Tour Introduction
Begin an unforgettable European adventure with Sisterhood Womens Travel, starting in vibrant Barcelona where Gaudí’s masterpieces, lively markets and Mediterranean charm set the scene for days of sightseeing, shared meals and time to explore at your own pace. Journey north through historic Zaragoza and the Rioja wine region to elegant San Sebastián and Bilbao, before heading into the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Picos de Europa. From here, continue into Portugal’s soulful city of Porto and embark on a spectacular Douro River cruise, gliding through vineyard-lined valleys, historic villages and sun-drenched hills. Discover Salamanca, Lamego and charming riverside towns before travelling south to Coimbra and Lisbon for cultural experiences, hands-on workshops and coastal day trips to Sintra and Cascais. Your journey concludes in stylish Madrid with a visit to Toledo, time to explore, and a special farewell celebration — a beautiful finale to an enriching adventure filled with unforgettable sights, shared laughter and the joy of travelling with friends.Highlights
Welcome to vibrant Barcelona and our first night together
Guided Barcelona sightseeing including Sagrada Família and Park Güell
Hands-on Spanish paella cooking class and dinner experience
Free day to explore Barcelona your way under the guideance of your Sisterhood hostess
Scenic journey to Zaragoza with a stop in charming Lleida
Guided walking tour of historic Zaragoza
Travel to glamorous San Sebastián via Rioja wine tasting at Marqués de Riscal
Stay in elegant seaside San Sebastián
Excursion to Bilbao and the iconic Guggenheim Museum
Leisure time in beautiful San Sebastián
Visit the fascinating Altamira Cave Museum
Overnight in the spectacular Picos de Europa region
Funicular ride and full day exploring Picos de Europa National Park
Journey into Portugal and the riverside city of Porto
Guided Porto touring with food and wine tastings
Six Bridges cruise along the Douro River
Cruise onboard the luxurious APT MS Estrela on a 7-night Douro River cruise
Welcome reception and sunset sailing on the Douro
Cruise through Portugal’s famed wine regions and vineyard landscapes
Visit Lamego and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
Traditional quinta dinner and wine experiences
Excursion to the Castelo Rodrigo village in Spain
Visit the golden city of Salamanca with a flamenco show and lunch
Tour Mateus Palace and gardens
Port tasting at a local Portuguese quinta
Return to Porto with a winery tour and tasting
Farewell dinner onboard with new friends
Disembark and visit historic Coimbra
Pastel de nata baking class in Lisbon
Lisbon tuk-tuk tour and tile painting workshop
Full-day tour to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and Estoril
Sightseeing tour of Madrid
Visit magnificent Toledo, including the cathedral and treasury
Free day to explore vibrant Madrid under the guidance of your Sisterhood hostess
Friends for Company!
Inclusions
Fully escorted from Australia, with a Sisterhood tour hostess on hand for support and to help make your holiday truly memorable
Return airfares ex Melbourne including taxes (Other departure cities and upgrades available upon request)
Transportation throughout, including one-way economy airfare from Lisbon to Madrid (including taxes)
7-night luxury APT MS Estrela Cruise Porto - Porto, including all meals and daily activities
All other meals as described in the itinerary
All sightseeing as described in the itinerary
Quality accommodation as described in the itinerary
Willing to share option (subject to availability)
Meet & Greet via Zoom
Notice
Moderate Fitness Rating - A moderate level of fitness will be required for these tours due to the length and/or overall physicality of our tour itinerary. On some days expect to walk an average of 10,000 steps daily on more challenging terrain and longer periods. You must be capable of boarding and disembarking coaches baths and boats unaided and at times handle your luggage. For more information on our physical ratings, please click here
Local tipping is customary and appreciated. Sisterhood Womens Travel tipping system on all Group Tours involves passengers contributing to a kitty, which is paid to the tour hostess at the beginning of the tour, who then distributes it daily to service providers on your behalf. This avoids the need for you to consider individual tipping situations daily throughout your trip. The estimated amount for your tour is EUR 200, and this will be confirmed in your final documentation.
Cabin Category Information (click here)
Cat P - French Balcony Steroom Upper Deck - 14.6m2 (Floor to celing Window that opens up to let in the fresh air)
Cat B - French Balcony Stateroom Main Deck - 14.6m2 (Floor to celing Window that opens up to let in the fresh air)
Cat E - Window Stateroom Lower Deck - 14.6m2 (Pillbox Window)
Talk to us for advice on the best option for you.
The MS Estrela features the following:
Large swimming pool (one of the biggest on Douro river vessels).
Outdoor bar and seating areas with panoramic views.
Putting green for light fun while cruising.
Sun loungers and plush seating for relaxing in the sun.
Main restaurant serving Portuguese, Mediterranean, and international cuisine.
Lounge bar with lighter meal options.
Desire alfresco dining? There’s an option to eat outdoors on deck.
24-hour tea/coffee station is available.
Brand new river ship, custom-built for cruising the Douro River in Portugal. Launched in 2024.
Capacity: ~120 guests with 60 staterooms and suites.
Onboard activities include Portuguese folk music, locally themed presentations, and informative talks
Air-conditioned throughout and designed for easy movement between decks (includes lift access).
Designed with Southern European ambience and plenty of natural light throughout the ship.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Sunday 18 July 2027
Melbourne - Barcelona, Athens (Meals Inflight)
Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel. Your tour hostess and fellow travellers will meet you at the designated departure point at Melbourne Airport for our flight to Barcelona, Spain.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment as we head towards our next adventure.
Day 2 - Monday 19 July 2027
Welcome to Barcelona, Spain! (D)
Upon our arrival into Barcelona, we'll be transferred to our hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure.
A welcome dinner to enjoy tonight.
Overnight - Amister Hotel (or similar)
Barcelona sparkles with colour, culture and effortless Mediterranean glamour — the perfect city to share with friends. Wander Gothic lanes and grand boulevards, admire Gaudí’s breathtaking masterpieces, browse chic boutiques and linger over tapas and sangria in sun-drenched squares. From seaside strolls to stylish cafés and vibrant markets, Barcelona invites you to slow down, soak it all in and savour every beautiful moment together — with friends for company and memories waiting to be made.
Day 3 - Tuesday 20 July 2027
Sightseeing in Barcelona (B, D)
Today we discover the magic of Barcelona on a full-day guided sightseeing tour, exploring the city’s most iconic highlights. Stroll along lively La Ramblas, take in the grandeur of Plaça de Catalunya, and step inside Gaudí’s breathtaking masterpiece, the Sagrada Família. Enjoy entrance to the whimsical Park Güell with its colourful mosaics and sweeping views, before wandering the atmospheric lanes of the Gothic Quarter, where centuries of history unfold around every corner.
This evening, the flavours of Spain come alive as we enjoy a hands-on paella cooking class — a fun and delicious experience shared with friends — before sitting down together to savour our creations for dinner.
Overnight - Amister Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 - Wednesday 21 July 2027
Free Day in Barcelona for Exploring (B)
Today is yours to enjoy Barcelona your way — and what a city to play in! Perhaps wander elegant boulevards and browse stylish boutiques along Passeig de Gràcia, sip sangria in a sunny plaza, or lose yourself in the colourful stalls of La Boqueria Market. Art lovers may choose to visit a gallery or Gaudí masterpiece, while others might stroll the waterfront, indulge in a long seaside lunch or simply soak up the city’s vibrant energy from a charming café.
Whether you choose culture, shopping, relaxation or a little of everything, this is a beautiful day to explore, discover and enjoy Barcelona at your own pace — with friends for company and endless possibilities waiting around every corner.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood Hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Amister Hotel (or similar)
Day 5 - Thursday 22 July 2027
Barcelona - Zaragoza (B, D)
This morning, we farewell Barcelona and journey towards Zaragoza, pausing en route in the charming city of Lleida, where you’ll have some free time to enjoy a coffee, stretch your legs or simply soak up the local atmosphere.
On arrival in Zaragoza, we’ll step into one of Spain’s most historic and elegant cities on a guided walking tour. Discover the city’s grand squares and riverside setting as we view its most celebrated landmarks, including the magnificent Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, the striking Aljafería Palace and the impressive Cathedral of the Saviour (no internal visits).
This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Your Sisterhood hostess will happily suggest a lovely local restaurant and coordinate a relaxed group dinner for those who would like to dine together and share the evening.
Overnight - NH Collection Gran Hotel de Zaragoza (or similar)
Day 6 - Friday 23 July 2027
Zaragoza - San Sebastian (B, D))
Today, we journey to the glamorous seaside town of San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal destinations and a true highlight of our journey.
En route, we pause in Eltziego in the heart of the Rioja region to visit the iconic Marqués de Riscal winery. Here we’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting, discovering the rich traditions of Spanish winemaking while sampling some of the region’s finest drops in this architecturally stunning setting.
We then continue on to elegant San Sebastián, where golden beaches and Belle Époque charm await. This evening, we gather together for dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating our arrival in this stylish coastal gem with wonderful food and even better company.
Today we enjoy a wonderful excursion to nearby Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Marvel at this striking architectural masterpiece before exploring its world-class modern art collection, a true highlight of northern Spain. Afterwards, we’ll relax over lunch at a local restaurant, savouring regional flavours and the vibrant Basque atmosphere.
We then return to beautiful San Sebastián, where the remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure — perhaps a seaside stroll along La Concha, boutique browsing or a glass of wine overlooking the bay.
Dinner tonight is at leisure - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Hotel Barcelo Costa Vasca (or similar)
Day 7 - Saturday 24 July 2027
Day Trip to Bilbao (B)
Today we enjoy a wonderful excursion to nearby Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Marvel at this striking architectural masterpiece before exploring its world-class modern art collection, a true highlight of northern Spain. Afterwards, we’ll relax over lunch at a local restaurant, savouring regional flavours and the vibrant Basque atmosphere.
We then return to beautiful San Sebastián, where the remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure — perhaps a seaside stroll along La Concha, boutique browsing or a glass of wine overlooking the bay.
Dinner tonight is at leisure - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Hotel Barcelo Costa Vasca (or similar)
Day 8 - Sunday 25 July 2027
San Sebastian - Cantabria - Camaleno (B, D)
Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure in beautiful San Sebastián — perhaps a final seaside stroll, a coffee overlooking La Concha or some last-minute browsing before we farewell this elegant coastal gem.
Later, we continue our journey to Cantabria, visiting the fascinating Altamira National Cave Museum enroute to the scenic village of Camaleño, nestled near the breathtaking national park, where dramatic mountain landscapes set the scene for our overnight stay. This evening, we gather together for dinner at the hotel, sharing stories and laughter as our Spanish adventure continues.
Overnight - Hotel Parador de Fuente De (or similar)
Day 9 - Monday 26 July 2027
Camaleno - Espinama - Camaleno (B, D)
Today, we immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Picos de Europa National Park, one of Spain’s most spectacular natural wonders. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, lush valleys and picture-perfect mountain villages, we’ll enjoy a memorable funicular ride high into the mountains for magnificent panoramic views and a true sense of this region’s wild beauty.
After a day of fresh mountain air and unforgettable scenery, we return to our hotel this evening, where we gather together for dinner, sharing stories and laughter as we reflect on another wonderful day of our Spanish adventure.
Overnight - Hotel Parador de Fuente De (or similar)
Day 10 - Tuesday 27 July 2027
Cameleno - Porto (B, D)
This morning, we journey onwards to the charming riverside city of Porto, Portugal. It’s a longer travel day today, offering the perfect opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as we cross into another beautiful corner of Europe.
Perched along the banks of the Douro River, Porto is a city of colourful facades, historic charm and old-world romance. Think winding cobbled lanes, tiled buildings in shades of blue and gold, grand bridges and riverfront cafés where life unfolds at a deliciously relaxed pace. Famous for its port wine, warm hospitality and rich maritime history, Porto has a soulful elegance that’s instantly captivating.
On arrival, we’ll have time to settle into our hotel and freshen up before heading out together this evening for dinner at a local restaurant — a lovely way to toast our arrival in this vibrant and beautiful city.
Overnight - Casual Inca Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 - Wednesday 28 July 2027
Porto Sightseeing (B)
Enjoy a leisurely morning to relax and ease into the rhythm of beautiful Porto — perhaps a riverside stroll, a coffee in a charming square or simply time to soak up the atmosphere of this colourful and historic city.
This afternoon, we set out to discover Porto’s many delights on a guided tour, sampling local food and wine at a variety of handpicked venues and getting a true taste of the region’s rich culinary traditions. We’ll also take to the water for the famous Six Bridges cruise along the Douro River, gliding beneath Porto’s grand bridges and admiring the city’s stunning skyline from a whole new perspective — a wonderful way to experience the magic of this captivating riverside gem.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Casual Inca Hotel (or similar)
Day 12 - Thursday 29 July 2027
Embark on 8 Day Duoro Discovery (B, D)
Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure — perhaps a final wander through Porto’s charming streets or a quiet coffee by the river — before we check out and transfer to our beautiful river ship, the MS Estrela, our home as we begin a spectacular 7-night journey along the Douro River. Launched in 2024 with a total of 60 suites (120 guests), settle into your cabin and take time to explore the ship as we prepare for this unforgettable cruising experience through one of Europe’s most scenic wine regions. This evening, meet your fellow cruise travellers and Cruise Director at a Welcome Reception as we set sail and glide gently along the Douro at sunset, taking in the golden riverside views — a magical beginning to our river cruise adventure together.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Come aboard the MS Estrela, APT's new custom-built river ship, designed to gracefully navigate the picturesque waters of the Douro River in Portugal. Purpose-built to offer unparalleled comfort and style, from its luxurious cabins to exquisite dining experiences, the MS Estrela promises an unforgettable journey through Portugal's enchanting wine country. Built in 2024 with 58 suites and 116 guests, get ready for an intimate cruise with new friends.
** This is a shared cruise with other passengers.
Day 13 - Friday 30 July 2027
Cruising - Regua, Lamego - Pinhao (B, L, D)
Begin cruising along the spectacular Douro River. Flowing from the northern reaches of Spain, through Portugal and into the Atlantic, this river is bordered by countless vineyards. As you cruise this morning, take part in a Portuguese language lesson, where you’ll learn some essential phrases of this beautiful language. This afternoon, visit the picturesque village of Lamego and the elaborately decorated Baroque cathedral, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. While in Lamego, visit one of Portugal’s best museums. You may also like to sample one of the town’s famous specialties, Bola de Lamego – a delicious smoked ham roll. On arrival in Pinhão, you’ll enjoy an Insider Experience ~ a sumptuous dinner of traditional dishes and dessert at a picturesque local quinta, a Portuguese winery.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Day 14 - Saturday 31 July 2027
Cruising - Vega de Terron, Castelo Rodrigo (B, L, D)
Today, cruise across the border into Vega de Terrón in Spain. Enjoy some time at leisure before joining an excursion to Castelo Rodrigo. This tiny village sits atop a hill overlooking both Spain and Portugal and features several well-preserved ruins, an impressive castle, and a magnificent stone statue of Santiago Matamoros. After exploring this charming little town, we'll board a coach and return to our ship.
Dinner tonight onboard.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Day 15 - Sunday 1 August 2027
Cruising - Salamanca, Barca d'Alva (B, L, D)
Today, you’ll disembark and board a coach bound for the glorious Spanish city of Salamanca. This gorgeous city is arguably one of the most beautiful in Spain, boasting sunlit sandstone buildings, a majestic city square, and an ancient university. Our Insider Experience today is a flamenco show and lunch. Be entranced by captivating dancers as they astound us with their stomping feet in a fiery performance. After our Insider Experience, return by coach across the border to Barca d’Alva, the last Portuguese village along the Douro, where our ship awaits. Back on board this evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese barbecue dinner.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Day 16 - Monday 2 August 2027
Cruising - Pinhao, Regua (B, L, D)
Join an excursion to Mateus Palace and its gardens. Tour this living museum and discover the connection between the beautiful 18th-century palace and Mateus rosé wine. Rejoin our ship, now docked in Régua. Enjoy the relaxed vibe and amenities of our river ship.
Dinner tonight onboard.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Day 17 - Tuesday 3 August 2027
Cruising - Regua, Entra-os-Rios (B, L, D)
This morning, we'll enjoy another Insider Experience: a Portuguese Quinta Port Tasting at a local quinta with outstanding views of the Douro Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local port wine – Portugal’s most famous tipple. Afterwards, we continue to the riverside town of Entre-os-Rios. On arrival, we'll enjoy some free time to explore this gorgeous, vibrant town at leisure.
Dinner tonight onboard.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Day 18 - Wednesday 4 August 2027
Cruising - Porto (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we return to the charming city of Porto. Join a captivating guided tour, taking uspast the city’s iconic sights, before visiting a local port winery for an informative tour and tasting. This afternoon, there’s ample time to step back out and explore Porto at leisure. You may like to visit a Portuguese boutique to buy authentic, local souvenirs, or take a stroll through the city’s historic Bolhão food market. Alternatively, you can join an excursion to the nearby city of Guimarães (at an additional cost). This evening, back on board our ship, enjoy a final Farewell Dinner and celebrate fantastic memories with new friends.
Overnight - Onboard MS Estrela
Day 19 - Thursday 5 August 2027
Disembark Cruise - Porto - Coimbra (B, L, D)
Today we farewell our beautiful river ship and journey south from Porto to the historic university city of Coimbra. On arrival, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of its most celebrated sights, including the magnificent Biblioteca Joanina, the atmospheric Sé Velha Cathedral and the renowned University of Coimbra, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious centres of learning.
After time to enjoy lunch and soak up the charm of this elegant riverside city, we continue on to vibrant Lisbon. Arriving just in time for a deliciously fun experience, we’ll take part in a hands-on pastel de nata baking class — learning the secrets behind Portugal’s famous custard tarts before, of course, enjoying the sweet rewards.
This evening, we gather for dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating our arrival in Lisbon with wonderful food and lots of laughter.
Overnight - Wilde Aparthotels Lisbon Lilberdale (or similar)
Day 20 - Friday 6 August 2027
Lisbon Sightseeing (B, D)
Today, we have the vibrant city of Lisbon right at our doorstep, ready to explore and enjoy. We’ll set off on a panoramic tuk-tuk tour, a fun and relaxed way to discover the city’s iconic neighbourhoods, grand squares and sweeping viewpoints as we wind through Lisbon’s colourful streets and historic quarters.
This afternoon, we embrace a little Portuguese creativity with a hands-on tile painting workshop, inspired by the beautiful azulejos that adorn the city. It’s a wonderful chance to learn a traditional craft, share some laughs and perhaps create a special keepsake of our time in Portugal.
This evening, we gather together for dinner at a local restaurant, savouring delicious flavours and warm conversation.
Overnight - Wilde Aparthotels Lisbon Lilberdale (or similar)
Day 21 - Saturday 7 August 2027
Lisbon - Sintra and surrounds (B, D)
Today we set out on a wonderful full-day exploration beyond Lisbon, discovering some of Portugal’s most enchanting and scenic highlights. Our first stop is the fairytale town of Sintra, where we’ll visit the extraordinary Quinta da Regaleira, a magical estate of secret tunnels, ornate gardens and whimsical architecture that feels straight from the pages of a storybook.
We then continue to dramatic Cabo da Roca, where rugged cliffs meet the vast Atlantic Ocean — a memorable photo opportunity. Travelling along the beautiful coastline, we’ll visit the elegant seaside towns of Cascais and Estoril, known for their relaxed charm, grand villas and sparkling ocean views.
Later, we return to Lisbon, where we gather together this evening for dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight - Wilde Aparthotels Lisbon Lilberdale (or similar)
Day 22 - Sunday 8 August 2027
Lisbon - Madrid (B, D)
Today we farewell beautiful Portugal and transfer to the airport for our flight to vibrant Madrid, the elegant heart of Spain.
On arrival, we’ll set out on a half-day sightseeing tour to discover the city’s grand boulevards, historic squares and lively atmosphere. We’ll take in some of Madrid’s most iconic sights, including leafy Retiro Park, the stately Plaza Mayor and bustling Puerta del Sol, before visiting the impressive Royal Palace, a true symbol of Spanish royalty and grandeur.
Afterwards, we’ll check into our hotel and have time to freshen up before gathering together this evening for dinner at a local restaurant — the perfect way to celebrate our arrival in this stylish and captivating city.
Overnight - Hotel Aloft Madrid Gran Via (or similar)
Day 23 - Monday 9 August 2027
Day Trip to Toledo (B)
Today, we journey to the magnificent medieval city of Toledo, perched high above the Tagus River and rich in centuries of Spanish history and culture. On our guided city tour, we’ll wander its atmospheric cobbled streets and discover the legacy of the three cultures — Christian, Jewish and Muslim — that have shaped this remarkable city.
A highlight of our visit is entry into the breathtaking Toledo Cathedral and its Treasury, where extraordinary art, architecture and priceless treasures reveal the city’s grandeur and spiritual heritage.
Later, we return to Madrid where the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure — perhaps some shopping, a café stop or simply time to relax and soak up the energy of this vibrant capita
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your Sisterhood tour hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Hotel Aloft Madrid Gran Via (or similar)
Day 24 - Tuesday 10 August 2027
Free Day in Madrid for Exploring (B, D)
Today is yours to enjoy Madrid at your own pace — a wonderful opportunity to explore this vibrant capital exactly as you wish. Perhaps stroll elegant boulevards, browse stylish boutiques, visit a world-class gallery, relax in leafy Retiro Park or linger over tapas and sangria in a sun-filled plaza. Whatever you choose, Madrid offers the perfect setting to soak up its energy, beauty, and culture with friends.
This evening, we come together for a Farewell Dinner, a perfect finale to our journey, as we toast not only the incredible places we’ve discovered but the new friendships, laughter and memories we’ve created together along the way.
Overnight - Hotel Aloft Madrid Gran Via (or similar)
Day 25 - Wednesday 11 August 2027
Adios Española - Home (B) (Meals Inflight)
Today we say adiós España as our wonderful Sisterhood journey comes to an end. We transfer to the airport and begin our journey home, hearts full and spirits lifted after so many unforgettable experiences shared together.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment as we travel home with treasured memories, new friendships and countless stories to tell — the kind that stay with you long after the suitcase is unpacked.
Day 26 - Thursday 12 August 2027
Home
Welcome home! We hope you enjoyed your latest Sisterhood adventure and can't wait to welcome you back!