Golden hillsides, world-renowned wines and a journey filled with authentic charm. Set sail with APT Travelmarvel on a relaxed yet enriching 8-day cruise through one of Europe’s most captivating river valleys. Sail through the historic soul of Porto to the vineyard covered slopes of the Douro Valley, and the treasures of Salamanca.
Over the next few days, your cruise glides through the heart of the Douro Valley, a region known for its terraced vineyards, medieval villages and warm hospitality. Discover Régua and Lamego, where you’ll visit an ornate baroque cathedral and sample traditional Bola de Lamego, a local delicacy. In Pinhão, enjoy a memorable Insider Experience – a traditional dinner at a local quinta, a Portuguese wine estate nestled among the vines.
In Barca d’Alva, you’ll visit the beautifully preserved Mateus Palace and Gardens, still owned by the Count of Vila Real and famously linked to Mateus Rosé wine. This living museum offers a window into Portugal’s aristocratic past.
Along the river, stop in Castelo Rodrigo, a medieval hilltop village with breathtaking views over Portugal and Spain. Explore ancient ruins, cobbled lanes, and the striking statue of Santiago Matamoros.
You’ll also visit Régua, a key stop on the port wine trail, and enjoy time in Entre-os-Rios, where you can explore independently or simply relax in this peaceful riverside town.
One of the highlights of your journey takes you across the border into Spain, where the UNESCO-listed city of Salamanca awaits.
Known for its golden sandstone buildings and lively university town atmosphere, it’s a feast for the senses. Enjoy a delicious Spanish lunch and an unforgettable flamenco performance.
Back in Porto, enjoy a guided city tour, where you’ll take in the skyline of terracotta roofs, historic bridges, and bustling markets. Visit a local port wine lodge to learn more about the drink, with a tasting included. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Bolhão Market, browse boutiques, or join an optional excursion to the nearby World Heritage city of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal.
Round off the cruise with a Farewell Dinner onboard.
A South America holiday can mean exploring Machu Picchu, watching giant tortoises in the Galápagos, walking beneath the peaks of Patagonia or combining Rio de Janeiro with Iguaçu Falls. The right trip depends on the experiences you want to come home talking about, whether that is Inca history in Peru, wildlife in the Galápagos Islands, glaciers and time outdoors in Patagonia, or the cities and natural landscapes of Brazil.
If you're wondering whether Legend of the Seas is a good cruise for families, the answer is yes. Royal Caribbean has designed its newest Icon Class ship around the way families holiday today, giving grandparents, parents, teenagers and younger children plenty to enjoy without everyone needing to do the same thing. From waterparks and kids' clubs to live entertainment, family dining and Caribbean ports, Legend of the Seas is one of the strongest choices for a multi-generational family cruise.
There is a version of travel where you visit the great places, take the photographs and move on. And there is version that opens up the richness of the world National Geographic Signature with G Adventures exists firmly in the second category. It is a collection of global expeditions built around the idea that the world reveals itself properly only to those who approach it with curiosity, the right guides and genuine access. For travellers who have already seen a lot and want something more, it represents a significant step forward in what a guided trip can be.
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