Limited Time Offer: 16-Day Spain and Portugal Foodie Tour + 10-Night Scenic Douro River Cruise

Awake to your first full day in Spain and step into the hotel’s El Bosc Garden Restaurant for a fresh, a la carte breakfast.

Insider Experience: Catalan cooking class

This morning, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on Spanish cooking class, located in the heart of Barcelona’s old town. Under the guidance of knowledgeable locals, you’ll cook up a tantalising paella dish.

As you prepare an authentic Spanish feast, you’ll learn the techniques behind traditional tapas, and discover the secrets of a classic Spanish dessert. This will afford you a deeper appreciation of the flavours and dishes to come throughout your Spanish experience.

As timers ring out and your efforts turn golden-brown, sit together with the fruits of your labour, accompanied by excellent local wines. You’ll leave with access to each recipe and newfound skills to recreate the magic of Spanish cuisine back home.

Next, it’s time for a half-day guided city tour that unveils the artistic soul of Barcelona, blending modernist architecture, culinary heritage and the city’s Mediterranean flair. Discover how the city became a canvas for two of Spain’s greatest creatives, witnessing the whimsical, nature-inspired architecture of Antoni Gaudí and the revolutionary cubist vision of Pablo Picasso.

Beginning with a scenic drive along Passeig de Gràcia, home to Gaudí’s masterpieces Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, your expert guide will reveal how these masters shaped Barcelona’s identity and left an indelible mark on its streets, buildings and cultural landscape. Afterwards, you’ll reach the majestic Sagrada Familia, his unfinished basilica and a symbol of the city’s creative spirit – with views over Montjuïc Hill, the Gothic Quarter, and the vibrant Port Vell waterfront along the way.

If the spires call to you as they have to millions of cultural pilgrims and architectural aficionados, this afternoon may be the perfect time to explore the sacred site and even ascend its great spires. Enjoy the anticipation of stepping through its hallowed doorways to witness how light dances through the stained-glass windows, transforming the interior into a kaleidoscope of colour. Tree-like columns soar overhead to create an impossibly tall forest canopy effect, dotted with subtle touches of intricate meaning. When you visit, be sure to indulge a free audio tour to appreciate the full scale and sanctity of Gaudi’s ‘Cathedral for the Poor’.

Tonight, dinner is yours at leisure.

Bid farewell to Barcelona this morning and journey towards Spain’s most celebrated wine region. En route, stop in the historic city of Zaragoza, where layers of Roman, Moorish and Christian heritage converge along the banks of the Ebro River.

Explore the ancient Roman ruins that whisper tales of Caesaraugusta, the city’s former name, before making your way to the breathtaking Basilica del Pilar. Step inside this baroque masterpiece to admire frescoes painted by Goya himself and learn the legend of the Virgin Mary’s miraculous appearance.

After lunch at your leisure in Zaragoza, continue your journey through the rolling hills and vine-covered landscapes of La Rioja.

As you arrive in Spain’s premier wine country, check-in to the stunning Palacio Tondon, La Rioja Brinas, an exquisitely restored 16th-century noble palace that seamlessly blends historic grandeur with a-la-mode luxury. With its elegant stone facades, original architectural details and refined interiors, this boutique haven offers an intimate escape in the heart of Rioja wine country. Better yet: the centuries-old size of this intimate accommodation means your group of foodies will likely fill its books.

This evening, dinner is at leisure however recommended is the hotel’s Restaurante Gran Reserva. The region yields vegetables such as artichokes, cardoons and borage, while the southern hills sustain local livestock for Camerana beef and lamb chops. La Rioja is also known for its seafood such as salted cod dishes (locally, bacalao), paired perfectly with a view over the Ebro River.

Aside from the food, views and atmosphere, the best part of any hotel restaurant is the short walk back to your room, giving you plenty of rest in a remarkable slice of Spanish accommodation.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 5.5 hours

Wake to the tranquil beauty of Palacio Tondon, La Rioja Brinas and enjoy the hotel’s leisurely buffet breakfast before preparing for another tasty experience.

Insider Experience: Finca La Emperatriz Wine Tasting & Lunch

Today you’ll journey to Finca La Emperatriz, the stunning 101-hectare estate of Hermanos Hernaiz, where generations of winemaking tradition unfold. Stroll through meticulously tended vineyards with expert guides to introduce you to the art and passion of Riojan viticulture, sharing the secrets behind every grape and the terroir that makes this region legendary.

Following your vineyard walk, settle in to taste four of the estate’s most popular wines, each one a testament to the family’s craft and dedication. Sit down to lunch in El Pabellón, the estate’s most spectacular dining space. Housed in a beautifully restored barn, naturally lit with soaring timber beams, this venue creates an atmosphere that is at once intimate and grand, rustic and refined.

An authentic Riojan feast is prepared with premium local ingredients: a generous board of traditional cold cuts (pork loin, cheese and chorizo), black pudding with peppers, leeks in vinaigrette, braised meats, Rioja-style potatoes and pears in red wine. Every course is paired with the estate’s own Jardín de La Emperatriz wines, capturing the soul of La Rioja.

Return to Palacio Tondon, La Rioja Brinas with the afternoon at your leisure. Perhaps wander through the charming village of Brinas, where narrow streets wind past traditional stone houses and locals gather in quiet plazas. Just across the Ebro River lies the historic town of Haro, the wine capital of La Rioja Alta, where you can explore its atmospheric old quarter, browse family-run wine shops or simply enjoy a coffee in a sunny square.

After a light breakfast (leaving plenty of room for a food-filled day ahead), leave the vineyards of La Rioja behind as you travel onwards to the dramatic Basque coastline. Your route takes you through the charming fishing village of Getaria, a picturesque harbour town clinging to the slopes above the Bay of Biscay. This historic port – birthplace of the first explorer to circumnavigate the globe, Juan Sebastián Elcano – is renowned for its fresh seafood and the unique txakoli wine produced on its surrounding hillsides.

There may be no better place to pair the best seafood and wine of the Basque coastline than Balearri. This famed restaurant built right onto the beachfront has served regionally renowned produce for more than 30 years and today’s lunch will showcase the flavours that make it a must-dine location. The setting is wholly unpretentious, but the flavours will blow you away. After learning about local winemaking traditions the day prior, you’ll be well-placed to appreciate the quality of Balearri’s local txakoli as it washes down tasty mouthfuls of grilled scorpionfish, artichoke, octopus and local delicacy cococha.

Insider Experience: Pintxos Crawl with Basque Burnt Cheesecake

As dusk falls, embark on an unforgettable pintxos crawl, the most sought-after eateries in all San Sebastian, La Viña – a place that attracts thousands of fellow foodies for one small but significant slice of local lore. “No visit to San Sebastian is complete without a big slice of utterly morish burnt Basque cheesecake from our friend Santi at La Vina,” says Gary. This institution is the irrefutable birthplace of the dessert, where you’ll taste the original that launched a thousand imitations and hear the story behind this incidental creation.

Next, head off with your local guide to Bretxa Market to sample the building blocks of Basque cuisine: premium slices of jamon iberico, smoky chorizo, artisan regional cheeses, briny olives, golden olive oil and the classic gilda.

Then, dive into the heart of the Old Town and wind through narrow streets to Fermin Calbeton Kalea, San Sebastian’s most celebrated pintxo street. Here, hop between four carefully chosen bars – from time-honoured institutions that have perfected their craft over generations to in-vogue favourites that push the boundaries of this miniature art form.

The pintxos you enjoy throughout the evening serve as your dinner, so you can graze, explore and experience San Sebastian the way locals do. Afterward, the night is yours to continue discovering this enchanting city freely.

Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours

This morning, enjoy breakfast before a lavish morning sampling wine and gazing upon flourishing Spanish vineyards.

Insider Experience: Txakoli Wine Tasting

Head into Basque wine country with a visit to Hiruzta Winery in Hondarribia on the French border. This family-run estate, born from the dream of father Asensio Rekalde and his two sons Txarli and Angel, has revived a winemaking tradition that dates back to 1186.

Enjoy a morning tour of the estate while learning about the unique characteristics of txakoli – the crisp, slightly sparkling white wine that is quintessentially Basque – before settling in for a tasting of Hiruzta’s own acclaimed efforts. Each sip is paired with the region’s finest produce – everything from jamon and local cheeses to confit pork rib and Basque ‘pantxineta’ made with moreish almond and custard – appreciate a moment with wines that represent centuries of viticultural heritage. Make sure to leave room for lunch – it’s an experience few will ever have the pleasure of tasting.

Insider Experience: Lunch at a Private Gastronomic Society

This afternoon, it’s time of one of the most exclusive and authentic aspects of Basque culture: lunch at a private gastronomic society. These member-only culinary clubs are the beating heart of the region’s food traditions, where members gather to cook, share meals and preserve timeless techniques and recipes. Gary claims to have enjoyed one of the most memorable dishes he’s ever tasted – a magnificent monkfish.

Your access to one of these closed-door societies is a privilege rarely afforded to outsiders. You will be welcomed into this intimate, convivial space and dine on traditional Basque dishes prepared with pride and passion. Toast with crisp txakoli and local cider to experience la buena vida in true San Sebastian style. This is Basque culture at its most genuine and generous.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure and reminisce on an incredible day of fine food, wine and company.

This morning, take one last look at the Basque coast before embarking on your journey south, into the heart of Spain’s vast and historic heartland, Castilla y Leon. The landscape transforms as you travel – from green coastal hills to the golden plains of the Meseta.

Along the way, stop in the medieval city of Burgos. Famed for its Gothic architecture, you’ll delve into its fascinating heritage as you step inside the jaw-dropping Burgos Cathedral. Regarded as one of the greatest works of French Gothic architecture, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos was constructed over near 350 years. As you walk through its historic halls, take time to study the intricate craftsmanship of its stained-glass windows, as well as its impressive collection of artworks.

Continue to Ribera del Duero, the legendary wine country that produces some of Spain’s most powerful and elegant red wines. Here, resilient vines dig deep into limestone soils, and the extreme continental climate – scorching summers and harsh winters – produces wines of terrific concentration and character.

Check into the breathtaking Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena, a meticulously restored 12th-century Cistercian monastery that stands as one of Europe’s best-preserved. This exclusive five-star wellness retreat was a regional first and rises majestically from the town’s heart surrounded by vineyards and fragrant pine forests.

“This property is stunning; a rich history beautifully preserved through a luxurious renovation with every detail carefully thought through,” says Gary. “We loved the kitchen garden brimming with seasonal produce and our lamb cooked over an open fire was truly wonderful.”

In these historic halls, each room incorporates original architectural features such as exposed stone walls, soaring vaulted ceilings and elegant arches, all complemented by vintage furnishings and contemporary luxuries. This is a place where centuries of monastic tranquillity meet modern indulgence, like a 2000-square-metre thermal spa fed by natural hot springs. These mineral-rich thermal waters, first discovered by monks in the 12th century and used to irrigate the countryside, now flow through thermal pools, spas, water curtains and contrast circuits to promote deep wellbeing for an idyllic Spanish spa treatment.

Insider Experience: Dinner at Monasterio de Valbuena Restaurant

This evening, gather for dinner at the monastery restaurant, where an executive chef crafts seasonal, slow-cooked Castilian flavours that honour the region’s rustic culinary heritage. The star of the show: lechazo asado – traditional suckling lamb roasted to perfection in a wood-fired oven, its skin crackling and golden, the meat impossibly tender and fragrant with rosemary and thyme.

With full stomachs and hearts content, enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 3.5 hours

This morning, venture to a hidden gem of Ribera del Duero’s Golden Mile for a special wine tasting experience.

Insider Experience: Ribera del Duero Wine Tasting Experience

Sampling a selection of wines, you’ll discover why the region is so renowned for its exceptional wines. This is Spain’s most celebrated wine country, a place where Tempranillo vines (known locally as Tinto Fino) sprawl along the ancient Duero River at almost 900 meters above sea level. Here, hot summer days acquiesce to cool nights, leading to the perfect conditions for Spain’s ‘noble grape’. There’s no finer introduction to Spain’s most treasured drop: enjoy a glass with an included lunch at a local winery, then tour the picturesque vineyard rows and learn about the region’s legendary terroir, uniquely loaded with limestone, chalk and marl.

Following your vineyard exploration, return to Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena with the afternoon and evening entirely at your leisure.

After a leisurely breakfast at the monastery, take a moment to remember the tranquil vineyards of Ribera del Duero before the tour continues to Spain’s vibrant capital. As the tour rolls along, notice the scenery change from lush wine country to the sprawling metropolis of Madrid.

Insider Experience: Enjoy Matt and Gary’s Favourite Churros

En route, visit Matt and Gary’s two favourite churrerias, each with its own devoted following and unique take on Spain’s famed sweet treat. “Some things we take very seriously, like discovering Spain’s best churros,” says Gary. “Forget the TikTok tourist queues and follow us to churros heaven!”

Watch as golden loops of fried dough emerge from hot oil at each location, some dusted with sugar, others left plain for dipping into thick, rich chocolate. Compare textures and debate which spot deserves the crown.

Continue to Madrid, arriving in the early afternoon with time to settle into your accommodation at the JW Marriott Madrid. Located in the heart of the city’s Canalejas district, this five-star haven offers renowned comfort just steps from Madrid’s most celebrated landmarks, world-class shopping and acclaimed dining scene.

Travel time: Driving – approx. two hours

Your final full day in Spain begins with one last adventure through the capital’s historic heart.

Insider Experience: Tapas Walking Tour Through Historic Madrid

Start your morning with a signature tapas walking tour that weaves Madrid’s rich history through its vibrant food culture. Begin in the city’s oldest quarters, where centuries-old stories are written in stone. Stroll past the magnificent Royal Palace, through Plaza de Ramales and down the atmospheric alleys of Calle Mayor, as each corner reveals another layer of Madrid’s fascinating past.

First, dive into an iconic local taberna, featuring Spanish comfort food and house-made red vermut straight from the taberna’s own vineyards. Then, stop at a curated selection of Matt and Gary’s favourite bistros for a progressive tasting of classic tapas and sweet bites.

Continue on to Mercado de Jamón Ibérico, where delicate slices of Spain’s finest ham are paired with a glass of vermut – the quintessential Madrid aperitif. Here you’ll share an Iberian ham board loaded with loin, salchichón and chorizo, matched wonderfully with an olive oil tasting. “For me this tour is all about getting a handle on the different variations in jamon quality and how very different they taste,” says Matt. “It’s eye-opening and you’ll leave with a whole new respect for this lauded Spanish ham.”

Next, head to Café La Plaza, a light-filled spot right by the best-known Plaza Mayor. Here you’ll be wooed with the classics, including gildas in olive oil, creamy white shrimp salad with quail eggs and the region’s excellent white wine.

Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth at Pastelería El Riojano, a confectionery treasure that has been crafting traditional pastries since 1855. Sample delicate napolitanas, flaky bartolillos and other sugary delights that have satisfied Madrileños for generations. Here a steaming cup of hot chocolate and warm bartolillo (Madrid pastry filled with custard cream, deep-fried and lashed with icing sugar) await.

While you won’t be hungry, guests wishing to kick on ahead are encouraged to head on their own to the nearby Churrería San Ginés, a legendary institution where you’ll have the chance to compare their famous churros with yesterday’s discoveries and settle any lasting debates.

Your final night in Spain is at leisure, leaving you to stroll the humming streets of Madrid or rest in your room before tomorrow’s journey to Portugal.

After breakfast, say adios to Spain as you meet your guide in the hotel lobby for the drive to Porto, an area known for its lively atmosphere, architecture and eateries.

Along the way, break up the journey with a stop in Salamanca where the group will wander through its historic university centre. There is no shortage of locally cured meat in this golden city, famous for its 18th-century Plaza, Cathedral and University. Sample local specialities such as chanfaina, bollo maimon and beautifully salted Iberian ham.

Your first evening in Porto is at leisure. Use this time to get your bearings in the lively coastal city. Around countless corners lie UNESCO Heritage-listed treasures, from bridges and religious sites to the vineyards that produce that famous sweet, red elixir – port wine.

Travel time: Driving – approx. six hours

After breakfast, embark on a delicious journey through Porto’s culinary landscape. This is Porto at its most authentic – where centuries-old recipes are perfected in neighbourhood cafes, port wine flows from ancient cellars and locals gather to celebrate the simple pleasures of exceptional food.

Insider Experience: Matt Preston’s Porto Food Trail

Begin your morning at Café 55, a beloved local institution where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of Portugal’s most iconic pastry. Watch impossibly flaky pastel de nata (custard tarts) emerge fresh from the oven with perfectly caramelised tops.

Continue to Francesinha Café, where you’ll tackle Porto’s most indulgent creation: the francesinha. This towering sandwich is not for the faint of heart, stuffed with layers of cured meats, steak and linguica sausage, then smothered in melted cheese and a rich beer-tomato sauce. Decadent and delicious, this is a guaranteed highlight from Matt’s itinerary.

Pause at the legendary Majestic Café for a photo opportunity. This stunning Art Nouveau gem, with its ornate mirrors, leather banquettes and Belle Époque grandeur, has been serving Porto’s social elite since 1922. While you’re here, perhaps order a bica (Portuguese espresso) and soak in the old-world glamour (at own expense).

Sample a warming bowl of caldo verde, Portugal’s beloved kale and chorizo soup, before making your final stop at Cervejaria Gazela. This no-frills institution is famous for one thing: cachorrinhos, smaller “little dog” sandwiches that pack all the flavour of a francesinha into a more manageable package. Locals have been queuing here for decades, and one bite will show you why. “These “cachorrinhos” are excellent beer food so wash them down with a glass of local stout or a fino or mini of Super Bock. Also experiment across the menu trying local delicacies like a pica pau (“woodpecker”) or a prego roll” suggests Matt.

Following today’s foodie adventure, head to the riverside and board an intimate vessel for a leisurely cruise along the Douro River. Glide beneath the city’s six iconic bridges, past the colourful Ribeira district and the terraced port wine lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia. As you drift along the gentle current, your guide will share stories of Porto’s maritime history and the centuries-old tradition of transporting port wine down from the Douro Valley in traditional rabelo boats.

The evening is yours to explore as you like. Perhaps return to a neighbourhood that caught your eye during the day, discover a hidden tasca (tavern) for dinner, or people-watch by the river.

Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore Porto at your own pace. Sleep in, linger over breakfast or venture out to discover corners of the city you haven’t yet explored. Perhaps visit the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores with its crimson staircase and neo-Gothic facade, or shop like a local at the Bolhao Market for fresh produce and flowers.

Insider Experience: Lunch at Casa de Chá da Boa Nova

Around midday, your journey continues on the scenic coastal drive to one of Matt Preston’s most inspired selections: Casa de Chá da Boa Nova. This triumphant dining experience could earn its two Michelin stars on the unobstructed Atlantic views alone, but the food still outshines.

Perched dramatically on the rocky coastline of Leca da Palmeira, this architectural masterpiece climbs from the shores of Boa Nova Beach and emerges from dramatic granite cliffs. Originally conceived as a teahouse in the 1960s, it has since been transformed to house the brilliance of Chef Rui Paula, as he and his team translate the finest flavours of the waves into spectacular dishes.

Settle into the minimalist dining room, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the wild Atlantic Ocean. Here, receive a tasting menu celebrating Portugal’s freshest seafood, seasonal vegetables and unexpected flavour combinations of land and sea. “This is simply one of the world’s great restaurants for lunch. Eating here is a beautiful adventure but never loses sight of the importance of impeccable local produce and lip-smacking deliciousness. I love it,” says Matt

Later, return to Porto for the rest of your afternoon and evening at leisure.

Travel time: Driving – approx. one hour

After breakfast, bid farewell to Porto and embark on a leisurely journey south to Lisbon, with two delicious stops both carefully curated by Matt Preston to showcase Portugal’s rich confectionery traditions. Matt says “you won’t be rushing as a couple of historic stops will show you the reasons behind Portugal’s impressive sweet pastry culture and it’s connection to the monasteries and nunneries of the country.”

Your first stop is the historic university city of Coimbra, perched on a hill overlooking the Mondego River. Here, centuries-old monasteries and convents have been perfecting the art of Portuguese pastry-making since medieval times. Step into one of these sacred spaces and sample the delicate pastries that have been crafted using the same recipes for generations – often made with an abundance of egg yolks and sweetened with local honey or sugar. Continue south to the charming coastal town of Aveiro, often called the ‘Venice of Portugal’ for its network of canals and colourful boats. Here, Matt has arranged for you to taste two of the region’s most celebrated specialties. First, the ovos moles – literally ‘soft eggs’ – a heavenly confection of sweetened egg yolks wrapped in delicate wafers shaped like shells, fish or barrels. This irresistible treat has been an Aveiro tradition since the 16th century and holds the European Union’s protected geographical status.

Next, sink your fork into pao de lo, a wonderfully soft, almost custardy sponge cake that’s become synonymous with Portuguese celebrations. The version from Aveiro is particularly prized for its moist, semi-molten centre.

Continue your journey to Lisbon, arriving in the early evening with time to check-in to the EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel – a glamorous five-star experience with three restaurants, multiple bars, an outdoor pool, wellness centre and dramatic marble interiors. The evening is yours to explore at the Portuguese capital. Perhaps venture into the atmospheric Bairro Alto for dinner, discover a traditional tasca in Alfama, or wander the riverfront as the city begins to sparkle across the water.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 3.5 hours

After breakfast, set out to explore some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks and culinary treasures, taking in two of Matt Preston’s favourite Lisbon spots for pastel de nata (the famous Portuguese custard tarts).

Insider Experience: From Monastery to Market

Begin your morning in the elegant riverside neighbourhood of Belem, where Portugal’s Age of Discovery began. Step inside the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece of Manueline architecture where Vasco da Gama once prayed before his epic voyage to India.

Just steps away stands Pastéis de Belém, the legendary pastry shop that has been guarding the secret recipe for Portugal’s most famous custard tarts since 1837. Join the queue (it moves quickly) and watch master bakers at work through the glass as they craft thousands of beautifully golden pastel de nata. Find a seat in one of the blue-tiled dining rooms and taste what many consider the definitive example of this simple sweet treat – the pastry impossibly flaky, the custard silky and warm, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. “This is the original and thus a pastry pilgrimage site but is it the best? You will decide!” says Matt

Continue to the Time Out Market. With your local guide you’ll meander through Lisbon’s gourmet food hall, home to 26 restaurants, eight bars, a dozen shops and some of the city’s best chefs. Embark on a progressive tasting journey from fresh seafood and traditional petiscos to classic dishes reimagined. Sample, graze and discover new favourites as you move from stall to stall, each bite revealing another facet of Portuguese gastronomy. This experience will serve as lunch, so make sure to arrive hungry.

For the grand finale, make your way to Manteigaria on Rua Augusta, where you’ll sample tart number two for the day. This modern pastry shop has earned a devoted following for its own take on the pastel de nata, offering a worthy comparison to the Belém original – the debate over which is superior has divided Lisbon for years.

Return to your hotel with the afternoon free to relax or explore. The eateries of the EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel are well worth exploring – try Allora for trattoria-inspired Italian, KŌJI for Zen Japanese vibes, or the BE EPIC Bar for a sophisticated tipple.

Insider Experience: Farewell Dinner at Black Pavillion

Your tour’s final evening deserves a fitting finale. Gather for a farewell dinner at Black Pavillion – a secret spot with stunning views across the Portuguese capital. Between lush foliage and floor-to-ceiling windows, the sunset will flood over handcrafted cocktails and plates of sophisticated local delicacies.

Headed by the former Chef of the Year and the Best Cook in Portugal, Chef Vitor Matos, Black Pavillion serves a daily rotating menu with contemporary flair that is sure to satisfy any diner in the mood to celebrate.

Toast to a trip well taken and reminisce on two weeks of incredible recommendations courtesy of Matt and Gary. Their expertise and nose for authentic local fare have formed the path along which many incredible meals have been plated and savoured.

Enjoy the remainder of your evening at leisure before your final sleep in Lisbon.

Today, the Portuguese portion of your culinary adventure comes to a close. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) for a mid-morning flight to Faro International Airport (FAO).

Upon arrival in Faro, make your own way to the breezy EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel. Here, nestled between a green pine forest and the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel complements sparkling coastal design with five restaurants, two bars and a comprehensive spa and wellness centre. After a complimentary buffet breakfast, spend lazy days by the swim-up pool bar or hit the local links at the nearby Pine Cliffs Golf Course.

For the next three nights, Portugal’s south coast is yours to explore, with both cities of Lagos and Faro under an hour’s drive away. Alternatively, take some time out to reset the senses after your foodie tour and prepare for a blissful 10-nights aboard the Scenic Azure.

**Travel Time: **Driving – 15 minutes; Driving – 30 minutes

Wake to the sounds of the waves lapping at Pine Cliffs Beach and emerge from your ocean view room for a buffet breakfast.

On your first full day in this peaceful town, there is plenty to keep you active and entertained. Consider exploring the local beaches and the stunning Benagil Cave – one of many limestone wonders where a near-private beach awards an adventurous spirit. Alternatively, head inland to the hilltop fortress of Silves and discover charming cafes serving fresh pastel de nata and locally-squeezed orange juice.

Come sunset, head back to the hotel’s Al Quimia fine dining restaurant and indulge in a world of creative Portuguese cuisine, using fresh local seafood and farm-to-table produce. Follow-up your main with decadent pastries and local wine selected by a world-class sommelier.

Begin the morning with another buffet breakfast before a short drive to the clifftop village of Carvoeiro. Browse the boutiques, stop for a coffee in the square and work up an appetite before lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the Atlantic.

In the afternoon, consider a kayaking tour along the coastline to explore the dramatic limestone sea caves and hidden grottoes the Algarve is famous for – or simply find a quiet stretch of beach and claim it as your own for the afternoon.

Back at the resort, end the day at the pool bar as the sun drops over the Atlantic.

Enjoy an early hotel breakfast before making your own way to Faro International Airport (FAO) for your included flight to Porto. Travelling via Lisbon, your flight will take place early in the day, leaving plenty of time to check-in for your cruise by 2pm.

Upon arrival at Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), meet your transfer for the short drive to Porto Leixões Cruise Terminal where the Scenic Azure will embark on 11 days of seamless wine country cruising.

As you board the Scenic Azure, you’ll be greeted by your Scenic Cruise Director and a world of luxe amenities. Settle into your elegantly appointed suite, where a Scenic Slumber Bed, marble bathroom stocked with L’Occitane amenities, complimentary minibar and your own butler await.

Purpose-built for the Douro’s winding course and narrow locks, the Azure carries fewer than 100 guests, creating an intimacy rarely found at sea. As Portugal’s riverbanks drift by, take time to discover each corner of the vessel, from the sundeck vitality pool and wellness centre to five dining options ranging from casual to fine dining. From your first step aboard, indulge in complimentary premium beverages as Porto sparkles onshore.

The ship will remain docked in Porto tonight, allowing further onshore experiences in this thriving city.

Travel time: Driving – 15 minutes; Flying – approx. two hours; Driving – approx. 15 minutes

Porto is one of Europe’s most characterful cities – a UNESCO World Heritage Site where azulejo-tiled facades, medieval laneways and a famously vibrant food scene combine.

This morning, choose your own way to explore. Join a guided tour taking in the opulent Palácio da Bolsa and the century-old Bolhão Markets, or take the more active route across to Vila Nova de Gaia, ride the cable car up to the Dom Luís bridge and walk back through Porto’s historic core via the cathedral and the handsome Rua das Flores.

Back on board this afternoon, the Douro’s most distinctive art form comes to life in a hands-on azulejo tile painting workshop as the Azure pulls away from Porto and begins its journey east. By evening, the city lights have given way to the quiet valley and the first of the Douro’s many locks, as the ship docks for the night at Entre-os-Rios.

The Azure’s first stop along the valley is the quiet confluence village of Entre-os-Rios, and this morning three very different excursions are on offer.

• Paiva walkways: For the active traveller, the Paiva Walkways deliver one of Portugal’s most arresting landscapes – a wooden boardwalk threading down through the World Heritage-listed Arouca Geopark, past rushing rivers and across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world.
• Quinta da Aveleda: Those after a gentler morning can explore the fairytale gardens and celebrated sparkling wines of Quinta da Aveleda.
• Excursion to Guimarães: Head inland to the walled city widely regarded as the birthplace of Portugal, its 15th-century palace still home to an extraordinary collection of tapestries, furniture and weapons.

Back on board, the Azure resumes its journey east through the heart of port wine country. The terraced hillsides grow steeper and more dramatic as the ship approaches Régua, the valley’s largest riverside town and the historic centre of the port trade. This evening, step ashore to visit the Douro Museum, where the region’s winemaking story is told against the sweep of the valley below.

The valley earns its reputation early in Régua – morning mist lifts slowly from the terraced vineyards as the light finds the hillsides, and it’s worth being on deck to watch.

This morning, two excursions take you deeper into the surrounding countryside:

• Varosa Valley, Tarouca & Ucanha: Travel into the Varosa Valley to the village of Tarouca, where the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca stands as one of the region’s finest medieval landmarks. Continue to Ucanha to walk its fortified bridge – Portugal’s first toll bridge – in a corner of the valley rarely seen by visitors outside of a Scenic itinerary.
• Quinta visit with olive tasting: Visit a traditional rural estate where olive oil has been produced by the same family for 11 generations, and sit down to a tasting of their harvest.

After heading back on board for lunch, the afternoon brings another round of choices.

• Excursion to Lamego: Head to the hilltop town of Lamego, set among the vineyards that produced Portugal’s first certified port wine. Climb – or descend – the grand mosaic-tiled staircase to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, then taste local delicacies in a traditional bodega before some free time in town.
• Mateus Palace: Coach out to the early 18th-century Mateus Palace, considered one of Portugal’s finest examples of Baroque civil architecture, and explore its original furnishings, ornate ceilings and immaculate formal gardens.
• Port wine blending class: Visit Quinta de Pacheca for a hands-on workshop in the art of port blending – choosing, mixing, bottling, capping and finishing with your own personalised label to take home.

Today is one for the deck and the slow pleasures of the river. The Azure spends the day cruising through the Vinhateiro wine region – the world’s first demarcated wine appellation, established in 1756 and now World Heritage listed for its centuries of viticultural significance. Terraced vines climb the valley walls in every direction, broken only by clusters of red-roofed farmhouses and the occasional village tucked into a fold of the hillside.

There’s no itinerary to keep pace with today. Take a dip in the sundeck vitality pool, book a treatment in the wellness centre, or simply find a spot to watch the landscape change as the Azure works its way east through the locks. By evening, the ship docks at Vega de Terrón, just inside the Spanish border.

Vega de Terron sits at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers, a small and unhurried border town of quiet streets and lush river landscapes that serves as the Azure’s gateway into Spain. This morning, two very different excursions are on offer.

• Salamanca full-day excursion: The Golden City earns its name from the honey-coloured sandstone that lines its plazas and facades. Salamanca is home to one of the world’s oldest universities – founded in the early 13th century – as well as two cathedrals spanning four centuries of construction. A guided tour covers the highlights, with a market stop for local tastings and free time for lunch at your own pace.
• Freixo de Espada à Cinta with silk museum: For a more leisurely morning, a half-day tour visits one of Portugal’s most quietly remarkable villages – the only place in the country where silk is still processed entirely by hand. A guided visit to the local silk museum offers a rare window into a craft that has survived largely unchanged for generations, before returning to the ship for lunch.

The rest of your day is at leisure as the ship docks in Pocinho for the night.

The small railway village of Pocinho sits at what was once the eastern terminus of the Douro line – established in 1887 and still a characterful base for exploring this quieter stretch of the valley. This morning, two excursions head out into the surrounding Côa Valley:

• Côa Valley Museum: The Vila Nova de Foz Côa site is the largest open-air Palaeolithic rock art complex in the world. The striking contemporary museum building provides an introduction to the engravings through original artefacts, digital technology and a hands-on prehistoric workshop.
• Village life in the Côa Valley: A gentler morning in the traditional village of Freixo Numão, where the pace of life has changed little over the centuries. Continue to Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on sweet almond production, followed by a tasting of almonds, olives and local fruit products.

The Azure resumes its westward journey through the afternoon, and the Panorama Lounge & Bar makes for an easy place to settle in, compare notes from the morning with fellow travellers and watch the terraced valley drift past. By evening, the ship arrives into Pinhao – one of the Douro’s most scenic ports and the heart of the port wine trade.

This morning, the Azure’s excursion heads up to the plateau village of Provesende, where the views across the valley are among the region’s finest. Wander the quiet streets, visit the church, peer into the old bakery, watch traditional artisans at work and step inside the historic manor house of Morgadio da Calçada for a tasting of local sweet bread, bola.

This afternoon, the focus turns to the valley’s most celebrated product.

• Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore the tributary from the water, paddling past terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling quintas at your own pace.
• Quinta vineyard hike: A guided walk through the working vineyards of a local quinta, with views across the Douro and an introduction to the winemaking process, finishing with a tasting of the estate’s blends.
• Quinta tasting: A more leisurely visit to a local estate – a guided walking tour through the vineyard followed by a tasting of the region’s port wines.

Enjoy another leisurely morning on the water as the Azure makes its way back west through the valley, retracing the Douro’s bends and locks at an unhurried pace.

The ship arrives back into Porto this afternoon, and this evening brings one of the cruise’s standout moments. The Scenic Enrich concert at São Francisco Church is exclusive to Scenic guests – a performance of classical music inside one of Porto’s most extraordinary interiors. The 13th-century Gothic church is remarkable in daylight; by evening, its altar of intricately carved wood layered in gold leaf creates a setting that no concert hall could replicate.

The rest of the evening is at leisure.

A final full day in Porto, and three excursions offer one last chance to range beyond the city.

• Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise: Head south to the so-called Venice of Portugal – a compact city of Art Nouveau facades and canal-side cafes. A guided walking tour covers the highlights before a cruise along the waterways aboard a moliceiro, the brightly painted flat-bottomed boats unique to Aveiro.
• Excursion to Braga: Travel north into the green Minho countryside to one of Portugal’s oldest cities. A guided tour through Braga’s historic centre takes in the grand Sé Cathedral, elegant plazas and centuries of ecclesiastical architecture that give the city its quietly distinguished character.
• Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Cross the river to Porto’s famous wine lodges for a guided visit to Cockburn’s cellars, one of the Douro’s most storied names, followed by a port tasting.

The afternoon is yours to fill as you choose – one last wander through the Ribeira, a final pastel de nata, or simply a quiet hour watching the river from a terrace.

This evening, the Azure sets out on an illumination cruise beneath Porto’s six bridges as the city lights reflect off the Douro, before guests gather for a farewell dinner on board.

Savour a final leisurely breakfast aboard Scenic Azure as you bid farewell to the timeless beauty of the Douro. Disembark and meet your transfer to Porto Airport (OPO) for your onward journey.