douro river boat cruises

Douro River Cruises

• Douro from Porto
• Douro Luxury
• Douro River Cruise Luxury
• Douro Explorer Luxury
• Douro Fully Guided Luxury

52 Douro cruises with 103 reviews

Douro Experience 2024 (9 destinations)

"Very comfortable boat. Beautiful scenery. Perfect." Mark, traveled in September 2022

Gems of the Douro (Port to Port Cruise)

"Very nice, we had time to discover Portugal." Josep, traveled in August 2023

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Lisbon, 2024)

"Ship was beautiful. Excellent service and food. Excursons were excellent. Would recommend highly." Linda, traveled in May 2023

Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Porto, 2024)

"Cruises are very social and meeting new people is always a pleasure. Name tags would have been so very helpful." Robert, traveled in May 2024

Porto, the Douro valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)

"Overall great ship and crew. Wonderful sites for excursions." Adele, traveled in April 2024

Douro Experience 2024 (8 destinations)

The Douro River, the spirit of Portugal (port-to-port cruise)

"The saving grace of the trip was the great quality of the staff." John, traveled in March 2019

Spectacular vineyards

Picturesque Solo Douro Tour

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

What people love about douro cruises.

A very pleasant 8 day experience but really more like a five day cruise. The cruise information was incomplete, leaving out interesting opportunities along the way (Port museums and prehistoric rock art,) most particularly an excursion to Salamanca, which turned out to be a highlight for us. The food was good but not as interesting as Portuguese restaurants in Porto or even at home in Canada.

Ship was beautiful. Excellent service and food. Cruise director was always available and made everyone feel welcome. Excursons were excellent. Would recommend highly.

Really appreciated the combination of cruising and hiking, plus excursions for non-hikers so they weren't neglected. Accommodated food needs creatively, although the gluten-free option - while better than previous experience with CroisiEurope - could still be improved. More gluten-free chocolate croissants! Nice selection of evening entertainment. Never a dull moment; but one was able just to sit and read or watch the scenery go by if wanted. Although we choose CroisiEurope partly for the French immersion experience, being paired with other English speakers at meals worked very well. Our American compatriots were grateful to have English-speaking companions, and for us it relieved the intensity that would have been entailed by full French immersion. Thanks for organizing perfect weather! ;-)

Top operators

"A very pleasant 8 day experience but really more like a five day cruise. The cruise information was incomplete, leaving out interesting opportunities along the way (Port museums and prehistoric rock art,) most particularly an excursion to Salamanca, which turned out to be a highlight for us. The food was good but not as interesting as Portuguese restaurants in Porto or even at home in Canada.

A-ROSA is an expert in:

• River Cruise

"A very affordable cruise on a lovely ship. The food was excellent and the cabins were clean and comfortable. There were a few negatives, we were advised that is was better not to drink water from the cabin taps, but we were charged 4 Euros a day for bottled water in the cabin. Also no water was provided for the tours. Our travel agent TourRader said that we could not book excursions until we were on the ship.. Consequently there was no English speaking guide as no excursions had been booked. Only German, who presumably booked through another company. They did however manage to recruit a Spanish cruise coordinator, who although wasn't a guide, did speak English and helped tremendously with arrangong trips for the 6 English speaking guests.

Crucemundo is an expert in:

"The only negative I have is that Uniworld did not provide name tags for each individual. Cruises are very social and meeting new people is always a pleasure. Name tags would have been so very helpful in getting to know fellow passengers and to recall names. If certain people don'tvwant to wear them then that's ok too.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is an expert in:

Best time to visit

• Spring 2025 Spring brings blooming landscapes and warm temperatures. With fewer tourists, it’s ideal for cruising the Douro River, scenic hikes, and exploring historic sites. Spring tours (16)
• July 2024 popular 17 tours
• August 2024 popular 17 tours
• Fall / Autumn 2024 Mild weather makes it perfect for river cruises, wine tasting, and scenic drives. Experience the vibrant colors of the vineyards and visit picturesque towns. Fall tours (17)

Contact our Douro travel experts

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Douro Tours starting in:

• 7 Day Tours (9)
• 10 Day Tours (27)
• 2 Week Tours (6)

Popular Cruise Ships

• MS Gil Eanes from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• Miguel Torga from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• AmaVida from AmaWaterways
• MS Amalia Rodrigues from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• MS Estrela from Travel Marvel
• MS Infante don Henrique from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• MS Vasco da Gama from CroisiEurope River Cruises
• Avalon Alegria from Avalon Waterways
• AmaDouro from AmaWaterways
• A-ROSA ALVA from A-ROSA
• S.S. Sao Gabriel from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
• FERNAO DE MAGALHAES from CroisiEurope River Cruises

Travel Styles

• Luxury (14)
• Singles and Solo (31)
• For Couples (37)
• Seniors (31)

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Douro River Cruises

Our Portugal cruises uncover one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned wine regions. Cruise the Douro River through ancient wine estates, passing barcos rabelos laden with casks en route to Porto and Lisbon. A sublimely scenic corner of Europe, with equally sublime food and wine.

Portugal’s River of Gold

• PRICE & BUILD

Highlights of Douro River Cruises

Portugal famously prospered during its Age of Discovery and you will find monuments to this vibrant era everywhere. Port wine, too, put the nation on the maps of travelers and oenophiles. A Douro cruise with Viking brings it all into sharp focus for you, providing rich insight into fascinating highlights such as these:

• Lisbon’s stunning Manueline architecture
• Lisbon’s Moorish-flavored Alfama District
• Ancient universities in Coimbra, Portugal and Salamanca, Spain
• Port warehouses of Porto
• Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Scenic vineyard-laden hills along the Douro River
• Vila Real’s extraordinary Mateus Palace
• The hilltop fortress town of Castelo Rodrigo
• The tiny village of Favaios, nestled among picturesque hills
• Port wine tastings at elegant estates

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Douro  river cruises

Journey across Portugal on a luxury Douro river cruise, where picturesque landscapes await.

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Explore the delights of the Douro 

Experience the Iberian Peninsula on board a Douro river cruise. Observe the dramatic landscapes, losing yourself in the vibrant green hills of the Douro Valley, or spend your days relaxing in the Portuguese sunshine.

Uncover rolling vineyards, centuries of history, and bustling cities alike on a Douro river cruise

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your Douro river cruise. Journey from Porto, where the origins of Portugal took shape, and along the river to the Douro Valley to discover famed vineyards, towering cliff faces, and stunning wildlife.

Porto, Portugal

Douro River Valley

Kayaking on the Douro River

Discover the Douro River  

A vintage heritage.

Featured Itineraries

Portuguese culinary wonders.

Portugal through the ages

The stunning Douro Valley

Secrets of the Douro

Explore the charms of Portugal by river

Lisbon & Secrets of the Douro

Madrid & Secrets of the Douro

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Our featured blogs.

Explore the Douro Valley highlights

Discover the best sights and excursions to experience while you explore the Douro Valley.

The history of Port wine

Learn more about the famed Portuguese wine cultivated along the banks of the Douro River.

 11 Portuguese dishes you should try once before visiting

 Take a look at the top 11 Portuguese dishes to try for an authentic taste of the country.

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Douro River Cruises

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• Porto :  The second largest city in Portugal, located on the coast, and the starting and ending point for most of our cruises through Portugal & Spain.
• Régua  & Vila Réal:  Located along the Douro River and home to gardens, palaces, and notable architecture.
• Braga:  Nicknamed the "Rome of Spain" for its notable religious architecture.
•   Salamanca :  This is one of Spain's treasured cultural centers, with architectural highlights of Roman, Arabic, and Christian influence.
• Ferradosa:  A historic city in Portugal where you can sample some of the delicious regional wine.
• Lamego:  An important pilgrimage site in Portugal for the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies) and the Gothic cathedral.
• Pinhão :  Home to the Baroque Palacio de Mateus and Quinta da Roeda & Quinta do Seixo where you can sample their well aged wines.
• Guimarães:  A well preserved historic town with buildings dating back to medieval times.

10 Favorite Ports on the Douro River

European cruise: when to go.

• Architecture: You will be delighted by the Baroque and Gothic architecture that can be seen in the cathedrals, towns, and even residential architecture that hallmarks western Spain & Portugal.
• Wine :  The wineries of this region produce some of the most celebrated wine in all of Europe, and almost every cruise features wine tasting tours.
• Scenery:  The rolling hills and rugged valleys along the Douro River have been inspired artists for centuries. 

The Douro River Valley is where some of the most famous and flavorful wine in all of Europe is produced. There was once a time when Portugal had land holdings throughout the world, including a large portion of South America, Africa, and the Atlantic Ocean.  Because of this global conquest, Portuguese is the official language of nine countries. In addition to being Europe's oldest country, Portugal hosts the world's oldest bookstore and one of Europe's oldest universities. The country also holds the record as having the longest bridge in Europe.

Douro River Cruise FAQs

Top douro river travel destinations, douro river trips by departure date.

• 2024 Douro River trips (18)
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• July 2024 (15)
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• September 2024 (12)
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• April 2025 (9)
• May 2025 (9)
• July 2025 (9)
• August 2025 (9)
• September 2025 (9)

Top Experiences in Douro River

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Douro River Trips by Duration

• 8 day trips (13)
• 11 day trips (5)

Douro River Trips by Activity

• Douro River wine tasting (15)
• Douro River village visits (6)
• Douro River archaeological site visits (5)
• Douro River hiking (4)
• Douro River small ship cruises (4)

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Douro River Cruises

There was a time when the Douro was a wild, precarious river, making navigation a daunting task for those trying to keep control of traditional flat bottomed boats. Often they foundered – losing the Port wine they were transporting downriver to the cellars of impatient wine merchants.  How different the Douro river is today, tamed by a series of locks that will make your river cruise vacation such a calm, serene experience. Yet the age-old banks of the Douro remain as enchanting as ever, covered as they are with peaceful terraces where olives, almonds, and grapes are cultivated much as they always have been.

How can such a picturesque river valley - with its dramatic cliffs, lush hillsides, medieval walled villages, and fine vineyards - remain so relatively undiscovered? How can so few others have enjoyed the sensation of basking on a sun deck as the unmistakable chirping of crickets and the fragrant scents from the surrounding hillsides pervade the warm evening air? You’ll feel that your river cruise on the Douro is a true revelation, taking you deep into one of the most unspoiled corners of Europe. Wine is never far away from the Douro river, and there are plenty of opportunities to try out the authentic local favorites during your cruise. You’ll be spoilt for choice – whether it’s the sparkling Raposeira of historic Lamego, the familiar Rosé of Mateus Palace, or the Port wine (still trodden by foot) that’s so completely entwined with the history of Oporto.

For 70 miles of the Douro’s 557-mile length, the river forms part of the national border between Spain and Portugal. Its narrow canyons made it a historical barrier for invasions, and an enduring cultural and linguistic divide. On your Douro river cruise, you’ll see the very best that both sides of this fascinating river have to offer.

Free Superior drinks package on all European river cruise departures

Enjoy a free Superior drinks package on all European river cruises. 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.

With lunch in our restaurants:

• Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic  
• Draught beer, including non-alcoholic  
• A selection of soft drinks and juices 

From 6pm to midnight in our bars and restaurants, all of the above plus:

• Our cocktail and mocktail of the day  
• House spirits and mixers (gin, vodka, rum and whisky)  
• A recommended regional wine during dinner  
• Martini & Sherry pre-dinner  
• Port & Brandy after dinner  

View more about our Superior drinks package .

Cruise Director Lale on cruising the Douro with Riviera River Cruises

River cruises on the Douro

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Villages and Vintages: Cruising the Douro River Valley

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• 2024 Classic
• 2025 Classic
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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Private dinner with wine pairings at Quinta do Portal, a Douro Valley wine estate

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Port wine cocktail-making workshop

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Bicycle tour through Vinho Verde wine country

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director

All private Tauck shore excursions –  $1,633 Value!

Seven nights on the Douro aboard ms Andorinha , designed for Tauck

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Discover the bohemian heart of the city that gave Port-wine its name... sail deep into the mountain landscapes of Portuguese wine country to find wine estates, lush vineyards, idyllic riverside villages, baroque castles, hilltop medieval ruins, and rock art from the valley's earliest inhabitants...

Portugal's golden douro river, home to our newest cruises, private wine-pairing dinner at quinta do portal, sample the bounty of the douro valley at quinta do portal.

Situated near the village of Pinhão in the Cima Corgo region of Portugal's Douro River Valley wine country, the family-owned wine estate of Quinta Do Portal has produced premium Port wine on this land since the latter part of the 19th century, and began producing fine non-fortified wines on a boutique winery model in the 1990s. Your visit to Quinta do Portal introduces you to the estate's vineyards and winemaking process, and includes a delectable wine pairing dinner featuring wines created on the estate.

Explore Pinhão by a town walkabout or a terraced vineyard hike

Hiking from provesende through terraced vineyards to pinhão.

The idyllic village of Pinhão, situated at a scenic bend of Portugal's Douro River, is considered the gateway to the quintas and large wine estates of the Douro River Valley, one of Europe's oldest and revered wine making regions. Enjoy a hike through some of the area's lush terraced vineyards on your visit to Pinhão and its stunningly beautiful landscapes.

Excursion choices include Prehistoric art at Museu do Côa

Discover paleolithic rock art at museu do côa.

A choice of sightseeing from Vega de Terron, Spain, includes the Museum of Art and Archaeology of the Côa Valley. During excavations for a dam on the Côa River in the 1990s, thousands of engraved prehistoric rock drawings were discovered along the river in Vila Nova de Foz Côa. Archaeologists determined that these petroglyphs – originally created in the open air – dated to the Paleolithic era, between 10,000 to 22,000 years BC! The dam was eventually canceled, and 23 Côa Valley rock art sites became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. View and learn about this remarkable art on a visit to the high-tech Museu do Côa, rising over the valley.

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Portugal. You do not need a visa for the short duration of this journey.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a Portuguese consulate or embassy to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

The riverboat is registered in Portugal. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S., please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact a French embassy or consulate to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

The riverboat has four decks: Emerald, Ruby, Diamond and Sun. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and the Emerald Deck, which includes a stop at the Ruby Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks. Please note that in some docking locations, the gangway must be extremely steep, or involve steps instead of a ramp.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking is not permitted in any cabin, restaurant, lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate of Portugal is among the warmest of any country in Europe. In spring and summer temperatures are extremely high, often reaching 85ºF (30ºC) and above, and most days are sunny. Throughout this region rainfall is minimal or non-existent during the summer months and very light in late spring and early fall.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Valet laundry service is available at the hotel and on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available on the riverboat by request to the front desk. Category 5 cabins feature their own irons and ironing boards. For other cabins, they are available by request from Reception.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents to be secured in the safe in your hotel room or cabin

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The best Douro river cruises

Besides its majestic beauty, the Douro Valley region is a dream come true for wine lovers who can wander around…

Besides its majestic beauty, the Douro Valley region is a dream come true for wine lovers who can wander around some of its best vineyards . However, people who do not drink wine struggle a bit about what to do in Douro Valley besides drinking wine , which is why I am writing about the best Douro river cruises.

Quick notes:

• This article is about the short boat rides in Douro river, not about the week long ones.
• If you are looking for the short boat rides in Douro river but in Porto , read my article about the best river cruises in Porto – one of the most popular activities in the city!

No time to read a long article? Here’s a summary

• Cheapest option: The cheapest river cruises in the douro valley take place in a traditional rabelo boat (group activity). You should book the 2h Douro river cruise (25€) or the 1h Douro river cruise (12,50€) and they sell out SUPER FAST.
• Best deal: The 1-hour shared Eco Friendly Solar Boat trip is truly a great deal because it only costs 15€ / person and it includes not only the river cruise on a solar powered small boat with Wi-fi but also 2 glasses of wine. It has the capacity to 10 people.
• Private river cruises: There are also private Yacht river cruises in the douro valley, that are reasonably priced. They can last from 1h to 4h (depending on what you choose) and they have the capacity to 14 people. If you want a more picturesque experience, book a Private river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat .

Classification of Douro river cruises

There are basically two criteria to classify the best douro river cruises:

• A) Typology: Douro river cruises can be either group activities (prices ranging from 12,50€ / person to 25€ / person) or private activities (prices ranging from 45€ / person to 60€ / person, depending on the size of your group).
• B) Type of boat: you can choose between a traditional rabelo boat (they were used to transport Port wine centuries ago) or a more modern boat.

Therefore, we are going to explore different kinds of Douro river cruises, according to this Index:

Best GROUP Douro river cruises

There are some short Douro river cruises departing from Pinhão, the main city of the sub region of Cima Corgo, in Douro Valley. This is the river cruise that I enjoy the most, for several reasons:

• It’s a short Douro river cruise, and hence you can combine it with a wine tour & tasting at a vineyard and a lunch in Pinhão – this is exactly what we do on our iconic private wine tour and river cruise in Douro Valley . If you have rented a car , you can simply park it in Pinhão and walk to the deck.
• Whether you opt for a 1h river cruise (Pinhão – Romaneira – Pinhão) or for a 2h one (Pinhão – Tua – Pinhão), the views from the boat are simply stunning.

There are several tour operators organising Douro river cruises.

• Another option is to book a 1-hour shared Eco Friendly Solar Boat trip . It is truly a great deal because it only costs 15€ / person and it includes not only the river cruise on a solar powered small boat with Wi-fi but also 2 glasses of wine. It has the capacity to 10 people, so even though it is technically a group experience, it has far less people than if you book a douro river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat, that can take dozens and dozens of people onboard.

Frequently Asked Questions about the GROUP Douro river cruises

Whether you choose to go for a traditional rabelo boat or for the solar powered boat, the prices are quite similiar.

Currently, a 1h Douro river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat costs 12,50€, and the 2h Douro river cruise costs 25€. Children up to 5 years old don’t pay anything. Children from 6 to 11 years old have a 50% discount on the price of the tickets.

As for the 1-hour shared Eco Friendly Solar Boat trip , the ticket currently costs 15€ / adult and 6€ / child aged 6 to 11 years old.

Schedules of the group douro river cruises

The 1h Douro river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat departures every hour, from 10h to 18h. During winter, there are no boats at 17h nor 18h. The 2h Douro river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat departures only at 10h45 and then at 15h, so make sure to grab your seat !

As for the 1-hour shared Eco Friendly Solar Boat trip , it departures at 10h30, 12h00, 13h30, 15h00, 16h30 and 18h00.

What is the size of the boats?

That really depends if you choose to travel on a traditional rabelo boat or on the solar boat.

If you choose to travel on a traditional rabelo boat, you will be traveling with a lot more people than if you go for the solar boat.

The companies that operate the traditional rabelo boats have vessels of different sizes and capacities, which can accommodate from 24 people to 100 people in a single trip. When booking your ticket, there is no way to choose the vessel on which you will travel.

The 1-hour shared Eco Friendly Solar Boat trip , on the other hand, can only accommodate 16 people, so even though it is technically a group experience, it feels rather private.

Are there bathrooms (WC) on board?

On the traditional rabelo boats, yes. On the small solar boat, no.

What if it rains?

If it rains you cry and ask for your money back, because everyone promised you a sunny Portugal 😛 Jokes aside: I get this question MANY TIMES so I guess it a major concern of a lot of people.

If it rains, you should definitely choose the 1h Douro river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat because all the rabelo boats have a covered area with sofas, proper windows and a ceiling, creating a small room from which you can still enjoy your river cruise without getting wet.

What are you talking about Sara, I don’t see a covered area on some of the pictures! That is because both the windows and the ceiling are removable and removed on sunny days. True story. In engineers we trust.

Do they sell drinks and food on board?

You can buy some drinks on board of the 1h Douro river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat – mostly water and beer. However, no boat operator sell food onboard (so if you really need to eat, I suggest you bring some easy-to-eat snacks like dried fruits).

As for the 1-hour shared Eco Friendly Solar Boat trip , the price already includes two glasses of wine (or juice for children and people who don’t drink alcohol).

Are there audio guides available?

Yes there are but honestly, they are crap and usually don’t work well. You should see the river cruises in the douro valley as a leisure activity and not as a learning opportunity, otherwise you will be disappointed!

Best PRIVATE Douro river cruises

For those of you that dream about making a private river cruise but without breaking the piggy bank or having to eat pasta with tuna for the rest of the month, I have great news: there is a company in Douro Valley that makes affordable private river cruises !

Price of the best PRIVATE Douro river cruises

Currently, the price of the private 1h douro river cruise vary depending on the number of people that book this activity:

• If you are a group of two people, then the boat costs 120€ in total (so, 60€ / person).
• For a group of 3 to 5 people, each person pays 50€ / person.
• For groups from 6 to 14 people, each person pays 45€ / person.
• If you are traveling alone and book the boat just for yourself, the price is 100€.

Children up to 4 years old don’t pay anything.

Children from 5 to 9 years old pay 25€.

The affordable private Douro river cruise departures every hour from 9h to 19h.

There is only ONE boat doing this service, so hurry up and book your private douro river cruise !

The boat used for this private Douro river cruise is 172 meters long and it has capacity for 14 passengers.

Fun fact: the boat is called Unbelievable and it has two double cabins, a kitchen with dining room and a large room, with a control point and a set of windows that allow for a 360º visibility.

The exterior includes a large space at the bow and a raised and protected area at the stern, which accommodates a second command post.

Therefore, if it rains you have lots of space to take shelter onboard, do not worry!

I am afraid not, but you will be welcome onboard with a glass of Port wine.

I am afraid not, but the captain (A lady called Barbara) can answer any question you might have about the region.

GROUP River cruises connecting Porto to the Douro valley

This one day Douro river cruises consist of a combination of a train ride from Porto to Régua, Pinhão, Pocinho or Barca d’Alva, followed by a boat ride down the river, or the other way around (going up the river by boat and then getting back to Porto by train). Usually there are welcoming drinks and lunch being served on board of the one day Douro river cruises, and there are also some programs that include a visit to a vineyard. Therefore you need to spend some time to find the right tour operator & program that meets your expectations.

This is the Douro river cruise that I like the least, for several reasons:

• It is a very lengthy day, starting at around 7h and ending somewhere around 23h. If you are traveling with kids or with elder people they might get tired half way through.
• Because you will be taking a combination of both train and boat ride you will loose the flexibility to visit the vineyards you are truly interested in. This happens because only a handful producers have their vineyards close to the train stations in Douro Valley (Régua, Pinhão and Pocinho).

Nonetheless, the one day Douro river cruises are still a popular choice for those who are not so much into wine tastings and would rather (and quite understandingly) spend the day just enjoying the views.

Tour operators

You can get your online ticket to the one day Douro river cruise Porto – Régua (the main city in the Baixo Corgo sub region) or get your online ticket to the one day Douro river cruise Porto – Pinhão (the main city in the Cima Corgo sub region).

The prices range from 67€ to 88€ depending on the tour operator, the length of the river cruise and other factors. The one day Douro river cruises that I just suggested cost 67€ (Porto – Régua – Porto) and 88€ (Porto – Pinhão – Porto), respectively. These prices may vary according to the season of the year.

Around 16h, but check the schedule of each tour operator of Douro river cruises.

Are there three days Douro river cruises?

I’ve been getting this question lately so I decided to update this article to include that information. First of all, it is important to distinguish between a three days Douro river cruise and a three day tour in Douro with a river cruise. Presumably, if you choose the first option you will be on a Douro river cruise for three days, whereas on the second option, you will be in Douro Valley for three days during which you will take a short Douro river cruise, for sure like the ones I mentioned above. These are two different value propositions. All private tours companies in Douro Valley, including myself, can arrange a short Douro river cruise as part of a day (or multi days) tour in Douro Valley. However, I don’t personally know any company arranging three days Douro river cruise. I found one when researching online (the things I do for you!), but honestly I never worked with them, never heard of them, so I cannot vouch for them. I hope I was able to cast some light!

How to get to Douro Valley

There are train connections from Porto to the major cities in Douro Valley: Peso da Régua and Pinhão. This is the best option if you just want to do a Douro river cruise and then come back by train. You can check the schedules on CP website . However, if you are want to combine a Douro river cruise with a visit to one of the vineyards in Douro Valley you definitely need a car. You can also hire a private guide like myself or, worst case scenario, use taxis from one place to another – but you will end up loosing a lot of time in the process if you choose this last option! Therefore, I recommend you to use AutoEurope to find the cheapest car rental deals.

Save this article for later:

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Douro  river cruises

Journey across Portugal on a luxury Douro river cruise, where picturesque landscapes await.

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Explore the delights of the Douro 

Experience the Iberian Peninsula on board a Douro river cruise. Observe the dramatic landscapes, losing yourself in the vibrant green hills of the Douro Valley, or spend your days relaxing in the Portuguese sunshine.

Uncover rolling vineyards, centuries of history, and bustling cities alike on a Douro river cruise

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your Douro river cruise. Journey from Porto, where the origins of Portugal took shape, and along the river to the Douro Valley to discover famed vineyards, towering cliff faces, and stunning wildlife.

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Explore the heart of Portugal with these river cruises

From backpacking to train to bus, there are endless ways to explore the wonders of Europe. One of the most underrated ways to travel across Europe is through river cruises . European countries are abundant with gorgeous scenic rivers that’ll take you to spots off the beaten path. If Portugal is on your wish list of holiday destinations, perhaps consider jumping aboard a cruise and floating down the Douro River. The Douro River snakes through the heart of Portugal and is home to gorgeous vineyards, historic villages, medieval sites and a tonne of other unforgettable treasures. Read on to discover four of the best river cruises to do in Portugal.

Portugal’s River of Gold

$6,495 from viking cruises.

Set sail with Viking Cruises down the iconic Douro River in Portugal. Over 10 days, you’ll float in style down the river and through towns boasting rich cultural heritage, culinary delights and unrivalled vineyards.

Your first stop will be Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, where you can see the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Next, you’ll dock in Porto, which is home to Port wine. After this, you’ll cruise through towns like Régua, Pinhão, Barca d’Alva and Salamanca – all of which are bursting with gastronomical experiences and rich, medieval history.

The cruise then makes its way back up through Régua and Porto where you’ll get the opportunity to explore the vineyards, taste local wines and learn about the winemaking process.

Douro River Valley

$7,559 from uniworld.

Another cruising option for the Douro River is this eight day adventure from Uniworld, which will take you through the heart of the Duoro Valley. Beginning in the famous birthplace of Port, Porto, you’ll sail through Régua, Pinhão, Barca d’Alva and Salamanca on board the chic S.S. São Gabriel.

On this cruise, you’ll be treated to six days of excursions including things like Douro Museum in Régua, vineyard hikes, wine tastings, walking tours and dinners.

When you’re not busy on an excursion, you can leisurely explore the remnants of Portugal’s medieval past, the impeccable vineyards dotted along the Douro and the culinary delights each city has to offer.

Douro Luxury Cruise – Spirit of Chartwell

Looking to experience a taste of the Douro River? The Douro Luxury Cruise, which is operated by Portugal Travel Centre, is a short five day trip that will weave you through the must-see sights of the Douro River aboard the luxurious Spirit of Chartwell.

You’ll kick off the cruise at the Gaia Quay in Porto before moving on to Régua where you’ll visit the famous Mateus Palace. The cruise will then take you to Pinhão where you and the other passengers will experience an authentic dinner at a local farm.

You’ll also make a stop into Barca d’Alva and Lamego before heading back to Porto to wrap up your five day adventure.

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

$5,753 from avalon waterways.

Though there’s not a whole lot of variation when it comes to Portugal river cruises along the Douro, there are a few options that offer stops off the beaten path. Avalon Waterways’ Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro cruise will take you to a few spots that aren’t often covered by other trip providers.

This includes a stop to Pocinho which boasts archeological wonders and centuries-old cave paintings. You’ll also visit the tranquil and picturesque village of Amarante where you can sail on the small river that weaves through the town. As well as this, you’ll visit more popular destinations like Porto and Régua.

After finishing up a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Sydney, Georgia fused a love of literature, history, culture and poetry to pursue a career in writing. She first started her media career at Nine where she was a staff writer with 9Honey covering everything from parenting, food, celebrity and travel. Within a year she found herself at the helm of 9Honey’s Style vertical covering all things fashion, culture and beauty. In 2023, Georgia moved to the Australian Women’s Weekly to join their burgeoning digital presence as a Senior Content Producer where she manages and covers all things fashion, beauty, health and travel. After a perilous day at her pastel-coloured keyboard writing about the latest trends, you can find Georgia flicking through her beloved vinyl collection and listening to her favourite records or doom scrolling on Depop (sometimes simultaneously).

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Overview Enticing Douro

7- night cruise, 7- night cruise with 3 nights lisbon pre-cruise, 7-night cruise add pre- or post-cruise land program 7-night cruise with 3 nights lisbon pre-cruise 7-night cruise with 3 nights lisbon pre-cruise add pre- or post-cruise land program 7-night cruise, cruise from : porto to porto, cruise from :, countries: portugal, spain portugal, spain, rivers: douro, enticing douro at a glance.

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The best river cruises for a boutique European cruising experience

Posted: 17 May 2024 | Last updated: 17 May 2024

A voyage through some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways on a small cruise ship is the perfect way to explore more of a region than you might otherwise. And with some of the best cruise ships taking to Europe’s rivers on dazzling itineraries, there’s never been a better time to explore our home continent.

RIVER CRUISES WITH GH

From the Douro to the Rhine , Europe has some of the world's most scenic rivers that are best experienced on a small ship, where you can sail from little towns to historic cities via relaxing long stretches of countryside.

We've rounded up the best river cruises for boutique sailing, selecting those that combine the most carefully put-together itineraries aboard the loveliest ships, including a super-luxe option to explore the Venetian Lagoon in autumn 2024.

River cruises are also the perfect introduction to cruise holidays for first-timers, while those who already know and love the joy of discovering destinations by small ship will enjoy exploring new itineraries accompanied by famous faces, such as chef James Martin and historian Lucy Worsley .

Here are Good Housekeeping's pick of the best river cruises for exploring Europe's wonderful rivers, plus a few options for those who want to travel further afield.

Sail the magical Venetian Lagoon and hear Russell Watson sing

Venice is a captivating city, almost frozen in time, where astoundingly beautiful buildings line a maze of canals — it's no wonder the sheer decadence of this place captures the hearts of so many. Part of the thrill of visiting Venice is getting swept up in its narrow streets, peering into windows displaying intricately painted masks and feasting on plates of risotto in piazzas. Join Good Housekeeping's fantastic music-themed Venice cruise with world-renowned tenor Russell Watson, which includes an exclusive intimate concert in this stunning and historic city and seven nights on board a luxury ship. You'll explore the lagoon's elegant waterways aboard S.S La Venezia. It's an incredible eight-day itinerary that takes you around the Venetian Lagoon to visit places such as Chioggia, Torcello, Mazzorbo and Burano.

S.S. La Venezia matches Venice's splendour in its opulent fittings, filled with accents that honour its location, including exquisite Venetian masks and Murano glass. Everything's included on this five-star cruise, from delicious food and wines to a choice of excursions around the islands.

When? October 2024

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Taste Portuguese wines on a Douro River cruise

The gorgeous Douro Valley is an enchanting and peaceful pocket of Portugal, famed for its port wine and loved for its storybook-style beauty. Terraced vineyards rise steeply from the winding river and are dotted with whitewashed Quintas - the region's terracotta-roofed wine estates - making it a particularly scenic area for a relaxing river cruise.

Sit on the sundeck of a ship to watch the scenery pass by, and delight your palate with some of Portugal’s most sensational wines on an eight-day round-trip cruise on the Douro River. You'll be able to explore the area and learn more about its port production — with plenty of opportunities to sample it yourself on visits to rustic Quintas

After arriving in Porto to board the A-ROSA ALVA, you’ll sail to Régua, a pretty riverfront town that’s produced port since the 18th century. You'll follow the Douro, hopping from place to place to where Portugal borders Spain before turning back. A highlight is visiting a Quinta in Pinhão where, depending on the season, you might get to take part in the traditional grape harvest, picking and crushing the grapes underfoot .

When? June and September 2024

Visit Germany's famous Christmas markets along the Rhine

There are so many enchanting cities and villages along the banks of the Rhine, and they really come into their own in December. Germany is famed for its atmospheric Christmas markets, and many of the best in the country can be found along the Rhine, making a Christmassy cruise a fabulous way to explore them.

There's Mainz, one of the oldest cities in Germany, where you can visit a historic Christmas market on the Domplatz, set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral. You'll want to visit Koblenz too, a city considered to have one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, and one of the largest in the Rhineland.

Join Good Housekeeping for a festive voyage along the Rhine on the the beautiful ship A-ROSA Aqua and you'll visit Mainz and Koblenz as well as Frankfurt and Cologne, where the market takes place right in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral.

On board your ship you'll find a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool to enjoy between your market trips, and ample breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets in the ship's lovely dining venues.

When? December 2024 FIND OUT MORE

Glide along the Danube and see the Lipizzaner horses in Vienna

The banks of the Danube have seen the rise and fall of empires and provided inspiration to some of Europe's greatest artists and composers. This grand river winds its way past mysterious hillside castles and ancient medieval towns and meanders through a range of culture-rich cities, including four European capitals . A river cruise is an unbeatable way to explore some of the cities straddling the Danube, allowing you to visit several towns, villages and cities on one trip, without having to organise local transport yourself.

One of the finest cities that the Danube flows through is Vienna, once the home of Mozart, where manicured gardens, chic coffee houses and baroque palaces will have you feeling like you've stepped back in time. It's also the home of the Royal Lipizzaner Stables at the Spanish Riding School, where grand Lipizzan horses perform a mesmerising type of equine ballet. On Good Housekeeping's Danube River cruise you can visit the Royal Lipizzaner Stables with historian Lucy Worsley. You'll enjoy an aperitif and a talk before watching the training of the young stallions in the imperial atmosphere of the Baroque winter riding school, as classical Viennese music plays.

When? September 2024

Sail further afield with a cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia

While Europe has more than its fair share of enchanting rivers, you're also spoilt for choice if you fancy a river cruise further afield.

Asia has several waterways which provide ideal routes for discovering new countries and cultures. Flowing through Myanmar, China, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world and home to an incredible range of wildlife.

It makes the ideal destination for a river cruise that combines culture, delicious cuisine and wildlife-spotting. You might spot species like the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, giant freshwater stingray and giant catfish swimming alongside you.

Good Housekeeping is offering an immersive adventure along the Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam. You'll sail in a Luxury Balcony suite aboard the Mekong Jewel, a luxurious and beautifully decorated ship, to visit unforgettable sights like the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat temples and incredible cities like Phnom Penh and Hanoi.

There'll be ample opportunities to learn about the turbulent history of the region too, with visits to the infamous Killing Fields and a glimpse of the Viet Cong's network of tunnels dating back to the Vietnam War.

When? December 2024

Enjoy an Italian feast with James Martin in Venice

One thing that's synonymous with Italy is good food, and that's exactly what you can enjoy on this eight-day sailing around Venice and the Veneto region.

Tick off Venice's spectacular sights, including the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and St Mark's Basilica, which you'll visit after dark on our Good Housekeeping cruise . As part of our GH trip, you'll also get VIP access to the Doge's Palace, the stunning Venetian Gothic palace that dates back to 1340.

Sailing on the luxurious S.S. La Venezia , which accommodates only 126 guests and has a wonderfully intimate feel, you'll also visit the colourful, charming islands of Burano (pictured above), Mazzorbo and Torcello, all situated in the Lagoon of Venice.

If all of that wasn't exciting enough, the cherry on top will be meeting acclaimed chef James Martin, who will join you on board for the day to give a talk and partake in a Q&A and book-signing session. In addition, the much-loved Saturday Morning host will cook a delectable gala dinner one evening, too.

Discover local traditions as you sail the Ganges in a luxury ship

Another Asian adventure awaits on the Ganges, India's most sacred river. Sailing along this important body of water allows you a unique insight into life along its banks. It meanders 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas down through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature.

A Ganges cruise is a wonderful way to see some of India's best attractions, with highlights including the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.

Join Good Houskeeping's once-in-a-lifetime tour of India , which includes seven-night cruising in luxury down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including a trip to witness both sunset and sunrise over the iconic Taj Mahal – you'll board the opulent Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals, to explore the culture and history on the river banks. Of course, another highlight of India holiday is the cuisine, and you'll be joined on board by Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who will share his passion for Indian cooking in a live demonstration.

When? November 2024

Discover the wonders of Egypt and sail the Nile

A brilliant option if you're itching to explore another continent is Egypt, where the Nile holds awe-inspiring archaeological treasures along its banks.

A cruise along this fabled river allows you to easily visit magnificent temples like Kom Ombo, Philae, and Edfu and to see the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty. There are several more fascinating monuments to see along the way, including the towering twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. Join a cruise along the Nile with Good Housekeeping and you'll see all this and more while sailing on board the exceptional luxury ship, River Tosca. Making this river cruise even more special is the company of historian and author Lucy Worsley.

Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie, who took inspiration from this region for one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile. You'll have afternoon tea at the hotel which features in the novel and Lucy will share her knowledge of the famous author's work during several Q&As and talks.

More cruise ideas:

- The best cruises for couples

- A guide to Northern Lights cruises

- The most beautiful Danube cities and towns

- A guide to Japan cruise holidays

- The most beautiful rivers in Europe

- The best small ship cruises

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