From Porto to Lyon · Europe (River) · 20 nights
From Porto to Lyon
Scenic Azure is a stylish little ship accommodating just 96 guests, ideally suited for cruising the Douro river.
Sleek and contemporary, with an extensive list of onboard
inclusions, Scenic’s aptly named Space-Ships are renowned for their
high levels of personal service, relaxed ambience and inviting
public areas.
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal's second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance. Porto is best known as the home of the country's most famous export, port wine, but there's a lot more to this characterful city than getting sloshed; the crumbling historic centre, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's a fascinating district to wander around. Porto also serves as the gateway to the spectacular Douro valley, a landscape of verdant vineyards where the city's famous wine is produced.
Entre-os-Rios means 'between the rivers', situated at the confluence of the Douro and its tributary the Tâmega. From here you can travel into the heart of northern Portugal's Vinho Verde wine region, visit the historic city of Guimarães or enjoy an atmospheric dinner at the Alpendurada Monastery.
Peso da Régua (Régua for short) is the main river port for the vineyards of the Upper Douro Valley, and is the perfect base for exploring the port-wine region. Nearby attractions include the Baroque-style Palacio de Mateus, with its intricate furnishings and beautiful gardens, and the important pilgrimage site of Lamego.
Vega de Terrón is the drop-off point for excursions to Salamanca, a beautiful UNESCO-listed city built from golden sandstone. The baroque-style Plaza Mayor is one of the most magnificent squares in Spain, while other highlights include the twin-towered cathedral and the unusual House of Shells.
Pocinho is a tiny village with few tourist attractions, but is perhaps most well-known for being the end of the historic Linha do Douro railway line, arguably one of Europe's most scenic railways, winding alongside the Douro for 160km from Porto. Day trips from Pocinho allow you explore Portugal's Douro Valley in depth, from hiking scenic trails to visiting local quintas for tastings.
The pretty little town of Pinhão, situated on a bend in the Douro, is all about one thing: wine. The surrounding hills are covered in vineyards, and you’ll have ample opportunity to sample a variety of tipples, including the region’s most famous product, port.
Blessed with a dramatic setting on the steep banks of the river Douro, Portugal’s second city is currently enjoying something of a renaissance, and is best known as the home of the country’s most famous export, port wine.
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France’s most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, and the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings.
The little town of Mâcon lies on the west bank of the Saône, at the southern edge of Burgundy, and it’s a great base for sampling the region’s famous wines. A popular excursion is a trip to nearby Beaune, home to the magnificent medieval Hospices de Beaune and its prestigious wine estate.
Vienne was an important trading centre during Roman times, and spectacular remnants of this era survive, including a remarkably well preserved temple and a hillside amphitheatre with marvellous views across the red-tiled rooftops. The city also hosts a renowned jazz festival during July, featuring some of the world’s most talented musicians.
The twin villages of Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain l’Hermitage sit on opposite banks of the Rhône, around 50 miles south of Lyon. Visit Tournon’s hilltop castle and charming old town, then sample some of Tain l’Hermitage’s excellent wines and the famous Valrhona chocolate.
The former papal stronghold of Avignon cuts a dramatic figure, perched above the Rhône and ensconced behind towering walls. The Palais des Papes was home to a succession of 14th century pontiffs, and still looms large over Avignon’s atmospheric old town.
The charming little town of Arles sits at the head of the Rhône delta, on the northern fringe of the sprawling marshlands of the Camargue. It’s a town with a long history, as evidenced by an impressive array of Roman ruins, and it's a great place to sample the essence of Provençal culture.
The little town of Viviers, on the right bank of the Rhône, is a delightful place to explore on foot, with its narrow, cobbled medieval streets and elegant cathedral. A lot of history is packed into a small space, including Roman remains and the Renaissance era Maison des Chevaliers.
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France’s most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, and the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings.
