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Discover the Rivers of France & Portugal & Nice

4.0/5 Based on 1 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
River View
$12,886
Balcony
Sold Out
Suite
Sold Out
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
18 Days
 Cruise Starts
Porto
 Cruise Finishes
Nice
18 Day Discover the Rivers of France & Portugal & Nice Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Portugal, Spain, France
Ship
Departures
Passengers
134
Crew
53
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
ENRD-1

Overview

An unforgettable Douro River cruise through Portugal’s sun-drenched vineyards, stunning landscapes, and charming villages, offers the perfect blend of relaxation, traditions, and delicious cuisine. These two cruises link seamlessly to create this eighteen day itinerary. Start with seven nights cruising the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, before a flight to Lyon to join the Emerald Libertè for a second seven night cruise along the Rhóne and Saóne Rivers. A three-night stay in Nice introduces you to the French Riviera, as well as glamorous Monaco.

Itinerary

Welcome to Porto, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, Emerald Radiance. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. (D)

Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area is celebrated because it builds on two millennia of wine producing history, where viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape and small, sleepy villages are peppered with dozens of sun-drenched vineyards.

Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner and cocktail reception. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Portuguese cooking demonstration on board

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard in the heart of Portugal’s Douro Valley, nestled on the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce by using traditional viticulture methods.

Alternatively, enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on a kayak excursion along the river, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley.

This afternoon, enjoy sailing to Vega de Terrón, perhaps relaxing on the Sun Deck. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
  • EmeraldACTIVE Kayak experience in Pinhão
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided active walk through the vineyards

Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors.

Travel to the beautiful ‘Golden City’ for a walking tour, which includes exploring the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. You’ll also have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells, and Salamanca’s university, one of the oldest universities in Europe that dates back to 1218. (B/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Salamanca
  • EmeraldPLUS Tuna music band

This morning, we are docked in Pocinho from where we take you to the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo. On your touryou will have the chance to uncover the secrets of this small village’s fortress history and try some typical local products. Later, return to your Star-Ship for lunch and soak up your idyllic surrounds, enjoying a Port wine cocktail lesson on board as you sail towards Régua. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Tour to Castelo Rodrigo
  • EmeraldPLUS Port wine cocktail lesson on board
  • DiscoverMORE Archaeological tour by 4x4 at the Côa Valley Museum (extra expense)

On today’s included excursion, you’ll visit the marvellous Baroque village of Lamego, stopping to see the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town. If you’re feeling active, enjoy an invigorating walk down the 686 steps from the Sanctuary to the main square. On the same day you will get to experience a rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca, one of the finest estates of river Douro and learn about the Portuguese mosaic painting tradition. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Lamego
  • EmeraldPLUS Rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca
  • EmeraldPLUS Mosaic tile painting lesson on board
  • EmeraldACTIVE Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Mateus Manor House (extra expense)

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating and eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its export of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbour, waiting to take their produce across the water.

Your included tour of the coastal city will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, our active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals. (B)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Porto
  • EmeraldPLUS A cruise through Porto
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided active walk in Porto
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Quinta da Aveleda (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Guided bike tour to the Atlantic (extra expense)

After breakfast, you will be transferred from the sun-drenched landscape of Porto to Lyon, a land famous for its delightful cuisine. Meet your new friendly crew at the Emerald Liberte. (B/D)

Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the area’s architectural heritage and peaceful surrounds as you travel to the quaint village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune. Originally a hospital for the poor, the Hospices de Beaune is now home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to the Hospices de Beaune
  • EmeraldPLUS Cheese and olive tasting on board

France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you'll enjoy an array of exemplary culinary delights.

Today, a guided city tour awaits you, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore the highlights of the city on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Lyon
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour of Lyon
  • DiscoverMORE Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Private Culinary Charms of Lyon (extra expense)

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers.

Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the local vineyards and marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes used to make some of the finest wines in Europe. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Tournon
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike through the vineyards

Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will highlight many of the city’s numerous spectacular monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Viviers
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)

Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution.

Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. This evening you are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Avignon
  • EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing excursion in Avignon
  • DiscoverMORE Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Private hidden Gems tour of Avignon (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
  • EmeraldPLUS Classical concert in Avignon

The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries.

Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, where a stop at a local and quintessential café is a must before returning to relax on board your Star-Ship. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
  • DiscoverMORE Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to L’Occitane Factory (extra expense)
  • EmeraldPLUS Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the ship for your transfer to Nice, where you will be taken to your centrally located hotel. Included is a three-night stay in the sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur. (B)

Today, the stunning seaside surrounds of the French Riviera are yours to explore with your local guide, before spending the afternoon exploring at leisure.

You will be taken to Monte Carlo for an insightful tour. Famously portrayed in films that include Never Say Never Again and To Catch a Thief, Monte Carlo offers much in the way of its charming past.

Witness the impressive Prince’s Palace of Monaco, originally a Genoese fortress with a dramatic past and the home of beloved actress Grace Kelly. (B)

  • Included Excursion A city tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo

Nice has long held a reputation for its glamour, where sun-kissed beaches and lavish surrounds create a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other. Today, explore Nice at leisure. Your Emerald Waterways representative will be available to help you to plan your day in this vibrant city. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Saint Paul de Vence (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare to be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of Roman amphitheatres and the lush surrounds of the French Riviera with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Liberte

Emerald Liberte
Emerald Liberte

Cruise through the south of France onboard the Emerald Liberte to uncover both historic charm and contemporary life. Read more

You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS
You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

EmeraldACTIVE
EmeraldACTIVE

Ignite your sense of adventure and explore a little further on foot or by bike. Read more

Swimming Pool and Cinema
Swimming Pool and Cinema

The relaxing pool deck offers views from the stern and transforms to a cinema at night. Read more

Reflections Restaurant
Reflections Restaurant

From breakfast to dinner you will enjoy exemplary service and sumptuous cuisine in the Reflections Restaurant. Read more

Sun Deck Life
Sun Deck Life

Enjoy limitless views from the sun deck atop your Emerald Star-ship while you relax or play. Read more

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4.0
AVG. RATING 4.0 / 5
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Douro River Cruise with Emerald.   0 , VIC, Australia, Aug 2024
Excellent River Cruise with boat location 7 min walk from Porto. Excellent staff and food. Room was ok but a little tight on space. If you sat on the balcony with window open join was just at eye level. Bathroom hard to access as not even 1 meter to walk from other side of bed to bathroom.

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Europe River Cruises

Emerald Europe River Cruises (2025)

Award-winning Emerald Cruises delivers exceptional small ship river cruising through the heart of Europe, on board our fleet of luxury Star-Ships. From the North Sea to the Black Sea, revel in a European river journey like no other. Our unique collection of itineraries — showcasing seven mesmerising rivers — offers you an immersive insight into the...more incredible history, culture and traditions of the diverse regions we visit.

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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Emerald Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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