7nights

Experience the Douro 2023

Itinerary

Cruise: Experience the Douro
Cruise: Experience the Douro

A dream of granite that has become a city - in Porto you will find new, exciting perspectives after every bend. Discover the shining azulejo facades on church walls and town houses, just few of the landmarks of Portugal's second largest city. The old town, which has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site, is pure poetry.

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Porto

Dep 07:00 am

A dream of granite that has become a city - in Porto you will find new, exciting perspectives after every bend. Discover the shining azulejo facades on church walls and town houses, just few of the landmarks of Portugal's second largest city. The old town, which has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site, is pure poetry.

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Régua

Arr 01:00 pm Dep 02:00 pm

Régua is the largest city on the banks of the Douro in this wine-growing valley. It is such a beautiful place that the Alto Douro region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. The town played a fundamental role in the production and marketing of port wine – which was transported away by sailing boat – as early as the 18th century.

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Trips

€ 46

Lamego is definitely worth a visit, for it’s not just a really charming little town but also one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites. Perhaps that’s why the main thoroughfare leads right up to the 686 steps that, in turn, come to an end high up at the Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. This baroque church with its two towers was built in the 18th century on the site of a smaller 14th-century chapel and is striking from a distance as well as close up. The so called "stairway to heaven" is decorated with several beautiful azulejos and from the top, you can enjoy stunning views of Lamego. Lamego also offers many culinary delights, such as "Bola de Lamego", smoked pork, spinach or fish baked in bread with a glass of sparkling Raposeira wine.

Price:

€ 46 per Person

Duration:

approx. 4h

Level:

Moderat

€ 65

Every year, September and October mark the beginning of the most important time of the year for the Douro Valley’s winegrowers: the grape harvest. Join us on an excursion to the area, and discover the very heart of Portugal. You’ll first stop at the Adega Cooperativa de Favaios to learn everything about the industrial wine production, before visiting a family-owned bakery because wine and bread definitely belong together here. Afterwards, we will visit the Quinta Avessada, where grapes have been pressed for five generations. The family welcomes you with traditional music that has always been part of the grape harvest. Under the guidance of experts, you’ll roll up your sleeves – and later your trouser legs – so that you can pick grapes then crush them underfoot in traditional granite troughs. If this sounds too much like hard work, don’t worry! There’ll be music, tasty regional treats and, of course, wine to enjoy.

Price:

€ 65 pro Person

Duration:

approx. 4h

Level:

Leicht

Pinhão

Arr 05:00 pm

The little town of Pinhão is located in the famous port wine region, in the area where the Douro and its surrounding landscape are at their most picturesque. It is surrounded by enchanting vineyards and the quintas that produce the wine. You can visit them from Pinhão and enjoy tours and wine tasting.

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Trips

included

Enjoy a traditional Portuguese evening at a vineyard near Favaios. The coach will bring you on a plateu, you may relish the ride along grape wines and cork oaks. After arriving at the Quinta da Avessada, you will be welcomed with music and an aperitif, followed by a short visit of the vineyard. Afterwards, you'll be served a traditional Portuguese menu. Usually, this menu serves as a thank you to the harvest hands from the wine maker. Enjoy the relaxed and festive atmosphere and get to know the traditions of the Portuguese culture.

Price:

included

Duration:

approx. 4h

Level:

Leicht

Pinhão

Dep 01:00 pm

The little town of Pinhão is located in the famous port wine region, in the area where the Douro and its surrounding landscape are at their most picturesque. It is surrounded by enchanting vineyards and the quintas that produce the wine. You can visit them from Pinhão and enjoy tours and wine tasting.

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Vega Terron

Arr 07:00 pm

In Vega Terrón, the Agueda joins the Douro. Both rivers form the natural border between Portugal and Spain. From here, you can take a trip to the Spanish city of Salamanca. With its new cathedral, old town and famous university, the city has a very special flair. Don't miss Salamanca's UNESCO World Heritage Site! 

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Vega Terron

Dep 12:00 pm

In Vega Terrón, the Agueda joins the Douro. Both rivers form the natural border between Portugal and Spain. From here, you can take a trip to the Spanish city of Salamanca. With its new cathedral, old town and famous university, the city has a very special flair. Don't miss Salamanca's UNESCO World Heritage Site! 

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Trips

€ 99

The heart of Salamanca is the university because knowledge has been brought from here into the city and the whole world since 1218. Today almost 40,000 students study at the fourth oldest university in the world. Cathedrals have always been not only places of devotion, but also demonstrations of power. As the originally small, old cathedral of Salamanca was no longer representative, it was decided in 1513 to build a new one around it - one of enormous dimensions. They are both impressive. Have you ever drunk coffee in a bullring? On the Plaza Mayor that's no problem. The bullfighters are called "Forcados", but haven't fought here in a long time. Even today, the huge square with its granite floor and mighty archway is a real spectacle - especially when everything is beautifully illuminated in the evening. No wonder, that it is considered to be the most beautiful place in Spain.

Price:

€ 99 per person

Duration:

approx. 9,5h

Level:

Moderat

Barca d'Alva

Arr 12:30 pm

Barca d'Alva

Dep 12:30 pm

Good morning Barca d'Alva! Start your day in the hilly landscape of the Parque Natural do Douro. Trains of the Linha do Douro used to stop here daily on their way from Porto to Salamanca - the station is still to be found here today.

Trips

€ 46,50

Figueira Castelo Rodrigo is situated 671 metres above sea level and is one of Portugal's twelve historically significant villages. Surrounded by almond trees, whose blossom brightens the landscapes, it is also known as the "white city". Storks became the symbol of the city, because they spend about nine month every year in this region. The village has typically medieval and narrow streets and facades from the 16th century as well as Manuelistic window ornaments. It is known for being a place where Jews, Arabs and Christians have coexisted in peace and harmony over the past few centuries. After visiting the ruins of the castle, we walk through the narrow streets of the village, where you can still find numerous traces of the Jewish community. We will also visit the small medieval church and after that you still have enough time to stroll through the village enjoying a coffee and almond specialities.

Price:

€ 46,50 per person

Duration:

approx. 2.75 h

Transport:

bus and by foot

Level:

Leicht

Castelo Rodrigo entdecken

Pinhão

Arr 06:30 pm

The little town of Pinhão is located in the famous port wine region, in the area where the Douro and its surrounding landscape are at their most picturesque. It is surrounded by enchanting vineyards and the quintas that produce the wine. You can visit them from Pinhão and enjoy tours and wine tasting.

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Pinhão

Dep 07:00 am

The little town of Pinhão is located in the famous port wine region, in the area where the Douro and its surrounding landscape are at their most picturesque. It is surrounded by enchanting vineyards and the quintas that produce the wine. You can visit them from Pinhão and enjoy tours and wine tasting.

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Régua

Arr 09:00 am Dep 02:00 pm

Régua is the largest city on the banks of the Douro in this wine-growing valley. It is such a beautiful place that the Alto Douro region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. The town played a fundamental role in the production and marketing of port wine – which was transported away by sailing boat – as early as the 18th century.

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Trips

€ 58

The Mateus Palace, still owned by the Count of Vila Real, was built by the architect Niccolo Nasoni in Baroque style. The original furniture and, above all, the exceptional and handcrafted chestnut wooden ceilings make the interior of the palace so unique and take you back to a bygone century. After the guided tour you will visit the famous garden of the palace, an absolute must-see. With its sculptures, ponds and rare trees, it is one of the most beautiful gardens in Portugal.

Price:

€ 58 per person

Duration:

approx. 3,25h

Level:

Leicht

Bitetos

Arr 06:30 pm

Bitetos

Dep 07:00 am

A dream of granite that has become a city - in Porto you will find new, exciting perspectives after every bend. Discover the shining azulejo facades on church walls and town houses, just few of the landmarks of Portugal's second largest city. The old town, which has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site, is pure poetry.

Cais da Lixa

Arr 08:30 am Dep 09:00 am

Trips

€ 51

Welcome to Porto, the city that gave its name to one of the finest wines in the world, Port Wine. The city tour takes us along the Douro river to the mouth of the river and further along the Atlantic coast past the noble villa town, Foz do Douro, right into the city centre. Photo stops and explanations at Porto Cathedral in the heart of the old town, at the Palace of Justice near the Clerigus bell tower and at the famous railway station will bring you closer to the city. Here in the middle of the old town, which has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1996, you will also have some free time. Then we cross the landmark of the city, the bridge "Dom Luís I", which was designed by Gustav Eifel, to Vila Nova de Gaja. This town is known for the old warehouses of the winegrowers which exist for over 100 years now. Here we will visit a typical wine cellar and taste the famous port wine.

Price:

€ 51 per person

Duration:

approx. 4 h

Transport:

bus and by foot

Level:

Leicht

Porto

Arr 10:30 am

The departure point for your Douro cruise is Porto. A mesmerising city carved in granite: in Porto you’ll find new, exciting perspectives at every turn. The gleaming azulejo tiles adorning church walls and townhouse facades are one of the typical sights of Portugal’s second-largest city. The old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Sight – is pure poetry. Let the Douro welcome you with open arms, while you soak up the ship’s atmosphere on the sun deck and enjoy your first hours in Portugal. Welcome aboard!

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Trips

€ 57

Visiting Guimarães is like stepping into the pages of Portugal’s history books. This city at the foot of the Serra da Penha is considered the place where Portugal was first established. Afonso Henriques was born here and in 1139, following a victory over the Moors, he became the first king of Portugal and declared Guimarães his capital. Today, you can still see what the city was like during its heyday. Our excursion will take you to sites such as Guimarães Castle, where Alfonso Henriques spent his youth. This fortress, built in the mid 10th century on the orders of the Galician countess Mumadona Dias, is considered one of the country’s best-preserved Romanesque castles. Just as impressive – and right next door – is the Paço Ducal, a French-influenced palace built in 1420 as the seat of the dukes of Bragança. In the old town, you’ll find small, lovingly restored town houses, grand squares and convents interspersed with modern buildings and cafes. The most attractive street is without doubt the Rua de Santa Maria, which takes you from the palace to the central Largo da Oliveira (‘Olive tree square’) – the perfect place to stop for a couple of original Portuguese pastéis de nata (custard tarts).

Price:

€ 57 per person

Duration:

approx. 4h

Level:

Leicht

The departure point for your Douro cruise is Porto. A mesmerising city carved in granite: in Porto you’ll find new, exciting perspectives at every turn. The gleaming azulejo tiles adorning church walls and townhouse facades are one of the typical sights of Portugal’s second-largest city. The old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Sight – is pure poetry. Let the Douro welcome you with open arms, while you soak up the ship’s atmosphere on the sun deck and enjoy your first hours in Portugal. Welcome aboard!

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Trip Packages

included

Enjoy a typical port wine tasting by Croft at the Quinta da Roeda this morning. At the Quinta you will have a wonderful view over Pinhão and the beautiful Douro Valley. After a short tour, you may taste something special for this vineyard - the Pink Port.

Duration:

approx. 2h

Level Level:

Leicht

A-ROSA Premium all inclusive

Enjoy your most beautiful time with maximum comfort and with the all-round carefree package: A-ROSA Premium all inclusive.

Your desired cabin? Voilà! Sauna, fitness area, pool? Always at your service! Top culinary menus? Enjoy your meal! Attractive discounts on all massage and beauty treatments? Of course! Plus all transfers and many other benefits that will always put a smile on your face, while you have nothing to do but think about your next wish.

  • Indulge all day, every day: Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with live-cooking stations, embarkation refreshment and daily teatime snack
    NEW: The choice between à la carte dining and buffet-style dinner, as well as special Welcome & Farewell dinners*
  • High-quality drinks throughout the day: including tea, specialty coffees, water, soft drinks, beers, wines as well as a wide selection of sparkling wines, cocktails, and long drinks (also available outside dining hours)
  • NEW: Culinary treats such as midnight snacks and regional delicacies included on many journeys
  • NEW: An included half-day excursion with regional highlights during the day and a special culinary experience onboard in the evening (cruises of 7-nights+)
  • NEW: Room service for all cabin grades
  • Kids up to 15 years of age cruise for free on deck 1**
  • Free change of reservation until 30 days prior to departure
  • NEW: Our Destination Scouts will help you make the most of every city experience with insider tips and recommendations
  • Varied onboard entertainment program
  • NEW: Special & Event Cruises in the off-peak seasons
  • 15 % discount on wellness and beauty treatments at SPA-ROSA
  • NEW: A-ROSA App & free e-bikes for independent exploration (first come, first served basis)
  • Ship transfers
  • Free Wi-Fi (excluding streaming services)

* Upon registration. A-ROSA SENA: An à la carte dinner will be available at the SENA GRILL for a surcharge. | A-ROSA ALVA: served main course at dinner
** Up to 15 years of age: kids travel for free on deck 1, if accompanied by one full fare paying adult (G-grade cabins 2 adults). Deck 2 and above 30% child discount. For the A-ROSA ALVA (Douro) and A-ROSA SENA (Rhine) other children’s discounts may apply.
*** A-ROSA ALVA: E-bike rental not available.

Book now your trip with the "Premium all inclusive" package. You will benefit from our attractive Super Early Booking Discount on selected dates (limited contingent).

  • Varied gourmet buffets with regional and seasonal specialities
  • Live cooking à la minute
  • No seating or dress code; last but not least, free table times ensure a relaxed atmosphere among the guests
  • A wine list adapted to the region
  • Indoor and outdoor restaurant as well as barbecue buffet on the sun deck of selected ships

Choose exactly the cabin you like. If available, we will book your desired cabin with cabin number.

Dates & Prices

Arrival & Hotel

Outbound & Return flight; e.g. with Lufthansa, TAP

From various German airports, Zurich or Vienna to Porto, incl. transfer Airport – Ship – Airport (incl. taxes).

Flights from € 399 per person

 

Just a step away from Gaia Pier, The Lodge, Wine & Business Hotel combines Portuguese tradition with an exciting design inspired by its rich wine heritage. This luxery hotel was recently opened and provides modern rooms and suites, all equipped with L'Occitane amenities, offering breathtaking views of the famous Port wine cellars and the Douro River. The building's architecture preserves its original and historical identity and emphasise an experience associated to wine and traditional Portuguese cuisine. The Dona Maria restaurant shows us the heart of Portuguese gastronomy, reviving traditional dishes from our memory and combining them with the best wines Portugal has to offer.

Single occupancy on request.
Season 1: March, April, July, August, October 2024
Season 2: May, June, September 2024

Included services

Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

Season 1
Double Occupancy

€ 189 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 2
Double Occupancy

€ 199 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 1
Double Occupancy

€ 199 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 2
Double Occupancy

€ 209 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 1
Double Occupancy

€ 219 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 2
Double Occupancy

€ 229 pp

incl. breakfast

In the heart of Porto's Ribeira district, this historic building offers 159 modern rooms with contemporary architecture, elegant design and the best service. From some rooms you have a great view of the Douro River. Enjoy the breakfast buffet in the Forno Velho restaurant in the morning or a menu of traditional Portuguese cuisine in the evening. The NomadikLoungeBar offers excellent drinks, cocktails and innovative cuisine in a unique atmosphere. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from São Bento train and metro station.

Included services

Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

Double Occupancy 

€ 119 pp

incl. breakfast

Single Occupancy 

€ 199 pp

incl. breakfast

The Hotel da Música is integrated into the old market hall ‘Mercado do Bom Success‘ and is much more than a design hotel. It combines modernity and comfort at the same time, attaching great importance to culture, gastronomy and tradition. This creates new and attractive rooms with an atmosphere that is both contemporary and modern. As a building steeped in history, national heritage and architectural monument, the ‘Bom Successo‘ is today a building in which you can revel in the past.

Season 1: March - September 2024
Season 2: October, November 2024
 

Included services

Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

Season 1
Double Occupancy

€ 99 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 1
Single Occupancy

€ 159 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 2
Double Occupancy

€ 89 pp

incl. breakfast

Season 2
Single Occupancy

€ 139 pp

incl. breakfast

Ships on this cruise

A-ROSA ALVA

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A-ROSA ALVA