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2025 Portugal Douro River Cruise
Riverboat

Portugal Douro River Cruise

May 14, 2025  -  May 21, 2025
  • Porto
  • Entre-os-Rios
  • Peso da Régua
  • Pocinho
  • Barca d’Alva/Salamanca
  • Caldas de Aregos/Amarante
Book Your Perfect Trip

Discover some of Portugal’s most legendary landscapes

Like a blue ribbon, threading through the green Douro Valley, the River Douro carries you through some of Portugal’s most legendary landscapes.

Meaning “River of Gold,” the Douro River lives up to its name by revealing priceless gems along sloping vineyards and sleepy villages where rugged landscapes have been tamed for centuries to produce a bounty of wines and cuisine. Be swept away by Douro’s timeless treasures and traditions, family farms and fevered Fado music, and mouth-watering culinary creations in the world’s oldest demarcated wine region.

Discover some of Portugal’s most legendary landscapes

Avalon Waterways Awards & Accolades

Voted Best in European River
Cruise Critic
Voted Best River Cruise Line Shore Excursions
Cruise Critic
Voted Best River Cruise Line Cabins
Cruise Critic

  • Activity Level

    Activity Level

    This trip requires some mobility without the use of a wheelchair or scooter, as most of the tours are walking tours for up to 3 hours, which may include walking on cobblestone streets and stairs. A ‘Gentle Walkers’ group is offered on most included walking tours, which accommodates those needing a little extra time and sometimes offers a shortened version of a tour, designed to encounter as few stairs as possible.

    If you are bringing a portable wheelchair or collapsible travel scooter, you must be able to collapse it and store it in your cabin. It cannot be used to get around the ship, only while off the ship on tours that are wheelchair/scooter accessible. On tours, the usefulness of a portable wheelchair or scooter may be limited because we will be navigating cobblestone streets with hard curbs (no curb cutouts) and stairs.

    If you have limited mobility, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you.

Itinerary

With Olivia and Avalon, you can enjoy a choice of included shore excursion experiences. Classic tours guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. Discovery tours are inspiring and interactive activities that allow you to immerse yourself in each culture you explore. Optional tours are also available to purchase and will not conflict with the timings of most included tours. Information will be available approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the trip.

  • Day 1Porto, PortugalWednesday, May 14, 2025

    Welcome to Portugal! Flights into Porto must arrive by 2 pm and guests must be on board by 5 pm. Your day in Porto is free to explore at your leisure. If you arrive early, you may drop off your luggage and choose to join an optional afternoon guided culinary tour. Experience some of Porto’s most famous sights and most delectable dishes with regional wine. Enjoy dinner and explore your riverboat on your first night on board.
    (-/-/D)

  • Day 2Entre Os Rios, PortugalThursday, May 15, 2025

    Portuguese Panoramas

    Choose from Discovery or Classic tours. With Discovery, step back in time with the walls of the Interpretation Center of the Romanesque with a fascinating introduction to its symbolism and architecture. Enjoy an excursion with an exclusive visit to one of the most iconic monasteries of the Romanesque era with entrance to a XIII century church and be enchanted by sounds of Gregorian Chant from the high choir. Or the Classic tour today takes you to a world of Celtic history and the reign of Cesar Augustus where five roads diverged to form an empire with a full-day guided tour of Braga. Marvel at the magnificent castle and San Miguel church in Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Celebrate your experience with a stop at one of the area’s many wine farms and enjoy a tasting. Sample green wine and famous pastries with stops en route to Régua.

    Overnight docking in Porto Antigo.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 3Peso Da Régua, PortugalFriday, May 16, 2025

    Pastoral Pleasures of Portugal

    Choose from Discovery or Classic today. With Discovery, you’ll experience life on one of the oldest farms in the Douro Valley with a personal tour by the owner of the house, including an olive oil and wine tasting. Or take the Classic guided walking tour of the charming town of Régua. With its religious architecture, narrow streets, beautiful tiles, and stained-glass window of Casa do Douro. Continue to Lamego to visit the cathedral, followed by a delicious tasting of bola de Lamego and sparkling wine in a local pastry shop. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy free time in Pinhão to browse the artisanal markets for woven textiles, terra cotta creations, and culinary delights, or consider joining an optional excursion to learn about the Douro Valley’s “liquid gold” at a traditional olive oil mill. This evening, consider an optional excursion to enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner hosted by the local farmers.

    Overnight docking in Pinhão.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 4Pocinho, PortugalSaturday, May 17, 2025

    Written in Stone

    Enjoy a relaxing cruise to Pocinho for a day in the Terra Quente region. Choose from a Discovery or Classic tour. Discover Vila Nova de Foz Côa at the eastern terminal of the legendary Douro Railway line. Marvel at the amazing archaeological site along the River Côa where a wealth of remarkable prehistoric rock paintings and carvings were discovered as the most significant collection of open-air Paleolithic figurations known today. Before returning to your riverboat, enjoy a tasting of the unique wine of the region. Or choose the Classic guided tour of Freixo de Numão, a charming village nestled between the nearby mountains. Visit a local farm for a delightful wine tasting where sustainable farming practices have recovered some of the region’s 100 original grape varieties.

    Overnight docking in Barca D’alva.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 5Barca D’Alva / Salamanca, PortugalSunday, May 18, 2025

    Today offers two Classic tours. Join a guided tour this morning to one of the most remote villages of the country, Freixo de Espada à Cinta village in the Douro International Natural Park, home to majestic birds of prey. Or get a taste of Spain with a full-day excursion to Salamanca. This Spanish city will take your breath away with its stunning streets and squares, featuring a feast for the eyes with Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and "Plateresque" architecture. Dive into a delicious dish of the traditional Spanish delicacy, tostón asado (traditional roast suckling pig). In the afternoon you might wish to join our optional excursion to enjoy a do-it-yourself workshop to learn how to bake traditional Florinhas (Portuguese pastries).

    Overnight docking in Pocinho.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 6Caldas De Aregos / Amarante, PortugalMonday, May 19, 2025

    Painted Tiles & Passionate Tunes

    During your morning sailing, a professional painter will guide you through the process of painting an azulejos (traditional Portuguese tile) to take home a piece of Portugal’s tradition. You may alternatively join an optional excursion to 18th-century Casa de Mateus—birthplace of Mateus Rosé wine and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Later, join the Classic guided sightseeing of Amarante—poised against a breathtaking backdrop of the great Serra do Marão mountain and the Tâmega River, which courses through the heart of the city and assortment of houses lining the riverbanks. In the evening, feel the passion of Portugal’s soulful and stirring Fado music during a visit with local musicians on board.

    Overnight docking in Porto.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 7Porto, PortugalTuesday, May 20, 2025

    Ancient Charm Meets Avant-Garde

    Choose from Classic or Active today. With Classic, you’ll enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue your experience with a ride to the riverside city of Matosinhos and up Avenida da Boavista to admire some of the modern charms of Porto—from ancient avenues to Avant-garde graffiti street art. Or go the Active route and take a scenic bike ride to pedal through picturesque surroundings from Porto to the Atlantic Coast. In the afternoon, you may choose to join in a guided optional excursion such as a scenic canal cruise on the Aveiro (Venice of Portugal) or explore a family-owned factory to witness the Portuguese art of cork and barrel production. Or spend time strolling through Porto’s cobblestone lanes, lovely shops, and tempting tapas bars before experiencing the energy of Porto’s buzzing nightlife.

    Overnight docking in Porto.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 8Porto, PortugaldisembarkWednesday, May 21, 2025

    Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
    (B)

*Itinerary is subject to change.

Entertainment

Each evening when you return to the Avalon Alegria, Olivia Artists and local performers will entertain you in the lounge with comedy and music, and a chance to gather at the end of your day.  The radiant and talented grammy nominated, Barbara Higbie will wow you with her multi-instrumental talents, and heartwarming songs.   And on comedy nights, from birdcalls to her fearless quick-witted humor, Poppy Champlin will help you to fill the ship with laughter.

Your Ship: Avalon Alegria

Explore Portugal's dazzling Douro River on one of Avalon's newest additions to its award-winning fleet of Suite Ships®. The Avalon Alegria delights river cruisers with exceptional experiences and the elegant yet relaxed luxury you've come to expect from Avalon Waterways. The Avalon Alegria certainly lives up to its name, meaning happiness, which flows from stem to stern on this 262-foot ship. The ship features two full decks of award-winning Panorama Suites, featuring wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform your living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony. The 200-square-foot Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, with Avalon's signature window-facing "Beds with a View." Onboard amenities include complimentary wifi access, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, an Adventure Center with complimentary active gear, and an Avalon Adventure Host to assist with active excursions and on board fitness classes and activities. Enjoy exceptional onboard cuisine, including Avalon Fresh® menu options, premium coffee, and spirits, and versatile FlexDining venues, including the casual Panorama Bistro, al fresco Sky Grill, or elegant glass-walled Dining Room. Make yourself at home in the Club lounge with a variety of coffees, teas, cold beverages, and pastries while settling in with your pick of books, cards, and board games. Relax and watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge for the perfect vantage point to peruse Portugal's stunning Douro Valley and vineyards. Stretch out on the Sky Deck with a mini swimming pool, premium lounge chairs, and shade system to relax while sailing through Portugal's most spectacular views!

Total Occupancy: 102

Your Ship: Avalon Alegria
  • Ship Amenities
    • An entirely non-smoking interior
    • Covered Observation Lounge
    • Elegant, contemporary design throughout
    • Beautiful bars and lounges
    • Sun deck with premium lounge chairs and shade awnings
    • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
    • Panoramic windows throughout the ship
    • Space to relax & unwind
    • Laundry service (not self-service; check pricing on board)
    • Fitness center
    • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
    • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate, and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
    • Elevator
    • Complimentary wi-fi
    • Included shore excursions with Local Guide, and all tipping to guides included
    • Headsets for shore excursions
    • Bikes, walking sticks, binoculars, daypacks
    • Maps for hiking, biking, and jogging routes
    • English-speaking crew
    • Remarkable service throughout the cruise
  • Room Amenities
    • Comfort Collection BedsSM
    • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
    • Bathrobes & slippers
    • Premium L'Occitane bath products
    • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
    • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
    • Individual climate control and in-room safe
    • Full-size closet and mirror
    • Additional under-bed storage
    • Well-stocked minibar
    • And, much more
  • Dining
    • Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients.
    • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal.
    • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room.
    • Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials.
    • Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast.
    • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
    • Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats.
    • Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts or cheese.
    • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
    • Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy, and allergy-free selections.
    • Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits*, cozy seating, panoramic windows, & dance floor.
    • Cocktails* with a view on the Sky Deck.
    • Specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day.

    *extra charge

Payment Plans

Two payment plan options are available when booking online or through a Travel Consultant:

1. Olivia Interest Free Payment Plans: Olivia payment plans must be paid in full six months or 180 days before your trip. If a reservation is made at the six-month mark or less, payment in full will be required unless otherwise noted.

2. Flex Pay Loans: Need to extend your payments over more time? Apply for a Flex Pay loan!

Cancellation Policy & Travel Insurance

Unexpected events can cause you to cancel your vacation. Because we are committed to this charter, we must strictly adhere to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Olivia Terms & Conditions. Transfer funds are nonrefundable and nontransferable from the point of sale forward.

Olivia recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected. Visit our Insurance page at olivia.com/travel-insurance for more information. For a travel insurance quote, more information or to purchase a protection plan, please call Olivia at 800-631-6277 and select option 1 for a Travel Consultant. You may also purchase insurance online after your checkout.

Cancellation Fees 

  • 365 days or more prior to trip date: on or before 5/15/2024

    Cancellation Penalty: 50% of trip cost

  • 0-364 days prior to trip date: 05/16/2024-5/14/2025

    Cancellation Penalty: 100% of trip cost (no refund)

Traveler Information

  • About Our Destination

    Being Gay in Europe

    The LGBTQ+ scene in Portugal is one of the most dynamic and accepting in all of Western Europe, especially in major cities like Porto.

    Climate

    In spring, the weather in this part of Europe has ranged from a chilly and rainy 53 degrees, to a sunny, 70 degrees! Plan to dress in layers and prepare for anything. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.

    Currency

    The Euro is the currency of Portugal. Check www.xe.com for current rates.

    Languages

    Portuguese is the official language in Portugal, but most people also speak English!

  • Before Your Trip

    Community: Joining the Online Trip Group

    If you'd like to chat with people who are going on the trip, join Olivia’s official 2025 Portugal Douro River Cruise group on Facebook.

    Olivia Honeymoons and Celebrations Registration

    Register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.

    Special Occasions

    If you will celebrate a birthday or any other special event during the week of your trip that you have not already told your Olivia Travel Consultant about, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.

    Specific Needs: Medical, Mobility, Dietary, and Others

    If you have medical, mobility, or dietary requirements that you have not already told your Olivia Travel Consultant about, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.

    Passport and Visa

    If you are a US citizen, you will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. You will not need to get a visa.

    If you are not a US citizen, you will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip and you should check with both your country’s consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to determine whether you need an entry visa or other additional documentation.

    IMPORTANT

    The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) sometime in mid-2025. ETIAS is designed as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling from 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. This system is being implemented to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers visiting the European Union.

    Starting mid-2025, if you are planning to visit one of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you will be required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application. This requirement will apply to travelers who do not currently need a visa for entry into these countries. While this might be an additional step in your travel preparations, it is designed to improve your overall experience by reducing waiting times and enhancing security measures. You can fill out your applications HERE once the ETIAS  site goes live. Please be aware that most ETIAS applications will incur a processing fee of 7 Euros. .It is free for people over the age of 70. These ETIAS are good for up to 3 years with unlimited entries.

    Vacation Stretchers

    We will not be offering vacation stretchers in Porto.

    Vaccinations

    Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” followed by “Vaccinations.”

  • Travel and Arrival

    Air Travel

    Airports

    You will need to fly into and out of Porto International Airport (OPO). We encourage all guests to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.

    Discounts

    Olivia is proud to partner with Delta Airlines. The Delta Airlines discount code NM3S9 is good for up to 10% off and applies to flights in and out of Porto (OPO). Dates of travel are May 6 to May 29, 2025. Airfare can be booked no earlier than 11 months before the trip. Click here to book online or call the Delta Meeting Network at (800) 328-1111 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NM3S9. Not all fares are eligible for use with this discount code. Fare rules will determine eligibility.

    We are proud to partner with United Airlines. The United Airlines discount code: Z Code: ZPTZ and Agreement code: 877055 are good for up to 10% off and applies to flights into and out of Oporto (OPO). Dates of travel are May 8, 2025 to May 27, 2025. Airfare can be booked no earlier than 11 months before the trip. This reservation can be completed by visiting united.com/meetings (enter the Meeting Code ZPTZ877055 in the Promotions and Certificates box). Or by calling the United Reservations Meetings Desk at (800) 426-1122 and providing the Z code and agreement code (a service fee will apply). You can also choose to book through your preferred travel agency and provide the discount program information. Discount level applicable based on 1st letter of published tariff fare purchased.

    Flight Arrival and Departure Times

    Your flight into Porto International Airport (OPO) should arrive by 2 pm and no later than 5 pm on May 14, 2025. Your flight can depart anytime on May 21, 2025 since we overnight in Porto.

    Luggage Allowances

    Airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances. For ease of travel in Europe, we recommend bringing no more than one large piece and a smaller carry-on.

    Ship Embarkation

    Check-in 

    Official check-in will be available in the afternoon. For early arriving flights, you can board the ship, drop off your luggage, and enjoy the lounge with small snacks and coffee, tea, and water. You can also venture out on your own to enjoy Porto. Suites and staterooms will be available to access after 4 pm.

    Port Location and Transfer to the Ship

    The ship will be docked in Porto. Exact location will be shared in your final trip documents which will be sent 2-3 weeks prior to departure. Airport transfers to the ship are not included. Please plan to arrive to the ship by 3:30 pm.

  • During Your Trip

    Your Ship

    Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Alegria features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary wifi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. 

    Dining

    Fine dining on the Avalon Alegria features European cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, and dinner is offered as sit-down menu service with open seating.

    Electricity

    The cabins have 110- and 220-volt electricity. Adapters should have 2 round prongs (type C).

    Entertainment & Programming

    We will bring two Olivia entertainers to perform on several evenings, as well as enjoy some of local entertainment along the way.

    River cruising is all about port destinations. Don’t expect the same ship-activity packed schedule you might find on a big ship or resort! On a typical day, following breakfast we will enjoy a walking tour of the new city we have arrived in, followed by lunch on board and either an optional extra walking (or other) tour or free time to explore. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a fun and informative lecture on the history of the area or take that well-deserved nap. It’s your vacation! In the evenings, we will be delighted by local entertainers or one of our two Olivia artists. After the shows, enjoy our riverboat version of “Club O,” with our talented staff taking turns being a “guest DJ” to provide dancing music in the main lounge. Or you may choose to get to bed early for your next full day!

    Excursions

    A walking and/or city tour is included in each of the ports visited. Optional tours, ranging in price from approximately €39 to €79, may be booked on board and will not conflict with the included tours.

    Gratuities

    Gratuities are provided to your Avalon cruise director, cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d’, reception, bar staff and other-behind-the-scenes crew members and are included in the cost of the cruise.

    Tipping is also included for the local guides and bus drivers on included tours and optional tours. Should you receive exceptional service and wish to tip more, this is completely at your discretion.

    Internet, Email, and Fax

    Complimentary wifi is included on board in public spaces and in your cabin for use on your personal digital devices (phone, laptop, or tablet computer). There is an onboard internet center with two desktop computers for guest use. Faxes can be sent from the reception desk for a charge.

    Laundry and Dry Cleaning

    Laundry and pressing services are available; prices will be available onboard the ship. Dry-cleaning and self-service laundry facilities are not available.

    Medical Services

    The ship will be minutes away from hospitals when we are docked and will be close to local towns when we are cruising along the river. The ship does not have an onboard doctor.

    Money: On-Board Purchases

    The currency used on board is Euros (€). All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you will create when you first check in. Cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Please check with the ship’s front office for further details.

    Phone

    Each cabin has a phone for calling other cabins and for making international and local calls. There is an additional fee to use this phone for international or local calls; cost is available on board. We suggest that you check with your cell phone provider for international service.

    Smoking Policy

    The interior of the Avalon Alegria is entirely nonsmoking. Smoking is not permitted in your cabins or on your cabin’s Open-Air SM balcony. A smoking area will be designated on an outdoor deck.

  • After Your Trip

    Transfers to the Airport

    Transfers are not included. The ship will be happy to assist in arranging for a taxi at a specific time. Payment for the taxi can be made with the driver.

    Vacation Stretchers

    We will not be offering vacation stretchers in Porto.

Personalized Programs on this Trip

  • Solo Travelers

    Solo Travelers