Grand Tour of the Heart of Italy to Portugal's Douro River Cruise

Today, we'll explore Perugia split into Upper and Lower towns connected by a series of elevators and escalators. The modern lower city sprawls across the Tiber River valley while its historic core is draped across the ridges of the foothills of the Apennine Mountains. The upper town could be a museum; it's a pristine medieval centre seemingly untouched by modern life. Cobbled alleys undulate and weave past Gothic palazzi to piazzas framed by solemn churches.  

On our guided tour, we'll split into smaller groups to wander along the Corso Pietro Vannucci, the city's main street, a vibrant pedestrian promenade lined with elegant shops, pavement cafés, and historic buildings, including the Palazzo dei Priori, which houses the National Gallery of Umbria. This wide avenue leads to the Piazza IV Novembre – the heart of the city. Here, you'll find the gothic elegance of San Lorenzo cathedral and the intricately carved Maggiore fountain.

From this bustling square, narrow alleyways beg to be explored - with crumbling buildings bathed in warm hues of peach, ochre, russet, and cream, providing plenty of places to people-watch over a local craft beer, a chilled glass of Orvieto Classico or a creamy gelato.  

From the Piazza Italia you can take an escalator down to an underground world hidden within the 16th-century Rocca Paolina fortress. This labyrinth of passages and spaces that made up the bastion of the old medieval city. You can also enter the foundations of the fortress through the Porta Marzia gate, one of the stone portals chiselled into the crumbling Etruscan wall that encloses Perugia. Interestingly, this under-city maze is more than just a tourist attraction – you'll see locals hurrying through it to the bus station! 

This afternoon will be free for you to explore more of what Perugia has to offer.

After breakfast, we'll head to Assisi, an elegant hill town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a site of pilgrimage. While it's actually the birthplace of quite a few saints, it's most famous as the birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi, Patron Saint of Italy, the environment, animals, and birds. It should be no surprise that the vast Basilica of St Francis complex, including a Franciscan monastery and two churches, dominates the town.

During our tour this morning, our knowledgeable local guide will explain how St. Francis became highly revered in Italy. We will learn about his early life as the spoiled son of a silk merchant, his renunciation of wealth, and the founding of the Franciscan Order of Monks. The basilica and friary complex, built as a shrine to St. Francis in 1228 - just two years after his death - features an austere exterior. However, the interior tells a different story, with both the upper and lower basilicas beautifully adorned with colourful frescoes, including a renowned series attributed to the famous Florentine painter Giotto. In the crypts below rest St Francis and his friend, benefactor and follower, Jacoba of Settesoli.

After our guided tour, we'll have some free time to explore the old-world town centre with its shuttered stone houses, 'hole-in-the-wall' shops and tiny family-run cafes. We highly recommend the silky ‘strangozzi’ pasta with rich, earthy black truffles - it's a must-try! There's also a varied collection of churches and cathedrals, as well as two medieval castles, Rocca Maggiore and Rocca Minore, which jostle for dominance on the skyline. 

Travel to Lake Trasimeno, lovingly called the Sea of Umbria by locals. The lake gives landlocked Umbria a splash of azure amongst the nearby gently sloping green hills covered with olive groves and thick woodlands. From the lakeside town of Passignano, we will take the ferry across the calm waters to Isola Maggiore, the only island on Lake Trasimeno with a permanent, albeit small, population residing in its small fishing village. As we approach, you'll be able to see the 19th-century Guglielmi Castel nestled in the wooden hillside.

On our voyage back to Castiglione del Lago, you can enjoy the view of the Castello del Leone or ‘fortress of the lion’, before continuing to Cortona with time at leisure to explore. Hidden in the tight muddle of Cortona's terracotta rooftops, is a maze of narrow alleyways and wide piazzas. The spectacular view from the Piazza del Duomo is a must, leading the eye over the city walls and across the Tuscan countryside.

This evening will be a real treat for truffle lovers and non-truffle lovers alike. We'll dine in the heart of Perugia at a family-owned restaurant specialising in the local delicacy prized for its unique and intense aroma. Socialise with your fellow explorers while admiring the passion of the local family and sampling a truffle-based menu. For those who are not fond of the taste, the restaurant will gladly provide an alternative.

We'll start with a journey to Spoleto for a guided tour. Nestled in the foothills of the Apennine Mountain range, the view of its medieval arched bridge leading to the impressive Rocca Albornoziana fortress seems straight out of a historical film. The city behind reflects the influences of both Roman and Lombard rule. The ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheatre contrast with the Romanesque cathedral that shines in pale stone on the Piazza del Duomo.

During free time for lunch, you might be tempted by the smell of the slow-roasted porchetta that's stuffed into sandwiches and sold from streetside stalls.

After time at leisure, we leave Spoleto and set out once again into the rich landscape of the Umbrian countryside to visit a leading producer of Sagrantino di Montefalco wine, made from the black sagrantino grapes that are indigenous to the region.  To help you decide whether this dark, full-bodied "vino russo" deserves a spot on your wine rack, we will enjoy a tasting of various Sagrantino di Montefalco wines, paired with typical local products such as delicious cheeses and cold cuts.

Between Umbria and Adriatic is the Marche region, our destination today. Here, we'll visit Italy's greatest caverns, Le grotte di Frasassi - or Frasassi Caves. Discovered by local speleologists in 1971, the incredible karst caves can easily trick the eye with their pure-white walls and icicle-like stalactites and stalagmites.  

Our tour will take us into the cathedralesque Great Cave of the Wind as we learn more about their formation over a million years ago, it's impossible to remain unmoved by our magical and beautiful surroundings. 

After our visit to the Frasassi Caves, we'll drive through the undulating hills and picturesque groves of Italy, traditionally suited to the cultivation of olive trees. We'll stop at a local olive mill in Bevagna to learn more about the production of this centuries-old tradition. While we're here we'll taste some of the oil produced at the mill alongside some delectable, local accompaniments. 

Our last day of Etruscan discovery, will take us to the Umbrian town of Orvieto. Sitting on a natural pedestal atop volcanic rock, Orvieto looks almost at one with the red-hued rock. It's unspoilt, undercrowded and home to some of the most beautiful buildings in Italy. Its standout feature is the Gothic cathedral.

Beneath its medieval centre, lies the eerie underground ruins of another of this mysterious Etruscan civilisation's 12 key cities. A glimpse of this sparse subterranean city can be had from the family owned Well of the Cave, a secret passageway leading to nine caves underneath a traditional pottery shop.

After taking a ride up the tree-lined funicular tracks to the old town, we'll admire the intricate façade of a stunning Gothic building adorned with gilded frescoes, which make it look as though it is illuminated from within.

Following our exploration of Orvieto, we'll stop at a rural restaurant, locally known as an agriturismo. This cosy establishment embodies the spirit of the Italian countryside, nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Here, we’ll savour flavours that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the area, with a menu featuring traditional dishes made from fresh local ingredients grown in the heart of Italy.

Leaving Perugia, we’ll transfer to the airport in Rome and fly to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city.

On arrival, we will transfer you to your five-star cruise ship in Porto.

From the moment you board, the welcoming crew are at your service. In no time you’ll be settled into your luxurious, thoughtfully furnished accommodation and familiarising yourself with all the first-class aspects of this floating boutique hotel. 

One of the benefits of life aboard a river cruise is the sheer sense of relaxation it brings; our elegant ship slips its moorings during breakfast, and we enjoy most of the day sailing. There is plenty of time for a spot of pampering in the on-board spa, or simply watch the seamless changing of the riverbank scenery passing by from the comfort of a cosy seat in the lounge.

We’re in port wine territory, where the lush hillsides have largely given way to a patterned landscape of terraced vineyards. Inland from the Atlantic, the climate has changed, too; it’s noticeably warmer and drier, while the area has a Mediterranean appearance with orangey, earthy colours replacing verdant greens.

Later we arrive back in the pretty little town of Pinhão. This afternoon we enjoy a visit to a local historic quinta to learn all about the stages of wine production, from the planting of the vines, harvesting, the wine-making process and finally tasting and labelling. No visit would be complete without sampling some of their excellent produce of course, so we enjoy a tasting before returning to the ship.

We are moored overnight in Pinhão. 

This morning, early risers can witness the ship’s graceful departure. Relax over a leisurely breakfast whilst the ever-changing scenery idly slips by through the restaurant’s superb panoramic windows. The Douro was once a wild river, notoriously challenging to navigate, especially for the traditional flat-bottomed boats, which often foundered in its waters. Today it has been tamed by a system of dams and locks, which have raised the water level to produce a topography reminiscent of Scotland’s lochs that enhances the valley’s charm.

As we cruise into ever more rural territory towards the Spanish border, the river here is at its most peaceful. It’s the perfect time to take a refreshing dip in the Sun Deck pool – a rare treat on a cruise ship – or catch up on some reading, perhaps with a cool pre-lunch glass of vinho verde, the local, gently fizzy white wine. Portuguese wine is just outstanding, but production is low, so the best is rarely exported. Our on-board wine list includes some excellent regional wines, and the friendly and attentive restaurant staff will gladly guide you through them. Do experiment a little and you’ll be greatly rewarded.

This afternoon we visit Castelo Rodrigo, a delightful 12th-century walled village tucked away in the picturesque highland ranges bordering Spain. Its church was a resting place on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela and it is said that Saint Francis himself stayed here. The views are simply stupendous, stretching across almost-deserted ochre hillsides.

This evening after dinner we will see a celebratory vintage port wine opened in the traditional way, then head up on to the sun deck to listen to the unmistakable sound of crickets and breathe in the scents from the surrounding valley slopes that pervade the warm evening air. 

Rock Art of the Côa Valley at Penascosa  

• Duration: 4hrs
• Price: £69pp (2025) £76pp (2026)

The adventure begins as you arrive at Castelo Melhor, where you’ll meet your local guides and board 4x4 vehicles. As you travel along the dirt tracks, the landscape unfolds before you - rolling fields dotted with olive and almond trees stretch across the horizon, offering a glimpse into the traditional rural beauty of the region. The path leads you deeper into the countryside, where you’ll be taken on a short walk to find five ancient, engraved rocks, each one telling its own story of the past.  

After soaking in the historical wonders, you'll return to the ship, your heart full of memories of this unique experience.    

The valley can be very hot in the summer, you should prepare for high temperatures. Hats, sunblock, and lots of water are essential. There are some shaded areas at the site, but the rocks themselves are all exposed and you will be standing and walking in the sun.

Optional excursion can be done instead of the excursion to Castelo Rodrigo and is available between May and September only.

Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking. Space is limited, but minimum numbers also apply, so if not enough guests opt for this extra, it may not happen. 

Today we have a guided tour of historic Salamanca, seeing its main sights. This is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this journey, regarded by many Spaniards as their nation’s most beautiful city. Founded by the Romans, who erected its 389-yard-long bridge, Salamanca is mostly built from local sandstone that emanates a gorgeous rose-coloured glow in the sunlight. Perched on a hill on a bend in the serene River Tormes, the city is a picture of tranquillity, but its history is turbulent, having been successively fought over by Hannibal, the Moors, then the Duke of Wellington and Napoleon.

Salamanca is dominated by its two cathedrals and its university. Founded in 1218, the university is the oldest in Spain and was one of the civilised world’s most important seats of study for over 400 years. The Spanish Inquisition’s records are still kept here, and as early as the 16th century it boasted some 12,000 students. Seeing its immaculately preserved lecture halls with their vaulted ceilings, it’s easy to conjure an image of Christopher Columbus addressing the learned men of the day or legal experts constructing the international laws that originate here. 

We have a special treat over lunch, as we sample Spanish tapas accompanied by a traditional flamenco show.  

There will also be free time to explore as you wish. Maybe visit the Casa Lis, an Art Nouveau and At Deco Museum, housing over 2500 items. You may choose to linger, admiring the ornate interiors of its cathedrals – the more recent dates from the 16th-century. Or you could explore Salamanca’s tiny streets, medieval squares, traditional shops, gardens and marketplaces. The main square, the Plaza Mayor, was built in the 18th-century in Spanish Baroque style with colonnaded walkways all around at ground level, ideal for finding a shaded spot to sit and watch the locals pass by.  

We return to our ship for another excellent dinner. 

As dawn breaks over Porto the adventure begins as our elegant vessel commences her stately passage upstream. Your first delicious breakfast is served by the attentive crew and whilst you linger over another coffee, you can really start to unwind as we leave the city skyline far behind. There’s a perfect opportunity to avail yourself of some of the ship’s range of five-star facilities – maybe a little gentle exercise in the fitness room before heading up on deck to appreciate the changing landscape in all its splendour as the river weaves its way between the lush hillsides; from the first morning on board, it’s very apparent that the Douro is one of Europe’s most photogenic river valleys and the topography has prevented the building of extensive riverside roads.  

This afternoon you have a couple of choices. 

After another superb lunch on board, we stop at the village of Folgosa, from where we visit the grounds of the splendid Mateus Palace and its sublime palace interiors. Anyone familiar with Mateus Rosé and its characteristic ‘squashed’ bottle will recognise the palace from the label. Whatever your opinion of the wine, it is an impressive 18th-century Baroque edifice, mirrored in its stunning pond, surrounded by landscaped French gardens. 

Alternatively, you can choose to stay on board and continue your journey down the river, sailing toward the charming town of Peso da Régua, where you'll arrive by mid-afternoon. Once ashore, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Douro Valley with a visit to the Douro Museum. Here, you'll explore captivating exhibits that bring the history of wine production to life, offering fascinating insights into the region's winemaking traditions and the storied past of port wine trading. 

This evening, we take the short drive to the 126-acre Quinta da Pacheca for dinner. It dates back to the 18th-century and is simply one of the most beautiful and distinguished properties in the region. It is also notable as being the first quinta – in 1738 – to bottle wine under the name of its owner, the aristocrat Mariana Pacheco Pereira. Here we'll stop for dinner accompanied by a selection of their wines, while enjoying dramatic views over the Douro.

We are moored in Régua overnight. 

This morning after breakfast we take a short drive to historic Lamego, home of Portugal’s sparkling wine, Raposeira, and one of the first places to be reclaimed from the Moors in the 12th century. Situated atop the hill overlooking this lovely town is the ancient Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies church, its stairways adorned with attractive azulejos, the country’s characteristic painted ceramic tiles.

If you're up for a bit of a challenge, consider taking the 686 steps that lead from the top of the staircase down to the town below, offering incredible views of the city as you descend. Don’t worry if you need a break - along the way, you can pause to admire the beautiful fountains, intricate mosaics, and neatly trimmed hedges. As you explore this charming town, you'll encounter a rich mix of history and beauty, including an ancient Moorish castle, an exquisite Gothic cathedral, and elegant 18th-century villas that add to the town’s character. For a relaxing afternoon, stroll along the Avenida, the town's grand boulevard, where you can sip tea at one of the open-air cafés and test your bargaining skills at the lively market stalls. 

By the time we return to our ship, our chef and his team will be adding the finishing touches to another delicious lunch, ready to be served as we depart for our next destination.

After lunch there’s the perfect opportunity to take to the sun deck to enjoy the kaleidoscope of Douro views – or perhaps a spot of reading in the lounge over a cup of tea. Tonight’s dinner is followed by a colourful performance of traditional Portuguese folk music by a local cultural group. 

There’s a perfect opportunity to avail yourself of some of the ship’s range of five-star facilities this morning – maybe a little gentle exercise in the fitness room before heading up to the sun deck to enjoy a coffee whilst chatting with newly-made friends as our ship makes a graceful arrival in Porto once more, passing under the city’s spectacular bridges.

Porto is of course synonymous with wonderful port wine and all the famous port producers are here, such as Cálem, Sandeman and Ferreira, so a visit here would not be complete without a tour of one of them. You’ll learn about this fortified wine’s fascinating history and its close British connections. Port is made from grapes still pressed in the traditional way – by feet – then lovingly matured, sometimes for decades, before you can enjoy its subtle flavours. Of course, you’ll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit. 

After lunch on board, we enjoy a guided tour of Porto. Strategically overlooking the Douro as it empties into the Atlantic, Portugal’s second largest city was originally a Roman town, but its wealth derived from its knowledge of the sea routes to India, with fortunes made from trading spices, silks and other fine goods. Our tour unveils some of its major and more surprising sights.

You have a couple of choices this morning.  

Panoramic coach tour

Embark on a panoramic coach tour that showcases both the major landmarks and some of Porto’s more surprising and hidden gems. Along the way, there will be a stop to explore the exquisite cathedral and the iconic São Bento station, where you can admire the beautiful tile work.

Active tour Porto on foot

For those seeking a more active adventure, this walking tour of Porto offers an unforgettable experience. We first cross the bridge and explore the charming Ribeira district. From there, we head along Rua das Flores to São Bento station and finally the majestic cathedral. We then cross the top of the famous Luis I Bridge, taking in the sweeping vistas of the city to the Jardim do Morro in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you'll be rewarded with incredible views. We then make our way back to the ship, with the city's characteristic hills adding a bit of challenge to this scenic and immersive tour. 

Porto is of course synonymous with wonderful port wine and all the famous port producers are here, such as Cálem, Sandeman and Ferreira, so a visit here would not be complete without a tour of one of them. After lunch on board, you’ll learn about this fortified wine’s fascinating history and its close British connections. Port is made from grapes still pressed in the traditional way – by feet – then lovingly matured, sometimes for decades, before you can enjoy its subtle flavours. Of course, you’ll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit.

You’ll have the rest of the afternoon to explore the truly fascinating city; so perhaps return to the terraced streets of the old town and wander the sloping maze of winding, cobbled alleyways, soaking up the atmosphere whilst stopping to admire the lovely architecture, soaring bell towers, fine baroque churches, golden rooftops and beautiful tiles of this slice of traditional Portugal. Stop for a drink in a cosy café and be tempted by an array of delicious cakes and pastries – perhaps sample a pastel de nata, the traditional Portuguese custard tart.

This evening is the Chef’s Dinner, a truly memorable experience featuring exquisite regional specialities, expertly served by our restaurant staff under the supervision of the maître d’. Afterwards, perhaps settle into the lounge to chat into the evening and reflect on the splendours of the remarkable River Douro – over a glass of port, of course.