The oldest demarcated wine region in the world, the Douro Valley creates a kaleidoscope of reds, whites, and rosés in its tiered vineyards, sharing the slopes with almond, chestnut, and olive groves. Here, local farmers nurture their crops amid whitewashed quintas dotting the valley’s fruitful, rustic villages. The Douro Valley’s granite bluffs, signature tiled streets, and ancient thermal spas are just a few good reasons to toast our latest, grapest Avalon river cruise.
The Avalon AlegriaSM was built exclusively to sail the Douro with our signature, award-winning Panorama SuitesSM, featuring Avalon's signature Open–Air Balconies®, Comfort CollectionSM beds that face the view, and an inviting Sky Deck pool to soak it all in. Be dazzled on the Douro River from Porto to Porto with dreamy selections of Avalon Classic, Discovery, and Active excursions that speak to you.
Sail through 2,000 years of heritage and traditions where ancient Romans relished good wine along the graceful shores and green vineyards of the Douro River.
Historic architecture is yours for the gazing in Porto—a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the 16th-century Baroque embellishments of the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) and the iconic tower soaring atop 18th-century Clérigos Church enthrall architecture lovers every time.
Ancient civilizations traded and settled in the Douro River area centuries before the Romans. These early winemakers passed on their knowledge in viticulture throughout the region, influencing the winemaking practices of the Greeks and Romans, who would go on to spread the cultivation and distribution of wine throughout the Western world.
The most famous variety of the Douro Valley and all of Portugal is its legendary Port—a fortified wine whose popularity spread worldwide in the 18th century, followed by Vinhos Verdes, Douro, Moscatel, and Madeira, to name a few.
The celebrated city of Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many cellars (‘caves’ to the locals) where the beloved Port wine is aged. A barrel of fun just south of Porto!
What's not to love on the Douro River? A blue ribbon that threads its way through the green valley slopes that overflow with the ancient secrets of winemaking and wonder in Portugal. From eager first-timers to experienced fans of river cruising, the dreamy Douro River delights travelers through the exquisite Douro Valley.
The Douro River weaves a tale of timeless history alive and well in its heart and soul. From the passionate performances of Fado music to the peaceful panoramas of its pastoral treasures, Portugal speaks to the joy of life and legendary art and architecture of ages past.
Let us count the ways we love how the Douro Valley colors our world with medieval castles, cinematic scenery, and all the wine, bread, olives, and cheeses your heart desires.
Wine tastings? Your cruise through the Douro River Valley has them in spades! Tip a glass or two with tapas, pastries, or local olive oil straight from the farm!
Stroll through the riverside lanes of Matosinhos and up Avenida da Boavista to admire some of the modern charms of Porto–from ancient avenues to iconic Azulejo tiles to avant-garde graffiti and eye-catching murals.
Hop on a bike tour along Porto’s picture-postcard coastline and the picturesque pathways of Vila Nova de Gaia.
Join a professional painter to learn the art of azulejos (Portuguese tile). Paint your own authentic tiles in the traditional way with blue paint on glazed tilework so intrinsic to Portuguese culture, architecture, and craftsmanship.
Portuguese Fado music seduces the soul and steals the heart of anyone within range of its striking melodies and passionate performers. Just try not to be moved by this timeless tradition of moving musical emotion.
Glide by kayak through the spectacular canyons of the Gorges de l’Ardèche – called the “European Grand Canyon.”
Spend time in a Provençal farmhouse and fill your senses with the scents of essential oils while learning how they’re created and curated.
Steal away to Spain’s Golden City of Salamanca to have your breath taken away by resplendent Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. Dig in to a tempting platter of traditional Castilian Toston Asado—on us!
Explore a new dimension in nature’s beauty in Freixo de Espada à Cinta, a village located in the spectacular Douro International Natural Park.