TravelOnly with Ken representing “Flavors of Portugal & spain” river cruise with AmaWaterways - Nov 11 to 24, 2026. We are accepting bookings now. Special offer ends on OR BEFORE April 30, 2025 based on sales and cabin availability. See more pricing information below.
Why Douro River Cruise
Out of the seven continents I've traveled, the Douro River holds a special place in my heart. Its breathtaking landscapes, centuries-old vineyards, and rich cultural heritage make it truly deserving of its name—the 'River of Gold.' The warmth of the Portuguese people, the incredible food, and the world-class wines create an experience that lingers long after the journey ends. I’m passionate about sharing this unforgettable adventure with family, friends, and fellow travelers who appreciate the beauty of Europe in its most authentic form. That’s why I offer Douro River cruises—to help others discover the magic of this extraordinary destination.
Why Traveling in November
Stunning Autumn Scenery: In November, the Douro Valley's vineyards display vibrant hues of gold, amber, and red, offering breathtaking landscapes unique to this season.
Fewer Crowds: With the summer rush over, November provides a more intimate experience, allowing travelers to explore charming villages and historic sites without the usual tourist bustle.
Comfortable Temperatures: The cooler autumn weather is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, making your journey through the Douro Valley even more enjoyable.
Wine Harvest Season: Autumn is synonymous with the grape harvest in the Douro Valley. Travelers can witness winemaking traditions and participate in wine tastings, experiencing the region's rich viticultural heritage firsthand.
Enhanced Value: Traveling during the shoulder season often means more favorable pricing and greater availability, providing excellent value without compromising on the experience.
Trip Overview
- Optional 3-night Lisbon pre-cruise (Nov 11 to 13)
- 7-night Douro River cruise (Nov 14 to 20)
- Optional 3-night Madrid post-cruise (Nov 21 to 23, hotel check out on Nov 24)
Cruise Ship - AmaVida
Explore AmaVida: https://www.amawaterways.ca/ships/amavida-river-cruise-ship
Pricing
TravelOnly With Ken Pricing Per Person Based on Double Occupancy:
- This special offer ends on OR BEFORE April 30, 2025. Contact TravelOnly with Ken to discuss options. Pricing and availability are based on stateroom category availability at the time of booking and are not guaranteed until a deposit is placed. Due to high demand, stateroom availability may change before updates are reflected.
- The deposit is C$500 per person, with C$250 refundable if cancellation is made 121 or more days before departure.
- Final payment due 90 days before sailing.
Compare with Other Cruise Lines (pricing is subject to change):
- Viking River Cruises: 2026 November 9-night river & land package (C$6,700), 3-night Madrid extension (C$1,799).
- Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: 2026 November 10-night river & land package (C$8,074) without Madrid extension.
What's Included
Spacious Staterooms
- 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with outside balconies)
- Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
- Desk and sitting area
- Bottled water replenished daily
An Array of Amenities
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
- Internet and Wi-Fi access
- Sun deck and pool
- Fitness room
- Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
- Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
Award-Winning Dining
- All onboard dining in a variety of venues
- Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
- Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
- Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
- Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
- Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
A World of Exploration
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
- Guided hikes
- Local Flavors tours
- Knowledgeable guides
- Personal headset for easy exploration
- Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
Land Program
- 3 nights hotel in Lisbon at the Intercontinental Lisbon (or similar), including city tour, Sintra excursion and daily breakfast
- Transfer from Lisbon to Porto via high-speed train
- Transfer from the ship in Vega Terrón to Salamanca with city tour and then onto Madrid
- 3 nights hotel in Madrid at the Westin Palace (or similar), including city tour, Toledo excursion and daily breakfast
Itinerary
Day 1 (November 11, 2026 Pre-Cruise)
Arrive in Lisbon, Portugal
Arrive in Lisbon and check in to your hotel.
Day 2 (November 12, 2026 Pre-Cruise)
Lisbon
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. (Breakfast is included)
Day 3 (November 13, 2026 Pre-Cruise)
Lisbon
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. (Breakfast is included)
Day 4 (November 14, 2026 Embarkation)
Lisbon - Porto
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. (Breakfast and dinner are included)
Day 5 (November 15, 2026)
Porto
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. (All meals are included)
Day 6 (November 16, 2026)
Entre-Os-Rios
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. (All meals are included)
Day 7 (November 17, 2026)
Régua
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. (All meals are included)
Day 8 (November 18, 2026)
Régua - Pinhão
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. (All meals are included)
Day 9 (November 19, 2026)
Pinhão
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. (All meals are included)
Day 10 (November 20, 2026)
Pinhão - Barca D'alva
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. (All meals are included)
Day 11 (November 21, 2026 Disembarkation)
Vega De Terrón - Salamanca - Madrid
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. (Breakfast and lunch are included)
Day 12 (November 22, 2026 Post-Cruise)
Madrid
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. (Breakfast is included)
Day 13 (November 23, 2026 Post-Cruise)
Madrid
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. (Breakfast is included)
Day 14 (November 24, 2026 Post-Cruise)
Depart Madrid
Check out of your hotel for your flight home. (Breakfast is included)
