Golden Horizons: A Douro River Journey Through Portugal

Flowing like a ribbon through northern Portugal, the Douro Valley offers one of Europe’s most picturesque and culturally rich cruising experiences. Known as the “River of Gold,” the Douro reveals a landscape shaped over centuries where terraced vineyards climb rolling hillsides and small villages preserve traditions rooted in agriculture, craftsmanship, and community.

Your journey begins in Porto, a vibrant riverside city known for its historic architecture and deep connection to Portugal’s wine heritage. From here, you’ll sail through the heart of the valley, discovering a region recognized as the world’s oldest demarcated wine area. Along the way, you’ll encounter a blend of scenic beauty and cultural richness — from vineyard estates and local farms to timeless towns where daily life moves at a slower, more intentional pace.

Onboard the Avalon Alegria, the experience is designed to immerse you in both comfort and destination. Each day offers opportunities to connect more deeply with the region, whether through local cuisine, regional wines, or cultural expressions like Fado, Portugal’s soulful and storytelling musical tradition.

The Douro is also a destination that evolves with the seasons. Spring and fall bring softer colors and a quieter atmosphere, while warmer months highlight sunlit vineyards and lively riverbanks. Depending on when you travel, you may even witness or take part in traditional harvest moments, where the region’s winemaking heritage comes to life firsthand.

This journey offers more than scenic cruising — it’s an exploration of Portugal’s identity, shaped by its landscapes, traditions, and welcoming spirit.

Package Includes:

6 Ports | 2 Countries | 6 Excursions | Round Trip

• $250 savings per person (regular published fare: $4,807 per person)
• Free pre-paid gratuities (value: $156 per person)
• 6 shore excursions 
• Internet and Wi-Fi access 
• 24-hour specialty coffees, teas, and bottled water 
• Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner 

Itinerary (March 24 - 31,  2027):

• Day 1: Porto, Portugal
• Day 2: Porto – Porto Antigo Excursion Braga & Guimaraes, Portugal
• Day 3: Peso Da Regua, Portugal
• Day 4: Pocinho, Portugal
• Day 5: Barca D’alva Excursion to Salamanca, Spain
• Day 6: Ferradosa – Leverinho, Portugal
• Day 7: Porto, Portugal
• Day 8: Porto, Portugal