A Real Taste of Portugal

Portugal offers delicious dining, colourful cities, fascinating history, jaw-dropping art and architecture, stunning coastlines, and gorgeous weather all year round. There’s intense pleasure in slowly waking up to the sights of rolling hills, neat vineyards, and picturesque villages while cruising along the majestic Douro River.

Avalon Waterways’ brand-new itinerary on a brand-new ship collates incredible destinations all in one unforgettable cruise holiday. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect while cruising the Douro onboard Avalon Alegria.

Brand New Ship

Experience relaxed luxury river cruising through Portugal’s stunning Douro River onboard the brand-new Avalon Alegria, launching in 2024. Be one of the first to sail on this newest addition to the award-winning fleet. Avalon Alegria offers suites with floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall panoramic views, open-air balconies, 30% more space, and signature ‘Beds with a View’. Make yourself at home in the Club Lounge and watch the world go by from the Observation Lounge. Stretch out on the Sky Deck, dip into the swimming pool, and relax on premium lounge chairs whilst indulging in spectacular views of Portugal.

Deck of a river cruise ship with loungers overlooking scenic hills and a river.

Striking Destinations

Porto

The original home of Port and one of Europe’s oldest cities, captivating Porto is brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Climb Clerigos Tower for unmatched views over the city, be wowed by the lovely Livraria Lello bookstore and admire the famed Azulejo tiles at Sao Bento Railway Station. Top off your day with a glass of decadent Port wine, of course. The romantic city of bridges, take advantage of the many perspectives as you stroll on foot across this stunning city. Take a guided sightseeing tour to discover the many charms, including a visit to the nearby riverside city of Matosinhos with its beautiful beaches.

A panoramic view of a historic city with a prominent double-deck metal arch bridge over a river at sunset.

Porto Antigo

Known for its small-town charm, Entre-os-Rios is home to colourful castles, panoramic views, and historic monasteries. Take a shuttle to the medieval Ducal Palace or simply walk around the tiny town and encounter local fishermen, climbing bougainvillea, cobblestone streets, and laneway laundry. Onboard, pass the Carrapatelo lock which feels a bit like a fun park ride.

Sunset over Porto's riverside with traditional boats on the Douro River, Portugal.

Peso Da Regua

Located in the countryside, this town brand-new Avalon Alegria. has been the centre of Portugal’s port wine industry for centuries. Pay a visit to one of the oldest farms in the Douro Valley or enjoy a walk through the town’s narrow streets, where you’ll find religious architecture, beautiful tiles, and stained-glass windows Take a guided tour, meet local olive oil makers, and taste the flavours of Portugal. This is a great place to feel, eat, and shop like a local, rather than a tourist.

A scenic view of a winding river through terraced vineyards under a golden cloud-filled sky.

Barca Del Alva

Beneath the Portuguese sky, where whispers of history roam, Castelo Rodrigo stands, a sentinel of time’s ancient tome. The traces of this town lead back to Medieval times, marked by its towering cobblestone castle. Surrounded by terraced vineyards and picturesque olive groves, this sleepy town is a step back in pace and time.

A lush vineyard on a hillside beside a river with a castle-like structure at the top.

Ferradosa-Leverinho

This port offers the perfect base to visit Amarante, the heart of the picturesque Minho region. Enjoy exploring this charming town, known for its beautiful kaleidoscope of architecture and rich history. The bridge of São Gonçalo, constructed in the 18th century, is the standout attraction.

Aerial view of Porto, Portugal with colorful buildings along the Douro River.

Unlock the secrets of the Douro River with My Cruises

When you cruise the Douro River with My Cruises, you’ll enjoy exclusive extras like return flights, city stays, scenic rail journeys and more. Gain a real taste of Portugal by enquiring today!

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