Flavors of Portugal & Spain
7- Night Cruise
CRUISE FROM: PORTO TO VEGA DE TERRÓN
Embark on a grand journey through Portugal and Spain, starting in Lisbon and ending in Madrid. Lisbon, with its Old World architecture and stories of explorers, is a cosmopolitan treasure. Don't miss the charming town of Sintra, a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family. Sail from Porto, the "City of Bridges," to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Douro River Valley with its vineyards and quintas. Experience the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking. Explore the golden-hued Salamanca, the ancient walled city of Toledo, and cosmopolitan Madrid with its world-class museums, gardens, and tapas bars.
PORTO
Days 1 - 2 | Portugal
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For the more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto. (B,L,D)
ENTRE-OS-RIOS
Days 3 | Portugal
Entre-os-Rios translates to “between the rivers,” and this small village is, quite appropriately, located at the confluence of the Tâmega and Douro rivers. For an authentic slice of Douro River life, enjoy a traditional “home-cooked” meal at a local quinta. (B,L,D)
RÉGUA
Day 4 | Portugal
Begin your day with a tour of the 18th-century Palacio Anadia, or Palace of the Counts, known for its beautiful interior and Baroque style. Inside the house, you’ll see intricate panels of blue and white tiles throughout the rooms and a striking vaulted ceiling that retell the history behind the palace. (B,L,D)
LAMEGO
Day 5 | Portugal
Today you’ll see the “Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies” on a city tour or climb the 686-step “Holy Staircase,” beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, to the top on a guided hike. Whichever excursion you choose will conclude with a tasting of local specialties such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of dry-cured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão, where a wine tasting will be waiting for you in a local quinta.
PINHAO
Day 6 | Portugal
Embark on a leisurely walk to the charming Pinhão Railway Station, a stunning train station along the Douro Line, one of the most iconic rail journeys in Portugal. The station’s main building is revered for its 25 tile panels, all in shades of blue, that depict scenes from the Douro region. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta da Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. Quinta de Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll discover the various stages of wine production as tasting.
BARCA D’ALVA
Day 7 | Portugal
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline style windows. Prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine.
MADRID
Day 8 | SPAIN
Disembark the ship in Vega de Terrón and board a motorcoach to Madrid. En route to Madrid, you’ll first stop in Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the center of Spain’s Castilla y León region. You will have free time to explore on your own, followed by an escorted city tour that includes the New Cathedral and the uniquely adorned House of Shells. Later in the day, you’ll check into your hotel in Madrid. (B, L)
