Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Portugal and Spain. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. From the vibrant city of Porto to the charming town of Régua, the ancient village of Freixo de Numão, and the stunning city of Salamanca in Spain, every day brings a new adventure. Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, taste exquisite local wines, and engage in a variety of activities tailored to your preferences. Whether you're a history buff, a food enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, this tour promises a memorable experience.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Avalon Waterways River cruise ship
7 nights of accommodation onboard an Avalon Waterways River cruise ship
Avalon Alegria: Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Porto
- Porto - Arrival day
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Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Porto. Arrive by 3:30 pm and board your Suite Ship® by 5 pm. Spend the evening exploring the city at your own pace. As night falls, enjoy an illumination sailing that showcases Porto's beauty under the stars. End your day with a delightful dinner on board.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Portuguese Panoramas
- Porto
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- Portuguese Centre of Photography
- Guimarães Castle
- Braga City Hall
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Start your day with a visit to the Interpretation Centre of the Romanesque, where you'll delve into the symbolism and architecture of the Romanesque era. Alternatively, embark on a full-day guided tour of Braga, exploring its magnificent castle and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Guimarães. End your day with a wine tasting at a local wine farm.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring the Pastoral Pleasures of Portugal
- Porto
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Experience life on one of the oldest farms in the Douro Valley or take a guided walking tour of Régua, known for its religious architecture and beautiful tiles. Continue to Lamego to visit the cathedral and enjoy a tasting of bola de Lamego. Spend your afternoon exploring the artisanal markets in Pinhão or join an optional excursion to learn about the Douro Valley's 'liquid gold' at a traditional olive-oil mill.
Day 4 – Day 4: Unveiling the Secrets Written in Stone
- Vila Nova de Foz Coa
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- Castelo de Numão
- Igreja Matriz de Vila Nova de Foz Côa
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Cruise to Pocinho and discover the eastern terminal of the legendary Douro Railway line in Vila Nova de Foz Côa. Marvel at the prehistoric rock paintings and carvings, or join a guided tour of Freixo de Numão, a charming village nestled between mountains and vineyards, filled with Roman, Medieval, and modern ruins.
Day 5 – Day 5: Experiencing the Reign in Spain
- Vila Nova de Foz Coa
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Join a guided tour to one of the most remote villages of Portugal, Freixo de Espada à Cinta, or embark on a full-day excursion to the breathtaking city of Salamanca in Spain. Marvel at its stunning streets and squares, adorned with Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and 'Plateresque' architecture. Savor a delicious dish of traditional Spanish paella to end your day.
Day 6 – Day 6: Immersed in Painted Tiles and Passionate Tunes
- Espinho
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Spend your morning sailing and engage in a painting session of azulejos, traditional Portuguese tiles, or join an onboard pastry demonstration. Later, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Amarante, a city nestled against the backdrop of the Serra do Marão mountain. In the evening, experience the soulful and stirring Fado music during a visit with local musicians on board.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Ancient Charm and Avant-Garde in Porto
- Espinho
- Porto
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- Praia de Matosinhos
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Enjoy a bicycle tour along the wharfs of the Douro River and the coastal magnificence of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, or join a guided sightseeing tour of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue your experience with a ride to Matosinhos and up Avenida da Boavista to admire the modern charms of Porto. Spend your afternoon exploring Porto's cobblestone lanes, lovely shops, and tempting tapas bars.
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell to Portugal
- Porto - Departure day
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Your unforgettable journey through Portugal and Spain comes to an end. After breakfast, prepare for your onward journey. We hope you leave with cherished memories and a longing to return.
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