Portugal river cruises – sail the Douro through vineyards, historic towns & coastal charm
Portugal is a country with a vibrant culture and history, with its powerful empire once spanning the globe. The country is situated on the Iberian Peninsula, with a long, rich coastline that influences much Portuguese culture – there’s so much to explore.
If you’re looking for a river cruise, our river voyages through the Douro Valley are some of our most popular European river cruises. Travel through one of the oldest wine regions in the world, in the heart of port wine territory, where hillside vineyards sit under beautiful Mediterranean skies bursting with oranges and earthy colors. We'll meander past these stunning views and moor in the likes of Salamanca and Porto (the home of Port wine). Snapshot the incredible medieval architecture, accompany your dinner with a selection of local wines and don’t forget to try the ‘pastel de nata’ (a traditional Portuguese custard tart – trust us, it’s delicious). If you’re looking for a Portuguese river cruise that’s more tailored to your interest – art, history or gastronomy - check out our themed river cruises.
Find a Luxury River Cruise in Portugal
6 vacations in Portugal
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ships
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ship
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ship
- 3 countries visited
- 4* hotel
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ship
- Portugal, Spain
- 5* ship
Your Solo River Cruise, Perfectly Arranged
Sail Europe's most beautiful rivers in the company of like-minded travelers — with your own spacious cabin and no single supplement on selected cruises.
Group River Cruises Made Effortless
Book as a group of 8 or more and get 1 in 8 places free on European river cruises — tailored experiences and full support from start to finish.
From Mountain Views to City Lights – Extend Your European River Cruise
Set sail on a beautifully curated river cruise through Europe’s most stunning waterways — then stay longer. With the Extend Your Cruise option, your journey doesn’t end the moment your ship docks. Instead, you step off into the heart of Europe’s most captivating landscapes and cities.
Book a European Cruise with Confidence
Vacation happiness. Guaranteed
Like you, we love to travel. Our team of experts personally selects every aspect of your vacation so that it is thoughtfully balanced and honed to perfection.
Your money is safe and secure
No matter what, your money is safe and secure and fully protected.
24/7 access to support team
We’re on hand before and during your vacation. If anything were to go awry during your travels, you can call our emergency number at any point.
Unbeatable value for money
40 years' experience and historic supplier relationships, together with the scale of our operation, ensures your vacation will always be unbeatable value for money
Popular FAQs
A Riviera Travel European river cruise is a premium, all-inclusive vacation aboard a luxurious river ship sailing through Europe’s inland waterways. You’ll unpack once and enjoy a seamless journey combining cultural discovery, fine dining, and first-class service from beginning to end.
The most popular months for European river cruising are from May through September, when temperatures are pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Riviera Travel offers departures throughout the season, including cruises over the festive period, so you can choose the perfect time to fit your travel plans.
Every Riviera Travel river cruise includes outstanding value and transparency — no hidden extras. Your fare covers:
- Luxury accommodation in a river-view cabin or suite, mostly featuring French balconies, with selected cabins offering full balconies.
- All meals onboard, prepared by expert chefs and inspired by regional cuisine.
- All-inclusive drinks, plus unlimited tea and coffee throughout the day.
- Daily guided excursions led by English-speaking local experts.
- Professional Cruise Director and Cruise Concierge throughout your journey.
- Free Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment, and port taxes all included.
Most Riviera Travel itineraries last variously between 4 and 16 days — an ideal length for an immersive European getaway.
Riviera’s ships are elegant and intimate, typically accommodating 160–180 guests. Their smaller size allows docking directly in city centers and picturesque villages — meaning more time exploring and less time transferring. You’ll also enjoy a relaxed, personal onboard experience with exceptional attention to detail.
The atmosphere is refined yet informal. During the day, casual clothing is perfect for sightseeing and excursions. Evenings are "smart casual", ideal for dining or socializing in the lounge. There's no requirement for formal wear, though many guests like to dress up for special dinners or the Captain’s Reception.
Yes — Riviera Travel welcomes solo travelers and offers dedicated single cabins or reduced single supplements on select sailings. It’s a wonderful way to see Europe in comfort and meet other like-minded travelers.
Each Riviera cruise includes expertly guided tours in every port, exploring cultural landmarks, architecture, and local life. Onboard, you can enjoy talks, local performances, relaxed entertainment, and time to unwind in the lounge, restaurant, or on deck with panoramic views.
Yes. Riviera Travel caters to most dietary requirements — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sugar options — with advance notice.
Ships are designed for comfort and convenience, and while most excursions are leisurely, some may involve walking over uneven surfaces. Guests should have a good level of mobility, as boarding may involve walking on gangplanks and crossing between double-moored ships.
Absolutely. Riviera Travel welcomes group bookings and offers generous benefits — when you book as a group of eight or more passengers, one travels free. It’s a fantastic way for families, clubs, or friends to experience a European river cruise together while enjoying added value. Dedicated group support is available to make organizing your trip simple and seamless.