Two iconic cities, Lisbon and Madrid, provide the perfect start and end to a grand journey through Portugal and Spain.
Cosmopolitan Lisbon offers a treasure trove of Old World architecture and a wealth of stories about its famed explorers; and then there is the seaside towns of Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal and a favourite summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for more than 500 years.
Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey before visiting some of Spain’s glorious cities: the golden-hued city of Salamanca, the ancient walled city of Toledo, and cosmopolitan Madrid, renowned for its world-class museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars.
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
DAY 1 – APRIL 1, 2026
Lisbon
Arrive in Lisbon and check in to your hotel.
DAY 2 – APRIL 2, 2026
Lisbon – “City of Seven Hills” tour
One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Lisbon stretches across several hills along the Tagus River. On your escorted tour, you’ll see Belem Tower, a fortified four-story tower made of limestone, and visit the Late Gothic Jerónimos Monastery, the burial place of many Portuguese kings and heroes. You will also taste a typical Portuguese pastry, Pastéis de Belém, before going to Discoveries Monument, built in honor of Portugal’s greatest maritime explorers. (B)
DAY 3 – APRIL 3, 2026
Lisbon - Royal Sintra excursion with Pena Palace visit
Enjoy a morning excursion to Serra de Sintra, one of the most picturesque mountain villages in Portugal, a former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family and a source of inspiration for Lord Byron and generations of other artists and poets. Your guided tour includes a visit to the Pena National Palace, a fairy tale castle situated high on a rocky peak, followed by free time to explore on your own. (B)
DAY 4 – APRIL 4, 2026
Lisbon - Motorcoach transfer to Porto - Tomar Castle Visit
Porto - Embarkation
Check out of your hotel and take a motorcoach ride through the Portuguese countryside. Stop in Tomar and visit the castle of the Knights Templar, the walls of which envelop the elaborate Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 12th century boasting spectacular frescoes and azulejos (iconic blue painted tiles). Afterward, continue to Porto where you’ll board your ship. (B,D)
DAY 5 – APRIL 5, 2026
Porto – “ City of Bridges” tour OR Porto hike |Port Wine Tasting
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. In the afternoon, you’ll also enjoy a tasting of Port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 – APRIL 6, 2026
Entre – os – Rios | Lunch at local quinita
Entre-os-Rios translates to “between the rivers,” and this small village is, quite appropriately, located at the confluence of the Tâmega and Douro rivers. For an authentic slice of Douro River life, enjoy a traditional “home-cooked” meal at a local quinta. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 – APRIL 7, 2026
Regua - Mateus Palace & Gardens Excursion
Discover the Baroque magic of Mateus Palace and Gardens. Inside, gaze at the beautiful 16th- to 18th-century furnishings that decorate the palace, as well as the distinctive paintings and a ceiling of intricately carved wood. Hear the tale of Mateus Rose Wine and spend some time exploring the palace’s magnificent gardens, considered some of the most beautiful in Portugal. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 – APRIL 8, 2026
Regua - Lamego city tour and Bolas tasting OR Holy Staircase hike and Bolas tasting
Pinhao - Local quinta wine tasting
Venture to the town of Lamego, where you’ll see the “Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies” on a city tour or climb the 686-step “Holy Staircase,” beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, to the top on a guided hike. Whichever excursion you choose will conclude with a tasting of local specialties such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão, where a wine tasting will be waiting for you in a local quinta. (B,L,D)
DAY 9 – APRIL 9, 2026
Pinhao – Pinhao train station hike | Quinta de Avessada lunch
Embark on a leisurely walk to the charming Pinhão Railway Station, a stunning train station along the Douro Line, one of the most iconic rail journeys in Portugal. The station’s main building is revered for its 25 tile panels, all in shades of blue, that depict scenes from the Douro region. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta de Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. The warm, spirited hospitality of this family-run quinta is quite special as you will discover. Several family members play in a band, and while dining, they will entertain you. Quinta de Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 – APRIL 10, 2026
Pinhao – Scenic cruising
Barca d’Alva – Castelo Rodrigo tour with tasting of regional fare OR Castelo Rodrigo hike with tasting of regional fare
Begin the day with a scenic cruise through Pinhão on the way to Barca d’Alva. Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline style windows. Prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 – APRIL 11, 2026
Vega de Terron – Disembarkation
Salamanca – Full day excursion | Transfer to Madrid
Madrid – Hotel check-in
Disembark the ship in Vega de Terrón and board a motorcoach to Madrid. En route to Madrid, you’ll first stop in Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla y León region. You will have free time to explore on your own, followed by an escorted city tour that includes the New Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Later in the day, you’ll check into your hotel in Madrid. (B, L)
DAY 12 – APRIL 12, 2026
Madrid – City Tour
Discover the vibrant capital of Spain on your city tour that takes in all the top sights, including the elaborate Royal Palace, Buen Retiro Park, Puerto del Sol, Mercado de San Miguel and Plaza Mayor. (B)
DAY 13 – APRIL 13, 2026
Madrid – Toledo Excursion
Journey to the walled city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Spain. The city is a treasure trove of artistic riches with its winding streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. As part of your escorted tour, you will visit the Cathedral of Toledo as well as the Synagogue Santa María La Blanca in the Jewish Quarter. (B)
DAY 14 – APRIL 14, 2026
Madrid – Return Home
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (B)
**DISCLAIMER: Itinerary subject to change.
Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.
ADDITIONAL SAVINGS FOR ALL BOOKINGS MADE BY DECEMBER 30, 2024
BOOK BY DECEMBER 30, 2024 AND RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY SEDAN SERVICE TO/FROM TORONTO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT*
*must reside within 60km of Toronto International airport
Price includes 3 Nights Lisbon Pre Cruise Package + 7 Night Douro River Cruise + 3 Nights Madrid Post Cruise Package
A Tour leader from Further Afield Travel and Tours will escort the group based on a minimum of 20 guests booked through Further Afield Travel and Tours.
Rates per person based on double occupancy including all taxes. Inquire about single rates.
Category A - CAD$11,838 | Group Price CAD$11,538 | Book by December 30, 2024 and pay CAD$11,118 per person
Category B - CAD$11,442 | Group Price CAD $11,142 | Book by December 30, 2024 and pay CAD$10,742 per person
Category D - CAD$9,001 | Group Price CAD$8,701 | Book by December 30, 2024 and pay CAD$8,423 per person
Category E - CAD$8,541 | Group Price CAD$8,241 | Book by December 30, 2024 and pay CAD$7,986 per person
Deposit of $500 per person required to secure your spot.
Balance is due December 30, 2025
Disclaimer: We do our utmost to ensure that the information posted on our website is correct at time of publication, however trip details and promotions are subject to change without notice by the suppliers and operators involved. We update the information as soon as possible when changes are advised to us, however we cannot assume responsibility for such changes made by the suppliers and operators. Terms and conditions per supplier(s). Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor. Contact us for the most up to date pricing and availability.
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