best douro river day cruise

6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise + Best Porto Boat Tours (2024)

Are you ready to enjoy a 6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise on one of the best Porto boat tours?

The 6 Bridges Cruise is one of the best things to do in Porto, and for a good reason. Hop onboard replica Rabelo boats to experience part of the path that former wine merchants would take when bringing barrels of Port wine from Douro Valley to Vila Nova de Gaia. Or go for a more private experience on a yacht or sailboat.

Escape the city and relax while enjoying the river’s calm waters and seeing this adorable riverside town from the water. I’ve done the six bridges tour in Porto and will share with you if the 6 Bridges cruise is worth it, how long the day river cruise is, and the best Porto boat tours. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links; if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Table of Contents

What are the 6 Bridges in Porto?

There are a total of six bridges in Porto: 

• Ponte Dom Luis I

Ponte do Infante

Ponte de dona maria pia, ponte de são joão bridge, ponte de freixo, ponte da arrábida.

This list is the order in which you will see them during your river cruise. Each bridge is distinct from the next, having been built over multiple years, using a variety of architectural styles. Below is information about each of the six bridges in Porto.

Ponte Dom Luis I 

Ponte Dom Luis I connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia and is the most famous bridge in Porto . When you see a picture of Porto with a bridge, it is almost always Ponte Dom Luis I.

A double-decker iron arch bridge, the bridge takes its influence from Paris’s Eiffel Tower . The bridge opened in 1886, designed for automobile and pedestrian usage. 

Today, the upper level of the bridge is for the metro and pedestrians, and the lower level is for pedestrians and cars. I walked across the upper and lower parts of the bridge. I recommend experiencing the bridge from both the upper and lower decks.

Ponte do Infante is the newest bridge in Porto , built in 2003. This upper-deck road bridge, Ponte do Infante, was built to replace the upper deck of Ponte Dom Luis and is used for automobile traffic. 

Ponte de Dona Maria Pia is the oldest bridge that connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, built in 1877. Its identity is often confused with Ponte Dom Luis I due to their similar shape, but they are each different.

Ponte de Dona Maria Pia is a wrought-iron single-deck arch bridge built for railway traffic. Today, the bridge is no longer used and is a landmark.

Ponte de São João Bridge is the futuristic looking bridge of Porto . This concrete bridge was built in 1991 for railway traffic to replace Ponte de Dona Maria Pia. Rail could travel faster on this bridge, so that was appealing. Its futuristic design allows for faster rail travel over the bridge than Maria Pia could provide. 

Ponte de Freixo is the most remote and interior bridge in Porto. Built in 1995, the bridge is another road bridge for automobiles to get between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Ponte de Freixo is double-wide, allowing for road traffic to cross from both directions simultaneously.

Ponte da Arrábida is the widest of the six bridges in Porto, being 87 ft wide. Opening in 1963, Ponte da Arrábida contains six lanes of traffic plus two pedestrian lanes.

Upon its completion, it had the largest span of any concrete arch bridge in the world. In 2011, Ponte da Arrábida was noted as a National Monument.

Is the 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise Worth it? 

If you enjoy river cruises and a quick getaway from the city, a 1 hour Douro River cruise is worth it .

Is the Douro a little touristy? Absolutely. But I would counter that a river cruise is one of the best ways to experience the riverfront and see the city of Porto from a different perspective. 

Porto is known as the city of bridges , so you won’t want to miss this activity on your Porto itinerary . I recommend everyone take the short Porto river cruise at least once, especially if it’s your first time visiting Porto. 

11 Best Porto Boat Tours

1. private tour in the douro (1 to 4 people) in a boat just for you  .

⭐ 5/5 ( 243 Reviews )

The Private Tour in the Douro (1 to 4 People) in a Boat Just For You is one of the best Porto boat tours.

This private tour gives guests the opportunity to explore Porto’s stunning Douro River and its iconic bridges from an intimate perspective. A great pick for a romantic getaway or family vacation.

Your group will be able to enjoy unobstructed views of some of the city’s best landmarks and attractions as you cruise along this beautiful waterway.

Book near sunset and you will get iconic views of Porto by day and night as you cruise along the river. It can get chilly out on the water, so bring your light jacket and get ready for a memorable experience with this family-run boat tour.

Duration: 2 Hours

• Private cruise
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Bottled water
• Almonds with aromatic herbs

Size of Tour: You and your group, up to 4 people max

“This boat ride was incredible! Great views, a great tour, and super hospitable guides! They were very friendly and welcoming right from the start, introducing themselves and making us feel very comfortable, they answered all of our questions and shared some very interesting information about the sights we were seeing and about Porto in general. They clearly love their city and love to share that with people! They even gave us a few glasses of “green wine” and let us try a red porto. On top of all of that they also recommended other places to visit in the city as well as great local places to eat dinner (he even made the reservation for us!). This trip was truly incredible and our experience in Porto was perfect thanks to this tour! We would highly recommend and will definitely book another tour when we come back.” – Bambi G ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Tour in the Douro ➜

2. Porto City Tour Full Day with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise – Private Basis

⭐ 5/5 ( 4 Reviews )

See the best of Porto on this Porto City Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise .

With a private guide , you’ll get an immersive experience of Portugal’s second-largest city, from its UNESCO World Heritage Site historical center to newer districts.

Indulge in a wine tasting, take a Douro River day cruise, buy your lunch while enjoying it with a view, and more. All while knowing that your money is going back into supporting the local community through the company’s pledge to support those in need .

Duration: 9 Hours

• Driver/guide
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Wine tasting

Size of Tour: You and your group

“We were so lucky to have Mr. Andre Vidal as our tour guide for our full-day guided city tour. He is a very knowledgeable, well-organized, and well-attentive tour guide. Our small group of 7 people from 3 hotels and 3 countries is amazed by his professionalism and excellent service. As a used to be a senior tour guide in my working history, I want to give him a rating of 10+ out of 10. He speaks excellent English, excellent French, excellent Spanish, and Excellent Portugal. I have visited more than 35 countries. He is the best tour guide I have ever experienced in my life.” – Tripadvisor Reviewer ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto City Tour Full Day with Lunch and Six Bridges Cruise – Private ➜

3. Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch 

⭐ 5/5 ( 56 Reviews )

Get ready for an unforgettable experience of culture and history on the Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch .

This comprehensive full-day tour includes round-trip travel from your Porto hotel and all activity costs, leaving you free to explore Portugal’s historic city in comfort with an experienced driver and guide.

Experience Bolhão Market, try local wine at Porto’s renowned wine caves, take a sightseeing cruise on the Douro River and more. Get sweeping coastal views from various vantage points along your journey.

Even if you are travelling solo, they will pair you up with other like-minded travellers on this small group tour so you have the best time.

• Wine cellars visit with port tastings
• 6 Bridge River cruise (1 hour duration)
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Lunch (Optional)

Size of Tour: 8 people max, 3 person minimum per tour

“First, it started with the ease of booking. Wonderful customer service Our guide Tiago arrived promptly; he was so kind and helpful – we were two older ladies with mobility issues. He made it easy for us to see the sights. Ah, the content: churches, Harry Potter book Store, the River Cruise, the Port tasting, wonderful lunch away from all the tourists. Finally, a chance to see the beach on a wonderfully sunny day. Great day; Well worth the money. I would do it again.” – JH ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability of Porto City Tour Full Day: River Cruise, Wine Cellars & Lunch ➜

4. Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River

⭐ 5/5 ( 24 Reviews )

See Porto in a single day on the Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River.

This full-day tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore this beautiful city while enjoying some of its best attractions, Porto Se Cathedral, Avinida dos Aliados, and the Igreja dos Clerigos. All this plus a river cruise and wine tasting.

It’s an early start, but with hotel pickup and drop-off included, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the best Porto has to offer.

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• River cruise
• WiFi on board

Size of Tour: 15 people max

“The guide very helpful , knowledgeable and accommodating and friendly. Recommend this tour to see porto in one day.” – Natalie S ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto City Small Group Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting and Cruise in Douro River ➜

5. Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar  

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 6 Reviews )

Journey through time on the Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar.

On this full-day tour, you’ll get to cruise down the Douro River, visit a wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and explore some of Portugal’s best-preserved architectural treasures. Discover all the secrets and corners of Porto, popularly called the “Invicta”, meaning the Unbeaten City.

Take a break from the tour to go for lunch, and at the end of the day, you can transfer back to the hotel or stay in the center of Porto to enjoy the late afternoon and catch the sunset.

This is an unforgettable experience that will give you insight into Porto’s fascinating history and culture.

Duration: 8.5 Hours

• Private transportation
• Guided tour by a professional tourism driver/guide
• 6 bridges cruise ticket
• Ticket to visit a Port Wine Cellar, with tasting at the end

“Our 10 night river cruise and excursions were great. But the very last day I arranged a private tour with eco tours in Porto Portugal. Absolutely wonderful and far better than the excursions offered on the ship. My mom is 86 and has mobility issues so private tours are life saving for our family. Daniela was our tour guide and he went far and above our expectations in ensuring my mom was able to see everything and experience hard to get to places like the Churchill wine tasting room. He literally backed up an extremely narrow cobblestone road inches from hitting cars and side of building to bring my mom up to the front door. During the tour, he made sure the tour guide carried a chair around for my mom to sit on as well. He was extremely knowledgeable and spoke English very well and was loud enough for all of us to hear in the very luxurious van. Bravo eco Tours! Highly recommend!” – TripAdvisor Travler ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Tour in Porto with Cruise and Visit to a Wine Cellar ➜

6. Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River

⭐  5/5 ( 33 Reviews )

The Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River is one of the most memorable boat tours in Porto.

Enjoy 2 hours of relaxation with friends or family as you cruise along the riverside of Porto and Gaia, taking pictures of the Dom Luis Bridge from the best spots. Sip on sparkling green wine or the famous Port wine while listening to custom music, all without leaving the comfort of your own boat.

Pack some snacks and get ready for an amazing way to explore one of Europe’s best cities and its stunning river.

Included: 

• Welcome drink (sparkling or Porto wine)
• Certified crew
• Custom music

“The trip is pretty good!! More than perfect!! And those boatmen were so friendly that told us the history of Porto. We sat in the front of the boat to view the seascape and the colorful houses, meanwhile we tasted the topical green wine which was so great!!! I’m satisfied with this journey! It’s worth!” – GetYourGuide Traveler, Spain ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto: Private Charming Sailboat Tour on the Douro River ➜

7. Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting  

⭐ 4.7/5 ( 21 Reviews )

Have an unforgettable day out in Porto on the Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting .

This full-day tour offers a combination of sightseeing, food, and wine tasting that will leave you feeling satisfied and full of new experiences.

Admire the exterior of the Cathedral and São Bento Railway Station on a guided walking tour. Take a panoramic tour in Boavista and Foz do Douro. Visit a local wine cellar and taste fine wines. Break for lunch and then cruise along the Douro River.

This is one of the best Porto boat tours and is sure to provide something special for everyone. The only thing you will want after this day is more wine.

• Guided Porto city tour
• Visit to a wine cellar with 2 wine tastings
• Two glasses of wine
• Pick up from hotels in Porto (if option selected)
• Lunch (if option selected)

Size of Tour: 8 -27 people

“Very interesting little town. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about the city. We saw amazing views of the city from Porto and the town across Porto. Wine tasting was cool, the boat ride always also cool. Overall amazing day” – GetYourGuide Traveler ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Best of Porto Guided Tour with Lunch, Cruise & Wine Tasting ➜

8. Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour  

⭐ 5/5 ( 14 Reviews )

Find the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion with the Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour.

This 2-hour cruise on the Douro River is perfect for private parties, with a sound system and onboard wifi available to make it just right for your occasion.

You’ll get amazing views of the city from this boat as it passes by all 6 bridges in Porto .

• Restroom on board

“Wow I cannot share how great of an experience my partner and I had. We were skeptical of the price as it seemed to good to be true, so we signed up and arrived early, and was ensured we were all set to go for our 3pm boat tour. We hung out at the nearby cafe until Ines came to retrieve us to start our boat ride. To our surprise, we had the whole boat to ourselves! Andrés and Ines showed us around the river and were very friendly and knowledgeable of the history of Porto. They then brought out various different wines to taste and paired them with delicioso chocolates. We had some great conversations and they even recommended some local restaurants for dinner. On the way back to dock, we were greeted with a beautiful sunset sky and docked at 5pm. Such a lovely experience, would recommend to anyone visiting Porto with a loved one or group of friends. Thank you so much Andres and Ines!” – Edgar ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto Wine Tasting Boat Tour ➜

9. Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour and Douro River Cruise  

⭐ 4.6/5 ( 355 Reviews )

The Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour & Douro River Cruise is one of the most unique ways to see the city.

This amazing tour offers visitors an unforgettable tuk-tuk ride through some of the city’s most iconic sites and attractions, such as Sao Bento Station, the Clerigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop. Plus, you can see the city from a different perspective on a cruise down the Douro River.

With a 50-minute tuk-tuk ride and 55-minute river cruise , this is an adventure that cannot be missed.

You can split your tour across multiple days on your trip to Porto or enjoy it all at once.

Duration: 1.75 Hours

• Electric tuk-tuk tour
• Guide during tuk-tuk tour
• Cruise ticket

Size of Tour: Private group

“The guide Frédéric was very friendly and had a lot to tell us about this magnificent city. He answered all our questions and the tour of the city in a tuk tuk allows you to see a lot of things and as the vehicle is slow, we were able to take all our photos. Frankly I recommend. We also took the boat to admire the 6 bridges of the Douro and also we liked the walk, especially since the weather was very nice.” – GetYourGuide Traveler, France ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto: Electric Tuk-Tuk City Tour and Douro River Cruise ➜

10. Porto Boat Tour

⭐ 4.5/5 ( 102 Reviews )

The Porto Boat Tour is an amazing experience that takes you through the Douro River and its stunning estuary.

You’ll have a chance to enjoy breathtaking views of churches, bridges, and other sites while sipping on a glass of port wine. Take in all the beauty of nature with wildlife sightings along your 2-hour cruise.

With blankets provided during winter months and comfortable Bénéteau sailboats , this is Porto boat tour that will leave a lasting impression. It’s even better at sunset!

• Glass of Port Wine

Size of Tour: 28 people max

“We enjoyed a very pleasant cruise down the Douro river and out to the harbor area. It was very personalized as we were the only couple on the boat. The couple taking us out were very friendly and helpful. It was much preferable to the other cruise boats that were packed with people.” – Tet M ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Porto Boat Tour ➜

11. Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve

⭐ 5/5 ( 1 Reviews )

The Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve tour is great for couples, families and groups who want to take in some of Portugal’s best sights while enjoying a unique experience on board.

This 2-hour small group tour sails along the calm waters of the Douro River to get away from the crowds, taking short breaks so you can admire all its beauty and capture photos that will last forever.

Cross the six iconic bridges of Porto while listening to your favourite music playlist via a Bluetooth speaker – making this trip even more enjoyable. Take in breathtaking views as you sail towards the mouth of the river at Douro Estuary Natural Reserve.

• Welcome Drink

Size of Tour: You and your group 

“Excellent trip Made the best even out if bad weather Our guide and Captain were both fantastic Will do this again in summer” – K.S ( see more reviews )

Check Prices & Availability: Private Yacht – Experience of the 6 Bridges and Douro Estuary Natural Reserve  ➜

The 6 Bridges Douro River Day Cruise in Porto: What It’s Like

After scootering around Lagos and parasailing in Albufeira on Portugal’s southern coast, I was ready for more adventures in this beautiful country. Arrive early to check in for your river cruise before its departure time. After checking in, you will line up to board the boat, prepared to board when the ship is ready. Choose an open seat and get ready to sail. 

Depending on the tour you choose, there may be an audio part of the tour explaining the history of the six bridges. My river cruise did not include an audio tour.  

Once the boat sails, relax and feel the wind in your hair. Both sides of the boat offer a great view, as whatever you can’t see well on one side, you will see again on the return trip. I loved seeing each of Porto’s six bridges and enjoying sitting down after a long day of sightseeing.

Seeing Porto from the water is charming and well worth the ticket price. If I didn’t take the river cruise, I wouldn’t have seen half of the bridges in this adorable town. I recommend the 6 bridges cruise as part of your Porto itinerary.

Tips for the Best Experience with Your Porto River Day Cruise

• Plan your river cruise close to sunset if you plan to watch the sunset from Porto’s waterfront area. Porto is known for their incredible sunsets, so you will want to plan where you will be to watch it. We took our cruise around 5 pm, then stayed in the waterfront district until the sun had set.
• During the cruise, you cannot sit at the front of the boat as your seat , but you can take a photo with the view.
• If you sit on the left outer edge of the boat, be prepared to be splashed. During my tour, we got splashed, but the rest of the ship stayed dry. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but other people moved after that. Something to note when choosing where to sit during your ride. 
• Book a ticket in advance to ensure your spot. If you don’t know your schedule, buy your ticket for the same day, but be prepared that not all time options may be available. I bought my tickets on the same day and had to pick a time slightly later than I intended but it worked out. 
• Tie up your hair unless you are okay with it tangling in the wind.

FAQs about 6 Bridges Cruise Porto

What river passes through porto.

The Douro River passes through Porto , Portugal, flowing from Central Spain until it passes Porto and reaches the Atlantic Ocean. It is the second longest river in Portugal, after the Tagus River, which flows through Lisbon.

How Long is the Douro River Cruise?

A Porto bridges river cruise lasts 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tour operator. The tour starts near Ponte Dom Luis I and proceeds towards interior Portugal before turning around and heading to the mouth where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, then returning to Porto.

Where do River Cruises Depart from in Porto?

From the Porto side of the river, cruises depart from Cais da Ribeira . To reach this scenic waterfront street, be prepared to climb down plenty of stairs, ride in a tuk-tuk then walk the rest, or take the gondola on the other side of the river and walk across Ponte Dom Luis I. 

Final Thoughts: Is the 6 Bridges Cruise Worth it? + Best Porto Boat Tours

The 6 bridges Douro River day cruise is worth it for the unique perspective of the city and bridges, and the best way to see them is on a Porto boat tour.

From taking panoramic tours of Boavista and Foz do Douro to tasting fine wines or sailing along the tranquil waters of the Douro River, there’s something special for everyone on these best Porto boat tours. 

Whether it’s with family, friends or on your own, this unique adventure will provide lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. 

The best Porto boat tour is the one with the smallest group size – Private Tour in the Douro (1 to 4 People) in a Boat Just For You .

Happy travelling!

Related Posts – Portugal

• How to Spend 2 Days in Porto
• 3 Days in Lisbon: A Lisbon Itinerary
• Should I Buy a Lisboa Card?
• Tips for Riding the Telecabine Lisboa
• How to Visit the Lisboa Oceanarium 
• Castelo de São Jorge Review
• Lisbon Cathedral: Visiting the Se de Lisboa
• A Review of Pestana Lisboa Vintage Hotel
• Sidecar32 Scooter Rental in Lagos
• Parasailing with Dream Wave Algarve

Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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The best Douro river cruises

Besides its majestic beauty, the Douro Valley region is a dream come true for wine lovers who can wander around…

Besides its majestic beauty, the Douro Valley region is a dream come true for wine lovers who can wander around some of its best vineyards . However, usually people who do not drink wine struggle a bit about what to do in Douro Valley besides drinking wine , which is why I am writing about the best Douro river cruises.

This article is about the short boat rides in Douro river, not about the week long ones . It is meant, therefore, for people who are planning to stay a couple of days in Douro Valley or organising a day trip from Porto. If you are looking for the short boat rides in Douro river but in Porto , read my article about the best river cruises in Porto – one of the most popular activities in the city!

No time to read a long article? Here’s a summary

• The cheapest river cruises in the douro valley take place in a traditional rabelo boat (group activity). They last 1h / 2h and departure from Pinhão. You should book the 2h Douro river cruise or the 1h Douro river cruise and they sell out SUPER FAST.
• There are also private Yacht river cruises in the douro valley, that are reasonably affordable as well. They also departure from Pinhão and they have the capacity to 14 people.
• There are also one day Douro river cruise connecting Porto to Régua (the main city in the Baixo Corgo sub region) and one day Douro river cruise Porto to Pinhão . I don’t recommend either; keep on reading this article to discover why.

Classification of Douro river cruises

There are basically two criteria to classify the best douro river cruises:

• A) Typology: Douro river cruises can be either group activities (prices ranging from 12,50€ / person to 25€ / person) or private activities (prices ranging from 45€ / person to 60€ / person, depending on the size of your group).
• B) Starting point: Douro river cruises can either departure from Pinhão (my favourite spot) or from Peso da Régua.

Therefore, we are going to explore four different kinds of Douro river cruises, according to this Index:

Best GROUP Douro river cruises starting in Pinhão

There are some short Douro river cruises departing from Pinhão, the main city of the sub region of Cima Corgo, in Douro Valley. This is the river cruise that I enjoy the most, for several reasons:

• It’s a short Douro river cruise, and hence you can combine it with a wine tour & tasting at a vineyard and a lunch in Pinhão – this is exactly what we do on our iconic private wine tour and river cruise in Douro Valley . If you have rented a car , you can simply park it in Pinhão and walk to the deck.
• Whether you opt for a 1h river cruise (Pinhão – Romaneira – Pinhão) or for a 2h one (Pinhão – Tua – Pinhão), the views from the boat are simply stunning.

There are several tour operators making the best GROUP Douro river cruises. I personally recommend Magnífico Douro as the boats are in great conditions, the boat rides are cheap, and the staff is very friendly and professional.

They organise both 2h and 1h boat rides departing from Pinhão. You can simply buy the online ticket for the 2h Douro river cruise or the online ticket for the 1h Douro river cruise , depending on your time availability.

Price of the best GROUP Douro river cruises

Currently, a 1h Douro river cruise costs 12,50€, and the 2h Douro river cruise costs 25€.

Children up to 5 years old don’t pay anything.

Children from 6 to 11 years old have a 50% discount on the price of the tickets, as you can see when you buy the tickets online:

Schedule of the best Douro river cruises

The 1h Douro river cruise departures every hour, from 10h to 18h. During winter, there are no boats at 17h nor 18h.

The 2h Douro river cruise departures only at 10h45 and then at 15h, so make sure to grab your seat !

What is the size of the boats?

Magnífico Douro uses 7 traditional rabelo boats of different sizes, and for the regular departures it usually uses one of 4 boats. Depending on the number of tickets that they have sold for each schedule, they will use one of the following boats:

Dona Antónia – it is an electrical boat (the only one of its kind in the country!), with capacity for 34 passengers. It is 17,5 meters long.

Torga – with 17,5 meters long, it has capacity for 45 passengers. Touriga – with 17,5 meters long, it has capacity for 32 passengers. It is very similar to Torga. Socalcos – their largest boat, it is almost 24 meters long and it has capacity for 100 passengers.

Are there bathrooms (WC) on board?

What if it rains.

If it rains you cry and ask for your money back, because everyone promised you a sunny Portugal 😛 Jokes aside: I get this question MANY TIMES so I guess it a major concern of a lot of people.

But there is no reason to worry, not really. First of all, the boats are super safe. Second of all, all the boats have a covered area with sofas, proper windows and a ceiling, creating a small room from which you can still enjoy your river cruise without getting wet.

What are you talking about Sara, I don’t see a covered area on some of the pictures! That is because both the windows and the ceiling are removable and removed on sunny days. True story. In engineers we trust.

Do they sell drinks and food on board?

One thing that distinguishes Magnífico Douro from its competitors is that you can actually buy some drinks on board – mostly water and beer. However, no one sells food (so if you really need to eat, I suggest you bring some easy-to-eat snacks like dried fruits).

Are there audio guides available?

Another thing I love about Magnífico Douro is that, unlike its competitors, you don’t hear a shrill voice speaking through a megaphone for the entire boat.

Instead, you simply download their audioguide app (available on Play Store and Apple Store) on your smartphone – don’t forget to take your earplugs. The app is available in four different languages: English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.

When you buy the online ticket to the best Douro river cruises, just select the language you want:

Best PRIVATE Douro river cruises starting in Pinhão

For those of you that dream about making a private river cruise but without breaking the piggy bank or having to eat pasta with tuna for the rest of the month, I have great news: there is a company in Douro Valley that makes affordable private river cruises !

Price of the best PRIVATE Douro river cruises

Currently, the price of the private 1h douro river cruise vary depending on the number of people that book this activity:

• If you are a group of two people, then the boat costs 120€ in total (so, 60€ / person).
• For a group of 3 to 5 people, each person pays 50€ / person.
• For groups from 6 to 14 people, each person pays 45€ / person.
• If you are traveling alone and book the boat just for yourself, the price is 100€.

Children up to 4 years old don’t pay anything.

Children from 5 to 9 years old pay 25€.

The affordable private Douro river cruise departures every hour from 9h to 19h.

There is only ONE boat doing this service, so hurry up and book your private douro river cruise !

The boat used for this private Douro river cruise is 172 meters long and it has capacity for 14 passengers.

Fun fact: the boat is called Unbelievable and it has two double cabins, a kitchen with dining room and a large room, with a control point and a set of windows that allow for a 360º visibility.

The exterior includes a large space at the bow and a raised and protected area at the stern, which accommodates a second command post.

Therefore, if it rains you have lots of space to take shelter onboard, do not worry!

I am afraid not, but you will be welcome onboard with a glass of Port wine.

I am afraid not, but the captain (A lady called Barbara) can answer any question you might have about the region.

GROUP Douro river cruises starting in Peso da Régua

There are shorter Douro river cruises that start in Régua, the main city in the Douro Valley, at the heart of the Baixo Corgo Sub Region. I don’t find these boat rides as beautiful as the ones departing from Pinhão (simply because the landscape from Régua to Pinhão is not as beautiful as the one from Pinhão upwards), but it might be more convenient to get these because Régua is more central than Pinhão.

Useful information

Honestly we never include Douro river cruises departing from Régua on our private tours in Douro Valley so I cannot be of much help in this particular case. However, I do know that the river cruise companies are located in Cais da Régua, in front of Museu do Douro (a famous wine museum).

GROUP River cruises that connect Porto to Régua / Pinhão

This one day Douro river cruises consist of a combination of a train ride from Porto to Régua, Pinhão, Pocinho or Barca d’Alva, followed by a boat ride down the river, or the other way around (going up the river by boat and then getting back to Porto by train). Usually there are welcoming drinks and lunch being served on board of the one day Douro river cruises, and there are also some programs that include a visit to a vineyard. Therefore you need to spend some time to find the right tour operator & program that meets your expectations.

This is the Douro river cruise that I like the least, for several reasons:

• It is a very lengthy day, starting at around 7h and ending somewhere around 23h. If you are traveling with kids or with elder people they might get tired half way through.
• Because you will be taking a combination of both train and boat ride you will loose the flexibility to visit the vineyards you are truly interested in. This happens because only a handful producers have their vineyards close to the train stations in Douro Valley (Régua, Pinhão and Pocinho).

Nonetheless, the one day Douro river cruises are still a popular choice for those who are not so much into wine tastings and would rather (and quite understandingly) spend the day just enjoying the views.

Tour operators

You can get your online ticket to the one day Douro river cruise Porto – Régua (the main city in the Baixo Corgo sub region) or get your online ticket to the one day Douro river cruise Porto – Pinhão (the main city in the Cima Corgo sub region).

The prices range from 67€ to 88€ depending on the tour operator, the length of the river cruise and other factors. The one day Douro river cruises that I just suggested cost 67€ (Porto – Régua – Porto) and 88€ (Porto – Pinhão – Porto), respectively. These prices may vary according to the season of the year.

Around 16h, but check the schedule of each tour operator of Douro river cruises.

Are there three days Douro river cruises?

I’ve been getting this question lately so I decided to update this article to include that information. First of all, it is important to distinguish between a three days Douro river cruise and a three day tour in Douro with a river cruise. Presumably, if you choose the first option you will be on a Douro river cruise for three days, whereas on the second option, you will be in Douro Valley for three days during which you will take a short Douro river cruise, for sure like the ones I mentioned above. These are two different value propositions. All private tours companies in Douro Valley, including myself, can arrange a short Douro river cruise as part of a day (or multi days) tour in Douro Valley. However, I don’t personally know any company arranging three days Douro river cruise. I found one when researching online (the things I do for you!), but honestly I never worked with them, never heard of them, so I cannot vouch for them. I hope I was able to cast some light!

How to get to Douro Valley

There are train connections from Porto to the major cities in Douro Valley: Peso da Régua and Pinhão. This is the best option if you just want to do a Douro river cruise and then come back by train. You can check the schedules on CP website . However, if you are want to combine a Douro river cruise with a visit to one of the vineyards in Douro Valley you definitely need a car. You can also hire a private guide like myself or, worst case scenario, use taxis from one place to another – but you will end up loosing a lot of time in the process if you choose this last option! Therefore, I recommend you to use AutoEurope to find the cheapest car rental deals.

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Douro Travel Guide Book cruises and activities

Experiences » Douro Cruises

1 Day Douro Cruises

The 1-day cruises in the Douro are among the cruises with the highest demand. Departing from the main cities on the river banks, these cruises take you along the Douro from Porto to the heart of the Douro Wine Region – classified as World Heritage by UNESCO.

These cruises pass through several dams and their locks, a unique experience in Portugal.

1 Day Cruises

2 Day Cruises

Historic Train

Miradouro Train

Mini Cruises

Private Cruises

Rabelo Boats

Douro Cruise – Porto / Régua / Porto – Upstream

from 72€ / person

Douro Cruise – Porto / Régua / Porto – Downstream

from 65€ / person

Douro Cruise – Porto / Pinhão / Porto – Upstream

Visit to Wine Estate

from 85€ / person

Douro Cruise – Régua / Pinhão / Régua (with lunch)

Upstream and downstream by boat

71€ / person

Douro Cruise – Régua / Barca d’Alva / Régua

Cruise and Train

110€ / person

Douro Cruise – Régua / Pocinho / Régua – Downstream

95€ / person

Cruise Porto / Régua and the Miradouro Train

from 95€ / person

Douro Route – Cruise and Quinta da Pacheca

Visit and Wine Tasting

from 125€ / person

Douro by the Window – Porto / Régua / Pinhão / Porto

Cruise and Miradouro Train

99€ / person

Historical Trip to the Douro – Porto / Régua / Tua / Porto

Cruise, Historic and MiraDouro Trains

149€ / person

Cruise Régua / Pinhão and Historic Train

Cruise and Historic Train

115€ / person

Historical Pinhão – Pinhão / Tua / Pinhão

Rabelo Boat and Historic Train

70€ / person

Douro Cruise – Régua / Porto / Régua

Douro Cruise – Porto / Régua / Barca d’Alva / Porto

130€ / person

Cruise Douro Medieval – Régua / Pocinho / Régua

Visit to Torre de Moncorvo

98€ / person

Cruise Douro Vinhateiro – Régua / São João da Pesqueira / Régua

Visit to the São Salvador do Mundo Viewpoint

102€ / person

Douro Cruise – Régua / Pinhão – Upstream

30€ / person

Cruise Season

The regular cruise season starts in mid-March and ends in December. In the remaining months the dams are closed for maintenance so it is not possible to pass through the locks.

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Porto - Régua - Porto (Downstream) Cruise

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Board an unique cruise between Porto and Régua, with lunch on board!

Discover the Douro on a cruise between Porto and Régua. Includes lunch and breakfast on board!

Enjoy a 50 minute cruise on a typical Rabelo Boat through the Bridges between Porto and Gaia!

Venture out along the most beautiful route in the Douro Train Line and relax aboard an amazing cruise!

Board on the longest cruise and discover the entire length of the Douro River in Portugal!

Enjoy a cruise between Porto and Régua with a visit to a famous Winery in the Region!

Board on one of the most emblematic Douro cruises from Porto to Pinhão!

A day full of incredible experiences to discover the Douro Essence!

Relax on a charming half-day cruise between Régua and the beautiful village of Pinhão!

Board in Régua and enjoy a remarkable downstream cruise to Porto, returning by private bus!

Enjoy a fantastic cruise between Régua and Pinhão, with a typical lunch on board!

Discover the most grand landscapes of the Douro, on a cruise between Régua and Pocinho!

Enjoy a charming cruise from Régua to Spanish border!

A boat trip to Ferradosa Pier, with a visit to the wine village and traditional lunch!

Embark on a 1-hour boat ride and be dazzled by the magnificent views of Régua.

Enjoy a journey through time and discover all the charms of Douro's History and Culture.

A 2-hour cruise on a Rabelo Boat, through an incredible route that is not visible by road!

1 hour mini cruise in the Douro, a beautiful route not visible from national roads.

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Douro River Cruises

10 best douro river cruises for 2024-2025, flavors of portugal & spain - cruise only, delightful douro, enticing douro, portugal to spain - porto, the douro valley and salamanca, from portugal to spain: porto, the douro valley and salamanca, lisbon, porto and the douro valley, top 6 luxury cruises on the douro river 2024-2025, douro river cruise deals in 2024, top-rated douro riverboats for 2024-2025, ms amadouro, scenic azure, ms gil eanes, ms fernao de magalhaes, ms infante don henrique, ms vasco de gama, find the perfect douro river cruise, douro river wine tasting cruises, douro river luxury cruises, douro river cruises with hiking, douro river village visits, how to choose a douro river cruise, douro river cruise tips & travel guide, top 10 ports to visit on a douro river cruise: a complete guide.

• Porto :  The second largest city in Portugal, located on the coast, and the starting and ending point for most of our cruises through Portugal & Spain.
• Régua  & Vila Réal:  Located along the Douro River and home to gardens, palaces, and notable architecture.
• Braga:  Nicknamed the "Rome of Spain" for its notable religious architecture.
•   Salamanca :  This is one of Spain's treasured cultural centers, with architectural highlights of Roman, Arabic, and Christian influence.
• Ferradosa:  A historic city in Portugal where you can sample some of the delicious regional wine.
• Lamego:  An important pilgrimage site in Portugal for the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies) and the Gothic cathedral.
• Pinhão :  Home to the Baroque Palacio de Mateus and Quinta da Roeda & Quinta do Seixo where you can sample their well aged wines.
• Guimarães:  A well preserved historic town with buildings dating back to medieval times.

10 Favorite Ports on the Douro River

European cruise: when to go, portugal overview.

• Architecture: You will be delighted by the Baroque and Gothic architecture that can be seen in the cathedrals, towns, and even residential architecture that hallmarks western Spain & Portugal.
• Wine :  The wineries of this region produce some of the most celebrated wine in all of Europe, and almost every cruise features wine tasting tours.
• Scenery:  The rolling hills and rugged valleys along the Douro River have been inspired artists for centuries. 

The Douro River Valley is where some of the most famous and flavorful wine in all of Europe is produced. There was once a time when Portugal had land holdings throughout the world, including a large portion of South America, Africa, and the Atlantic Ocean.  Because of this global conquest, Portuguese is the official language of nine countries. In addition to being Europe's oldest country, Portugal hosts the world's oldest bookstore and one of Europe's oldest universities. The country also holds the record as having the longest bridge in Europe.

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Choosing The Best Douro River Cruise For You

The magical Douro River Valley, the enchanting "river of gold," is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful wine regions, promising postcard-perfect villages and vineyards, as well as centuries of fascinating culture.

Best For First Timers - Villages & Vintages: Cruising the Douro River Valley

Begin with Villages & Vintages: Cruising the Douro River Valley , our eight-day, cruise-only tour that's the ideal introduction to river cruising — and to the tastiest products of this winding, scenic region, steeped in a wine-making culture thousands of years old. Because throughout, while discovering the timeless traditions and welcoming people, you'll also frequently sample the Douro River Valley's renowned food and wine.  Settle aboard the brand-new ms Andorinha riverboat, and explore colorful, labyrinthine Porto, the city where port wine is made and stored and which gave the beverage its name. Dock in Peso da Régua, where you can enjoy a Tauck Exclusive port-wine cocktail-making workshop.  Sail to the idyllic village of Pinhão, the gateway to vineyards and wine estates, like Quinta do Portal, the one you'll experience at a Tauck Exclusive private dinner with wine pairings. In the Vinho Verde ("Green Wine") countryside, take a bike tour along the picturesque Tâmega River and into exquisite Amarante. At Vila Nova de Gaia, the destination of wines shipped from vineyards, visit one of its caves for a tour and tasting...and to toast this delicious journey. There's so much more! Learn about our Douro Valley River Cruise .   Best For Families - Douro Discovery: A Family River Cruise

Douro Discovery: A Family River Cruise in Portugal promises eight days that will appeal to adventurous spirits. Spend two nights in Lisbon, during which you'll see its neighborhoods via a vintage tram and, at the National Maritime Museum, reveal how tiny Portugal once ruled the seas. Plus, take a Tauck Exclusive private tour of the National Palace of Queluz, the opulent former residence of the royal family, followed by a welcome reception in the garden and dinner in the Throne Room! Recapture heroic legends and romance in medieval Coimbra. Navigate mazes of vibrant streets on two wheels during a bicycle tour of intriguing Porto. In Pinhão, choose your Tauck Exclusive excursion: a hike through entrancing hilltop vineyards or kayaking on the Douro River.  Another Tauck Exclusive awaits in Vinho Verde, with bicycling through stunning wine country scenery, and ending at the storybook town of Amarante—once home of Portugal's Saint Valentine and famous artists and writers. Or instead, head for Guimarães, known as the "Cradle City" where the kingdom of Portugal was born after a famous battle in 1128. Explore Tauck's Douro Family River Boat Cruise .   Best For Experienced Travelers - Exploring the Douro, Plus Lisbon & Madrid

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Douro Cruises from Porto

A cruise adventure starting in Porto is a great way to see Douro. We have 27 tours that range from 5 days up to 11 days. The most popular time for tours from Porto is July, which has the most cruise departures.

27 Douro river cruises from Porto with 61 reviews

• River Cruise

Douro Experience 2024 (9 destinations)

Beautiful ship, great staff, fantastic food. Bus drivers great & careful drivers.

• Wine tasting

Gems of Porto & the Douro Valley with Douro River Cruise - 5 Days in Portugal

The tour was made partially walking and on a top mercedes car, wasn't expecting that!

Gems of the Douro (Port to Port Cruise)

Porto, the Douro valley (Portugal) and Salamanca (Spain) (port-to-port cruise)

Room on top level wonderful. Meals good. Everything was A-1. Loved the folkloric dances the last night.

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Lisbon, 2024)

Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Porto, 2024)

Douro Experience 2024 (8 destinations)

• Bike and Barge

Portugal | Douro River BikeTour | Bike & Boat

The Douro River, the spirit of Portugal (port-to-port cruise)

The saving grace of the trip was the great quality of the staff.

Spectacular vineyards

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

Picturesque Solo Douro Tour

Flavors of Portugal & Spain 2024 Start Porto, End Vega de Terrón

• Christmas & New Year

Enticing Douro 2025

What people love about Douro Cruises from Porto

A very pleasant 8 day experience but really more like a five day cruise. The cruise information was incomplete, leaving out interesting opportunities along the way (Port museums and prehistoric rock art,) most particularly an excursion to Salamanca, which turned out to be a highlight for us. The food was good but not as interesting as Portuguese restaurants in Porto or even at home in Canada.

Excellent tour with great guides

Staff were fun, solicitous and helpful. Room on top level wonderful. Meals good. Everything was A-1. Loved the folkloric dances the last night.

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Douro River Cruises

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Highlights of a Douro River Cruise

Cruises on the Douro River usually run between March and November and start with a multi-day visit to Portugal's capital city of  Lisbon . This lovely city is very hilly and sits on the Tagus River. Many compare Lisbon to San Francisco, primarily because of its hills and  suspension bridge  that looks much like the Golden Gate Bridge.

River cruise tours leave Lisbon and drive to  Porto  on the coast of Portugal north of Lisbon, where you will board your Douro River cruise ship. From Porto, the river vessels sail eastward up the river into Spain, stopping at historical sites along the way. One of the best things about a Douro River cruise is the unspoiled scenery and fascinating towns, monasteries, and gardens. Of course, participants will also have the opportunity to learn all about Portugal's famous beverage, port. Towns and villages such as Coimbra,  Salamanca , and  Guimarães  will each add special memories to your Douro River cruise.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises on the Douro River

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has been sailing Portugal, and Spain's UNESCO World Heritage Douro River Valley since 2001, providing all English-speaking staff and fully guided excursions in this spectacular part of the world. Over the past decade, demand for Douro River cruises has grown, and Uniworld's ten-night Portugal, Spain and Douro River itinerary has become one of their best-selling programs.

In the spring of 2013, Uniworld introduced a newly-built ship to the Douro River-- the Queen Isabel. This new ship replaced the Douro Spirit, which was just launched in 2011.

Uniworld's Queen Isabel is slightly smaller than the Douro Spirit. The ship carries 118 passengers and allows Uniworld to offer 18 junior suites at 215 square feet and 2 larger suites at 323 square feet. These larger accommodations are on the top deck and have full balconies. The style of the Queen Isabel river ship is the same classic Old World style and elegance similar to Uniworld's other ships in Europe.

Uniworld named the ship Queen Isabel after one of Portugal's most beloved queens.

Viking River Cruises on the Douro River

Viking River Cruises sail the Douro River with 10-day cruise tours starting with two days in Lisbon, followed by seven nights on the 106-guest Viking Hemming or Viking Torgil , both launched in 2014. Guests who want to spend more time in the region can add a 2-night extension to Braga, Portugal and Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

AMAWaterways Douro River Cruises

AmaWaterways joined Uniworld and Viking on the Douro River in 2013. This river cruise line has two river cruise itineraries. The first is a 12-day cruise tour called the " Enticing Douro " and is similar to that of the other river cruise lines, starting in Lisbon and ending with a 7-day cruise on the Douro on the 108-passenger AmaVida .

The second AmaWaterways itinerary, the 15-day "Port Wine & Flamenco" is identical to the first, but adds three days in  Madrid .

CroisiEurope on the Douro River

CroisiEurope has been sailing European rivers since 1976 and features English-language 6- and 8-day Douro River cruises that sail roundtrip from Porto. Some itineraries feature the Douro Valley of Portugal; others go to Salamanca, Spain and return. These are a good option for those who have already spent time in Lisbon or prefer to explore the area from Lisbon to Porto on their own.

CroisiEurope has three ships sailing the Douro River -- the MS Fernao de Magalhaes, MS Infante don Henrique, and MS Vasco de Gama.

Scenic Cruises on the Douro River

Australian river cruise line Scenic Cruises has three different Douro River itineraries, ranging in length from 8 to 14 days. The 8- and 11-day voyages sail roundtrip from Porto, whereas the 14-day itinerary includes three days in Lisbon before a 10-day cruise. 

In addition to the three basic Douro River cruise itineraries, travelers looking for a longer itinerary can combine their Scenic Cruises' Douro River cruise with a cruise in France either in the Bordeaux region or on the Seine River. Alternatively, Scenic offers pre- or post-cruise add-ons in Paris, Lisbon, and Madrid.

Emerald Waterways Cruises on the Douro River

Emerald Waterways is a sister river cruise line to Scenic Cruises and launched a new ship, the Emerald Radiance on the Douro in 2017. This cruise line also has four cruise tour itineraries:  "Secrets of the Douro", an 8-day cruise tour round-trip from Porto; "Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon, an 8-day cruise round-trip from Porto and 3 nights in Lisbon at a hotel' and "Secrets of the Douro & Madrid, an 8-day cruise round-trip from Porto and 3 nights in Madrid in a hotel; and "Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon to Madrid, 8-day cruise round-trip from Porto, 3 nights in Lisbon, and 3 nights in Madrid.

Emerald's Douro River cruises can also be combined with Emerald's river cruises in southern France, which makes a truly memorable extended cruise tour vacation.

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Douro  river cruises

Journey across Portugal on a luxury Douro river cruise, where picturesque landscapes await.

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Explore the delights of the Douro 

Experience the Iberian Peninsula on board a Douro river cruise. Observe the dramatic landscapes, losing yourself in the vibrant green hills of the Douro Valley, or spend your days relaxing in the Portuguese sunshine.

Uncover rolling vineyards, centuries of history, and bustling cities alike on a Douro river cruise

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your Douro river cruise. Journey from Porto, where the origins of Portugal took shape, and along the river to the Douro Valley to discover famed vineyards, towering cliff faces, and stunning wildlife.

Discover the Douro River  

A vintage heritage.

Portuguese culinary wonders

Portugal through the ages

The stunning Douro Valley

Featured Itineraries

Seek inspiration from our most popular itineraries to start planning your unforgettable voyage. Explore our latest Douro river cruises offers  today.

Secrets of the Douro

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10 Most Iconic River Cruises around the World

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 30, 2024

To many travelers, a cruise conjures up images of a huge ocean-going boat lumbering from one tropical island to another. However, there is another more intimate type of cruise that is just as popular with travelers today — the river cruise.

The boats for these cruises are typically much smaller than the behemoths that travel the sea and are the perfect platform for traveling by river from one interesting site or city to another. An overview of the best river cruises around the world:

10. Douro Cruise

The Douro River may not be as well known or as popular as some other European cruise destinations, but it’s not because it’s an unworthy destination. This wonderful little cruise, which takes travelers through Portugal and Spain, winds past picturesque vineyards and Medieval villages.

This cruise is especially perfect for anyone who loves to venture off the beaten track. A Douro River cruise trip itinerary normally starts at the river’s outlet in Porto and could include visits to local vineyards, castles and cathedrals.

9. Mississippi River Cruise

The Mighty Mississippi, the fourth longest river in the world, cuts through the heart of America and through some of this country’s most beautiful scenery. Many of the ships that ply this river are designed to look like old-fashioned paddle-wheel steamboats, which can give a traveler the feeling that they are traveling back to a time when life was enjoyed at a more leisurely pace.

Depending on the itinerary, travelers on a Mississippi River cruise could float past quaint towns as well as major cities, such as St. Louis and Louisville . Again, depending on your itinerary, tour excursions could include visits to plantation homes as well as Battle of New Orleans battle sites. Cruises on the Mississippi can range from as little as a few hours to ones that last three weeks or even longer.

8. Kerala Backwaters Cruise

Travelers wanting to experience the beauty and charm of India’s backwaters should book a cruise through India’s amazing Kerala area.As they travel through this region’s canals and lovely lakes that form Kerala’s Backwaters, cruisers can enjoy living life like the locals.

The Kerala area boasts an unique ecosystem with fresh water from the rivers mixing with the saltwater from the Arabian Sea. Travelers can choose from several different types of boats in which to explore this area, including the famous kettuvallams that employ native oarsmen or motorized thatched-roof boats.

7. Volga River Cruise

The Volga River is the longest in Europe and is often thought of as the national river of Russia. Depending on the itinerary, travelers on a Volga River cruise might visit St. Petersburg and Moscow or the Golden Ring cities. A trip down the Volga River is an excellent way for a traveler to experience both modern and old Russia. Again, depending on the itinerary, a Volga River cruise could offer excursions to the ballet, the circus or to visit one of Russia’s magnificent palaces.

6. Rhine River Cruise

It’s not surprising that a trip down the Rhine River is one of Europe’s most popular cruises. The Rhine River winds leisurely through a number of countries that are popular travel destinations, including Switzerland, France, Germany and Holland. Many consider the part between Koblenz to Bingen in Germany the most beautiful parts of the Rhine river.

Here travelers will enjoy some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes and magnificent sites, including Medieval castles, lush vineyards and pass through picturesque towns that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale. Trips down the Rhine can be as short as a half day for those with limited time to multi-country itineraries that can last 11 days or even longer.

5. Mekong River Cruise

The Mekong River runs through China, Burma, Laos , Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. While cruising down the scenic Mekong, travelers will find an interesting blend of modern cities and floating villages from the past.

Depending on your itinerary, your cruise could include visits to such stunning sites as the ancient Angkor Watt temple complex in Cambodia or visits to floating villages and colorful markets of the Mekong Delta in South Vietnam. A Mekong River cruise is one of the best ways to experience and see the real Asia.

4. Danube River Cruise

For many, a Danube River cruise is a dream come true. The Danube, which is the second longest river in Europe, passes through nine different countries, Austria, Bulgaria Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Romania Slovakia, Serbia and Ukraine.

Depending on the itinerary, which can last from one day to a week or longer, a trip along the majestic Danube River can take a traveler past castles and imposing fortresses and through some of Europe’s most beautiful cities. For example, some Danube river cruises visit three European capitals, Budapest in Hungary, Vienna in Austria, and Bratislava in Slovakia.

3. Yangtze River Cruise

The Yangtze River is the third longest river in the world as well as the longest in Asia. It travels past some of China’s most interesting and famous sites, including the stunning Three Gorges (Qutang, Wu and Xiling Gorge).

On a Yangtze River cruise, travelers will sail through some of this immense country’s most gorgeous landscapes and may also have the option of taking shore excursions to various interesting sites, including to ancient temples and old ghost towns. The Yangtze River is also home for a number of this country’s endangered species, including the Chinese alligator and river dolphin. Yangtze river cruise trip lengths typically run between four and thirteen days.

2. Amazon River Cruise

The wild and untamed Amazon River has long captivated explorers who have longed to discover the secrets hidden in the dense jungles that line its banks. In the past, only the most adventurous souls would have dared to enter the Amazon Basin, but, fortunately, this secretive world is much easier for travelers to visit today.

A number of cruise boats rove the Amazon. Accommodations on these boats range from modest to luxurious. Some boats feature cabins that even boast large picture windows so that travelers can view their surroundings from the comforts of their air-conditioned room.

Though the Amazon river spans eight South American countries, most larger vessels’ itineraries are limited to sections between the Brazilian ports of Manaus and Belém. Smaller cruise ships, however can also venture further upriver to Iquitos in Peru, incorporating stops in more undeveloped regions of the Peruvian Amazon.

1. River Nile Cruise

Because Egypt basically grew up on the banks of the Nile, a cruise is one of the best ways to experience Egypt and all of its glorious ancient sites, including the pyramids and the Sphinx. It’s estimated that there are over 400 cruise ships plying the mighty Nile River, so travelers will have many vessels to choose from.

Some of these cruise ships offer such amenities as pools, sundecks and spas. Meals and some excursions are typically included in the cruise price. The average Nile River cruise lasts between three and seven days and travels between Luxor and Aswan.

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The most traditional 3-day cruise through the Douro Valley! Our group tour offers a unique experience: cruises, guided tours, typical delicacies and Douro Wine Tastings, visits to Wineries and a lot of activities. A dream trip through Douro River!

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6 Regions Around the World Best Seen on a River Cruise

River cruising has experienced phenomenal growth over the past two decades in part because it’s a more convenient alternative to land-based bus tours. Your home-away-from-home moves with you over the course of a week or longer, meaning you unpack only once while exploring a variety of exciting cities and enchanting small towns. You’ll also enjoy superb onboard cuisine and get to know your fellow cruisers. Of course, this is only possible where rivers flow and cruise lines sail, so here’s a look at six regions around the world best seen on a river cruise.

Cambodia & Vietnam

Flowing for almost 3,000 miles through Southeast Asia, the mighty Mekong is a living mosaic of century-spanning sights, from lavish palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Site temples to ramshackle villages and surreally green rice paddies. Most Mekong River cruises sail between Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August to April, since low river levels and hot weather make May to July difficult for travel.

Highlights of these cruises, which range from seven to 13 nights, include the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, with its Silver Pagoda and sobering genocide museum detailing the “Killing Fields” era of the 1970s Pol Pot regime. Cambodia’s more mystical destination is Angkor Wat, the superbly carved stone temple complex outside of Siem Reap built as early as the 9th century. 

In Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s largest city, sometimes still referred to as Saigon, is a mix of French-colonial architecture, Parisian-style boulevards, stunning pagodas, and modern skyscrapers. Smaller villages along the Mekong’s Vietnamese side offer a look at the daily life of farmers, fishermen, and handicraft makers, complete with floating markets and rickshaws.

Which river lines cruise Cambodia & Vietnam?

AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Uniworld, and Viking.

The allure of cruising the Nile River to see the temples of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel in southern Egypt is undeniable. Add on a few nights in Cairo to visit the Pyramids of Giza and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum before or after your seven-night cruise and it’s a truly bucket-list trip for anyone fascinated by ancient history.

There are just a handful of primary ports on most Nile River cruises. After arriving in Cairo, you’ll fly to Luxor to board your ship, which will be notably smaller than those sailing the major rivers of Europe. From Luxor, you’ll visit the riverfront temples of Karnak and Luxor and delve into the lore of King Tut and Queen Hatshepsut. More ancient treasures wait in Edfu and Qena. In Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, you’ll gaze out on mesmerizing desert landscapes that frame lush mid-river islands, visit the two-mile-wide Aswan High Dam, or enjoy an Abu Simbal excursion to see the two massive rock-cut temples.

Which river lines cruise Egypt?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, and Viking.

Cruising the Amazon River is an altogether unique experience, more wildlife safari and rainforest immersion than history lesson. While small luxury cruise ships can explore the river’s larger sections from the Atlantic Ocean to Manaus, Brazil, it’s the Peruvian Amazon that takes center stage for luxury river cruises lasting three, four, or seven nights. Here, on meandering tributaries, these vessels, typically accommodating no more than 30 to 40 guests, get into the heart of the Amazon from the city of Iquitos.

Each day is an adventure as you explore with a guide in a motorized skiff. You’ll spy on monkeys and sloths in the treetops and watch pink-hued river dolphins swim through the greenish-brown water. Hiking along verdant trails, you’ll spot tiny poisonous tree frogs and later enjoy a Champagne toast amid a picturesque quilt of water lilies at sunset. You may also fish for carnivorous piranha by day and search for giant anacondas after dark. 

Which river lines cruise The Amazon?

Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Lindblad Expeditions, and Uniworld.

The Mississippi

If cruising closer to home appeals, it doesn’t get any closer than this. The Mississippi River , which winds its way for 2,340 miles through 10 states, from Louisiana in the south to Minnesota in the north, is a terrific option that will immerse you in the history, music, food, and architecture of America’s Heartland. 

Some vessels are sleek river ships while others are retro-inspired paddle wheelers. If you have 15 days, you can cruise the river’s entire length, from New Orleans to St. Paul (or vice versa). You can also opt for a Lower Mississippi or Upper Mississippi sailing that lasts seven to nine days. With the former, you can do a New Orleans roundtrip and visit historic cities in Mississippi and Louisiana that include Natchez, Vicksburg, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville, or add on Memphis, Tennessee, with a one-way itinerary to or from New Orleans. On an Upper Mississippi sailing, you’ll start in either St. Louis or St. Paul and visit riverfront cities such as Hannibal, Missouri; Davenport, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Red Wing, Minnesota. Which section you choose will dictate when you go, since Upper Mississippi and Full Mississippi sailings are only offered from June to October while Lower Mississippi itineraries are year-round.

Which river lines cruise the Mississippi?

American Cruise Lines and Viking.

Central Europe

No other region is home to as many navigable rivers and must-see historic cities, from Amsterdam, Antwerp, Vienna, and Cologne in the north to Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Porto in the west. In Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Portugal rivers connect these vibrant cities with dozens of smaller towns featuring landmark castles, lavish cathedrals, and charming old towns. 

Central Europe’s top rivers include the Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Douro, and Danube. Dozens of cruise itineraries along these waterways immerse you in history, culinary traditions, wine-making, art, architecture, and natural beauty. Picture a living mosaic of tulips in April along the waterways of Belgium and Holland or gliding past the terraced vineyards of Portugal’s Douro Valley during the grape harvest in September. Mix history and art as you explore rogue papacies, Roman amphitheaters, and French wine along the Rhone in the South of France or tour the palaces and cathedrals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the Danube.

What can you expect on each river? Here’s an intro:

The  Danube , which flows through 10 countries from southern Germany to the Black Sea, is ideal for anyone with an interest in history, art, and architecture. On an Upper Danube itinerary, you’ll  visit capital cities  Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava (Slovakia), as well as smaller Austrian cities and towns like Linz, Durnstein, and Melk. Day trips to lofty Salzburg or the picturesque Czech town of Cesky Krumlov are also possible. Most cruises begin or end in the Bavaria region of Germany, so a stay in Munich can cap off the trip.

The  Rhine , which begins in the Swiss Alps and runs to the North Sea near Rotterdam, offers views of storybook castles and vineyards set against a backdrop that is among the most stunning in river cruising. Cities on a Rhine itinerary can include Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Cologne, Germany; and Amsterdam. In between are wine-making hamlets such as Rüdesheim am Rhein and Bamberg in Germany, plus scenic Kinderdijk in the Netherlands, home to centuries-old windmills.

The  Rhone , which meanders from food-centric Lyon all the way to the Mediterranean in the South of France, is chock full of delights. These include the Roman arena and medieval streets of Arles (also famous as the setting for some of Vincent Van Gogh’s most notable paintings), the papal intrigue of Avignon, the wine-making excellence around Tournon-sur-Rhône, and the truffle treasures of Viviers. 

The  Seine , which flows north through Paris to the English Channel, is equally intriguing, especially to history buffs and art lovers. On these cruises, you can explore the museums and landmarks of the French capital, wander Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny, and see buildings and landscapes painted by Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise (where he’s also buried). You can also walk the medieval streets of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake and Monet painted the Gothic cathedral, before visiting Honfleur, a seaside hamlet favored by Impressionists, as well as the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery, resting place of 9,387 fallen soldiers.

The  Dordogne and Garonne rivers , located in the Bordeaux wine-making region of France, offer a heady immersion for oenophiles — from the historic bustle of the city of Bordeaux to the bucolic ambiance of wine-making hamlets such as St.-Emilion, Pauillac, and Cadillac.

The  Douro River  in northern Portugal is another mecca for  wine lovers . Riverboats cruise from atmospheric Porto, home to historic port wine cellars, to small towns such as Pinhão and Régua, set amid pastoral hillside vineyards.

Central Europe also has two lesser-known rivers. The  Elbe River  flows through the former East Germany and offers access to Berlin, Potsdam, and Dresden, as well as nearby Prague in the Czech Republic. The waterways of  Holland and Belgium  attract garden lovers each spring with millions of tulips, historic windmills, and the chocolate and beer abundant in Belgian cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges.

Which river lines cruise Central Europe?

Check out AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Riverside, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Eastern Europe

While exploring Central Europe is more popular, Eastern Europe has plenty to offer in the way of lesser-known but history-rich countries like Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The Danube River passes through all six and Lower Danube itineraries generally begin in Budapest, Hungary, and end in Bucharest, Romania (or vice versa). 

Here’s what you’ll see along the way:

In Hungary, the contrast between the stately architecture of Budapest and the port of Kalocsa couldn’t be greater. Known for paprika production and embroidered handicrafts, this city and its surrounding countryside are also the place to experience cowboy culture (the energetic but touristy Puszta Horse Show is a popular excursion) and the Hajós-Baja wine region (Hungarian wines are quite good, so wine-tasting is a commendable option).

Croatia, which most people know for its historic ports on the Adriatic coast, also has a port on the Danube. Vukovar is the gateway to Osijek, located about 45 minutes away. Both cities were heavily damaged during the Balkan wars of the 1990s, but many buildings in Osijek’s historic Baroque center were spared or have been restored. Here you can visit the Church of St. Peter and Paul with its 295-foot steeple and pedestrian-only Holy Trinity Square in the Old Town known as Tvrda.

Belgrade, the former capital of Yugoslavia and current capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities. Its architecture ranges from charming 17th-century buildings set on the cobblestone streets of Old Town (a short stroll from the port) to dour Communist block structures. Don’t miss the Belgrade Fortress (it was destroyed 40 times, and what remains is mainly from the Ottoman period), the Nikola Tesla Museum, and the massive Church of Saint Sava with its lavish gilded crypt. 

Bulgaria may offer up the most surprises. One of the region’s least wealthy countries, it is full of scenic beauty and unique sights. River ships call on Vidin, home to Fortress Bab Vida, for excursions to the striking, red-hued Belogradchick Rocks. You’ll also call on Ruse for an all-day scenic excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, a medieval town and fortress built into the cliffs of the Yantra River. Back on the Danube, you’ll marvel at the Iron Gates, a series of gorges that are one of Europe’s natural wonders, as you cruise through them.

You’ll board or disembark your cruise about an hour outside of the Romanian capital. Bucharest is a city of contrasts, known as the “Paris of the East” for its stately boulevards (it even has an Arc de Triomphe). It's also home to the massive Palace of the Parliament, built by notorious mid-20th-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. Many cruisers also add on pre- or post-cruise tour to the historic towns and castles of nearby Transylvania.

Which river lines cruise Eastern Europe?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Walking the Camino de Santiago Is a Bucket List Item for Many Retirees: Here Are 6 Questions To Ask Before You Commit

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10 European holidays worthy of your 2024 bucket list

From spotting Norway's Northern Lights to a ride on Switzerland's epic Glacier Express train

Our top picks include everything from a one-in-a-lifetime journey on the Glacier Express to a trip to Europe's prettiest Christmas market and a visit to Italy 's renowned foodie city of Bologna . And, all of our top picks feature Good Housekeeping Holidays , tailor-made and expertly curated trips that show you the very best of the region with fuss-free travel.

What's more, some of our organised trips included appearances from some very familiar faces , from top chef James Martin to journalist Michael Portillo . They'll join you on land, sea or rail to share their expertise, give you a tour of the local area and host Q&A sessions, demonstrations, activities and talks.

Take a look at our round-up of the best European bucket list trips to book now for 2024.

Sail the Rhine and visit Mainz, Europe's prettiest Christmas markets

Mainz, one of the oldest cities in Germany, and its historic Christmas market on the Domplatz set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral is one for your bucket list. With sparkling fairy lights, wooden chalets and the scent of mulled wine, roasted almonds and spiced cider filling the air, you'll be in the Christmas spirit in no time.

What's better than a Christmas market trip ? A festive cruise exploring several of Germany's prettiest winter markets. Our Good Housekeeping Holidays trip will have you soaking up the festive fun in Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, Cologne, and Rüdesheim as you cruise the Rhine aboard the beautifully-appointed A-ROSA Aqua. There's a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool, plus breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets. Our exclusive Christmas cruise is available to book ahead for December 2024.

Explore the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express

A rail journey through the Alps is a bucket list trip you'll remember for a lifetime, and our exclusive Good Housekeeping Holiday will allow you to experience the beauty of this mountain range on the iconic Glacier Express. You'll enjoy unrivalled views as you journey past snow-capped peaks, dramatic ravines and beautiful villages, plus visit Bern, Lucerne and Interlaken. The Glacier Express is a rail journey you'll never forget. It's been in operation since 1930, and has been renovated with comfortable carriages and panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered landscapes.

Our exclusive escape includes high-speed trains from London to Interlaken so you don't have to take a flight for this experience. Plus, there's four nights at the Hotel Metropole in Interlaken and a three-course lunch on the train.

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Taste your way around Italy’s gastronomic capital, Bologna

Italy’s gastronomic capital Bologna is a great bucket list destination for the foodies amongst us. Renowned for its homemade pastas, meaty ragùs and myrtle-spiced mortadella sausage, it's known as La Grassa - 'the fat one'.To discover the fascinating gastronomic history and taste some of its world-famous food on a guided tour, join our Good Housekeeping Holidays trip for six-days of tasty experiences. In Bologna, you'll visit a local Parmesan factory, a Balsamic vineyard, and a family-run Parma ham producer.

On this trip, you'll also spend time in Modena where you can discover the city's history at the grand Duomo or the Ferrari and Lamborghini museums. Plus, take part in a cooking class and learn to host like a local. With a variety of 2024 dates available to book now, could Bologna be the European bucket list destination you tick off in the new year?

Discover the beauty and history of Venice over seven sublime nights

The romantic city of Venice is known and loved for its acclaimed art museums, stunning architecture and colourful history. Alongside the popular tourist spots, from St Mark's Basilica to Doge's Palace, Venice is also packed with hidden gems down the city's slender canals and surrounding islands.

The best way to explore its beauty is on the sleek and stylish, S.S. La Venezia, often described as a floating boutique hotel. You can enjoy a stay on this luxury ship with Good Housekeeping Holidays, where you will be joined by none other than acclaimed chef James Martin. As well as sailing the area and exploring all it has to offer, James will join you on the ship for a talk, Q&A and book signing. What's more, he'll be there to cook a mouthwatering gala dinner for one of your evenings on board.

Visit Madeira’s spectacular Flower Festival

The best time to visit Madeira, also known as the floating garden of the Atlantic, is during its incredible Flower Festival so you can truly soak up the sights, scents and sounds of this special island. The festival is a celebration of spring, and the landscape becomes even more vibrant during the month-long celebration filled with performances and local traditions.

Here at Good Housekeeping , we've got you covered with a tailor-made, eight-day tour of the region during the 2025 Flower Festival so you can see the very best horticultural highlights of the island; from the orchids at Palheiro Gardens to the exquisite colours of the Monte. During this guided tour, you'll also have time to explore the Old Town in Funchal and take in the incredible views of the Ribeiro Frio National Park.

Sail along the Danube and explore Vienna

A cruise along the majestic Danube makes a fabulous European holiday for anyone passionate about art, music, and culture. This grand river meanders through Central Europe, where its banks are dotted with charming villages and magnificent cities such as Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, each full to the brim with cultural treasures.

Good Housekeeping's eight-day Danube cruise will take you along the mighty river through the Wachau Valley on board Uniworld 's luxury ship, Maria Theresa. Look forward to stops in Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, discovering the art, architecture and fascinating history of each city with guided tours. As well as these important cities, you'll also stop off in some smaller towns, like pretty Dürnstein, where you can explore the quaint shops and castle ruins.

Hunt for Norway's Northern Lights

For wild natural scenery and jaw-dropping wildlife in Europe, Norway always delivers. Here adventurous travellers will find breathtaking landscapes dotted with tranquil fjords carved by ancient glaciers and towering, snow-capped mountains. Travellers are also drawn to Norway's icy Arctic region by the chance to see the ethereal Northern Lights dancing in the unpolluted skies. In this northernmost region, at the right time of year, the incredible Aurora is nearly certain to make an appearance. Good Housekeeping has a special winter expedition cruise that will take you through Norway’s fjords and up through the Arctic Circle to spot the Northern Lights

For an extra-special Northern Lights experience, why not join our expedition cruise with expert photographer Doug Allen, who has worked on David Attenborough's Blue Planet? Doug will give you tips on how to capture the best of Norway's landscapes and wildlife on camera and will join you on an Arctic Coastal walk.

Cruise the Douro Valley and taste fine wines

Portugal’s Douro Valley is a wonderfully scenic wine-producing region, where rolling, sun-kissed hills are dotted with historic vineyards and wine estates that have been producing flavoursome Port wines for centuries. It makes an ideal European holiday destination for wine enthusiasts who can visit some of these historic Quintas and learn all about the process of wine production in the valley. Good Housekeeping's eight-day cruise will begin in Portugal's second city of Porto, where you'll have some time to explore the historic old town, a UNESCO world heritage site, before setting sail along the river. You'll also stop at Régua, a town that has produced port wine since the 18th Century and continue onwards to the little town of Pinhão.

Travel from Venice to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

When it comes to European rail adventures, it doesn't get better than a trip on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This is an exceptionally luxurious train, with meticulously restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, kitted out with plush armchair seating, gleaming polished wood and brass fixtures. seasonal four-course d'hôte menus are served in the dining car, with a sommelier on hand with the perfect pairings.

The train travels several different routes throughout the year, but a favourite is an overnight trip from Venice to Paris. Good Housekeeping is offering a special ride on this route, where you'll be joined by journalist Michael Portillo, who'll give an evening talk and travel with you on the train. Michael is passionate about rail travel, and this will be his first time travelling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Explore Transylvania and stay at an Ice Hotel

For an unforgettable European trip, explore the gothic region of Transylvania and stay at the iconic Ice Hotel, which is built every year entirely of snow and ice blocks extracted from a glacial lake in the Fagaras Mountains. For an expert-led trip, you can join us on a Good Housekeeping Holidays guided tour through the region as you soak up the history, culture and charm of some of Romania's most picturesque medieval towns.

Tick Bucharest and Brasov off your list, before you head up rugged mountains for a stay at the Ice Hotel where you can go snow rafting or simply enjoy the icy scenery. On your return to Bucharest, you'll also visit Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula's Castle - one for the bucket list.

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Passing Thru Travel

Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Embark on a journey through the veins of our planet – its great rivers. This guide will take you through the most iconic river expeditions, offering a unique perspective on the landscapes, cultures, and histories of various regions. From the Danube’s serene waters to the Amazon’s wild rapids, each river tells a story waiting to be explored.

1. The Amazon River, South America

Your adventure on the Amazon River immerses you in the densest rainforest on Earth. Starting from Iquitos, Peru, this expedition brings you face-to-face with a vast ecosystem, home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Cruising down this river, expect to encounter pink river dolphins, sloths, and a multitude of bird species. Night expeditions add an extra thrill, revealing the nocturnal life of the Amazon. The sounds of the jungle, coupled with the knowledgeable guides, make this a nature lover’s paradise.

Insider’s Tip: Book a small boat tour for a more intimate wildlife experience.

When To Travel: May to June for lower water levels and better wildlife sightings.

How To Get There: Fly to Lima, Peru, and then take a domestic flight to Iquitos.

2. The Nile River, Egypt

Cruise the Nile and step into a world of ancient wonders. The journey typically begins in Luxor or Aswan, taking you through a landscape dotted with temples and historical sites. You’ll see the Luxor Temple illuminated at night, the imposing statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, and traditional feluccas sailing the river. This cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an immersion into the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, with each stop narrating a chapter from its rich history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during late fall to avoid the scorching summer heat.

When To Travel: October to April for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to Cairo, then take a domestic flight to Luxor.

3. The Danube River, Europe

A Danube River cruise is a picturesque journey through the heart of Europe. The river passes through historic cities and beautiful landscapes, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions. You’ll explore Vienna’s architectural splendor, Regensburg’s medieval charm, and Budapest’s vibrant culture. Each city along the Danube has its own unique appeal, from grand palaces and museums to quaint villages and local markets.

Insider’s Tip: Look for cruises that offer cultural tours in each city.

When To Travel: May to September for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Fly to a major city like Budapest or Vienna to start your journey.

4. The Mississippi River, USA

The Mississippi River cruise offers a deep dive into the heart of American culture and history. The cruise heads north through the American heartland, starting from the vibrant New Orleans, famous for its jazz and Creole cuisine. You’ll pass historic river towns, witness the rolling landscapes of the Midwest, and learn about the river’s role in America’s development. Onboard, enjoy live jazz, lectures about the river’s history, and Southern hospitality.

Insider’s Tip: Spend a few extra days in New Orleans for its rich musical heritage.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for moderate weather.

How To Get There: Fly into New Orleans or Minneapolis, depending on your starting point.

5. The Yangtze River, China

Your journey on the Yangtze River will take you through the heart of China, offering a blend of modern wonders and ancient traditions. The highlight of the cruise is the breathtaking Three Gorges, where steep cliffs rise dramatically from the water. Beyond the natural beauty, you’ll experience the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam and explore lesser-known sites like the Shibaozhai Pagoda. The cruise provides insights into China’s history and culture, with stops in bustling cities and tranquil villages.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a cruise that includes a visit to the Lesser Three Gorges.

When To Travel: April to October for the best river conditions.

How To Get There: Fly to major cities like Chongqing or Shanghai, depending on your itinerary.

6. The Rhine River, Europe

The Rhine River cruise is a journey through European history and culture. Starting from Amsterdam, the river takes you through the heart of Germany and into Switzerland, with stops at historic cities, medieval castles, and vineyard-covered hills. The Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly stunning, with its picturesque villages and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Each port along the Rhine offers its own unique attractions, from Gothic cathedrals to lively beer gardens.

Insider’s Tip: Take a vineyard tour in one of the quaint towns along the river.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Amsterdam or Basel to start your journey.

7. The Mekong River, Southeast Asia

A cruise down the Mekong River is an exploration of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures and landscapes. The journey often begins in Vietnam’s vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, winding through rural landscapes and floating markets before reaching the mystical temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Along the way, you’ll witness daily life on the river, visit local artisans, and taste regional specialties. The Mekong’s rich cultural tapestry is matched only by its scenic beauty, with lush greenery and traditional villages lining its banks.

Insider’s Tip: Extend your trip to explore the Angkor Wat temple complex.

When To Travel: November to February for cooler, drier weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap to begin your cruise.

8. The Volga River, Russia

The Volga River cruise is a window into Russia’s soul, connecting the cosmopolitan cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg with the quieter, historic towns along the river. Moscow’s Red Square and the Kremlin, the opulent palaces of St. Petersburg, and the ancient towns of Russia’s Golden Ring provide a rich tapestry of Russian history and culture. With its serene landscapes and diverse wildlife, the river offers a peaceful backdrop to the bustling cities.

Insider’s Tip: Try traditional Russian dishes like borscht and pelmeni on board.

When To Travel: May to September for warmer weather.

How To Get There: Start your journey in either Moscow or St. Petersburg.

9. The Douro River, Portugal

Cruising the Douro River takes you through Portugal’s famous wine country, renowned for its Port wine production. Starting from the coastal city of Porto, the cruise travels through the Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards and quaint villages. You’ll have opportunities to visit local wineries, taste regional cuisine, and explore historic towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão. The Douro’s scenic beauty is a constant companion, with its rolling hills and serene waters.

Insider’s Tip: Take a port wine-tasting tour in one of the vineyards.

When To Travel: March to October for the best weather and wine harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly to Porto to start your river cruise.

10. The Ganges River, India

A cruise on the Ganges takes you through the spiritual heart of India. Starting from the historic city of Kolkata, the journey heads towards the holy city of Varanasi, passing through rural Bengal with its traditional villages and temples. The Ganges is not just a river; it’s a lifeline for millions and a sacred entity in Hinduism. Witnessing the river’s rituals, from the daily baths to the grand aarti ceremonies, is a profoundly moving experience.

Insider’s Tip: Witness the evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi for a spiritual experience.

When To Travel: October to March for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to New Delhi and take a domestic flight or train to Varanasi.

11. The Amazon River, Brazil

The Brazilian Amazon offers a unique river experience, navigating through the world’s largest rainforest and its intricate network of tributaries. Starting from Manaus, you’ll venture deep into the jungle, exploring its diverse flora and fauna. The expedition includes visits to remote indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their way of life. The Amazon’s wildlife is a major draw, with chances to see monkeys, birds, and perhaps even the elusive jaguar.

Insider’s Tip: Pack insect-repellent and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for jungle excursions.

When To Travel: July to December for the dry season and better wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Manaus, the main gateway for Brazilian Amazon cruises.

12. The Seine River, France

Cruising the Seine River combines the romance of Paris with the charm of France’s countryside. The journey typically starts or ends in the French capital, allowing time to explore its iconic landmarks. As you sail away from Paris, the Seine takes you through picturesque landscapes and historic towns like Rouen and Honfleur. The river’s pace is leisurely, offering ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the French way of life.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy a Parisian evening meal on the riverbank for a memorable experience.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising conditions.

How To Get There: Start your journey in Paris, easily accessible by international flights.

13. The Zambezi River, Africa

Embark on a journey down the Zambezi River in Africa for a truly unique cruising experience. As you navigate these waters, you’ll be awed by the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the planet’s largest and most stunning waterfalls. This adventure isn’t just about the breathtaking scenery; it’s also an opportunity to witness the rich African wildlife that inhabits the riverbanks. Hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species are just some of the fauna you might encounter. For an insider tip, consider taking a sunset cruise to witness the falls bathed in golden hues.

Insider’s Tip: Take a sunset cruise for stunning views of Victoria Falls.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season and optimal wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Livingstone, Zambia, or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

14. The Chobe River, Botswana/Namibia

The Chobe River, straddling the borders of Botswana and Namibia, offers a unique cruising experience that doubles as an extraordinary safari adventure. This river delineates the northern edge of the famous Chobe National Park, a sanctuary renowned for its massive elephant populations and diverse wildlife. As you cruise along the river, you can expect to see large herds of elephants bathing, along with a variety of other animals quenching their thirst along the banks. A river safari is highly recommended for those seeking an even closer encounter with nature.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a river safari for close-up wildlife encounters.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season, ideal for wildlife spotting.

How To Get There: Fly to Kasane, Botswana, to start your river safari.

15. The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar

A cruise along the Irrawaddy River explores Myanmar’s rich historical tapestry and vibrant cultural heritage. This journey is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a passage through time, where you’ll witness the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations. As the river winds through Myanmar, you’ll encounter spectacular sights such as the ancient pagodas, traditional villages, and the historic city of Bagan, a site renowned for its thousands of temples and stupas. These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into a past era of opulent kingdoms and spiritual devotion. For an authentic experience, visit a local village to immerse yourself in the daily life and customs of the Burmese people.

Insider’s Tip: Visit a local village for an authentic glimpse into Burmese life.

How To Get There: Fly to Yangon or Mandalay, where many cruises begin.

The Bottom Line

River cruises offer a unique way to explore the world, combining the comfort of travel with the excitement of discovery. Each river has its own character, culture, and history, making every journey distinct. As you chart your course down these majestic waterways, you’re not just a traveler but an explorer uncovering the stories that flow through the heart of our world. So, pack your bags, set sail, and let the river’s current guide you to new adventures.

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The post Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions was republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Calin Stan.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Nat Geo Expeditions Announces 3 New, Bucket List-Worthy Trips Beginning in 2025 

by Ruth Ruiz , Public Relations Manager, Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions

Greetings travelers! 

Today, I’m thrilled to share that beginning in 2025, you can discover Australia, Portugal and the Azores, and Sri Lanka with National Geographic Expeditions! These three new Signature Land trips will take you into authentic National Geographic storytelling.   

Imagine learning from researchers who are actively working in their respective fields , exploring wildlife sanctuaries and hearing the keepers talk about the care and conservation of these marvelous animals, enjoying activities and visiting with locals who will share the history, cultures and food unique to each region.  

Check out these three new experiences of a lifetime:  

Australia: Reefs, Rainforests and Wild Tasmania   

Our first trip is to the land down under where you’ll explore the nature, wildlife and aboriginal cultures at the heart of this thrilling 11-day itinerary.  

Your Australia expedition leads off at the Great Barrier Reef where you’ll get up-close to colorful reef fish and coral by snorkeling or observing from a semi-submersible boat or underwater laboratory.  

During the trip, you’ll also trek with aboriginal guides at the Daintree Rainforest and learn about the thriving ecosystem, view native wildlife at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and at Healesville Sanctuary, and hear about the rescued Australian animals there.  

On Tasmania’s east coast, the adorable and endangered Bicheno penguins will take center stage (cameras ready!). You’ll also sample wines at local wineries. In true Nat Geo fashion, you’ll embark on a catamaran sailing to spot marine mammals at Wineglass Bay with Pennicott Wilderness Journeys and share the same inspiration as 2012 National Geographic Traveler of the Year and Tasmanian native Robert Pennicott .   

This expedition concludes in Sydney with a private tour of the Sydney Opera House and exploring the Rocks District. For complete details, please click here .  

Portugal and the Azores: Explorers, Ecological Wonders and Epicurean Delights  

Next is our trip to Portugal and the Azores. Founded in 1143, Portugal was once at the center of the Age of Exploration, and the Azores are a marvelous archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The marrying of these two splendid locations on this 10-day itinerary gives travelers the best of both worlds without having to choose.  

Five UNESCO World Heritage sites plus other activities offer deep connections to the country. Highlights include visiting the famed Lello Bookstore in Porto , savoring delicious food and wines, and embarking on an electric tuk tuk ride through historic town centers.  

In the Douro Valley you can bike, kayak or walk alongside the Douro River while admiring the beautiful hills, valleys and grape wine terraces. In Lisbon, local guides will share their knowledge about architecture, monuments and history at Sao Roque Church, the Carmo Convent and Jeronimos Monastery, as well as through stories of trade, maritime findings and the colonization of this region.   

The Azores welcome each guest with breathtaking views. Get ready for whale watching, interacting with a local marine biologist who will share insights into research and conservation in this region, touring the Parque Terra Nostra, savoring a delicious farm-to-table meal at a local farmhouse, and exploring the stunning Sete Cidades. 

For complete details, please click here.   

Sri Lanka: Wildlife and Wonders of the Spice Island  

And our 11-day itinerary to Sri Lanka is a historical and cultural lesson come to life through art, dance, food and wildlife. With visits to six UNESCO World Heritage sites and numerous connections to National Geographic programming, you will be immersed in the unique stories of this biodiverse island country. 

A tour of the Dambulla Cave Temple launches this exciting trip. In Polonnaruwa, be prepared to observe primate families that call the Polonnaruwa Ancient City and its monumental ruins their home. In Sigiriya, you can discover the Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sites, then partake in a clay pot cooking class at a local family residence in Kandy for lunch.  

You’ll visit the Central Highlands to learn how the country is the fourth largest producer of tea in the world, and a cinnamon estate near the southern coast to see how 90% of the world’s cinnamon is produced here. 

National Geographic Expeditions is especially excited to take you on an exclusive ocean experience in collaboration with Oceanswell , founded by National Geographic Explorer Dr. Asha de Vos . Her foundation is supported by the National Geographic Society – and during your trip, you’ll even be able to assist with data collection!  

Giving Back and Traveling with Purpose  

I’m also excited to share that every trip booked with National Geographic Expeditions furthers the work of National Geographic Explorers around the world and helps support the global nonprofit National Geographic Society in its efforts to protect and illuminate our world through exploration, research, and education .   

Have you started packing your suitcase yet? These new National Geographic Expeditions itineraries are sure to rise to the top of your bucket list of destinations to explore. I know they did on my list!  

Booking Information  

Bookings for the new itineraries open on June 4. To learn more or to book these or any of the 150 National Geographic Expeditions on all seven continents, visit NationalGeographicExpeditions.com , call 888-732-2379 or contact a travel agent.      

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2 New Trips Worth Taking with Adventures by Disney in 2025

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