Barcelona & Secrets of the Douro

Upon arrival at Barcelona airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your included 3-night stay in this vibrant city and cosmopolitan capital of Spanish Catalonia. Once you’ve settled in, take the opportunity to discover Barcelona at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, wander through the historic streets and explore the bustling local markets, or take a stroll along the beautiful coastline. This true Mediterranean gem offers something for everyone.

Today’s guided city tour will combine panoramic views and fascinating walking tours among the most important sights and landmarks in Barcelona, highlighting striking masterpieces of Modernism and the genius of acclaimed Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí. You’ll visit Park Güell and explore the stunning and whimsical designs of this vast green space, then admire the iconic La Sagrada Família – the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world – and the striking Casa Milà residence, from outside. Soak up the buzz as you stroll along lively Las Ramblas Avenue, taking time to sample delicious local appetisers and Barcelona’s signature dish, Tapas. Included Excursion A guided city tour of Barcelona (incl. Park Güell)

The many charms of Barcelona are yours to explore at leisure today, with a full day of independent discovery at your fingertips. Consider revisiting the stunning La Sagrada Família, one of Gaudís greatest creations, admiring once again the Basilica’s unique architectural design. Or leisurely stroll through the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s cultural hub, taking in the centuries of history. You might also like to spend time at Montjuïc, Barcelona’s famous hill, where you can marvel at the beautiful gardens and panoramic city views. Be sure to sample plates of delicious tapas at a lively local café, or savour iconic Spanish dish, paella, at a beachside restaurant. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan the perfect day in Barcelona. DiscoverMORE Montserrat Abbey (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight to Porto, leaving with treasured memories of your wonderful stay in captivating Barcelona. In Portugal’s historic city of Porto, you’ll embark on your luxury cruise.

Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area is celebrated because it builds on two millennia of wine producing history, where viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape and small, sleepy villages are peppered with dozens of sun-drenched vineyards.   Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner and cocktail reception.  EmeraldPLUS Portuguese cooking demonstration on board

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley, nestled on the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce by using traditional viticulture methods.   Alternatively, enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on a kayak excursion along the river, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley.   This afternoon, enjoy sailing to Vega de Terrón, perhaps relaxing on the Sun Deck.   Included Excursion Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting EmeraldACTIVE Kayak experience in Pinhão EmeraldACTIVE Guided active walk through the vineyards

Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors.   Travel to the beautiful ‘Golden City’ for 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 that dates back to 1218.    Included Excursion Guided tour of Salamanca EmeraldPLUS Tuna music band

This morning, we are docked in Pocinho from where we take you to the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo. On your touryou will have the chance to uncover the secrets of this small village’s fortress history and try some typical local products. Later, return to your Star-Ship for lunch and soak up your idyllic surrounds, enjoying a Port wine cocktail lesson on board as you sail towards Régua. Included Excursion Tour to Castelo Rodrigo EmeraldPLUS Port wine cocktail lesson on board  DiscoverMORE Archaeological tour by 4x4 at the Côa Valley Museum (extra expense)

On today’s included excursion, you’ll visit the marvellous Baroque village of Lamego, stopping to see the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town. If you’re feeling active, enjoy an invigorating walk down the 686 steps from the Sanctuary to the main square. On the same day you will get to experience a rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca, one of the finest estates of river Douro and learn about the Portuguese mosaic painting tradition.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Lamego EmeraldPLUS Rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca EmeraldPLUS Mosaic tile painting lesson on board EmeraldACTIVE Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies DiscoverMORE Visit to Mateus Manor House (extra expense)

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.   Your included tour of the coastal city will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, our active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals.   Included Excursion Guided tour of Porto EmeraldPLUS A cruise through Porto EmeraldACTIVE Guided active walk in Porto DiscoverMORE Visit to Quinta da Aveleda (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Guided bike tour to the Atlantic (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and fellow guests, taking memories of sun-drenched vineyards with you. 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. Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.