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Portugal, Spain
Porto, Régua, Pocinho, Salamanca, Barca d’Alva
Dinners, Breakfast Buffets, Lunchs, Welcome Dinner, Farewell Dinner, Continental Breakfast
Mainly 2 and 3 night stays in each location. Comfortable travel days with numerous stops. Requires walking to participate in top sites.
If all-inclusive, luxury travel is your standard go-to, or are traveling to celebrate a milestone or special occasion, a boutique, luxury river cruise is the perfect choice. The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line, for more than four decades, Uniworld has specialized in providing intimate and in-depth one-of-a-kind journeys for travelers seeking to explore the rivers of the world in exceptional style. On every all-inclusive Uniworld river cruise, you’ll be whisked away to a variety of destinations in one trip onboard a beautiful river ship. Along the way, you’ll enjoy five-star cuisine, unique local experiences, and exceptional service from the longest tenured crew in river cruising.
View all Uniworld River CruisesS.S. São Gabriel embodies the beautiful Douro River Valley like no other ship in the region. Beautiful azulejos tilework, polished wood, and a summery palette bring the vivacity of Portugal onboard, while a sundeck pool beckons passengers to relax in the sunshine while soaking in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. This Super Ship vessel offers an entire deck of lavishly appointed suites with butler service, as well as three different dining venues in which to experience the delectable wine and cuisine of the Douro River Valley.
See ShipAs you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port. Explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, home to iconic rabelo boats, cutting-edge cuisine and a thriving art scene. Wind your way through the dramatic landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Douro Valley, heading ashore to visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them. See the famous university of Salamanca, Spain, and visit the mountaintop village of Castelo Rodrigo. There’s no better way to discover Europe’s best-kept secret than this scenic and all-inclusive river cruise!
Arrive in Porto, the port city at the mouth of the Douro.
Today is all about wine, which has been cultivated in the Douro River Valley since ancient Roman times. Get a crash course on the history of Port during your visit to the Douro Museum. Later, 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.
In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
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 uniq...
See MoreThe 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.
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 ...
See MoreAs 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.
Although many Port wine estates are owned by international corporations nowadays, the tradition of the family-owned estate remains strong. Start th...
See MoreAlthough 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.
Today, the Condessa of Feira welcomes you to her estate, the beautiful Viscondes da Várzea for a lesson in Portuguese cooking. As you prepar...
See MoreToday, the Condessa of Feira welcomes you to her estate, the beautiful Viscondes da Várzea for a lesson in Portuguese cooking. As you prepare a meal using delicious local ingredients and wood-burning stoves, picture the soirées that this kitchen had fed for generations. Share in the Condessa'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.
$260 pre-purchase
€230 onboard
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
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.
Ride through wonderfully scenic countryside—the region is noted for its honey, which derives its flavor from the fields of wild lavender and ...
See MoreRide 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.
Ready for an expedition worthy of Indiana Jones? Today’s your chance. In the 1990s, scouting for a proposed dam project on the Côa Rive...
See MoreReady 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.
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.
Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen beautiful and historic churches, including two cat...
See MoreCalled 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).
Discover the wonders of a special town right in the gateway of the Douro Valley, Lamego. Later, enjoy a Night Out with dinner at a local quinta.
Lamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios," planted on top of one of the city hills and reachable b...
See MoreLamego 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”.
Travel up winding roads with spectacular views—and breath-stealing drop-offs—for a traditional dinner bursting with regional flavors. Y...
See MoreTravel 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."
Discover the oldest town in Portugal today on a visit to Braga, where 2,000 years of history mingle with a youthful modern culture.
The third largest city in Portugal, Braga has long been a city of religious and political importance. As you stroll by grand plazas and the 17th ce...
See MoreThe third largest city in Portugal, Braga has long been a city of religious and political importance. As you stroll by grand plazas and the 17th century Baroque palace, you’ll soak in 2,000 years of history. The city is filled with fascinating museums and historic churches—including the Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site we’ll see on our tour today. But all of this history has done nothing to stop Braga from keeping up with the times. In a delightful contrast, Braga is known as both the oldest city in Portugal and Portugal’s youngest city. Its student population and contemporary landmarks give the city an energetic atmosphere, as appealing for its shopping opportunities and people-watching as it is for the history lessons it has to share.
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 Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
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 Pa...
See MoreOf 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.
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 a...
See MoreThe 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.
$65 pre-purchase
€60 onboard
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
If your cruise/tour package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Porto Airport for your flight home.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
Exclusive savings for Past Guests on all cruises, combinable with all promotions.
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 uniq...
See MoreAs 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 ...
See MoreAlthough many Port wine estates are owned by international corporations nowadays, the tradition of the family-owned estate remains strong. Start th...
See MoreRide through wonderfully scenic countryside—the region is noted for its honey, which derives its flavor from the fields of wild lavender and ...
See MoreReady for an expedition worthy of Indiana Jones? Today’s your chance. In the 1990s, scouting for a proposed dam project on the Côa Rive...
See MoreCalled the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca boasts a dozen beautiful and historic churches, including two cat...
See MoreLamego is known for a beautiful sanctuary dedicated to our Lady of “Remédios," planted on top of one of the city hills and reachable b...
See MoreTravel up winding roads with spectacular views—and breath-stealing drop-offs—for a traditional dinner bursting with regional flavors. Y...
See MoreThe third largest city in Portugal, Braga has long been a city of religious and political importance. As you stroll by grand plazas and the 17th ce...
See MoreOf 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 Pa...
See MoreAll meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
Guided “Do as the Locals Do” program
State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the chic S.S. São Gabriel
Beautifully appointed riverview staterooms and suites with hotel-style beds, draped in fine linens with a choice of pillows
Free Wi-Fi
6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
Guided “Do as the Locals Do” program
State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.
Today, the Condessa of Feira welcomes you to her estate, the beautiful Viscondes da Várzea for a lesson in Portuguese cooking. As you prepar...
See MoreThe 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 a...
See MoreDining
When dining onboard, you’ll be treated to world-class cuisine made from fresh ingredients, locally sourced from the destinations you visit.
Complimentary Beverages
All beverages are included during your cruise. Complimentary beverages onboard include wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water.
Gratuities
Gratuities for all onboard personnel including the ship staff, crew, and Cruise Manager, are included.
Curated Excursions
Complementary and comprehensive shore excursions led by local English-speaking experts designed to provide the best possible experiences ashore.
Scheduled Airport Transfers
Complementary airport arrival and departure group transfers provided for flights that meet guidelines.
Uniworld sails rivers in several Western & Central European Countries, including Austria, Belgium, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland
All Uniworld river cruises require a passport with at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Must be valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip.
All U.S. passport holders are required to have a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter or transit through the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Apply for Your 2025 UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Visit this link for more info.
Visa Requirements: Access the latest entry requirements for all your destinations with our user-friendly Destination Entry Guide. Powered by CIBT, the leading authority in travel visas and US passports; check back as often as you like before your trip to ensure you have everything you need before you depart.
Baggage Allowance
Baggage storage space onboard is limited. For their own comfort and convenience, Uniworld requests guests bring one (1) suitcase per person and one (1) carry-on bag per person (excluding purses). Airline baggage restrictions change frequently. Guests should check on the specific air carrier’s website for limitations concerning baggage weight, baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or overweight baggage charges.
Packing Tips for a River Cruise
Packing for a river cruise will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:
Laundry Services Onboard
A launderette containing a self-service washing machine, dryer, and iron is available for your use while aboard the ship. The ship also provides washing, drying, and ironing services for a fee. There are no dry-cleaning facilities.
Electrical Currency on European Ships
Electrical current is 220V, the European standard. To accommodate guests’ needs, each stateroom or suite has one 110V outlet.
Using a Hair Dryer Onboard
Every stateroom or suite bathroom is stocked with a hair dryer, bath and body products, and a luxurious bathrobe for each guest.
Air Conditioning
Every stateroom and suite has an individual thermostat for air-conditioning and/or heat.
Connecting to the Internet & Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available.
From visiting a museum without the crowds to an after-hours tour of a famous landmark, these included, once-in-a-lifetime experiences are arranged privately for Uniworld guests. All shore excursions are carefully coordinated to the ship’s daily schedule. Each motorcoach or walking group has its own English-speaking local expert.
Masterpiece Collection (Additional, Optional Experiences)
Uniworld’s curated Masterpiece Collection of optional excursions go above and beyond the included experiences and are available for an additional charge.
We highly recommend having travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.
Spa Treatments & Massages While Cruising*
Spa treatments and massage services are available onboard the ship.
Special Dietary Needs
Please notify GET or Uniworld if you have special dietary concerns or considerations that need to be considered while traveling. Uniworld staff will do their best to ensure that your request is accommodated, but GET cannot guarantee that requests can be met in all cases.
Mobility Concerns
Passengers must advise GET at time of booking of any physical, medical, or other special needs that require accommodation.
Uniworld does not employ staff nurses or doctors onboard its ships, nor can they provide personal medical or mobility devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or prescription eyeglasses) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or assistance in eating, toileting, or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature. Please note, embarkation/disembarkation facilities may not be navigable using wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or the like. As well, excursions often include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, or stairs.
Traveling with Medications
In accordance with international laws, no over-the-counter medications are available on Uniworld ships. Pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Click the link to learn more about traveling with medications.
*Available on select ships. Additional fee for spa services.
Gratuities for all onboard personnel including the ship staff, crew, and Cruise Manager, are included during your cruise.
Local Specialists & Coach Drivers
It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of €1-2 (Euro) per person per half day.
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