DAY 1 DEPART USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
DAY 2 ARRIVE IN LISBON, PORTUGAL
Upon arrival in Lisbon, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. The balance of the day is free.
DAY 3 LISBON
A guided tour of Lisbon takes you to one of the most historical districts of the city, Belem, to see the Belem Tower, a fortress that kept careful watch over the great navigators who left Portugal to seek their fortunes elsewhere. Relive the opulence of former times with visits to the Royal Coaches Museum and the 16th-century Church of the Jerenimos Monastery. (B)
DAY 4 LISBON / COIMBRA / OPORTO / EMBARK SHIP
Leaving Lisbon, stop in Coimbra, Portugal's third largest city. Learn about this historic town, known as the birthplace of six of Portugal's kings and home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Enjoy lunch in a local pousada, a family run restaurant, before continuing on to Oporto to board your river cruise ship, the lovely Douro Queen. (B,L,D)
DAY 5 OPORTO / BITETOS
The 'City of Bridges' is Portugal's second largest city. Its charm stems from its dramatic position above the river, with gabled houses, hilly medieval lanes, arcaded buildings and baroque churches. A tour features the medieval city center and views of the Romanesque Cathedral. Then sail to Bitetos and dine in the former 14th century Benedictine Monastery of Alpendurada. Sip a Port wine cocktail on the monastery's terrace, enjoying the views of the river valley below. (B,L,D)
DAY 6 REGUA / LAMEGO EXCURSION
Take in the breathtaking scenery of the Douro Valley. In the afternoon, tour enchanting Lamego, and see the 18th century pilgrimage church, Nossa Senhora dos Remedios, and an 11th century castle. (B,L,D)
DAY 7 PINHAO / BARCA D ALVA
This morning, enjoy some free time in Pinheo, a center for port wine production. Later, cruise to Barca dAlva for the night. (B,L,D)
DAY 8 VEGA DE TERRON / SALAMANCA, SPAIN EXCURSION
Disembark in Vega de Terren and coach to the charming Spanish city of Salamanca. A walking tour winds through the narrow cobblestone streets and past beautiful plazas. Visit the 12th century Cathedral Vieja and the 13th century university. Enjoy lunch at one of the city's restaurants before returning to the ship. (B,L,D)
DAY 9 VEGA DE TERRON / FIGUEIRA DE CASTELO RODRIGO / PINHAO
Visit the small medieval town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo. See the 12th century parish church and more in this charming village not far from the border with Spain. (B,L,D)
DAY 10 PINHAO / REGUA / VILA REAL / OPORTO
Travel to Vila Real or the 'Royal Village,' founded by King Alfonso III in the 13th century, and famous for its grand manor houses. Visit captivating Mateus Palace and Gardens, a perfect example of Baroque architecture. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 DEPART OPORTO
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (CB) |
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