river cruise lisbon

The Best Sailing and River Cruises in Lisbon, Portugal [2024 Reviews]

Lisbon’s rich history is intrinsically tied to its docks and their role in the Age of Exploration. From the historic docks along the banks of the Tagus River, Portuguese sailors set sail to discover new lands and founded an empire that spanned the globe.

Today, tour boats set out regularly from those same docks to provide fascinating Lisbon river cruises. A sailing tour from Lisbon is the best way to view the city’s many wonderful landmarks.

There are many Lisbon boat tours to choose from, and some are much better than the others. To help you select the best river excursion in Lisbon for you and your family, we have reviewed the 5 top-rated sailing and river cruises in Lisbon.

And you also might like to check out our Portugal Travel Guide .

Best Sailing & River Cruises in Lisbon

Quick answer: the 5 best rated sailing & river cruises in lisbon.

• Lisbon: Private Tagus River Yacht Tour
• Lisbon: Private 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Tour
• Lisbon: Daytime/Sunset City Cruise by Sailboat with Drinks
• Lisbon: 45-Minute Express Cruise Along River Tagus
• Lisbon: Tagus River Yellow Boat Tour

Sailing & River Cruises in Lisbon Reviewed

#1 lisbon: private tagus river yacht tour.

• Departure Point : Rua da Cintura do Porto de Lisboa, Alcȃntara
• Departure Time : 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, depending upon option selected
• Duration : 2-8 hours
• Includes : Private cruise, expert local tour guide, maximum flexibility, welcome drink, Portuguese snacks, blankets, and life jackets

If you want to enjoy maximum flexibility, this is the best river cruise in Lisbon. Take your family out for a whole day of relaxation on the river or zip around ticking off all the main sights on a two-hour Tagus River adventure.

This Lisbon boat excursion takes place on a real sailing ship that provides you with a unique and unforgettable experience. The vessel is rated to take up to 12 people but will take smaller groups. If you’re on vacation with a large group of family and friends, this river tour from Lisbon could be the highlight of your stay.

Safety is also an important consideration on this Lisbon boat trip. You will be provided with life jackets and given an introductory safety talk before the cruise begins.

As the tour commences, a friendly local guide will point out the famous landmarks and explain their history and cultural significance. This is a wonderful opportunity to interact with a local and learn about Portuguese customs and traditions.

This tour also includes a selection of traditional Portuguese snacks, so you can taste as well as learn about the local culture. You can sip a locally produced wine while admiring views of notable landmarks such as King Christ, Belém Tower, Discoveries Monument, and Commerce Square.

Enjoy panoramic views of the riverbanks and the cityscape from the river. And if you time your Lisbon boat excursion right, you can experience a beautiful Portuguese sunset.

Be sure to take a good camera on this Lisbon sailing cruise. You’ll need it to capture the amazing views you see. You’ll be the envy of family and friends who remained at home, and your Instagram posts will go viral!

For tour prices, transportation and availability:

#2 lisbon: private 2-hour sunset sailing tour.

• Departure Point : Gate 3, Bom Sucesso Marina, Av. Brasília, 1400-038, Lisbon
• Departure Time : 6:30 PM, 7:00 PM (changes with sunset times)
• Duration : 2 hours
• Includes : River cruise, sunset view, and Champagne or alternative drink

This is the most romantic sunset river cruise in Lisbon. It was specially designed with couples in mind. You will even be offered a complimentary glass of Champagne. You will board a real sailing boat and spend a special evening with the person you most love.

But this river adventure in Lisbon is not only about love and romance. This Lisbon cruise also features views of the city’s most famous landmarks from the river, starting with the famous Padrăo dos Descobrimentos monument commemorating the Portuguese Age of Discovery.

Along the southern riverbank, your knowledgeable guide will point out the many important prisons and fortresses built during Portugal’s imperial past. And you will pass beneath the famous Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge.

Choose this unique Tagus River excursion if you want to celebrate love and admire beautiful scenery backlit by a glorious sunset. For a couple in love, or parents escaping their children for date night, this Lisbon sailing adventure will be the highlight of your vacation in Portugal.

#3 Lisbon: Daytime/Sunset City Cruise by Sailboat with Drinks

• Departure Point : Gate 1, Doca de Belém
• Departure Time : 11:00 AM, 7:00 PM
• Includes : River cruise, live commentary, water, and complimentary drinks

This is the best value city cruise in Lisbon. Enjoy a 2-hour tour of the highlights of the Tagus River aboard a sailboat and benefit from live commentary by a knowledgeable local expert.

After a toast with your complimentary drink, you will sail up the Tagus River and under the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. This iconic landmark is featured on many Lisbon postcards. Like many important local monuments, it is best viewed from the river.

This impressive bridge was originally called the Ponte Salazar bridge after the prime minister at the time of its construction. It was renamed after a successful revolution in 1974 to commemorate the day of the initial military coup on the 25 th of April.

The revolution is a point of pride to the Portuguese people because it overpowered a world-wide empire without bloodshed. They call it the Carnation Revolution in honor of the red and white carnations placed in the soldiers’ rifle barrels in place of bullets.

Continuing up the river, watch out for the Cristo-Rei statue reminding visitors and locals alike of the importance of the Catholic Church in Portugal’s history and traditions. As this Tagus River tour continues, the knowledgeable crew will provide live commentary about the historic sites you pass and provide insights into Portuguese culture.

After some time, your sailboat will reach the historic city center. Here you can appreciate fantastic views of the city from the river. Admire the Castle of Sao Jorge atop the highest peak in Lisbon, the Basilica da Estrela, and Commerce Square. This wonderful Lisbon river cruise will provide you with memories to last a lifetime.

#4 Lisbon: 45 Minute Express Cruise Along River Tagus

• Departure Point : The Boat Station, just southeast of Commerce Square
• Departure Time : 2:00 PM
• Duration : 45 minutes
• Includes : River cruise, historic boat, and live commentary

If you’re interested in history, you will love this Lisbon boat trip aboard a beautiful painted historic cargo boat. This Lisbon cargo boat tour is specially designed for history lovers and focuses on Portugal’s history during the 18 th century when the Portuguese empire reached its height.

This is also a great Lisbon river excursion for visitors who are short on time. Taking only 45 minutes, anybody can easily squeeze this tour into their busy schedule.

This affordable tour sets out from the historic city center and provides you with panoramic views of the most important historic landmarks, such as Christ the King statue, the 25 de Abril Bridge, Santa Apolonia Station, National Pantheon, and Sao Jorge Castle.

You hand-painted vessel is one of only 75 surviving traditional cargo boats that once carried cargo along the Tagus River. When many new road bridges were built in the late 1960s, road transportation became dominant, and thousands of cargo boats were scrapped.

This provides you with a unique photo opportunity. Get photographs of yourself aboard a traditional cargo boat with hand-painted flower motifs and Lisbon’s cityscape in the background.

#5 Lisbon: Tagus River Yellow Boat Tour

• Departure Point : Cais do Sodré
• Opening Hours : 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Duration : 1 hour 45 minutes
• Includes : River cruise and audio guide

This is the best Lisbon Tagus River cruise for anyone who wishes to view all the main landmarks of the city visible from the water. This comprehensive Lisbon river adventure provides you with excellent views of such famous sites as the Torre de Belém and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos.

The Torre de Belém is arguably Lisbon’s most famous historical structure. It is a 16 th -century fortress guarding the entrance to the city from the Atlantic Ocean. Constructed from local limestone, the 98-foot tower is a prominent landmark often seen as a symbol of the city at the height of the Age of Discoveries.

While you can visit the Torre de Belém from the land, the best views are undeniably those from the Tagus River. Similarly, you will benefit from the best views of the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Cristo-Rei statue from the water.

If you are interested in Portuguese history and culture, you can listen to the audio guide and learn about all the famous sights on this Lisbon boat cruise. Keen amateur photographers will find many wonderful photo opportunities on this scenic tour.

Portugal Travel Guide

Portugal’s importance in world history is often overlooked in favor of surrounding countries more prominent in modern history, such as the United Kingdom or Spain. However, Portugal formed the first global empire in history.

During the Age of Exploration, when European maritime nations raced to create colonies worldwide, Portugal was the first off the starting blocks and soon became the most powerful and influential country in the world.

Although its colonial ambitions began in north Africa, Brazil was by far its most successful colony. Today, Brazil is the largest Portuguese speaking nation in the world, and the largest country in Latin America.

Evidence of Portugal’s past wealth and power can be seen in the many monuments and structures surviving from its heyday. In Porto to the north and Lisbon to the south, impressive fortresses, grand palaces, and lofty cathedrals stand proudly and steal away their visitors’ breath.

But a fascinating history and culture are not the only features Portugal has to offer. Its unique position as the most westerly nation in Europe provide it with many unique natural landmarks, such as Peneda-Gerês National Park to the northeast of Porto, Arrábida Natural Park just south of Lisbon, and the Tagus River.

The Tagus River

The Tagus River is not only the largest river in Portugal but also the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. It flows westward through Spain before entering Portugal and is blocked by multiple dams creating reservoirs to supply drinking water to millions and hydroelectric power stations to generate electricity.

At its mouth is a large estuary and the capital of Portugal — Lisbon. The Tagus River has played an important part in Portuguese history and culture. It is celebrated in poetry and songs and is lined with historic harbors from which Portuguese sailors set sail to explore the world and form colonies worldwide.

Where the river passes through Lisbon, there are many important monuments celebrating Portuguese achievements and history. These include the Padrăo dos Descobrimentos monument, Belém Tower, Cristo-Rei statue, and Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge.

All these landmarks and more are best viewed from the river. A Tagus River cruise is an essential part of any vacation in Portugal. It is the easiest and most enjoyable way to experience the sights around Lisbon and learn about Portuguese history and culture.

Traveling in the time of COVID

Like many destinations, some tours and visitor attractions in Portugal have adopted special precautionary measures during the pandemic.

Face masks are mandatory in some locations, notably in enclosed public areas such as travel hubs and shopping malls. You are expected to supply your own mask and wear it when you enter buildings.

It is in your own interest to keep your distance from other visitors who are not in your family group or bubble. You are expected to keep your distance inside boats, coaches, train compartments, and other vehicles and when seated in restaurants.

At the time of writing, Portugal welcomes visitors and visas are not required for US citizens. However, with the exception of children aged 12 and under, every person arriving in Portugal must provide a negative SARSCoV-2 test certificate of nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) or rapid antigen test (TRAg). This certificate must be time stamped within 72 hours for NAAT or 48 hours for TRAg before boarding.

You can obtain the most up-to-date information directly from the Portuguese government immigration department website . During these relatively uncertain times, it is wise to also consult the US Department of State website for current travel advisories .

Airports & Entry

You can enter Portugal by ferry, road, railway, or air. Except for air, all the methods of travel involve traveling through or from Spain. By far the easiest and quickest way to travel to Portugal is by airplane.

Most visitors fly to Porto Airport in the north, Lisbon Airport in the middle, or Faro Airport in the south. To compare, in 2017 Porto saw 10.8 million passengers, Faro 8.7 million, and Lisbon 26.7 million, making the capital by far the most popular entry point into Portugal.

If you are interested in beautiful scenery and wildlife, you’ll likely want to be in the north. For history and culture, Lisbon. And for “Mediterranean” beach vacations, Faro.

Lisbon International Airport (LIS, or Humberto Delgado Airport) is located inside the city and only 4.3 miles northeast of the historic center. Before the pandemic, the airport saw annual increases in passenger traffic, handling 31.2 million visitors in 2019. Because it is a travel hub for Ryanair, TAP Air Portugal, and TAP Express, it is the 20 th busiest European airport.

The airport’s 2 terminal buildings are dated and busy, but they do contain all the amenities you would expect from a major international airport. All arrivals and most international departures are handled by Terminal 1.

Note that passport control on departure is after the duty-free shops, and the queues for immigration control can be long. So, don’t get so excited in the stores hunting out last minute bargains that you miss your flight.

Just because you arrived in Terminal 1, it does not mean that you will depart from there. To avoid unnecessary complications on departure, check your ticket carefully and ensure you know which terminal you are flying from before heading for the airport.

By far the easiest way to transfer from the airport to any location around Lisbon is on the metro. The metro is affordable, safe, and efficient, with stations all around the city. To use the metro, you will need to purchase a reusable Viva Viagem card for €0.5 and then pay a €1.50 fare for your journey around Lisbon.

If you are in more of a hurry, or you have children to watch and luggage to carry, consider taking a taxi. The typical taxi fare for a 4-seat taxi to the historic center is between €10 and €15 during the day. In a larger vehicle or at night, fares increase by 20%.

Alternatively, you can hire a car at the airport. All the major international car rental companies are represented in the Terminal 1 arrivals hall. But be warned that the car rental car park exits immediately into a busy urban area, and accidents do happen.

Planning Tips

Portugal is a beautiful country that boasts a rich history and culture, which is why it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe. Here are a few specific tips to help you get the most out of your vacation in Portugal.

If you have tips of your own about this beautiful country, please share them with other readers in the comments below.

Tip #1: Travel Off Season

In high summer (July and August) the streets of Lisbon and beaches in the Algarve are crowded. Not only is this when many local schools break for summer, but it is also the  time when the Portuguese think the weather is best for sea swimming.

If you delay a little and travel to Portugal in the fall, you will benefit from fewer crowds while there is still plenty of sunshine and the average seawater temperature in the Algarve in October is 70 0 F. You may also benefit from lower, off-season prices and tours are less likely to be fully booked.

Tip #2: Explore Beyond the Typical Tourist Traps

Most tourists head to Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve. However, there is much more to see in Portugal that’s off the beaten trail.

In the border regions between Portugal and Spain, historical tensions led to the construction of many picturesque fortified hill towns and castles, such as Estremoz and Marvão. And the north of Portugal around Porto is famous for its bountiful vineyards.

If you’re visiting off-season in the fall, the grape harvest typically occurs around September and October. At some vineyards, you can arrange to take part in the grape harvest and traditional foot stomping. Crush the grapes beneath your feet to assist the locals in their traditional wine manufacturing process.

Tip #3: Plan Ahead

Whenever you visit Portugal, the day trips are popular. Sometimes they become fully booked weeks in advance. To avoid disappointment, book before you travel.

If your main interest is history and culture, note many museums and art galleries that usually charge for admission typically have one free admission day each month, or sometimes each week. Do your research and decide which museums you wish to visit. You may then be able to organize your vacation around the free days and save a lot of money in entrance tickets.

If you plan on seeing the incredible Fatima. It is one of the most holy sites for the Christianity. To really appreciate it, be sure to take a tour of the Fatima .

Tip #4: Consider Surfing While you’re in Portugal

When you think about taking a surfing vacation, Portugal isn’t a country that immediately springs to mind. It should be.

You don’t have to be a genius to recognize that it offers an identical situation to southern California. It is the westernmost country in Europe, and its entire shoreline is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean.

Portuguese beaches boast rolling Atlantic waves perfect for surfing. Experienced surfers looking for a challenge should head to Nazaré on the central Portuguese coast. Beginners and intermediate surfers will be more comfortable surfing in the Algarve where the beaches are slightly more sheltered.

While you might not think about Portugal for whale watching, whale migration take place off the coast every year. To have the best chance at seeing them, be sure to take a whale watching tour .

Tip #5: Buy Local Crafts

In Portugal, you’re spoiled for choice when selecting suitable souvenirs as gifts for your family and friends back home or as a memento of your vacation. Portugal is noted for its fine ceramics. For the finest traditional glazed pottery, visit the historic town of Caldas da Rainha on the central Portuguese coast north of Lisbon.

The town of Arraiolos in south-eastern Portugal is famous for both its picturesque castle and its fine hand-stitched rugs. However, you don’t need to take a special trip to buy Portuguese textiles. Throughout the country, you will discover unique textile products that make a wonderful keepsake to remind you of Portugal when you return home.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Given Portugal’s extensive coastline, it is no surprise to discover that seafood is an important food source. However, red meat and poultry are also important in many traditional dishes. In common with nearby Mediterranean countries, olive oil is typically used to fry and to flavor dishes.

Like France to the north, bread is important in Portuguese meals, and there are several traditional varieties found across the country.

Where Portuguese cuisine differs from neighboring countries is in its extensive use of exotic herbs and spices. Due to Portugal’s long-lasting colonial empire, cooking techniques and flavorings from its former colonies have become an important element of many popular dishes.

Dried and salted cold known as bacalhau is a staple part of many Portuguese diets. Historically, the drying procedure was a means of preserving the fish for consumption over the winter months. However, now it is done to create a revered taste and texture. This can be grilled, fried, boiled, or baked. You’ll see it served as a snack in paper pouches.

A thick seafood stew called cataplana is popular in the Algarve. It is cooked in a special, clam-shaped cooking pot and traditionally features the fish of the day.

A francesinha is a popular variety of sandwich. Multiple kinds of meat are piled between two slabs of bread. This provides a hearty meal that is often flavored with surprisingly spicy sauces using ingredients such as paprika, saffron, piri-piri, and black pepper.

Watch out for alheiras on menus across Portugal. These traditional sausages were originally made by members of secret Jewish communities using only kosher meats. Instead of pork fat, bread was used as a main ingredient. These bready sausages can be served grilled or baked and with a fried egg and a side of rice.

In bygone days, not everyone could afford large quantities of meat. Hence a cabbage and potato-based soup called caldo verde is popular in rural communities. However, vegetarians should beware. These soups are flavored using a small amount of chorizo spicy sausage. It is rare to find caldo verde without at least a little spicy sausage flavoring.

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be happy to hear that sweet and flaky pastries are important in Portuguese cuisine. Popular varieties include bolos de São Gonçalo and pastel de Nata , both involve generous amounts of custard as a filling or topping.

Nightlife & Entertainment

In northern and central Portugal, the nightlight is focused around the main cities of Porto and Lisbon. However, in the south, the Algarve region is noted for its lively nightclub scene, live music venues, and popular beach bars.

As with any city with a large student population, Porto is a wonderful destination for nightclubbing and music venues year-round. Portugal’s second largest city is also host to some wonderful cultural festivals that amaze visitors.

The university students traditionally celebrate the end of their exams in style during the first half of May. During this time, expect to find 50,000 students flooding the bars and nightclubs in search of fun. And in the Queimódromo square adjacent to City Park, you can attend live concerts every evening.

During the midsummer solstice, the São João Festival involves some quirky local traditions, such as displaying a vase decorated with a poem and eating sardines and potatoes alongside locally produced red wine.

As the cultural capital of the nation, you’ll find a broader range of options in Lisbon. It is twice the size of Porto and houses a more diverse, international population. The nightclubs are less aimed at students and more toward younger tourists.

You’ll find that the nightlife starts late but goes on until after dawn. The narrow labyrinth of streets in the Old Town contains many popular bars that fill with the younger crowd nightly, especially around the Avenida da Liberdade and Rossio .

The Bairro Alto is the heart of the Lisbon night scene. You’ll find traditional Portuguese folk music played in tiny tavernas neighboring live rock and jazz music venues. The bars don’t close until 2 am and the clubs remain open until around 7 am. The night spots in this area are always crowded and typically reach capacity soon after 11 pm.

The Algarve

In the Algarve, the city of Albufeira is renowned for its nightlife. In fact, although it is a small city when compared with Porto or Lisbon, it is reputed to contain the best nightclubs and bars in Portugal.

Young tourists from around Europe and the rest of the world flock to Albufeira to spend their days playing on the beaches and nights playing in the clubs. During the summer months, The Strip is a prime destination for hen and stag parties and students looking to get drunk and maybe get lucky, too.

The big name clubs that attract the famous DJs and crowds are Kadoc outside of town, Kiss on Rua Vasco da Gama, and Club Heaven, Club Vida, and Liberto’s Lounge Club on The Strip.

If you seek something quieter and more sophisticated, head for the pedestrianized old town center where the restaurants and cocktail bars cater for an older crowd with more refined tastes.

Getting Around

The strange thing about Portugal when compared to many other countries is that it’s often quicker to travel by bus than by train. My wife recently needed to travel from Lisbon to Porto, which is 195 miles. The time quoted for both long-distance coach and high-speed train was 3 hours 15 minutes, but the coach cost €5.00 and the train €23.31.

Hiring a car is a great option if you want to visit those remote fortified hilltop towns or vineyards around Porto. However, you must be a confident driver. The number of car accidents in Portugal is higher than average in Europe, though, to be fair, there are fewer road fatalities in Portugal than in the US . Note that driving while intoxicated is a problem in the evenings, so take special care if driving after dark.

Despite their lack of speed, Portuguese trains are modern. Some rail services pass through scenic areas and provide excellent views, such as the service from Porto to Pochinho. However, you should be aware that train stations are often a long distance from the town center or village they serve.

The services are divided into Intercidades (IC), Interregionais (IR), Regionais (R), and Urbanos. IC services are the fastest linking Lisbon to the major cities, but they are also more expensive. Urbanos services are aimed at commuters around Lisbon and Porto, which also both have underground metro systems.

Tickets are purchased from the station on the day of travel, but be aware that long queues form so you must arrive early to ensure you don’t miss your train. The tickets are affordable compared with other nations and you can choose between primeira classe (first class) and conforto (economy).

The bus services across Portugal reach more places than the railway, deliver you to the center of the towns, are cheaper than the train, and often faster. If you want to travel from one large city to another, you need a Rede Expressos coach.

Unlike with the trains, it’s a good idea to book bus tickets online in advance. You can also buy them at ticket desks in cafés near the bus stop or at central bus stations. You can get travel information from bus stations. However, note that many assistants outside of the Algarve speak poor English or none.

Portugal has surprisingly good main roads that have been improved and extended in recent years. That’s why the buses are as quick as the trains. These major routes are called Estrada Nacional (EN or N).

However, when visiting remote rural areas, you can expect poorly maintained and narrow roads. And you may need to share them with loose animals, so drive carefully.

There is a freeway network between major cities — Auto-Estrada (A). These are 4 or 6 lane roads, but they have toll gates, and you must pay to use them. DO NOT use the lane labelled Via Verde because this is for prearranged automatic payment.

Unlike most countries, the Portuguese police will accept foreign driving licenses, so you won’t require an international license to drive here. The Portuguese police are empowered to enforce on-the-spot fines for poor parking, speeding, and other misdemeanors.

Parking at cities is at a premium, so you may struggle to park near popular attractions. Consider using park-and-ride schemes where they are available.

Within cities, the taxis are relatively affordable. This is a good thing since railway stations are often a long way from the town center, so you may need a taxi.

Accommodations

If you plan to explore the Portuguese countryside, you’re in luck. Outside of Porto, Lisbon, and the Algarve, accommodation is very affordable. In towns and villages, you can find twin rooms in small hotels and guesthouses for around €40 per night. And if money is no object, there are many upscale hotels, historic manor houses, and even castles, such as the Pousada Castelo de Óbidos just 53 miles north of Lisbon.

Pousadas, such as the one in the castle above, are a class of comfortable hotels typically either located in beautiful historic buildings or situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty. No matter where you want to stay in Portugal, locating affordable and comfortable accommodation is not a problem.

However, if you plan to stay in Porto, Lisbon, or the Algarve, you need to plan ahead. All the best and most affordable accommodations in these areas are typically booked up days, if not weeks in advance. Reservations are essential to ensure you don’t end up staying in a crumbling dump and paying through the nose.

For travelers on a budget, Portugal has a great range of youth hostels and campgrounds to choose from. RVers are especially welcome. There are also many one-star hotels that offer the minimum of facilities but at a low, low price. Be aware that youth hostels and one-star hotels may not have air conditioning, which may become a problem in high summer.

Self-catering villas are an option for larger groups of family and friends. When the bill is shared between many, a large villa can prove more comfortable than a hotel but for a lower price. Note that for villas and hotels alike, it is a good idea to book ahead in high season to avoid disappointment.

Portugal’s weather is dependent upon two factors — its latitude and its position at the south-westernmost point of Europe sticking out into the Atlantic Ocean. The ocean moderates Portugal’s temperatures, resulting in relatively mild winters and warm summers.

There is a significant variance between the north and the south of the nation. Around Porto in the north, the annual average temperature is 55 0 F. In the Algarve in the far south, this rises to 64 0 F. While the mountains in northern Portugal do see snow, with a ski resort at Serra da Estrela, the rest of the country misses out completely.

The mild winters provide average temperatures of 49 0 F in Porto, 52.5 0 F in Lisbon, and 53.5 0 F in the Algarve. There are spells of poor weather with high winds and heavy rainfall. Occasionally, the winds grow to gale force. But overall, the weather is mild from December to February.

The warm summers are sunny with average temperatures of 70 0 F in Porto and 74.5 0 F in Lisbon and the Algarve. Some coastal areas in the west experience relatively cool weather because of the ocean breezes. Due to its more sheltered location, the Algarve avoids those breezes and maintains high summer temperatures.

Attractions

Though Portugal is a small country, it is packed with many wonderful natural and historic attractions. These are separated into three distinctive regions: the north, the central region, and the Algarve in the far south.

The most famous natural attraction in Portugal is found in the far north, and it is Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês. The rocky landscape of this beautiful mountainous area is noted for its lush vegetation, picturesque waterfalls, clear blue lakes, and breathtaking valleys.

This national park is popular with hikers and other outdoor pursuits enthusiasts. Watch out for golden eagles soaring over the tree tops while wild boar and wolves wander through the foliage. There are marked trails, designated campsites, and quaint villages with unique guesthouses.

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and the main tourist destination in the north. Some tourists come to view the unique architecture featuring fine Neoclassical and Baroque churches. Look out for the granite walls and pretty blue and white ceramic tiles used to decorate buildings such as the beautiful main railway station.

Other visitors come to visit the surrounding vineyards and take part in the harvests or sample the wines. River cruises are also popular and provide access to the beautiful Douro Valley where you can see traditional terraced hillsides and pretty hamlets.

Midway between Porto and Lisbon you can find Coimbra and its famous hilltop university. Founded in 1290, Velha Universidade is one of the world’s oldest educational establishments. The Baroque library is a particularly popular attraction containing over 250,000 books, some dating to the 12 th century. The whole university campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lisbon is the cultural capital of Portugal. The best way to explore the old city is by jumping on the historic tram #28 that takes you up the steep streets. This vibrant city is home to many world-class museums and fascinating historic buildings.

The most iconic building in the city is the ancient Torre de Belém fortress guarding the entrance to the city from an island close to the northern bank of the Tagus River. But if you are especially interested in history and architecture, it is worth taking a day trip to nearby Sintra .

Sintra is a renowned hilltop retreat containing palaces and other historic buildings. Its most popular attractions are the Palácio da Pena, the Castelo dos Mouros, and Palácio Nacional. Sintra is especially popular for walking tours because of its hills and the many breathtaking vistas they offer.

Most people who head down south are more interested in sunbathing on the beaches and partying at night than any historic or cultural attractions. But they are missing out on some amazing sights.

Faro’s old town is built on Roman foundations and is filled with a selection of medieval buildings gathered inside a 16 th -century city wall. The 13 th -century cathedral is noted for its tall tower providing panoramic views across the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa.

You may also enjoy the Museu Municipal de Faro, a fascinating museum inside a medieval convent. Those who love the macabre will be drawn to the infamous Igreja do Carmo, noted for its Bone Chapel decorated with the bones of over 1,000 monks who prayed here over the years.

If you want to explore beyond Faro, Tavira is a popular destination. This picturesque town in the Algarve contains a well-preserved castle, a grand medieval church filled with knights’ tombs, and a captivating riverside walk featuring a surviving Roman footbridge.

Robert Baker

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17 Incredible Lisbon Boat Tours on the Tagus River

What are the best Lisbon boat tours in Portugal? Is there a boat trip from Lisbon to Porto?

Getting out on the water in the Portuguese capital is a real treat for visitors! Offering stunning views of the coastline and the city’s iconic terracotta rooftops, taking a sail along the Tagus River is easily one of the best things to include on your trip to Portugal .

But, there are, no exaggeration… dozens of tour companies to choose from . And not all of them are practically guaranteed to give you a good trip (yes, I’m speaking from personal experience).

That’s why I created this list of the top boat tours around Lisbon! They all have fantastic reviews and ratings, are reasonably priced, and are operated by local, reputable tour companies that are well-versed in navigating the Tagus.

Don’t have time to search the entire post looking for your perfect tour? No problem!

The LUXURY Catamaran Sunset and Wine Cruise is by far the #1 tour on this list for travelers seeking the ultimate sail on the Tagus River!

Safety is a top priority , food and drinks are often provided, and you’ll get ample opportunities to capture pictures that are far better than anything you’ll see online!

I’ve also included a ton of helpful information in the FAQ section just after the top-rated tours, so you’ll have everything you need before stepping on board. Let’s jump in!

Best Lisbon Boat Tours At Sunset

⛵1. luxury catamaran sunset and wine cruise, what’s included ⤵️.

• 2 hours in duration
• Transport via luxury catamaran
• Snacks and appetizers
• Professional skipper

The Luxury Catamaran Sunset and Wine Cruise is truly a unique experience that combines pleasure, relaxation, and luxury.

Hop on board a gorgeous catamaran for a two-hour journey that takes you through the radiant waters of Lisbon at golden hour, offering the ultimate view of the cityscape. While onboard, you can indulge in delicious snacks and appetizers and sip on fine wine, adding an additional layer of luxury to your voyage.

This sunset cruise is managed by a professional skipper, ensuring a safe and smooth sailing experience. It’s also earned the Badge of Excellence from Viator! Definitely one of the best Lisbon boat tours on this list by far , don’t wait to book your tickets!

⛵2. Sunset Sailing Tour in Lisbon on a Luxury Sailing Yacht

• Sunset cruise via luxurious 50-foot yacht
• 2-person crew
• Bottled water
• Classic Portuguese appetizer
• Alcoholic/Non-alcoholic beverages

When it comes to the best river cruises Lisbon has to offer, this luxury sunset sailing tour along the Tagus is second to none!

Sail away on a stunning yacht with an experienced 2-person crew, with a multi-lingual guide, and indulge in refreshing beverages and a classic Portuguese appetizer while soaking up the picturesque views as the sun sets over Lisbon.

With its spacious deck areas, comfortable seating, and luxurious amenities, this is definitely one of the top-rated Lisbon boat tours for couples or small groups looking for an unforgettable experience on the water.

⛵3. Lisbon Sunset Sailing Tour with White or Rosé Wine and Snacks

• Small group tour (10-person limit)
• Knowledgeable guide discusses historical importance of attractions during the sail

The Lisbon Sunset Sailing Tour with White or Rosé Wine and Snacks is a wonderfully informative experience that lasts for 2 hours. Operating with a small group limit of just 10 people, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere that allows for a personalized experience.

A knowledgeable guide is onboard to discuss the history behind the attractions seen during the sail, providing a unique blend of relaxation and education. Not to mention the tour company has received nearly 500 5-star reviews and the Badge of Excellence from Viator!

This delightful journey along the Tagus River is enhanced by the inclusion of wine and snacks, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a serene sunset viewing experience while in Lisbon.

⛵4. 2-Hour Lisbon Sunset and Wine Sailing Tour

• Opportunity to see Belém Tower among other monuments from the river
• Informative commentary during the sail
• Portuguese wine

Want to spend an evening sitting back and sipping local Portuguese wine while receiving educational commentary on the history of Lisbon’s top sights? I honestly can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t want to do that.

Well, with this 2-hour Lisbon Sunset and Wine Sailing tour , you get all that plus the chance to chat with a professional skipper. You’ll navigate the iconic River Tagus all while enjoying exceptional opportunities to photograph golden hour.

Having been all over the city myself, I can honestly say that some of my most favorite Portugal souvenirs are actually the photos I took in Lisbon – so seriously, don’t skip this experience!

⛵5. Lisbon Sunset Sailing with Portuguese Wine & History

• Gorgeous sailboat ride
• Sample Portuguese Vinho Verde (green wine)
• Learn about Lisbon’s history from a knowledgeable guide
• Bottled water and soda

During this 2-hour sailboat ride, you get to experience the breathtaking sunset from a unique vantage point while cruising Lisbon’s iconic waters. Not only are you treated to stunning views of the city, but you also get to sample the traditional Portuguese Vinho Verde (green wine), which no other tour offers!

The Lisbon Sunset Sailing with Portuguese Wine & History tour ensures passenger comfort with amenities like bottled water, soda, and even blankets. This voyage is an ideal choice for those looking to combine their history and sightseeing all while enjoying a serene sunset sail with a glass of local wine.

⛵6. Sunset Experience- Boat Ride through Lisbon with Music and a Drink

• 90 minutes in duration
• One drink of choice

Not everyone has 2+ hours around dinner time to spare, making this 90-minute tour perfect for those with busy schedules. This catamaran tour offers the opportunity to take in Lisbon’s stunning sunset from the water while enjoying live music and a drink of your choice.

It’s the perfect capstone to any Lisbon itinerary, offering a unique vantage point of the city’s landmarks silhouetted against the fiery hues of the sky.

⛵7. Lisbon Best Sunset Sailing Cruise – 2h Small Group Tour, with a Drink Included

• One welcome drink

Embark on the Best Sunset Lisbon Sailing Experience , a magical 2-hour journey that will take you cruising along the serene waters of the Tagus River at the most picturesque time of day. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, you’ll be sipping on a welcome drink and soaking in the sights.

This tour is designed for those who want to witness the city’s skyline illuminated by the soft glow of twilight!

⛵8. Sailing Catamaran Group Cruise at Sunset Time with Welcome Drink

• One welcome drink of your choice

Watch the sky turn from blue to shades of oranges, pinks, and purples aboard the Sailing Catamaran Group Cruise at Sunset Time ! This 2-hour journey is an enchanting way to end your day or start your evening in Lisbon, especially since the tour comes with a welcome drink of your choice to cheer to the magnificent vistas!

Plus, the spacious deck of the catamaran and its stability on the water make for a relaxing platform to enjoy Lisbon’s coastal beauty while walking freely around the boat.

⛵9. Lisbon Sailing Tour on a Luxury Sailing Yacht

• Sit onboard a luxury 50-foot yacht
• Drinks and appetizers

Experience sheer nautical luxury on this Luxury Sailing Yacht , where elegance meets adventure. Set sail on a 50-foot yacht that promises both comfort and class, ensuring you explore Lisbon’s stunning waters in style.

During the 2-hour journey, you’ll be treated to a selection of drinks and appetizers, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of Portugal as you gaze at the city’s picturesque coastline. This tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to combine the thrill of sailing with the luxury of high-end travel, without the chaos of the bigger boats!

Best Traditional Lisbon Boat Tours

⛵10. lisbon traditional boats – sunset cruise.

• 1947 traditional Portuguese boat
• Can hold up to 50 travelers
• Handpainted with flowers – unique experience!

The Lisbon Traditional Boats Sunset Cruise is an exceptional 2-hour voyage that offers a unique and culturally immersive experience. Unlike the contemporary vessels used in other tours, this journey is undertaken on a traditional Portuguese boat dating back to 1947, with a capacity of up to 50 travelers!

Notably, this distinct boat is adorned with hand-painted flowers, creating a charming and vibrant visual treat. Ideal for large groups, this sunset cruise is a blend of tradition, beauty, and relaxation, and personally, this is the tour I would choose!

⛵11. Lisbon Traditional Boats – Express Cruise – 45min

• 45 minutes in duration
• Cruise past São Jorge Castle and Alfama
• Step onboard a vintage cargo boat
• Ideal for families
• Ideal for those seeking a quick Lisbon boat ride

Perfect for travelers who are short on time, the Lisbon Traditional Boats Express Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience Lisbon’s top landmarks from a vintage cargo boat!

Easily one of the top-rated Lisbon boat tours you can choose, this 45-minute excursion is perfect for those who want to squeeze in some sightseeing during their busy itinerary without sacrificing comfort or charm.

As you cruise past São Jorge Castle and Alfama, your knowledgeable guide will provide interesting commentary on the city’s history and culture, making this short journey an engaging and educational one.

⛵12. Lisbon Traditional Boats – Guided Sightseeing Cruise

• 1.75 hours in duration
• Step aboard a rare 1947 traditional hand-painted boat
• Live commentary from a professional skipper and guide

Another exceptional tour offering you the chance to step aboard a traditional Portuguese boat, this tour often fits the bill for many travelers visiting Lisbon! With daily departures (not at sunset, daytime only), this tour is about an hour and 45 minutes long, allowing for ample time to take photos of Lisbon from the water!

Ideal for photographers, family and friend groups, and solo travelers (and really people of any age ), the Lisbon Traditional Boats – Guided Sightseeing Cruise is a fantastic choice for all!

Best Private Boat Tours in Lisbon

⛵13. private luxury boat tour (morning/afternoon/sunset/evening).

• Welcome beverage
• Professional skipper and crew
• Entirely private tour
• Sails along both banks of the Tagus River for the ultimate views

This Private Luxury Boat Tour offers an exclusive and bespoke experience like no other. This two-hour private tour, available at any time of the day, promises an intimate exploration of Lisbon.

Skip the crowds of the city and other tours by stepping aboard this stunning Lisbon boat tour where you’ll be welcomed with a beverage, setting the tone for the lavish experience awaiting ahead.

Guided by a professional skipper and crew, the sailboat cruises along both banks of the Tagus River, offering unrivaled panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks. This tour is the epitome of luxury and comfort, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a more intimate and refined experience.

I will add that as far as “luxury, private cruises” go, this is offered at a very reasonable price… but that’s just me!

Psst… if you were hoping to celebrate a special occasion during your day in Lisbon , this is the way to do it!

⛵14. Lisbon Private Sailing Cruise

• 2,3,4, or 6 hours in duration (your choice!)
• Onboard commentary from your captain
• Customizable itinerary
• Onboard restroom
• Welcome beverage of choice

If you’re looking for one of the best Lisbon boat tours you could possibly book, then stop reading through these tours, throw out your original pick, and book this one instead. I’m serious . Why? Because this is the only tour where you get to completely customize your route and the length of your boat ride!

Prefer to spend an entire day lounging on the Tagus enjoying your own wine that you brought onboard? You can do that. Want to avoid the thousands of other tourists setting sail at the same time as you? No problem!

Even if you weren’t originally planning on a private boat tour, I promise it’ll be worth it when you aren’t waiting for numerous other tourists to get down from the same spot that you want your picture taken in…

⛵15. Lisbon Sunset Sensations on a Private Sailing Boat

• Small group tour (12-person limit)
• Snacks & beverages

Perfect for small groups of friends or family members, the Lisbon Sunset Sensations on a Private Sailboat offers an intimate and tranquil sailing experience along the Tagus River.

With a maximum capacity of 12 people, this tour is perfect for those looking to avoid large crowds and experience Lisbon’s stunning sunset in style. Enjoy delicious snacks and refreshing beverages as you take in panoramic views of the city bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

⛵16. PRIVATE BOAT TOUR Lisbon

• Wine tasting
• Fully private tour

The Private Boat Tour in Lisbon is an upscale two-hour journey that combines the elegance of a private sailing experience with the sophistication of a wine tasting session. This fully private tour not only dedicates itself to providing a serene backdrop for sipping on select wines but also ensures that you create memories in a refined setting, away from the hustle of typical tour groups.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a refined adventure, this tour stands as a top-tier choice for discerning travelers!

Best Cheap Boat Tours in Lisbon

⛵17. lisbon yellow boat river hop-on hop-off tour.

• 24 Hour Ticket Validity
• Map of Lisbon
• Access to the Santa Justa Lift and Funiculars
• Benefits & Discounts on Different Activities in Lisbon
• Onboard Restroom

Discover Lisbon’s scenic coastline at your own pace with the flexibility of the Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour ! True to the spirit of hop-on hop-off, this tour lets you explore the landmarks and districts you’re most interested in without the rush. The ticket is valid for a 24-hour period, allowing plenty of time to disembark at any of the conveniently located stops.

As you cruise along the Tagus River, enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon’s vibrant skyline, all the while accompanied by insightful commentary available in multiple languages. This tour is particularly suited for those who love to plan their travel itinerary with a mix of structure and spontaneity.

FAQ: Lisbon Boat Tours

In this section, I’ll be providing some helpful information on the best day boat trips Lisbon has to offer so you have everything you need before setting sail!

Is It Worth Doing a Boat Tour in Lisbon?

Absolutely, a boat tour in Lisbon is well worth it ! The unique perspective you get from the water grants you unparalleled views of the city’s historic architecture and striking landmarks, giving you the ultimate perspective you would otherwise miss if you stayed on land.

It’s not just about sightseeing either – many boat tours offer additional amenities such as local food (some of which you can find in the Lisbon supermarkets ), drinks, and even live music, not to mention a chance to connect with some of the locals (my favorite part when visiting a new country!)

So whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a relaxing, scenic experience, a Lisbon boat tour is a must-do activity when visiting the Portuguese capital.

Is a River Cruise a Good Way to See Portugal?

Yes, a river cruise is an excellent way to see Portugal since it allows travelers to see the country from a unique vantage point ! Drifting along Portugal’s waterways, especially the Tagus River, showcases the quaint villages and historic cities in a leisurely fashion.

Can You Take a Boat Trip in Lisbon?

Yes, you can definitely take a boat trip in Lisbon . In fact, it’s one of the most popular activities for tourists to do while they’re exploring the city. With a variety of options available to you, from leisurely sightseeing cruises to thrilling sailing expeditions, there’s a boat trip to suit every traveler’s preference.

Plus, Lisbon’s mild climate makes it possible to enjoy a boat tour at almost any time of the year. This unique way of exploring the city allows you to experience Lisbon’s picturesque waterfronts, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking sunsets from a new perspective.

Sean and I decided to skip doing a boat tour on our first trip to Lisbon, and we definitely regretted it once we saw the photos that other travelers had taken from the water!

How Much Do Lisbon Boat Tours Cost on Average?

On average, expect to pay anywhere from €30 to €60 per person for a standard group tour lasting about 1 to 2 hours , however, the cost of Lisbon boat tours can vary greatly depending on the type of tour, the duration, and the included amenities.

Luxury tours or private charters will cost significantly more, potentially upwards of €100 per person. Always remember to check what’s included in the price, such as meals, drinks, or guide services, as these can affect the overall value.

Keep in mind, though, that despite the cost, a Lisbon boat tour is a unique experience that is well worth budgeting for.

What Should I Bring With Me on a Boat Tour Around Lisbon?

It’s important to come prepared for a boat tour in Lisbon to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a list of essential items you should bring with you:

• Sunscreen: The Portuguese sun can be quite strong, especially during the summer months. A good sunscreen will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Hat and Sunglasses: These will provide additional protection from the sun and help you to see the sights more clearly. Nobody likes squinting their way through an entire tour…
• Appropriate Footwear: Depending on the boat, the deck can sometimes be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.
• Camera: You won’t want to miss the opportunity to capture beautiful photos of Lisbon from the water. If you have a good phone camera, that works too!
• Layered Clothing: The temperature can vary quite a bit, especially once the sun goes down. It’s a good idea to bring some layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed.
• Waterproof Jacket: A light waterproof jacket can come in handy in case of unexpected rain showers or if you start noticing people getting sprayed with ocean mist (it happens more often than you think).
• Binoculars: These are not a must, but can enhance your sightseeing experience if you want a better view of the entire Tagus channel.
• Personal Identification: Some tours may require ID for verification purposes, so keep it handy.
• Snacks and Water: While many tours provide food and beverages, it’s always a good idea to have some snacks and water with you.
• Sea-Sickness Medication: If you’re prone to sea-sickness, it’s a good idea to bring some medication just in case. You can also bring wristbands, though I can’t say personally if they work as well as the medicine.

Remember, each boat tour may have different rules and amenities, so always check with the tour operator ahead of your trip to ensure you’re adequately prepared!

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Boat in Lisbon?

For a small boat or yacht, you might expect to pay anywhere from €100 to €300 for a half-day rental. Larger luxury yachts or sailboats can cost upwards of €500 to €1000 or more for a half-day .

But, it’s important to note that the cost of a boat rental in Lisbon can vary significantly, depending on the size of the boat, duration of the rental, time of year, and any additional services included, such as a skipper or catering.

Remember, these prices are approximate and can fluctuate based on demand, especially during peak tourist season. Always check with the rental company for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.

What Cruise Lines Sail Out of Lisbon Portugal?

Several renowned cruise lines operate out of Lisbon, Portugal, offering a diverse range of itineraries that cater to different preferences. These include:

• Royal Caribbean International: Known for its innovative ships and variety of onboard activities, Royal Caribbean offers itineraries from Lisbon to various destinations across Europe and beyond.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: This luxury cruise line features Lisbon as a port on several of its European itineraries, with a focus on immersive cultural experiences.
• Azamara Club Cruises: Specializing in destination-focused cruises, Azamara offers several voyages that either start or end in Lisbon.
• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises features Lisbon as a port of call on numerous cruises, especially those traveling to or from the Mediterranean.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line is known for its classic style and comprehensive itineraries, many of which include Lisbon.
• MSC Cruises: As a global cruise line, MSC Cruises offers several itineraries that include Lisbon as a port of call.
• Seabourn: This luxury line often features Lisbon on its Mediterranean and transatlantic routes.
• Silversea Cruises: Another luxury operator, Silversea includes Lisbon in various itineraries, particularly those exploring Western Europe.

Remember, schedules and itineraries can change, so it’s always best to check with the cruise line directly for the most accurate information. The best part about cruising to Portugal is you won’t need to figure out where to stay in Lisbon !

Is There a Boat Trip from Lisbon to Porto?

While there are no direct boat trips from Lisbon to Porto due to the significant distance and time it would take, there are alternative ways to enjoy the water and see more of Portugal’s beautiful coast.

One popular option is to take a river cruise along the Douro River, which runs through the heart of Porto. These cruises showcase the stunning landscapes of the Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and wine production (here are 11 Top-Rated Wine Tours from Porto if you decide to visit).

You can also catch a train from Lisbon to Porto and start your boat trip from there (here are 11 BEST Porto Boat Tours if you’re interested). Alternatively, consider a multi-day sailing trip along Portugal’s coastline, which could include stops at various ports of interest between Lisbon and Porto.

Jump to the bottom of the post looking for your perfect tour? No problem!

The LUXURY Catamaran Sunset and Wine Cruise is by far the #1 tour on this list for travelers seeking the ultimate Tagus River cruise Lisbon has to offer!

Other Helpful Portugal Resources

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A boat tour in Lisbon is an excellent way to experience the city’s unique beauty and charm from a different perspective. Remember to pack essential items like sunscreen, layered clothing, and snacks, and check with your tour operator for any specific requirements or amenities.

Even with dozens of Lisbon boat tours to choose from, this list narrows it down to the best of the best!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Tagus River Cruise

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a beautiful destination with a rich cultural heritage and picturesque scenery. One of the best ways to explore this city is through a river cruise along the Tagus River. River cruises in Lisbon offer a unique perspective of the city, showcasing its stunning architecture, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Let’s take a closer look at what river cruises in Lisbon have to offer.

The Tagus River is the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula, and flows through Lisbon and into the Atlantic Ocean. It is an iconic landmark of the city, and a river cruise is the perfect way to explore it. The river cruises in Lisbon typically last between 1-2 hours and offer a variety of options to choose from.

Some of the popular river cruises in Lisbon include:

• Sunset Cruise: A perfect way to end your day in Lisbon, this cruise takes you on a relaxing journey along the river as the sun sets over the city. You can enjoy a glass of wine or champagne, and take in the stunning views of the city’s skyline and historic landmarks.
• Historical Cruise: This cruise takes you on a journey through Lisbon’s history, showcasing some of the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. A knowledgeable guide will provide you with fascinating insights into the history and culture of these landmarks.
• Dinner Cruise: For a more romantic experience, a dinner cruise is a perfect choice. You can enjoy a delicious meal while cruising along the Tagus River and taking in the stunning views of the city. This is a great option for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.
• Private Cruise: A private cruise is a great option if you’re looking for a more personalized experience. You can choose the itinerary and duration of the cruise, as well as any additional services such as catering and live entertainment.

Would you like to book a river cruise in Lisbon?

• You can find a wide selection of tours available at the Viator website .

River cruises in Lisbon offer a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to see the city from a different angle. You can enjoy stunning views of the city’s architecture, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. The cruises are also a great way to relax and unwind, taking in the beautiful scenery while enjoying a drink or meal.

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Douro River Cruises

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

River Cruises from Lisbon

A cruise starting in Lisbon is a great way to experience river cruising. We have 14 cruises that range from 8 days up to 21 days in length. The most popular time for river cruises leaving Lisbon is July.

14 Lisbon river cruises with reviews

• River Cruise

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro with 3 Nights in Lisbon 2025

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro with 3 Nights in Lisbon 2024

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

Discover Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley (port-to-port cruise)

Lisbon to Nice & Discover the Rivers of France & Portugal

Delightful Douro with Lisbon & Madrid - Regua

• Wine tasting

Lisbon to Madrid with Secrets of the Douro

Crossing the Equator: Portugal to Brazil

Unforgettable Douro with Lisbon

Lisbon & Discover the Rivers of France & Portugal

Delightful Douro with Lisbon - Regua

Lisbon with Douro Discovery Lisbon to Porto (2025)

Lisbon with Douro Discovery Lisbon to Porto (2024)

Portugal's River of Gold

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Home » Things to Do » Lisbon River Sightseeing Cruises & Tours

Lisbon River Sightseeing Cruises & Tours

The Yellow Boat River Tour is a Tejo river sightseeing cruise, offering a chance to discover the old Lisbon, its monuments, hills and cityscape, from a different angle, and to take amazing pictures.

You’ll be able to watch the Alfama neighbourhood glide by, with São Jorge Castle and the Sé Cathedral.

The boat will cross the river to Cacilhas on the southern bank, and you’ll be able to visit Cristo Rei , the statue of Christ. After that, the boat will get very close to the suspension red bridge – Ponte 25 de Abril, or 25 April Bridge – on its way back to Lisbon, so that you’ll see the amazing views of Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

Yellow Boat River Tour Details

The tour takes about 1h30, and it’s on the old “Cacilheiro” ferry boat, which has been renovated. The hop-on, hop-off system lets you explore Lisbon at your own rhythm according to the following circuit:

• Terreiro do Paço
• Belém Tower

The ticket costs from €18, valid for 24 hours, and may be purchased on board.

The ferry has an open-air area and a bar. The boat service includes information about the trip, provided in four languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish and French.

Additional Advantages

The Yellow Boat River Tour ticket also includes:

• free access to any Carris tram
• free access to the Santa Justa Lift and Lisbon’s three funiculars
• free access to the Aerobus
• discounts on tickets to monuments and museums

Website : www.yellowbustours.com

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River Cruises

• Alphabetical Order

TripAdvisor Rating

• Tejo Cruises
• Traditional Boats
• Watch Dolphins
• Other Cruises
• Belém / Ajuda
• Lisboa Centro
• Lisboa Oriente

Estação Sul Sueste / Doca da Marinha

With the rehabilitation of Sul Sueste station, Lisboa thus gains new cultural and leisure spaces and new possibilities for connections between both banks of the Tejo.

Aquarama is a company of Maritime-tourist activity, which operates in Sesimbra and marine area of Arrábida Natural Park and has an unique boat. The APNEA boat allows underwater view.

À Vela Passeios

À Vela Passeios offers catamaran or sailboat tours in private regime, in the Sado Estuary, Tróia Coast and Arrábida. Sado Dolphin Watching and Sunset Cruises.

Barco Varino Liberdade

A boat trip on the typical boat Liberdade is an unique experience. A single visit affords nature, river and cultural tourism. The natural beauty only the Tagus can offer will remain in your memory.

Confeitaria Nacional River Cruise

During this 90 minute trip you have the possibility of taking the best pictures of the best tourist attractions and to enjoy the delicious food and the comfort already a tradition of Confeitaria Nacional

The Douro, Porto & Salamanca River Cruise with Lisbon Extension

11 days from only $4,828pp

Price Includes

• Useful Info
• Cruise Director

Accommodation

Experience more with so much included

• Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, with river views 
• Three nights in an excellent hotel in Lisbon
• Eight guided visits and tours during the cruise including a full-day excursion to Salamanca with a walking tour; lunch and a flamenco show; a guided tour of Porto with a wine-tasting; tasting at a typical Portuguese quinta; and visits to Castelo Rodrigo, Mateus Palace gardens and Lamego
• Guided tour of Lisbon with its magnificent squares, Baixa and Moorish quarters, cathedral and castle
• Visit to the spectacular historic town of Sintra and its Royal Palace, summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy
• Visit the astounding Monastery of Jeronimos with its outstanding 16th-century stonework
• See the holy shrine of Fatima, famous for its apparitions and one of Catholicism’s most renowned pilgrimage sites
• Tour Coimbra University, founded in 1290, one of Europe’s oldest seats of learning and a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Traditional Portuguese folk music show 
• All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure, including welcome cocktails, a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner 
• Breakfast at the hotel in Lisbon
• Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides 
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee 
• Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
• Services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director

Commencing in the Roman city of Porto, the home of Port wine, Portugal’s once wild river Douro has been tamed by locks into resembling a series of finger lakes, adding greatly to the valley's ambience. Leaving behind the Atlantic influenced greenery of the coast you are soon immersed in a Mediterranean land of olives, vines, and picturesque, medieval hilltop villages. Our destination is the higher reaches of the valley from where we visit Salamanca - home of one of Europe’s oldest universities, two of its finest cathedrals, Spain’s finest city square and even the Inquisition!

You will adore the away-from-it-all experience and visit some of Iberia’s most beautiful medieval towns, monasteries and vineyards, and feel you have been away for months!

Head south to the beautiful Roman city of Coimbra and discover the tranquil sanctuary of Fatima. Next, explore the famous sights of Lisbon before travelling to the picturesque town of Sintra, with its panoramic views and the famous Royal Palace.

Your Itinerary

• DAY 1 EMBARK IN PORTO
• DAY 2 PINHÃO
• DAY 3 CASTELO RODRIGO
• DAY 4 SALAMANCA
• DAY 5 MATEUS PALACE GARDENS
• DAY 6 LAMEGO
• DAY 7 PORTO
• DAY 8 COIMBRA & FATIMA
• DAY 9 LISBON
• DAY 10 SINTRA
• DAY 11 EXTENSION CHECK-OUT LISBON

EMBARK IN PORTO

Arrive in Porto, where your five-star floating hotel is moored. Here an attentive crew will welcome you aboard, ensuring you settle into your comfortable and extremely well-equipped cabin.

As dawn breaks over Porto the adventure begins as our elegant vessel commences her stately passage upstream. Your first delicious breakfast is served by the attentive crew and whilst you linger over another coffee, you can really start to unwind as we leave the city skyline far behind. Head up on deck to appreciate the changing landscape in all its splendor as the river weaves its way between the lush hillsides; from the first morning on board, it’s very apparent that the Douro is one of Europe’s most photogenic river valleys and the topography has prevented the building of extensive riverside roads. 

Thoughts turn to lunch, so reconvene with your fellow travelers in the elegant restaurant – its lovely panoramic windows ensure you won’t miss any of the spectacular views gliding by before we arrive later in the pretty little town of Pinhão. We enjoy a visit to a local historic quinta to learn all about the stages of wine production, from the planting of the vines, harvesting, the wine-making process and finally tasting and labeling. No visit would be complete without sampling some of their excellent produce of course, so we enjoy a tasting before returning to the ship.

Tonight, as you enter the restaurant for the Welcome Dinner, feel free to choose your table. We are moored in Pinhão overnight.

CASTELO RODRIGO

As dawn breaks, early risers can witness the ship’s graceful departure. Relax over a leisurely breakfast whilst the ever-changing scenery idly slips by through the restaurant’s superb panoramic windows.

The Douro was once a wild river, notoriously challenging to navigate, especially for the traditional flat-bottomed boats, which often foundered in its waters. Today it has been tamed by a system of dams and locks, which have raised the water level to produce a topography reminiscent of Scotland’s lochs that enhances the valley’s charm. As we cruise into ever more rural territory towards the Spanish border, the river here is at its most peaceful. It’s the perfect time to take a refreshing dip in the Sun Deck pool – a rare treat on a cruise ship – or catch up on some reading, perhaps with a cool pre-lunch glass of vinho verde, the local, gently fizzy white wine. Portuguese wine is simply outstanding but production is low, so the best is rarely exported. Our on-board wine list includes some excellent regional wines and the friendly and attentive restaurant staff will gladly guide you through them. Do experiment a little and you’ll be greatly rewarded.

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

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

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

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

Over lunch you enjoy a traditional flamenco show, then you are free to explore Salamanca as you wish. You may choose to linger, admiring the ornate interiors of its cathedrals – the more recent dates from the 16th century – or explore its tiny streets, medieval squares, traditional shops, gardens and marketplaces. The main square, the Plaza Mayor, is unmissable. Possibly Spain’s finest public square, it was built in the 18th century in Spanish Baroque style with colonnaded walkways all around at ground level, ideal for finding a shaded spot to sit and watch the locals go about their daily lives.

MATEUS PALACE GARDENS

One of the benefits of life aboard a river cruise is the sheer sense of relaxation it brings; our elegant ship slips its moorings during breakfast, after which there is plenty of time for a spot of pampering in the on-board spa, or simply watch the seamless changing of the riverbank scenery passing by from the comfort of a cozy seat in the lounge. We’re in port wine territory, where the lush hillsides have largely given way to a patterned landscape of terraced vineyards. Inland from the Atlantic, the climate has changed, too; it’s noticeably warmer and drier, while the area has a Mediterranean appearance with orangey, earthy colors replacing verdant greens.

After another superb lunch on board, we cruise into the small town of Peso da Régua, from where we visit the grounds of the splendid Mateus Palace. Anyone familiar with Mateus Rosé and its characteristic ‘squashed’ bottle will recognize the palace from the label. Whatever your opinion of the wine, it is an impressive 18th-century Baroque edifice, mirrored in its stunning pond, surrounded by landscaped French gardens.

This evening we take the short drive to the 126-acre Quinta da Pacheca for dinner. Enjoying dramatic views over the Douro, it dates back to the 18th century and is simply one of the most beautiful and distinguished properties in the region. It is also notable as being the first quinta – in 1738 – to bottle wine under the name of its owner, the aristocrat Mariana Pacheco Pereira. You have time to wander through part of the estate before sampling a selection of its finest wines at dinner.

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

By the time we return to our ship, our chef and his team will be adding the finishing touches to another delicious lunch, ready to be served as we depart for Entre-os-Rios. After lunch, there’s the perfect opportunity to take to the sun deck to enjoy the kaleidoscope of Douro views – or perhaps a spot of reading in the lounge over a cup of tea. This evening is the Captain’s Dinner, a truly memorable experience featuring exquisite regional specialties, followed by a colorful performance of traditional Portuguese folk music by a local cultural group.

There’s a perfect opportunity to avail yourself of some of the ship’s range of five-star facilities this morning – maybe a little gentle exercise in the fitness room before heading up to the sun deck to enjoy a coffee whilst chatting with newly-made friends as our ship makes a graceful arrival in Porto once more, passing under the city’s spectacular bridges. Porto is of course synonymous with wonderful port wine and all the famous port producers are here, such as Cálem, Sandeman and Ferreira, so a visit here would not be complete without a tour of one of them. You’ll learn about this fortified wine’s fascinating history and its close British connections. Port is made from grapes still pressed in the traditional way – by feet – then lovingly matured, sometimes for decades, before you can enjoy its subtle flavors. Of course, you’ll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit.

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

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

This evening, enjoy a final dinner on board expertly served by our restaurant staff under the supervision of the maître d’ . Afterward, perhaps settle into the lounge to chat into the evening and reflect on the splendors of the remarkable River Douro – over a glass of port, of course.

COIMBRA & FATIMA

We depart the ship and leave behind the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley. Heading south, our journey takes us inland as the wild seascapes of the Atlantic coast gradually give way to a hinterland of fertile fields and pine forests. 

Our first destination is the ancient city of Coimbra, renowned for the impressive Roman aqueduct striding across the city and the historic university, one of Europe’s oldest and a rival to Salamanca’s. With its labyrinthine lanes, charming Moorish quarter and pretty squares, this city is a fascinating place to explore and its many historical buildings are collectively classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a capital city, Coimbra became a major cultural center during the Middle Ages with the university at its heart. We have the privilege of a visit to the university, which is situated on a hill overlooking the city. Its Baroque library – rich in giltwork, exotic woods and with a dazzling frescoed ceiling – contains over 200,000 leather-bound, centuries-old volumes. Equally extraordinary is the chapel, so exquisitely decorated it would be considered a cathedral in most places, and in complete contrast to the university prison, which is suitably austere and dates back to the mid 16th century.

We drive on through olive groves and wheat fields to Fátima, an unremarkable small town until 1917 when three children experienced an apparition of the Virgin Mary and it suddenly became an important Catholic pilgrimage site and a national shrine. The original chapel built to mark the site of the apparition is now part of a large and impressive Sanctuary Complex, which is well worth exploring.

Later we arrive in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and the country’s finest natural harbor, situated at the mouth of the River Tagus. Nestled amid seven hills, the city’s skyline is a mosaic of pastel and ochre shades, peppered with elegant domes and soaring spires.

We stay three nights at the Real Palacio Hotel or Olissippo Marquês de Sá. 

After a leisurely breakfast, we set out to discover Lisbon’s highlights, many of which have attained the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. On our tour, we’ll see the strikingly modern Monument to the Discoveries and its 16th-century fortified counterpart, the Belém Tower, then visit the Jerónimos Monastery. One of the most magnificent buildings in Europe, the Monastery is a symbol of Portuguese wealth and power during the Age of Discovery. Founded by Henry the Navigator and containing the tomb of Vasco da Gama, it is an enormous, dazzlingly white edifice in classic Portuguese Gothic style, intricately decorated throughout with maritime motifs. We also see the impressive Terreiro do Paço square, facing out to sea, the majestic castle and Sé, the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral. There’s also Alfama, the Moorish quarter of timeless cobbled streets, and the wonderful belvedere at São Pedro de Alcântara with its expansive views across the rooftops.

Lisbon’s charm is its mix of ancient, modern, bustling and peaceful, so this afternoon is free to explore. You might be tempted by the chic shops of the elegant Baixa quarter, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755, or decide to seek out a café to enjoy a bica – a strong espresso often taken with a nata, the city’s devilishly moreish custard tart. Art-lovers can savor the Gulbenkian Foundation, established by an Armenian oil magnate who bought art from Saint Petersburg’s Hermitage after the Russian Revolution for bargain prices. This world-class institution has exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian treasures to Impressionist paintings to a superb collection of Lalique jewelry and glass. And don’t forget to take a ride on one of the clanging, rattling yellow trams; seemingly well past their sell-by date, they’re still the best way to negotiate the sharp bends of the historic quarter.

We take a short drive to the hillside town of Sintra, whose verdant slopes were memorably described by Byron as a ‘glorious Eden’. Spectacularly perched on a hillside with views towards the nearby Atlantic coast, this is where Henry the Navigator grew up and doubtless gazed out to sea, imagining what lay beyond the horizon. It was also the retreat of Portugal’s royalty during the hot summer months. The narrow streets of the Old Town wind their way to the main square where you’ll find the National Palace, a wonderful mix of Gothic and Moorish styles crowned by a pair of huge white conical chimneys. Today this landmark is a museum with grand rooms and priceless art collections.

You may also choose to make your own way to the romantic 19th-century Pena Palace. Built as a summer residence, it is a living fairy tale; its colorful turrets, ramparts, gargoyles, domes, and Moorish arches are a mystical mix of styles, while the interior is extravagantly decorated and features a ballroom and magnificent Arab Room. The surrounding park and lakes display an equally eclectic mix of ferns, rhododendrons and exotic plants from the former Portuguese colonies. Should you wish to spend a little longer in Sintra and return to Lisbon under your own steam, your Tour Manager will be able to advise how this can be done easily by train.

Otherwise, we return to Lisbon along the coastline where Atlantic rollers crash onto endless golden beaches. Lisbon has an amazing old quarter that still follows the original Phoenician street grid, so spend this evening wandering through its atmospheric lanes lined with bars and restaurants, often decorated with the colorful ceramic tiles so typical of this city. Many will be buzzing with the sound of fado – a unique and infectious musical mix evolved from folk, colonial African and Brazilian styles. Don’t leave Lisbon without experiencing this.

EXTENSION CHECK-OUT LISBON

Today we check out of the hotel at the appropriate time after a truly fascinating and memorable tour into one the most unspoilt corners of Europe.

River Cruise

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes: 

• Full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day; if you choose to travel with us on any of the full day excursions by coach, a packed lunch will be provided. Anyone choosing to stay on the ship may of course have lunch in the restaurant 
• Morning/afternoon tea and coffee
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• Coach travel as mentioned
• The services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director

The price of this extension is per person based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability and are available at the relevant supplement. The price includes:

• Three nights accommodation in Lisbon with breakfast
• All tours as mentioned
• The services of a Riviera River Cruises tour manager

Useful Information

• Currency: Euro
• Language: Portuguese, Spanish
• Country: Portugal, Spain

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for the duration of your cruise. Please note that speeds may vary.

We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your vacation with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the vacation due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns.

Meet Cruise Director Lale

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Boat Cruises on The Tagus River

Lisbon and the unforgettable cruise on the tagus river.

Blue Cruises gives you an unusual sightseeing tour of Lisbon, with a privileged view of its magnificent Monuments and mythical Seven Hills, from its unique Tagus River.

This is an experience you won't want to miss in Lisbon!

In this unforgettable Tagus River Cruise, we have prepared for you a high-quality service, in boats with all the comfort and safety you need for your unique and unforgettable experience of Lisbon and its Tagus River.

This experience of Lisbon gains a new dimension in our magnificent boats "from Príncipe da Beira to Príncipe Perfeito, among others", symbolising the mysteriousness of the past and enhancing the most exclusive cruise on the Tagus River.

Discover our Tagus Cruises and Sightseeing Trips here

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Exploring the Douro, plus Lisbon & Madrid

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE  – Tour and private dinner in Queluz National Palace in Lisbon

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

7-night cruise aboard a brand new riverboat custom designed to sail on the Douro River

A choice of excursions that include active hikes, a port cocktail-making class, a tour of wine caves, bicycle rides and more valued at $4,146!

In-depth exploration of 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain and Portugal

Private wine tastings in  quintas  along the Douro River

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Centuries of vineyards, wine and timeless Port traditions along an enchanting "river of gold"… white-painted  quinta  estates lined with terraced vineyards… art and architecture royally inspired and the joys of tapas in Madrid… Lisbon's treasures from the Age of Discovery and beyond…

Portugal's golden douro river, home to our newest cruises, cruising the douro river, explore the douro river valley aboard ms andorinha.

Portugal's Douro River Valley is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world – especially famous for its Port wine – and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And there's no better way to explore this beautiful corner of Europe… from its Atlantic port city of Porto at the mouth of the river, to the ancient villages, vineyards and quintas dotting its banks… than aboard Tauck's newest riverboat, ms Andorinha, expressly designed for cruising the golden Douro.

A culinary experience at DOC

Savor the inventive cuisine of rui paula at doc.

With its terrace extending over the Douro River by means of an elegant wooden deck, the celebrated restaurant DOC – "Degustar, Ousar, Comunicar," which translates to "Taste, Dare, Communicate" – is truly a "window on the Douro" and its valley. Set in Folgosa, DOC is the creation of renowned Portuguese chef Rui Paula, whose acclaimed gourmet cuisine marries traditional dishes with contemporary fare featuring genuine regional ingredients, and the Valley's famous wines. Discover it for yourself at an exclusive culinary experience in this romantic setting.

Tapas walking tour in Madrid

Sampling madrid's tapas bars on a walking tour.

During his decades of European wanderings from the 1920s to the 1950s, American novelist Ernest Hemingway always came back to Madrid… and its bars, of which there are more per capita than any city on the Continent. In a way, "Don Ernesto" (as the locals called him) made Madrid's tapas bars famous… and though many today claim that "Hemingway was here," you might come across a few where he actually was… on a tapas walking tour of the city with an expert guide.

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Welcome Aboard

• ms Andorinha

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Portugal and Spain. You do not need a visa for the short duration of this journey.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Portugal and Spain to determine what travel documentation is required.

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

The riverboat is registered in Portugal. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S., please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey.  You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact an embassy or consulate of  Portugal and Spain to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

The riverboat has four decks: Emerald, Ruby, Diamond and Sun. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and the Emerald Deck, which includes a stop at the Ruby Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks. Please note that in some docking locations, the gangway must be extremely steep, or involve steps instead of a ramp.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking is not permitted in any cabin, restaurant, lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate of Portugal and Spain is among the warmest of any countries in Europe. In spring and summer temperatures are extremely high, often reaching 85ºF (30ºC) and above, and most days are sunny. Throughout this region rainfall is minimal or non-existent during the summer months and very light in late spring and early fall.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Valet laundry service is available at both hotels and on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available on the riverboat by request to the front desk. Category 5 cabins feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• Swimwear  
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents to be secured in the safe in your hotel room or cabin

The Tauck Experience

Tauck's River Cruise Guide

Douro river facts, first timer's guide, why take a tauck river cruise, choosing the best european river cruise for you.

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*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare. Strikeout fares reflect our Standard Cruise Fare.

*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare.

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2024-2026 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES: Offer applies to bookings made from April 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour , Lyon Provence & the Rhineland , European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by May 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by July 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offers expires April 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to September 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to November 2024 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details."

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:   Cruise fares listed are cruise only in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and for US residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings made April 1—April 30, 2024, are subject to availability; may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Credit and Viking Referral Rewards. Special cruise fares are based upon published full cruise fares; cruise fares do not include prepaid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full cruise fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to economy, roundtrip flights only from select Viking River Cruises US gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. All fares include cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires April 30, 2024. Note: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

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