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Portugal’s River of Gold

Enjoy this ten-day getaway, with 8 days spent cruising the Douro River on a path through Portugal and Spain. We also offer a two-day extension after the cruise’s initial conclusion, so that you don’t have to stop the good times rolling once they’ve started.

Enjoy scenic views during serene cruising, picturesque bridges, vineyards and rock formations are only some of the interesting sights you’ll pass during travel. While moored, get your adventurous spirit going with our variety of guided tours, taking you through several UNESCO World Heritage sites alongside many more options.

From visiting Gothic Cathedrals to shopping in Plaza Mayor, whatever your interests are, our team aboard Viking can guarantee that there will be something to knock your socks off during this once in a lifetime experience.

4.9
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from 502 reviews
  • Cruise Line: Viking River Cruises
  • Ship: Viking Torgil + 3 more
  • Duration: 9 Nights
  • Departure: Mar-Dec
£3,854pp
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About Viking’s Europe Ships

With all the award-winning features that Viking longships are renowned for, the Douro, Elbe, and Seine ships feature customised hulls and state-of-the-art engines specifically built to navigate these famous rivers and offer travellers an unparalleled cruise experience. Elegant Scandinavian-styled interiors are understated and luxurious, emphasizing light and space yet providing warmth and intimacy. A choice of deluxe suites offers a range of accommodation with comfort guaranteed and river views from French balconies or private verandas. Dining is relaxed and informal, with five-star cuisine in different locations, indoors or al fresco.

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Portugal’s River of Gold Cruise Itinerary

From paying a visit to the Gothic Cathedral in Régua, touring vineyards at the heart of Douro Wine District, to shopping in Plaza Mayor in Salamanca this one-of-a-kind golden journey has something for everybody. Enjoy visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites among many other places, or simply kick back and relax aboard our luxury viking ships.

Day 1

Lisbon

Welcome to Lisbon! Here, we’ll meet up with you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Relax during the afternoon or explore the city independently.

Day 2

Lisbon

Embark on a half-day tour of Lisbon, guests sailing with us on Viking Osfrid or Viking Torgil will begin at UNESCO World Heritage site Belém with a tour of Jerónimos Monastery, alongside the Tower of Belém. Guests sailing on Viking Hemming and Viking Helgrim will enjoy a guided tour of the Maritime Museum, located in the monastery’s West Wing.

Day 3

Porto (EMBARK)

Check out of the hotel and enjoy a scenic ride to Porto – stopping for lunch in Coimbra, birthplace of six Portuguese Kings. Following arrival, proceed to the dock at Vila Nova de Gaia to board your ship. In the evening, join an optional tour to Graham’s 1890 Lodge.

Day 4

Régua & Pinhão

We arrive at Régua in the afternoon; enjoy an excursion to Vila Real, site of Mateus Palace. Visit one of the area’s port-wine making institutions and see a vineyard on a tour of the facility.

Day 5

Barca d’Alva / scenic sailing over Douro River

Sail East along the Douro, passing through the locks at Valeira and Pocinho Dams. After mooring, enjoy a tour to Castle Rodrigo, view Sinagoga Street and visit a local church.

Day 6

Salamanca

Take a full-day excursion Salamanca; ancient city, UNESCO World Heritage Site and living museum to the middle ages. Ride through the Iberian countryside, explore the shops and cafés of Plaza Mayor and enjoy sampling regional cuisine at the local market. Embark on a guided tour to Gothic House of Shells, 13th-century Salamanca University and the New Cathedral. The Old Cathedral still exists and can be visited during free time.

Day 7

Pinhão

Sail along the Douro, passing some of the area’s vineyards, disembark in the little village of Favaios and visit one of the last traditional bakeries to discover how bread used to be made. Explore a typical Portuguese village not yet discovered by the masses, have lunch at Quinta da Avessada at the heart of Douro Wine District (a UNESCO World Heritage site).

Day 8

Régua

Pay a visit to Lamego, visit the shrine, descend the grand baroque, see the town’s Gothic Cathedral and ruins of Lamego Castle.

Day 9

Porto

Take a city tour of Porto, whose historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site; admiring bridges, the grand cathedral and 19th-century buildings. Take an optional excursion to Guimarães and its medieval quarter, sample wines at the Quinta da Aveleda estate, or soar over the historic “City of Bridges” on a thrilling helicopter sightseeing tour.

Day 10

Porto (*DISEMBARK)

Disembark and proceed to the airport for your return flight.*

Day 11/12

Braga & Santiago de Compostela (*OPTIONAL EXTENSION)

Alternatively, extend your time in the region with a 2-night extension to Bragal and Santiago de Compostela.

Portugal’s River of Gold Deals

Experience the best of Portugal with Viking

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  • 1

    River

  • 2

    Countries Visited

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Portugal’s River of Gold

Forge a path through Portugal and Spain on this 10-day adventure taking bookings for 2023/2024

  • Mar-Dec
  • 9 Nights
£3,854pp

Portugal’s River of Gold Cruise Review

“I’ve always loved cruising with Viking, and this trip kept up its fabulous reputation as far as I’m concerned! With its usual jam-packed expeditions, conscientious staff members and luxury accommodation, I wasn’t let down during my travels down the Douro. I really enjoyed the optional all-day excursions offered, although I only chose to go on two. It’s amazing what proper planning can get done in a day. I had the best time.”

Joan Mailady, Chatsworth

Portugal’s River of Gold FAQ

Find answers to some of the most common questions about river cruising here.

Does the sun deck have a garden?

Unlike some of our other Viking Longships, the ships for this cruise in particular are complete with a pool rather than herb garden. We promise that it’s equally as peaceful.

How many days will be spent in Spain?

During the cruise duration of your holiday, only one night will be spent moored in Spain. Day 6 will be spent exploring Salamanca. However, if this isn’t enough for you there is an optional two-day extension to the holiday which will take you to both Braga, Portugal and Compostela, Spain.

What should I pack for my trip?

We recommend checking the weather forecast in weeks closest to your trip for an accurate weather prediction. However, you can never go wrong with holiday staples such as sunglasses and your camera.

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