Spectacular South of France & Delightful Douro

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Welcome to France and the ancient city of Lyon, often called the ‘Food Capital of the World’. Lyon is surrounded by two iconic wine regions – Burgundy to the north and the Rhône Valley to the south. Upon arrival, transfer to Scenic Sapphire where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board.

Spend the afternoon exploring your Scenic Space-Ship. Relax in your luxurious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck and admire the magnificent views across the city of Lyon.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 07:00 PM.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Relax on board this morning as you cruise north into the Burgundy wine region and the town of Chalon-Sur-Saone. Perhaps ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite or take some time relaxing in the Scenic Sapphire Lounge, your home for the next 10 days.

Charming Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its half-timbered houses, magnificent Gothic cathedral and as the birthplace of Nicéphore Niépce, the inventor of photography. It’s just south of Beaune, a walled medieval town that’s at the heart of the Burgundy wine region.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with a choice from these Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Burgundy wine discovery: Visit a local  wine estate in the heart of Burgundy. Join the winemakers in the vineyard as they share the secrets of the grapes, then proceed to the cellar to learn about fermentation, their wine production methods, and finish with a guided wine tasting.

Guided tour of Beaune and Les Hospices: Travel through spectacular countryside and vineyards for a guided tour of the beautiful town of Beaune, considered an epicentre for oenophiles. The highlight is Les Hospices de Beaune, a Gothic-style hospital founded in the Middle Ages and now housing a museum. Later, enjoy some free time to explore at your own leisure.

WWII in Chalon-sur-Saône: Life on the Franco-German demarcation line: Learn about the brave efforts of the French Resistance, the Demarcation Line that divided Chalon-sur-Saône, and the crucial role the town played during WWII.

Your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship will begin cruising south before dawn, arriving in Tournus early this morning. This riverside town was founded by the Romans and its grand abbey is a splendid example of Romanesque architecture. It’s another great centre of gastronomy, surrounded by the vineyards of southern Burgundy and home to two Michelin-starred restaurants.

Scenic Freechoice:
Make your selection from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Excursion to Château de Cormatin: Admire this exquisite example of Renaissance architecture, with its gilded rooms, moat and more than 10 hectares of manicured gardens. Built in 1605, the château was abandoned for many years then beautifully restored in the 1980s.

Georges Blanc cooking demonstration: Travel to Vonnas for a cooking demonstration at the world’s longest-standing Michelin-starred restaurant, Georges Blanc. Explore the gourmet village and visit the museum, created by Blanc and dedicated to his family.

Truffle Tasting: Visit a local truffle farm to meet the farmer and their truffle-hunting dogs. Learn how these gourmet delicacies are grown and harvested before enjoying a tasting of their delicious produce.

This afternoon, you will enjoy a cooperage demonstration. The ancient craft of barrel making is intrinsically linked to wine production, imparting a unique character to the vintages aged within them.

Your ship will cruise to Tournon later this afternoon.

Arrive in the pretty town of Tournon early this morning. This hillside village is known for its terraced vineyards, enchanting castle dating back to the 10th century and quaint cobblestoned streets. Tournon is at the centre of the Northern Rhône Valley wine region, famous for producing the best Syrah in the world. The surrounding vineyards also produce signature white varietals – viognier, marsanne and roussanne.

Scenic Freechoice:
Spend this morning at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Côtes du Rhône Tasting: Enjoy a guided tasting of the famed Côtes du Rhône wines. A local wine expert will share their knowledge as you sip their outstanding wines.

Hiking through the vineyards in Tournon: Get a first-hand look at the famous vines of the Rhône on a hike through the sloping vineyards that flank the town. Learn about the local wine production and taste some of the delicious drops of the region.

Walking tour of Tournon: Explore this ancient town on foot, visiting the castle, built between the 10th and 16th centuries, and crossing France's oldest suspension bridge to the neighbouring town of Tain l'Hermitage, home to prestigious chocolatiers Valrhona.

Biking along the Rhône: Cycle a section of the famed Via Rhona bike route along the Rhône River between Tournon and Gun. Admire charming villages, lush orchards and historic bridges, seeing daily life of locals as you pass by.

This afternoon you will have some free time to explore the town on your own.

This evening, indulge in a dessert buffet on board Scenic Sapphire from a local pâtissier. Savour the authentic flavours of the region and conclude your night with delicious creations - delicate pastries, silky creams, and vibrant confections that delight the eyes as much as the palate.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Enjoy another relaxing morning on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship as you cruise south. This could be a good time to book an indulgent massage or just relax on the Sun Deck to admire the landscapes.

Dock in the ancient city of Avignon after lunch. Known as the City of the Popes, it is home to the World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), the former papal residence in the 14th century when Rome was in turmoil. Avignon is surrounded by wine regions on all sides, with the Rhône Valley to the north and Provence to the south. It is also known for artisan products like olive oil, lavender and chocolates.

Scenic Freechoice:
Take your pick from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Guided walking tour: Learn the rich and fascinating history of Avignon on this guided tour, wandering the ancient cobblestone streets to reach the Pope’s Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. A moderate degree of fitness is required.

Excursion to Pont Du Gard: Visit the ancient Pont du Gard aqueduct, built by the Romans around 2,000 years ago. Afterwards, learn about this engineering marvel and how it carried water at the engaging museum.

Kayaking at Pont du Gard: Get a different perspective on the Pont du Gard from the tranquil waters of the Gardon River. Paddle a kayak beneath the World Heritage-listed aqueduct and marvel at its intricate stonework.

Scenic Enrich
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime private experience inside Palais des Papes. Sit down to an exclusive gala dinner inside the very banquet hall Popes used to host formal feasts in and be immersed in the beauty of famous classical pieces performed by a quartet of musicians.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

If you’re an early riser, step out onto your balcony to watch the sun rise over the ancient rooftops of Avignon. Today you can indulge in more of the gourmet charms of the city or go further afield to discover the surrounding villages and picturesque Provence. Or enjoy a wine tasting in one of the world’s most famous appellations, Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice

Wines of the Popes – Wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Drive to the nearby town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape surrounded by magnificent vineyards, here you will discover and taste the wines that have made Châteauneuf-du-Pape famous, like its iconic grenache. Centuries of wine production have made this one of the most exclusive appellations in France.

Excursion to Luberon villages and Sénanque Abbey: The Luberon Valley, to the west of Avignon, is famous for its beautiful hilltop villages. Admire the bucolic landscapes as you drive to the village of Gordes, then visit the picturesque Sénanque Abbey. (Please note: Sénanque Abbey is not open to visitors on Sundays. On these days, the tour will include only an exterior visit.)

Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Discover the best fresh produce and local ingredients of the region when you shop with a chef at Avignon Market. Afterwards, enjoy an interactive cooking demonstration at Scenic Culinaire cooking school. (Please note: Avignon Market is closed on a Monday).

Lavender Museum with visit to the village of Roussillon: Be immersed in the beauty of Provence lavender with a visit to the Lavender Museum and its adjoining field. Then take a guided tour of the beautiful village of Roussillon and the striking Ochre Trail.

Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

Cruise through Provence early this morning to arrive in Arles, the southernmost point of your journey and just a few kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea. Founded by Julius Ceasar more than 2,000 years ago, the city is home to the largest number of Roman ruins outside of Rome itself. Vincent Van Gogh lived here in 1888 and drew inspiration for many of his works from the surrounding landscape. Arles is also a gateway to the vines of Provence where historic wineries produce the region’s famous rosé.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore the city with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice:

Provence in Pink – Rosé wine tasting: Discover the sun-drenched vineyards that produce Provence’s signature rosé. Learn about unique terroir and popular grape varieties that produce the crisp, elegant pinks the region is famous for.

Guided tour of Arles: Set out from the ship on foot to visit the heart of Arles and its most impressive Roman ruins. Experience the vibrant colours and striking quality of light that has inspired many artists. Your local guide will provide fascinating insights about the city’s history and modern culture.

Visit Les Baux with Carrières de Lumières: Marvel at the Carrières de Lumières, a former quarry that has been transformed into a 7,000-square-metre immersive digital art space. Then explore the stunning medieval village of Les Baux.

Learn about the artistic heritage of this region while painting a masterpiece of your own.
 

Viviers, France, is a charming medieval town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, it features narrow, winding streets, ancient stone houses, and the impressive Saint-Vincent Cathedral. The town's Roman and medieval heritage is evident in its old ramparts and historic buildings. Viviers' tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings offer a glimpse into the past, making it a delightful destination for history lovers and those seeking a serene escape.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise north overnight, arriving in Viviers early this morning. Founded in the fifth century, the city is often described as an open-air museum. Wandering its narrow, zig-zagging lanes, you will feel as though little has changed in the past 1,600 years. Viviers also has a fascinating connection with the French Resistance and is bordered by the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône.

Scenic Freechoice:
The choice is yours with today’s Scenic Freechoice:

Walking tour of Viviers: Admire the many architectural treasures of Viviers on foot, including the Cathedral of St Vincent with its mix of medieval, Gothic and Renaissance styles. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Viviers at your leisure.

French Resistance Walking Tour: Hear tales of heroism from the French Resistance, who fought bravely against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Learn about their most daring missions as you explore the historic town on foot.

Scenic Freechoice:
Côtes du Rhône Villages tasting: Discover the rich flavours of the Rhône Valley on this guided tasting excursion. Experience the diverse terroir and time-honoured winemaking traditions of Southern France in a glass.

Ardèche Nature Park with Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum: Explore the natural beauty and historic sites that come together in the Ardèche Nature Park. Then be immersed in the Caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, the largest decorated Palaeolithic cave replica in the world. The original site was deemed too fragile for public access, so this replica cave was built only a few kilometres from the actual cave.

Excursion to Grignan de Provence: Travel to the beautiful provincial town of Grignan. Your local guide will accompany you to the mighty castle that dominates the town as well as the Collegiate Church of the Holy Saviour, before enjoying some time at leisure.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Spend a full day on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship today as you cruise back towards Lyon. Admire the beautiful vistas of the Rhône River, taste more local wines over lunch or join a French cookery lesson in Scenic Culinaire.

Scenic Enrich
Step inside the grand Trinity Chapel, a Baroque beauty with an interior decadently covered in Carrera marble. Scenic guests will be treated to an exclusive acapella choir performance, made even more breathtaking by the sublime acoustics of the chapel.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Spend the final day of your wine-curated cruise in France’s culinary capital. Sitting at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants – including 20 that hold Michelin stars. Learn more about its rich history, dating back to the days of the Romans, or discover one of the region’s surrounding villages.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore Lyon with this morning’s range of Scenic Freechoice:

Guided tour of Lyon: Experience the essence of Lyon on this coach tour, taking you past Roman ruins and to its hidden traboules, secret passageways that date back to the fourth century. Then visit Notre Dame Basilica, offering a fabulous vantage point for views across the city.

Excursion to Pérouges: Travel to the medieval walled village of Pérouges, perched atop a hill overlooking the Ain River. Enjoy a walking tour of through its vine-covered stone buildings, cobbled laneways and market square centred around a centuries-old lime tree. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces and a lot of walking both up and down hill, this tour is recommended only for guests with a high degree of fitness.

Silk painting workshop: Fine silk has been produced in Lyon since the 15th century and the city still has a proud tradition of textile production. Join this immersive workshop to learn about this rich heritage and create your own masterpiece.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Scenic Freechoice: Board an included flight from Lyon to Porto where you will board the luxurious Scenic Azure for your 7 night cruise along the Douro River.

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.

Relax as your Scenic Space-Ship meanders its way through the spectacular Douro Valley towards Pinhão. Admire the beaty along the steep riverbanks lined with terraced vineyards and majestic quintas as you cruise along the Douro River. 

This afternoon you’ll dock in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional Pport wine. Look out for the charming riverside train station decorated with azulejos (hand-painted tiles) depicting the annual grape harvest. There’s also an opportunity to try your hand at painting your own azulejos at a workshop.

This morning, you have the special opportunity to visit the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, witness traditional handicraft being made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Salamanca full day excursion: Enjoy a full day excursion to Salamanca. Known as the ‘golden city’ for its sandstone architecture, Salamanca is famous for its university. On this tour you’ll visit the city’s two cathedrals, visit a market to sample local delicacies and have free time to explore and have lunch at your leisure.

Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta: A town with a curious name that translates to ‘ash tree girded with sword’. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century, then tied his sword to an ash tree before having a rest, hence the unusual name. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit the local silk museum to gain a better understanding of this local tradition before visiting a local Quinta (estate) for some tasting of regional produce. After this excursion you will return to the ship for lunch.

Wake in the village of Pocinho, which was established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887.  It’s a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum, the largest open-air Paleolithic rock art site in the world. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal and is a contemporary building designed to blend into the landscape. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you’ll enjoy a pre-historic workshop.

Village life in the Côa Valley: Visit the small village of Freixo Numão, a traditional village that has been lived in for centuries. Learn about local life before visiting Casa Painova estate, see the family home and enjoy a demonstration on how sugared almonds are produced. Learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds and local products.

This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Régua, the largest of the riverside towns and an excellent base for exploring the Douro Valley. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century.

Awake in Régua. Why not ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite if you would like a slower start to the day? 

Explore the Douro Valley today with a choice of excursions that include visiting one of the most beautiful towns in northern Portugal, exploring an enchanting palace or kayaking along a scenic river.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous port wine. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Start your tour at the stunning Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the Sanctuary is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. If you are feeling active walk down the staircase or journey down via coach before some tasting some local produce at a nearby Bodega before enjoying some free time to explore the town.

Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide past impressive landscapes via kayak on the Pinhão River, a tributary of the Douro River.

Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. The stunning imposing palace sits behind an ornamental pond, where the silhouette reflects to mirror the regal design.

This afternoon your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship will make its way back to Porto in time for your magnificent Scenic Enrich event.

Scenic Enrich
Classical concert in São Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to São Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has gilded interiors and breathtaking altars. All guests will be seated in the church for a performance of classical music.

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.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from todays Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palácio da Bolsa. After your guided tour, perhaps take the time to explore the historic Bolhão Markets during your free time.

Excursion to Guimarães: Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved World Heritage-listed city and explore the Ducal Palace. You will also have free time to explore the city on your own.

Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.

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.

Your cruise concludes this morning in Porto. Disembark and take with you lifelong memories of a remarkable journey across Portugal.

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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.