, which includes exploring the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. You’ll also have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells, and Salamanca’s university, one of the oldest universities in Europe, dating back to 1218.

EmeraldPLUS
Tuna music band in Salamanca
The tradition of ‘tuna music’ dates back to the 13th century, arising from poor university students who would sing in the streets to raise money for their tuition. It showcases a powerful tradition of academic and social life in Spain, with performers dressing in distinctive clothing, including capes with colourful ribbons to represent their school. Enjoy a performance of this unique music from a local group.

The tiny village of Pocinho is around 30km (18.64 miles) from the Spanish border, surrounded by river and mountains. This isolated spot has a population of just a few hundred, with its white-walled and red-roofed buildings all but blending into the landscape. Nearby, museums and archaeological sites will take you deeper into Portugal’s history. 

Included Excursion
Tour to Castelo Rodrigo
Visit the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo, a small, fortified village perched high on a hilltop. Uncover the secrets of its history, admire its 16th-century walls and walk down charming, narrow medieval streets. Later, try some typical local products and enjoy some free time to explore on your own. 

EmeraldPLUS
Port wine cocktail lesson on board
Return to your Emerald Star-Ship for lunch, then enjoy a Port wine cocktail lesson as you cruise down the river. Port wine became popular in the 17th century and is created by adding brandy to wine during fermentation, resulting in a strong, sweet, high-alcohol style that can be used in many delicious combinations.

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Archaeological tour by 4x4 at the Côa Valley Museum (extra expense)
The tour begins at the Côa Museum, a vast open-air rock art collection of the Côa Valley. Board your jeep and drive to the area where the abandoned Côa dam was being built, and onwards through a landscape marked by the construction work that determined the recent history of the Côa rock art. The final part of the tour is on foot.
Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 3.5 hours.

Get an insight into Portuguese life in Régua, a busy town that sits at the western edge of the Port wine growing region. It is steeped in winemaking culture and has been an important trading and transport centre since the 18th century. Backed by the stunning Serra do Marão mountains, it promises dramatic scenery and a welcoming atmosphere.

Cruise to Porto in the afternoon, where you’ll remain docked overnight, allowing you to explore this vibrant city after dark.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lamego
On today’s included excursion, you’ll visit the marvellous Baroque village of Lamego, a place that has been shaped by Portugal’s devout Catholic faith and centuries of winemaking. Nestled among the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, the elegant town is infused with Baroque style. Stop to admire the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town. Its hundreds of zigzagging stairs are decorated with tiled friezes and climb out of a tailored garden resplendent with a variety of trees. 

EmeraldPLUS
Rural lunch at a local quinta
Enjoy a rural lunch at a local Quinta, a famous wine estate in the Douro, which is certain to be a highlight of your trip. A traditional meal will be served and beautifully accompanied by local entertaine

EmeraldPLUS
Mosaic tile painting lesson on board
Colourful painted tiles, called azulejos, are everywhere in Portugal. Learn about their origins, place in Portuguese culture and how they are created during a mosaic tile painting workshop on board. This hands-on experience will immerse you in Portuguese artistic traditions. You’ll even get to take home your azulejos as a souvenir.

EmeraldACTIVE
Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
From the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, an important pilgrimage site on a hill above Lamego, walk down 686 cobbled steps to reach the centre of the village. This Baroque, zig-zag staircase offers spectacular views and is lined with small chapels and shrines dedicated to various saints and martyrs. 

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Visit to Mateus Manor House (extra expense)
Built in the 18th century, Mateus Manor House is one of the finest representations of Baroque architecture in Portugal. Consisting of the main house, the gardens, a winery and a chapel, you may recognise these wonderful dwellings from the label of Portugal’s famous rosé wine. Enjoy a guided tour of this spectacular estate.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5-3 hours

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating and eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its export of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbour, waiting to take their produce across the water.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Porto
Your included coach tour of the coastal city will introduce you to its highlights, from the bustling waterfront to its colourful buildings and iconic bridges. It will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. 

EmeraldPLUS
A cruise through Porto
This evening, a charming evening cruise will shine a different light on Porto's skyline. 

EmeraldPLUS
Guided active walk in Porto
For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, this active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals. Cross the old iron bridge back to Porto city to admire the Porto Cathedral and visit the Old Town and São Bento railway station. 

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Visit to Quinta da Aveleda (extra expense)
Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer with a 150-year history. A highlight of this tour is the estate’s enchanting gardens. After your tour, enjoy a wine and cheese tasting followed by some free time.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Guided bike tour to the Atlantic (extra expense) A guided e-bike tour is the easiest and most attractive way to discover the wonderful city of Porto. Enjoy a few hours cycling along the Douro River until you reach the Atlantic Ocean. The path is flat, and there will be several stops along the way for commentary and photo opportunities.
Activity level: Moderate; Duration: 4 hours

Lively, commercial Oporto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Also called Porto for short, the word easily brings to mind the city's most famous product - port wine. Oporto's strategic location on the north bank of the Douro River has accounted for the town's importance since ancient times. The Romans built a fort here where their trading route crossed the Douro, and the Moors brought their own culture to the area. Oporto profited from provisioning crusaders en route to the Holy Land and enjoyed the riches from Portuguese maritime discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries. Later, port wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade and the end of gold and gem shipments from Brazil. In the 19th century, the city went through a period of new prosperity with the rise of industries. In its wake followed the building of workers' quarters and opulent residences. Since the declaration of Oporto as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the city aims to build up a cultural reference that will provide it with a new image, based on deep historical roots. Among the attractions that make Oporto such an interesting place are its graceful bridges spanning the Douro River, a picturesque riverfront quarter and, most notable, its world-famous port wine lodges. Although Oporto is a bustling centre and home to many different businesses, the source of its greatest fame is the rich, sweet fortified red wine we know as port.

After breakfast, you will disembark your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship for your flight to Paris, where your river cruising journey will continue.

Wake up in Vernon, a well-preserved medieval town that hugs the southern bank of the river. Most travellers see Vernon as simply the gateway to Giverny, home of the famed Impressionist painter Monet for more than 40 years. But it has many charms of its own, including several antique and vintage stores, beautiful architecture and a striking Gothic church. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.

Included Excursion
In the footsteps of Claude Monet
Take a tour of Giverny Gardens, Monet’s home until his death in 1926. Walk through the rooms where he lived and worked, and the restored, elaborate gardens, which inspired some of his most iconic pieces, including the beloved Water Lilies series. You’ll get a sense of the extraordinary play of colour and light on nature and how this translated to Monet’s distinctive Impressionist art. Explore these tranquil spaces at your own pace and absorb the atmosphere that sparked his creativity. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Giverny
Active guests who wish to visit Giverny can hop on an e-bike for a self-guided bicycle ride from where the ship has docked in Vernon, approximately 5km (3 miles) each way. The flat, easy cycle path has picturesque views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Once in Giverny, join your fellow travellers to visit Monet’s house and garden. The beautifully restored house reflects the artist’s personal taste and creativity. Admire the famous Water Garden with its Japanese bridge and the water lily ponds that inspired some of Monet’s most celebrated paintings.

Welcome to Rouen, a beautiful city set along the banks of the Seine and steeped in history and heritage, from Vikings and saints to renowned artists. It is forever linked with French national icon Joan of Arc – it was here, in 1431, that the young heroine was tried for heresy and burnt at the stake. Rouen is also famed for its Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the tallest in France, whose stunning façade was immortalised multiple times in paintings by Monet. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rouen
Join a guided walk through Rouen’s medieval centre. Learn how this former Roman settlement emerged as a major stronghold of Viking invaders during the ninth century. Hear fascinating tales about Rollo, the Viking chieftain proclaimed the first Duke of Normandy, and how his legacy helped shape not only this region but the course of European history. Visit iconic sites like the bustling Old Marketplace, the majestic Cathedral district and the charming Saint Maclou Quarter.

EmeraldPLUS
World War II lecture on board
Discover the complexity and colour of Normandy’s history with a captivating on board lecture about World War II. The region played a key role in the conflict as the site of the D-Day Landings, which turned the tide in 1944. Learn about the pivotal moments and key players who undertook these daring actions. The lecture sets the stage for your visit to the D-Day beaches the following day.

EmeraldACTIVE
Active walk in Rouen
Active travellers can lace up their boots for a more active exploration through Rouen. Discover the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, walking along its historic streets and picturesque cobbled laneways. Your expert guide will share fascinating tales of the city and its history.

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

Your ship, Emerald Lumi, will cruise right into the centre of Honfleur, docking in the heart of this charming port city that sits on the southern coast of the English Channel. The harbour is lined with colourful half-timbered houses, and its rugged charm captures the essence of traditional Normandy. It’s also a popular starting point for tours of the nearby D-Day Landings beaches, which turned the tide of World War II. You will remain docked in Honfleur overnight, allowing you to explore the town after dark at your leisure.

Included Excursion
Historic Normandy: Allied Landing Sites
Join a remarkable full-day experience and war-themed tour, focused on a highly significant time in World War II. The pivotal D-Day Landings in 1944 opened a crucial Western Front and accelerated the defeat of Nazi Germany. Normandy’s role in this extraordinary military operation makes it one of the most important regions in World War II history. Experience first-hand the Normandy beaches where the Allied vessels landed, as well as the memorials and museum, which honour the bravery of those involved and their ultimate sacrifice.

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Normandy’s Maritime Past: From Vikings to La Mora (extra expense)
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Normandy on a tour that delves into the region’s fascinating naval history, culminating with a captivating visit to La Mora, a historic replica of William the Conqueror’s flagship. It will immerse you in Normandy’s maritime history, craftsmanship and Viking roots through detailed reconstructions, storytelling, and live demonstrations. A floating hull is set to launch in 2027 for the 1,000th anniversary of William’s birth.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

Enjoy a more leisurely day discovering Honfleur. The harbour town is a popular day trip destination for Parisians, who love exploring its medieval laneways, historic buildings, unique churches and interesting museums. Stroll around the bustling quay, enjoying the delightful views of colourful fishing boats, scenes that inspired many Impressionist artists. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Honfleur with oyster tasting
Your walking tour presents a fascinating snapshot of Honfleur’s unique character and Normandy’s seaside charm. Explore the town’s quaint streets and admire the striking St. Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France, rebuilt entirely of wood from the nearby forest. Honfleur is also renowned for its premium fresh seafood and produces some of the best oysters in France. Your tour includes a fresh oyster tasting, savouring authentic local flavours. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Honfleur
Active guests wanting to explore at a faster pace can join a guided e-bike tour of Honfleur. Cycle past the city’s main sights, along the waterfront and into charming cobblestone squares. Your guide will share stories about the city, its history and the daily life of local people. 

Set in a picturesque bend of the Seine, Les Andelys is bursting with medieval charm. Admire the Norman homes, Saint Jacques hospital and the hilltop Château Gaillard, a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart. The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot from where your Emerald Star-Ship is docked, with cobbled streets and traditional architecture that will take you back through the centuries. 

EmeraldPLUS
Exclusive local cider farm visit with tasting
Travel to the heart of Normandy’s countryside to visit a traditional cider farm. Here, you’ll learn how the region’s crisp, refreshing cider is crafted from locally-grown apples using age-old methods. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of authentic local products that celebrate the renowned flavours of Normandy. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Château Gaillard
For those seeking a more energetic pace, join a guided hike up to Château Gaillard, the storied remnants of a medieval fortress. It was built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century to protect his Norman lands. From the clifftops, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the River Seine and an area of outstanding beauty.

Your Emerald Star-Ship will have been docked in La Roche Guyon overnight, so you can wake up early to explore this fairytale village on the edge of the Seine. It is nestled inside the Vexin National Park, and many of its buildings are carved directly into the cliff face. The imposing silhouette of the Château de La Roche-Guyon looks over the town and has breathtaking 360-degree views over the river and countryside. 

Included Excursion
Visit to Château Guyon & Gardens
It’s just a short walk to Château de La Roche-Guyon, a beautifully preserved estate steeped in centuries of history. Built as a fortified castle in the 14th century, the Château majestically stands as a testament to French architectural heritage. Wander along tranquil pathways through the meticulously maintained gardens and discover elegant period rooms adorned with antique furnishings and artwork, offering a rare glimpse of the refined lifestyle of past centuries.

EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak on the Seine
Get a different perspective on the beauty of La Roche Guyon with an active kayaking tour along the Seine. The calm waters are ideal for paddling, and you’ll pass close to the town, beside lush greenery and beneath the towering limestone cliffs that lead up to the chateau.

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh (extra expense)
Art enthusiasts can follow in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh, exploring the landscapes that inspired his iconic artworks and final masterpiece. Join a walking tour through the charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise, visiting the last residence and resting place of the Dutch artist.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and your luxury Emerald Star-Ship. You’ll leave with memories of Normandy’s timeless landscapes, authentic flavours and compelling historical sites. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.