Wine Roads of France & Portugal

18 Days | Bordeaux to Lisbon

4.6/5 17 reviews

Starting at $10,999^* per person based on double occupancy.

From $10,999^* per person based on double occupancy.

*Available on a limited number of staterooms

Choose when you want to travel

2026
2027

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18 Days
3 Countries
UNESCO

Combine two of Europe’s most spectacular viticultural regions in one trip on this ultimate itinerary for wine lovers.

The Southern European climates and historic towns of both Bordeaux and Portugal are as complimentary as their palettes—expect bold reds and excellent dessert wines, from Sauternes to Port. You'll have the opportunity to meet local vintners at French chateaux and Douro River Valley quintas, partake in active outings as you hike or bike amongst the vines, and sample the culinary delights that so often go hand in hand with great winemaking regions. Discover how well fresh-shucked Médoc oysters pair with the region’s white wines and snack on the delicious candied almonds produced in the mountaintop village of Castello Rodrigo.

Wine Roads of France & Portugal is a combination of Brilliant Bordeaux and Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley.

Map

LEGEND

UNESCO
Motorcoach
Embark/Disembark

This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your official Schedule at a Glance will be delivered with your cruise e-documents 21-30 days prior to embarkation.

Itinerary & Excursions

Optional, Biarritz Basque Country Pre-Cruise Extension

Start your Uniworld experience with a four-day adventure in the Biarritz Basque Country. This beautiful resort town, known affectionately as “queen of the beaches, and beach of the kings,” will be your introduction to the rich cultural heritage of Basque country.

3 nights at the Hotel du Palais Biarritz (or similar)
Breakfast daily
All service charges, taxes, and porterage
Biarritz walking tour with market visit
Biarritz Lighthouse
Bayonne
St. Jean de Luz
English-speaking expert

Click here for full details.

Day 1

Bordeaux (Embark)

Arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

Note: For Arrival, Departure and Transfer details, please visit Uniworld.com/transfers. For Port Location details, please visit Uniworld.com/ports.

Day 2

Cussac Fort Médoc, Pauillac

The legendary Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux in a dizzying array of architectural styles, as well as miles of grapevines stretching to infinity. Take a scenic drive through the storied Médoc wine route, followed by a wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Fresh Médoc Oysters Tasting

Oysters have long been a beloved product of the Médoc—and for good reason. Discover why...

Fresh Médoc Oysters Tasting

Oysters have long been a beloved product of the Médoc—and for good reason. Discover why today as you join an oyster farmer at the Guards’ House terrace for a tasting of this delicacy, accompanied by a glass of local white wine.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Médoc Châteaux Route with Private Wine Tasting

In 1855, when Napoleon III asked for a classification of the best wines in France to give visitors, some ...

Médoc Châteaux Route with Private Wine Tasting

In 1855, when Napoleon III asked for a classification of the best wines in France to give visitors, some 60 Médoc wines were awarded Grand Cru status—out of 61 total. A panoramic tour of this legendary landscape takes you from Pauillac to the tip of the Médoc peninsula, past storied vineyards of the region, including Château Latour, Mouton Rothschild and Pichon Longueville Baron, and through the villages of Margaux, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. You might be surprised to discover that the peninsula is only three miles wide, though it is 50 miles long, and the road carries you past a dizzying array of architectural styles— Renaissance, Greek Revival and medieval—as well as miles of grapevines. You’ll turn off the road and enter one of these châteaux for a private tour and a tasting of superior wines.

Let’s Go: Bike in the Médoc Vineyards

Combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc ...

Let’s Go: Bike in the Médoc Vineyards

Combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc vineyards. Meet your guide and mount your bicycle to pedal through the lush landscapes of historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged for centuries. Truly experience the atmosphere—the earth, the sunshine—of this famous wine-growing region.

Day 3

Cadillac

The French phrase “la douceur de vivre” is an accurate description for your time in Cadillac, known for its deliciously flavored dessert wines. Visit Château Royal de Cazeneuve, site of Henry IV’s and Queen Margot’s tempestuous love. Meet the owner around a glass of Sauternes in the reception hall.

Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be transferred to your destination via motorcoach.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Private Owner's Tour of Royal Château with Sauternes Toast

You’ll journey through the vineyards to Château Royal de Cazeneuve, a polygonal 14th-century ...

Private Owner's Tour of Royal Château with Sauternes Toast

You’ll journey through the vineyards to Château Royal de Cazeneuve, a polygonal 14th-century fortress with a royal pedigree. A favored residence of Henry IV, who inherited it from his mother, Jeanne d’Albret. The beautifully restored château still belongs to descendants of the Albret family. After your intimate visit you will meet Louis and Caroline de Sabran-Pontevès, the owner and his wife for a Sauternes toast, sampling the unique perfume and flavor of the area.

The Colorful Life of Toulouse-Lautrec

Uncover the history of artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Originally the home of his mother,...

The Colorful Life of Toulouse-Lautrec

Uncover the history of artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Originally the home of his mother, Adèle, Château Toulouse-Lautrec would soon inspire much of his artwork. As one of the best painters of the post-impressionist period, Toulouse-Lautrec is known for his distinctive and colorful take on Paris in the late 1800s as well as his fascination with Moulin Rouge dancers and famous singers, who were prominent in much of his work. Venture to the nearby town of Verdelais, where you’ll notice two beautiful central walkways lined with trees and 19th-century façades. It is in Verdelais’ cemetery that Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is buried.

Day 4

Blaye, Bourg sur Gironde

The Route de la Corniche Fleurie…could this be the most beautiful road you’ve ever traveled? Find out today on the drive to Blaye Fortress, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet after another. Once you arrive, you’ll discover the wonders of this historic fortress, a UNESCO-designated citadel that once protected Bordeaux from attacks by sea.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Bourg sur Gironde Stroll

On your way through Bourg sur Gironde today, you’ll see the upper town, walk through the medieval...

Bourg sur Gironde Stroll

On your way through Bourg sur Gironde today, you’ll see the upper town, walk through the medieval gates, pass the spring, and learn why figs are an important part of the history of Blaye. Your expedition comes to an end at the remains of the old citadel, where you can admire a spectacular view overlooking the estuary and the Dordogne before returning to the ship at your own pace.

Please note, this excursion requires walking up many steps and may not be suitable for gentle walkers.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Intimate Experience with Local Wine & Art Connoisseurs

Today you are invited to join an informal wine tasting hosted by the owner of La Petite Cave, a charming ...

Intimate Experience with Local Wine & Art Connoisseurs

Today you are invited to join an informal wine tasting hosted by the owner of La Petite Cave, a charming wine bar in Blaye. The owner here will give you a personal look into the life of a local wine lover, take you into his art studio, and show you his collections of wine and antique cars. From here, you’re welcome to explore Blaye at your leisure before returning to the ship.

Panoramas of Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress

This little road between Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde winds through picturesque hamlets with equally...

Panoramas of Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress

This little road between Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde winds through picturesque hamlets with equally picturesque names—Pain de Sucre, Marmisson and Roque de Thau among them—limestone cliffs on one side, the Gironde on the other. Fishing huts on stilts stand above the waters of the estuary; charming 19th-century stone houses built by sea captains sit tidily along the road. Many of these captains traveled to far-off places and returned with exotic plants, which they planted in their gardens and along the road (hence the route’s name). But the history of these cliffs extends far beyond the 19th century—people have inhabited the area for thousands of years.

Upon returning to Blaye, your guide will take you through the 17th-century demilune-shaped citadel built by famed military engineer Vauban. This fortress design was the one Vauban, Louis XIV’s favorite military engineer, found most satisfactory, and he built some 300 of them in the Sun King’s realm. The citadel contains the ruins of a medieval castle, houses, squares, streets, even a convent, all enclosed within stark walls. If you stand on top of those walls, you will have a terrific view of the estuary— this view was the field of fire, giving the citadel command of the river.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Rendez-Vous Chez Rémy Martin

Not all wine remains wine: some of it is distilled into cognac. Rémy Martin has been making cognac for...

Masterpiece Collection · $90 per person

Rendez-Vous Chez Rémy Martin

$90 per person / €80 EUR onboard

Not all wine remains wine: some of it is distilled into cognac. Rémy Martin has been making cognac for almost three centuries, refining the process over the years. Tour the facility and learn how this elixir is created, then taste three different cognacs with complementary nibbles.

Easy

*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.

Day 5

Libourne (Saint-Émilion)

With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby breathtaking Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region’s history and wine culture. The medieval town of Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to linger. Wander its cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries, and stop to admire the amazing rock-hewn church that extends beneath the city’s streets.

Note: Today's lunch will be on your own; ask your Cruise Manager for recommendations on the best nearby restaurants.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Saint-Émilion Walking Tour with Wine Tasting

Hilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture and historic vineyards. The Romans...

Saint-Émilion Walking Tour with Wine Tasting

Hilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Shops brimming with wine and wine tools line the steep cobblestone streets; medieval ramparts that bore witness to battles for control between French and English monarchs still stand; and vineyards encroach upon the village. Of all the sights, however, perhaps the most extraordinary is the 12th-century church carved into a cliff. Only the tower is above ground; the rest of the church is subterranean. Its numerous underground galleries provided refuge during periods of strife, and include the grotto where St. Émilion, for whom the town is named, lived out his life in the ninth century. You have to see it for yourself—you’ll be amazed by its almost unfathomable construction. After touring Saint-Émilion, you’ll visit the cellars of a fantastic estate where you’ll taste some of the world’s most highly rated wines.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Grand Cru Tasting

Meet the cellar master of an estate that produces one of St. Emillion's finest wines, Château Beauséjour ...

Masterpiece Collection · $115 per person

Grand Cru Tasting

$115 per person / €100 EUR onboard

Meet the cellar master of an estate that produces one of St. Emillion's finest wines, Château Beauséjour Bécot. They'll take you on a full tour of the property, during which you'll be privy to insight on the terroir that helps create such incredible wines, the history of the family, their underground cellars and more. After your tour, taste the fruits of this estate yourself while overlooking the vineyards.

Intermediate

Grand Cru Château Picnic Lunch

A warm welcome invites you into the beautiful Château Côte de Baleau, located just outside the medieval...

Masterpiece Collection · $90 per person

Grand Cru Château Picnic Lunch

$90 per person / €80 EUR onboard

A warm welcome invites you into the beautiful Château Côte de Baleau, located just outside the medieval village of Saint-Émilion. Here, you’ll learn about the wines of this region, famous for producing some of the best in the world. After, you’ll enjoy a typical French lunch on their picnic tables outside, soaking in the scenic setting with some delicious food and, of course, a glass of the estate’s spectacular wine!

Intermediate

Château Tour Pourret Cooking Class

Château Ambe Tour Pourret, with five hectares planted with merlot and cabernet franc vines, is a...

Masterpiece Collection · $195 per person

Château Tour Pourret Cooking Class

$195 per person / €170 EUR onboard

Château Ambe Tour Pourret, with five hectares planted with merlot and cabernet franc vines, is a comparatively young wine house, dating to 1925 in its current form (though parts of the chateau are much older). Tour the winery before you meet your chef/teacher, then walk to the well-equipped, modern professional kitchen. Tie on your apron and delve into the tasks the chef assigns you. You might zest kaffir limes to season a first course of seared duck foie gras or make the cherry sauce in kirsch that accompanies it or help to prepare wild trout or a decadent strawberry tart. You'll learn something about the art of French sauces in the process, and then you'll take a seat in the elegant dining room and enjoy the lunch you've helped prepare-naturally, each course will be accompanied by the appropriate wine from Chateau Ambe Tour Pourret's cellars.

Easy

Day 6

Libourne, Bordeaux

France’s rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of the region’s exquisite cuisine—and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne’s lively farmers’ market?

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Nights Out: After Hours at the Bassins des Lumières

Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune is home to a submarine base with a checkered past. Originally built...

Nights Out: After Hours at the Bassins des Lumières

Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune is home to a submarine base with a checkered past. Originally built during the German occupation of France in WWII, and later the target of allied bombings, this building has since attracted artists who wish to reclaim the site for beauty and culture. Its stark walls and history have served as a poignant backdrop to artistic installations for decades. Tonight, you’ll experience this for yourself at the Bassins des Lumières, a stunning and immersive light show projected against the walls of the base.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Libourne Walking Tour with Farmer's Market

How could you visit this rich agricultural land without delving into a farmer's market? Libourne’s ...

Libourne Walking Tour with Farmer's Market

How could you visit this rich agricultural land without delving into a farmer's market? Libourne’s market is the heart and soul of the town; everyone comes here to choose the freshest vegetables, the ripest cheeses, the most luscious fruits, the loveliest flowers, and to chat with the producers and growers. Check out the stalls brimming with produce in the market square, then duck into the covered market and savor the enticing aromas of bread and cheese, fish and meat.

Libourne Bike Ride

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Château Boutinet Wine Tasting

Walk amongst the vines with Nathalie and Jérôme, the owners of Château Boutinet and...

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Château Boutinet Wine Tasting

Walk amongst the vines with Nathalie and Jérôme, the owners of Château Boutinet and passionate advocates for sustainability in winemaking. In the distance, the ruins of a once-grand estate make for a dramatic backdrop. Nearby, flocks of the vineyard’s sheep—known affectionately as their “furry little helpers”—bring the couple’s regenerative winemaking vision to life.

The sheep are an integral part of their eco-friendly practices. They maintain the vineyards by grazing, replacing tractors to reduce the winery’s carbon footprint, as well as providing natural fertilization and promoting biodiversity.

As you stroll through the grounds, stopping occasionally for a snack or a glass of wine, you’ll learn more about Nathalie and Jérôme’s story, and how their viticultural philosophy produces exceptional wines while caring for the environment and the people connected to it.

This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports Global Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

Day 7

Bordeaux

Discover Bordeaux’s many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or on two wheels—the locals’ preferred way to navigate the city’s charming backstreets. You have a wonderful selection of active opportunities to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Do as the Locals Do: Bordeaux Walking Tour

Catch a tram at the Quai des Chartrons to the Place de la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux’...

Do as the Locals Do: Bordeaux Walking Tour

Catch a tram at the Quai des Chartrons to the Place de la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux’ Golden Triangle. Though Bordeaux was the capital of Aquitaine in the Middle Ages and has its share of Gothic churches, it reached its apex in the 18th century. The splendid honey-colored stone buildings from this era make up a city core that UNESCO has designated a World Heritage Site (this is the district that inspired Baron Haussmann when he redesigned Paris at the behest of Napoleon III). Trade with the French colonies built this handsome district, furnishing vanilla, sugar, spices and cocoa to inventive chocolatiers and bakers, who used these goods to create iconic desserts. Chocolate, once a Spanish monopoly, became part of Bordeaux’ culinary heritage when banished Spanish Jews brought the art of chocolate-making to France. What are Bordeaux’ present-day residents enjoying when they step inside the luxurious food halls and elegant shops in this neighborhood? Find out as you sample the delicious handiwork of Bordeaux's bakers, and learn a few recipes too!

Let’s Go: Bike Bordeaux Backstreets

Hop on a bike and wheel with your expert guide along the Quai des Chartrons, a riverfront neighborhood...

Let’s Go: Bike Bordeaux Backstreets

Hop on a bike and wheel with your expert guide along the Quai des Chartrons, a riverfront neighborhood that was the purview of British wine merchants back when they dominated the wine trade. It fell on hard times in the 20th century, but the tall merchant houses have since been reclaimed; now they house welcoming shops and cafés. Pedal past the antiques shops of Rue Notre Dame and the Church of St. Louis on your way to major city squares such as the Bourse and Parliament before heading back to the ship along the banks of the Garonne. Of course your outing will include a stop for refreshments at one of the delightful cafés you pass.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Retro Sidecar Bordeaux Tour

Get ready to explore a medley of what's best in Bordeaux! Your gentleman driver will take you on a...

Masterpiece Collection · $205 per person

Retro Sidecar Bordeaux Tour

$205 per person / €180 EUR onboard

Get ready to explore a medley of what's best in Bordeaux! Your gentleman driver will take you on a journey to the unmissable places of the city: Grosse Cloche, Place de la Bourse, the Darwin district, Basilique Saint-Michel, and any requested stops you'd like to make as well. This truly unique and exciting experience will take you well into the night with a local who knows all the histories, folklore, and of course, best spots for a photo-op. Quel charm!

Intermediate

Retro Sidecar Romantic Tour

Watch the city come alive at night with a sidecar tour of brilliant Bordeaux. Wind through backstreets,...

Masterpiece Collection · $285 per person

Retro Sidecar Romantic Tour

$285 per person / €250 EUR onboard

Watch the city come alive at night with a sidecar tour of brilliant Bordeaux. Wind through backstreets, lit-up avenues and, of course, the most iconic sites of Bordeaux, like the Grosse Cloche, Place de la Bourse and Saint Michael Basilica. Feel the city's festive energy as you zip through town on this vintage masterpiece before stopping for a photo, a sip of champagne and even a romantic moment with your sweetheart. Truly a night to remember!

Intermediate

Day 8

Bordeaux (Disembark), Fly to Portugal, Porto (Embark)

Disembark the ship and transfer to Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport for your flight to Porto, where you’ll board the S.S. São Gabriel.

Note: Included flights may be as early as 6:00am and/or have a connecting flight.

Day 9

Porto

Portugal’s second city (after Lisbon), Porto gave its name to the nation’s most famous export, Port wine, and to the nation itself. Today, choose to explore Portugal on foot or by panoramic drive.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Porto Panoramic Tour

Of course it is the longtime hub of the Port wine trade, but Porto is also much more. Take in the...

Porto Panoramic Tour

Of course it is the longtime hub of the Port wine trade, but Porto is also much more. Take in the UNESCO-designated, 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace, seeing its famous Moorish Revival-style Arab Room, during your panoramic tour. Get a feel for this vibrant town, which is simultaneously profoundly urban and moodily romantic. Colorful multistory townhouses sheathe the hills that climb precipitously from the Douro estuary, medieval alleys snake through UNESCO-designated neighborhoods enclosed by 14th-century walls—which were erected on Roman foundations—and baroque church towers crown the hilltops. The river itself cuts through the city on its way to the ocean, marked by a series of iconic bridges along the way. It meets its final destination at Foz do Douro, a district whose name translates to "Mouth of the Douro." Our tour will take us all the way here, where you can admire the passeio alegre with its promenade inspired by French architecture, see the Castelo do Queijo that juts out over the Atlantic, and drive down Boavista Avenue.

Do as the Locals Do: Porto Walking Tour

Depart by coach for Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, where we will begin our long walk around town. Cross the ...

Do as the Locals Do: Porto Walking Tour

Depart by coach for Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, where we will begin our long walk around town. Cross the upper level of the Ponte Dom Luis, Porto's eye-catching bridge, and arrive at the Cathedral "Sé." From there, we'll walk to the São Bento Station to see its famous azulejos murals, which portray the city's rich history. After that, head up the hill to Santa Catarina Street, a bustling shopping region full of beautiful cafes, shops, and historical landmarks.

To fuel our jaunt around Porto, we'll stop at the Bolhão Market for a taste of an important local treat and one of the city's biggest industries: canned fish. Finally, we'll make our way to the Clérigos Quarter on the way back to the ship through Ribeira.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Let's Go: Porto to the Sea Bike Tour

The Douro River begins to open up from Porto as it makes its way to the Portuguese coast. Follow the...

Masterpiece Collection · $70 per person

Let's Go: Porto to the Sea Bike Tour

$70 per person / €60 EUR onboard

The Douro River begins to open up from Porto as it makes its way to the Portuguese coast. Follow the river all the way to the sea and keep biking along the coastline for the most scenic cycling route this region has to offer—and that’s saying a lot. As you go, you’ll pass by the fishermen’s village of Afurada, bike the beaches of Gaia and break for coffee and a treat at the Esplanada do Alex.

Strenuous

Day 10

Régua

Get a crash course on the history of Port during your visit to the Douro Museum. Later, discover the wonders of a special town right in the gateway of the Douro Valley, Lamego. This evening, enjoy a Night Out with dinner at a local quinta.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Douro Museum

The Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine-growing district in Europe. Why? What makes Port the wine ...

Douro Museum

The Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine-growing district in Europe. Why? What makes Port the wine it is? Learn about the region’s unique geology and winemaking history—Romans planted vines in this region 2,000 years ago—at the Douro Museum. Exhibits laid out in buildings that were once home to Port winemaker Real Companhia Velha let you see how the process of making Port evolved over the centuries: You’ll find the tools of the trade and even a rabelo (a boat that carried wine from the vineyards to Porto) on display. An interactive map shows where the quintas are and how the region developed; and by sniffing vials of concentrated fragrance, you can learn to identify the many aromas that a good Port exhibits. It’s fun and informative—plus you can sample some regional Douro wine.

Lamego Walking Tour with Tasting

Lamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios," planted on...

Lamego Walking Tour with Tasting

Lamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios," planted on top of one of the city hills and reachable by a gorgeous staircase with 686 steps. During this experience, you’ll discover the importance of Lamego’s heritage to the valley. This is a very important area for the production of delicious sparkling wines and cold cuts, which you’ll be able to taste in the cozy and regionally typical atmosphere of a place called Presunteca, or the “Ham Library”.

Nights Out: Dinner at a Local Quinta

Travel up winding roads with spectacular views—and breath-stealing drop-offs—for a...

Nights Out: Dinner at a Local Quinta

Travel up winding roads with spectacular views—and breath-stealing drop-offs—for a traditional dinner bursting with regional flavors. Your hosts: the owners of a local quinta, a Portuguese analogue for the French "chateau" or English "estate."

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Cooking with the Condessa

Today, the Countess of Feira welcomes you to her estate, the beautiful Viscondes da Várzea, for a lesson ...

Masterpiece Collection · $280 per person

Cooking with the Condessa

$280 per person / €245 EUR onboard

Today, the Countess of Feira welcomes you to her estate, the beautiful Viscondes da Várzea, for a lesson on traditional Portuguese cooking. As you prepare a meal using delicious local ingredients and wood-burning stoves, picture the soirées that this kitchen has fed for generations. Share in the Countess’s passion for homegrown cooking as you prepare such Portuguese classics as Bola de Lamego (stuffed bread), Caldo Verde (soup made with potatoes and leafy greens), and Leite Creme (the Portuguese iteration of crème brûlée or flan). Savor your meal with a glass of the estate’s red or white wine.

Easy

Day 11

Pocinho, Vega de Terrón

Go medieval today at Castelo Rodrigo, both the name of a hilltop castle as well as the village that surrounds it. The view from the top is incredible and the village is a charming place to ramble, relax and replenish. Alternatively, lace up your hiking boots and unleash your inner Indiana Jones with an up-close gander at some prehistoric carvings at an archaeological park.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Castelo Rodrigo

Ride through wonderfully scenic countryside—the region is noted for its honey, which derives its...

Castelo Rodrigo

Ride through wonderfully scenic countryside—the region is noted for its honey, which derives its flavor from the fields of wild lavender and the almond groves you’ll pass—to Castelo Rodrigo, the name of both a castle and the village it shelters. The castle ruins stand high atop Marofa Mountain, telling the tale of border strife and Portugal’s struggle for independence in a single structure. Construction on the citadel began in 1209 under the auspices of the king of Leon, but it became part of Portugal within a century—though its local lords sided with Spanish rulers from time to time over the next four centuries. That’s why the palace adjoining the castle lies in ruins: Outraged citizens destroyed it after its lord sided with Castile. Take in the amazing view from the ancient stone walls, then step down through the tiny cobbled lanes of the village, passing the old pillory, the Manueline church, and the town’s market square. It’s not all history, of course. You’ll also get to sample delicious local treats, such as honey, almonds, olive oil and cheeses, and a newly restored tea-house invites you to relax over a cup of tea or a cool drink.

Archaeological Park of the Côa Valley

Ready for an expedition worthy of Indiana Jones? Today’s your chance. In the 1990s, scouting for a ...

Archaeological Park of the Côa Valley

Ready for an expedition worthy of Indiana Jones? Today’s your chance. In the 1990s, scouting for a proposed dam project on the Côa River revealed an astonishing collection of prehistoric carvings, among them horses, deer and aurochs that span eons. The oldest images etched into the schist walls around the river date to approximately 22,000 to 20,000 BC, with younger carvings ranging from the Epipaleolithic, Neolithic and Bronze ages to the 17th century—images that represent human interaction with the natural world for more than 30,000 years. Learn about this amazing area and see the original rock art for yourself when you visit the Côa Valley with your knowledgeable guide. It will be an illuminating adventure. Note: Exploring these sites will require sturdy hiking footwear and considerable physical fitness: You’ll take a four-wheel drive down dirt roads and hike into rocky and hard-to-access locations.

Day 12

Vega de Terrón (Salamanca), Barca d’Alva

Today, you can visit the historic university town of Salamanca—the “Golden City”—famous for its sand-colored buildings and abundance of churches. Feel the centuries fall away as your ship winds its way through the pristine, dramatic UNESCO-protected landscapes of the Douro River Valley.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Salamanca - The Golden City and Spain's Oldest University

Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen...

Salamanca - The Golden City and Spain's Oldest University

Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen beautiful and historic churches, including two cathedrals: the new one, built in the early 16th century, and the Old Cathedral, which dates to the 12th century and can only be entered from the New Cathedral. Walk with your guide through Plaza Mayor, lined with wonderful baroque buildings, to the university, which was founded by Alfonso IX in 1218. The ornate plateresque façade is stunning, and the interior rooms you see are equally beautiful. You'll have time to browse through the shops on Rua Mayor or enjoy a bite to eat on your own before we drive back to the ship. Your guide can recommend some excellent places to dine, whether you're looking for a typical tapas lunch or want to stroll the stalls of Salamanca's food hall (one of Spain's best).

Day 13

Barca d’Alva, Pinhão, Régua

Today is all about wine, which has been cultivated in the Douro River Valley since ancient Roman times. Partake in a choice of excursions including a tasting at a prestigious Port wine estate or a vineyard hike with a wine tasting at a local quinta.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Local Quinta Guided Tour with Tasting

As you journey through the hills to a local quinta, a prestigious Port wine estate and the oldest in the ...

Local Quinta Guided Tour with Tasting

As you journey through the hills to a local quinta, a prestigious Port wine estate and the oldest in the Douro River Valley, you will see a unique landscape that has been shaped by wine growers for two millennia. The stone terraces curving around the steep slopes hold soil that is largely the creation of human intervention: People have laboriously broken up the native silver schist stone over the centuries and turned it into usable sandy earth; it’s called “anthroposoil.” The process of producing Port wine is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity; the steepness of the slopes requires that grape vines be tended almost entirely by hand, but the wine itself is made using the most modern techniques. You’ll tour the estate to see its stainless steel and oak vats, Boutique Winery, and the historic wine presses, before proceeding to the terrace for a Port tasting with a view over the river.

Let's Go: Vineyard Hike and Wine Tasting at a Local Quinta

Although many Port wine estates are owned by international corporations nowadays, the tradition of the...

Let's Go: Vineyard Hike and Wine Tasting at a Local Quinta

Although many Port wine estates are owned by international corporations nowadays, the tradition of the family-owned estate remains strong. Start this expedition in pretty Pinhão, heading up into the hills to a family-owned quinta, where you can get a firsthand look at how the vineyards are tended and grapes harvested. Although some 80 varieties of grapes are approved for the creation of Port, six grape varieties dominate. Discover which ones are grown here and learn why.

Day 14

Porto (Guimarães)

Explore Guimarães, the town where Portugal was born. Its well-preserved architecture and stylish young residents make it a pleasure to visit.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Guimarães City Tour

Day 15

Porto (Disembark), Transfer to Lisbon

Disembark the ship and board a motorcoach, heading south through Portugal’s picturesque countryside to Lisbon where you will check in to your hotel.

Along the way, we’ll stop in the charismatic city of Óbidos, where you’ll enjoy a couple hours of free time to explore and have lunch on your own. If you’d like help selecting an eatery, your Cruise Manager will be happy to make some suggestions.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Portuguese Cooking Class

To visit Portugal is to fall in love with its food. And while Portuguese cuisine is not as widely known...

Masterpiece Collection · $170 per person

Portuguese Cooking Class

$170 per person / €150 EUR onboard

To visit Portugal is to fall in love with its food. And while Portuguese cuisine is not as widely known around the world as those of its nearby neighbors, you’ll return home raving of the dishes you enjoyed in this lively country. Share the flavors of Portugal with the ones you love by joining an authentic cooking class led by a local chef, who will teach you how to replicate some of classic dishes so you can replicate them at home for years to come.

Easy

Day 16

Lisbon

Everything old is new again in the Portuguese capital. Get to know this hilly metropolis with a city tour that shows you all the top sights and treats you to an iconic, locally made pastry.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Lisbon City Tour

When you gaze out at the Tagus River, tile-roofed houses climbing the hills behind you, you are looking...

Lisbon City Tour

When you gaze out at the Tagus River, tile-roofed houses climbing the hills behind you, you are looking at the port where Portugal’s empire began. Here the kings of the newly independent nation launched an age of exploration—and then poured the profits of their new trade routes and colonies into their capital. Do you see the square tower rising from the water? Belém (the name comes from Bethlehem) Tower, built in the 16th century to guard the port, has housed cannons, prisoners and royalty over the centuries; its ornamented façade might strike you as unusual for a fortress, but that is typical of Lisbon—even fortresses have beautiful ornamentation. Another landmark nearby, the 20th-century Monument to the Discoveries, commemorates these voyagers and their founding patron, Prince Henry the Navigator. Leave the riverfront to embark on your own voyage of discovery: Head inland a short distance to the Jerónimos Monastery, which will have you reaching for your camera. A masterpiece of Manueline architecture—the Portuguese late-Gothic style is named for King Manuel I—erected during the 16th century and decorated with sculptures and elaborate scrollwork, Jerónimos Monastery is another shining example of Portugal’s golden era.

Note: Please note that we do not visit the cloisters at Jerónimos Monastery.

Not all landmarks are architectural, however. Take a break and enjoy one of the city’s iconic pastries before experiencing the rest of your panoramic motorcoach tour through the Rossio—the busiest square in Lisbon.

Your local guide will make suggestions for lunch. You can choose to remain downtown and explore on your own or return to the hotel. Shuttles are available to take you to and from the hotel this afternoon, which is yours to spend as you please.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Lisbon Foodie Walk

With hundreds of bars and restaurants all in one neighborhood, the Bairro Alto district is the perfect...

Masterpiece Collection · $115 per person

Lisbon Foodie Walk

$115 per person / €100 EUR onboard

With hundreds of bars and restaurants all in one neighborhood, the Bairro Alto district is the perfect place for a foodie’s evening out in Lisbon. Experience Portugal’s lively atmosphere while indulging in mouthwatering petiscos, better known as the Portuguese version of tapas. By the time you return to your hotel for the night, you’ll have developed a deeper understanding and appreciation for Portuguese cuisine and its international influences—or, at the very least, you’ll go home with a full belly, ready to dream of the delicious local bites you enjoyed today.

Intermediate

Retro Sidecar Lisbon Tour

Lisbon is full of hidden treasures, if only you know how to look. Come discover the city from a new...

Masterpiece Collection · $320 per person

Retro Sidecar Lisbon Tour

$320 per person / €280 EUR onboard

Lisbon is full of hidden treasures, if only you know how to look. Come discover the city from a new angle as you hop into the sidecar of a motorbike. Your driver, a local guide, will escort you to a selection of iconic sites and unexpected highlights, São Bento Palace, Largo Camões, and the 25th of April Bridge (the longest suspension bridge in all of Europe). You’ll see other classic modes of transportation along the way—wave at the passengers aboard the cheery yellow Tram 28 and Bica Funicular as you pass them by. For the best view in town, your driver will make sure to stop at the Cristo Rei Sanctuary, where the Portuguese answer to Brazil’s famous Christ the Redeemer monument stands watch over the city.

Intermediate

Day 17

Lisbon

Experience your own “Age of Discovery” with a full day to explore Lisbon however you wish. The city hosts remarkable museums and excellent shopping, and natives of Lisbon boast that they have the best food in the world.

To book Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences, please call +65 6922 5950.

Sintra and Cascais

On our way to Sintra from Lisbon, visit the Queluz Palace, a Baroque masterpiece known as the "little...

Masterpiece Collection · $105 per person

Sintra and Cascais

$105 per person / €90 EUR onboard

On our way to Sintra from Lisbon, visit the Queluz Palace, a Baroque masterpiece known as the "little Versailles of Portugal." Then arrive in Sintra to admire the fairytale towers and extravagant villas of a town where royalty has vacationed for centuries. A scenic coastal drive will take you to your next destination: Cascais. Here, you'll find picturesque coves and beaches, along with cobblestone alleys bustling with outdoor cafés.

Intermediate

Day 18

Lisbon (Depart)

If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Lisbon Portela Airport for your flight home.

Featured Excursions do not require booking. Excursions that are listed as "Choose between..." must be booked onboard however there is no additional cost. Please refer to the excursion details below to view purchasing options for our Masterpiece Collection excursions where applicable. Note: The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided onboard on the first day of your cruise.

What's Included

Dining

All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
17 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 14 dinners
Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water

Excursions

13 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Accommodations

7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom onboard the S.S. Bon Voyage
7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the chic S.S. São Gabriel
3 nights in Lisbon at the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade (or similar)
Beautifully appointed riverview staterooms and suites with hotel-style beds, draped in fine linens with a choice of pillows
Free Wi-Fi

Experiences

3 countries: France, Portugal, and Spain
8 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Flight from Bordeaux to Porto is included (note: Included flights may be as early as 6:00am and/or have a connecting flight)
Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
Cultural enrichment, including captivating onboard local entertainment

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