Tuesday, April 2, 2024

The Best Douro River Cruise Destinations from Porto to Salamanca

douro valley river cruise

Salamanca shore excursions include lunch, usually with a flamenco show, and free time. Or, if that's not your thing, find out how you still can have an incredible time, even if you don't drink wine. The majority of Douro river ships dock in the heart of Gaia, on the south side of the Douro River, across from Porto proper. Scenic and sister company Emerald Cruises have exclusive docking spots on the northern bank, in Ribeira. Some vessels (including Avalon Alegria) dock slightly farther out of town, so check before booking if you want to be right in the center.

Salamanca - The Golden City and Spain's Oldest University

Other novel experiences include a motorcycle and sidecar tour that will take you to out-of-the-way places, or a cruise in a replica of the wooden rabelo boats once used to transport port from the vineyards to Porto. Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

Experiences

Cross the upper level of the Ponte Dom Luis, Porto's eye-catching bridge, and arrive at the Cathedral "Sé." From there, we'll walk to the São Bento Station to see its famous azulejos murals, which portray the city's rich history. After that, head up the hill to Santa Catarina Street, a bustling shopping street full of beautiful cafes, shops, and historical landmarks. Cruise Critic is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site.

13 Best River Cruises in the World to Take in 2024 - AFAR Media

13 Best River Cruises in the World to Take in 2024.

Posted: Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Pinhao: Charming Vibes and Port Wine Tastings

douro valley river cruise

The Douro River in Portugal is one of Europe's most magical cruise itineraries, with destinations up and down its shores that are perfect for lovers of charming towns, bustling cities, history and -- of course -- wine. Portugal's so-called River of Gold was first discovered by the Romans, and now, modern-day cruisers are falling in love with cool ports lining the Douro. For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc.

Start this expedition in pretty Pinhão, heading up into the hills to a family-owned quinta, where you can get a firsthand look at how the vineyards are tended and grapes harvested. Although some 80 varieties of grapes are approved for the creation of Port, six grape varieties dominate. Explore the sunny Iberian Peninsula with world renowned cruise companies and set sail on the Douro river.

This once-turbulent waterway was tamed by local civilizations over the centuries, so you'll find postcard-worthy scenery all around. That also means that you'll likely take buses up the steep valley slopes to places of interest along the way. Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content. Valet laundry service is available at the hotel and on the riverboat for a fee. Ironing facilities are available on the riverboat by request to the front desk.

Cruise the Douro River through ancient wine estates, passing barcos rabelos laden with casks en route to Porto and Lisbon. A sublimely scenic corner of Europe, with equally sublime food and wine. As you journey through the hills to a local quinta, a prestigious Port wine estate and the oldest in the Douro River Valley, you will see a unique landscape that has been shaped by wine growers for two millennia. The stone terraces curving around the steep slopes hold soil that is largely the... Head ashore for a choice of excursions, including a tasting at a prestigious Port wine estate or a vineyard hike with a wine tasting at a local quinta. Depart by coach for Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, where we will begin our long walk around town.

Winemaking traditions in Portugal's Douro Valley

Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences. Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings.

What to Know About Avalon Alegria, the Newest Ship on the Douro River - Travel Market Report

What to Know About Avalon Alegria, the Newest Ship on the Douro River.

Posted: Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties. On the way back, there might be the chance to stop off at Pinhao's gorgeous railroad station.

When you book with one of our partners, please be sure to check their site for a full disclosure of all applicable fees as required by the U.S. Gaia's waterfront and steep surrounding streets are a Douro River destination unto themselves. The whole area is home to big-name port houses such as Graham's, Taylor's, Ferreira, Sandeman and Calem. Most Douro River cruise itineraries feature a tour and tasting at one of the wineries plus a trip to the scenic viewing point at the top of the Dom Luis Bridge. Portugal's second-largest city, Porto is generally your first and last destination on a Douro River cruise. The city is steeped in maritime history, and it was from here that Prince Henry the Navigator set out in 1415 bound for Africa, marking the start of Portugal's dominance of the world's oceans for two centuries.

It includes wine museums -- like the Pink Palace, dedicated to rosé and featuring a pool of pink bubbles -- a chocolate museum and shops. Ribeira, Porto's most-famous riverside neighborhood, is lined with cafes, shops and all manner of ready-to-explore spots. A maze of steep streets leads to the UNESCO-listed old town that's home to the 12th century Se Cathedral and Sao Francisco Church, with its fabulous golden interior. We're here to answer your questions about Uniworld cruises and ships, as well as any of our special offers.

douro valley river cruise

Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited. This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker. Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

The lobby is covered with azulejo tiles depicting historic scenes relating to port production. Some cruises overnight in Pinhao, giving time to explore the waterfront or walk up to the station. The Douro River begins to open up from Porto as it makes its way to the Portuguese coast. Follow the river all the way to the sea and keep biking along the coastline for the most scenic cycling route this region has to offer—and that’s saying a lot. As you go, you’ll pass by the fishermen’s village of Afurada, bike the beaches of Gaia and break for coffee and a treat at the Esplanada do Alex.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Hair Styling Tools & Hair Care Products

Table Of Content Reset Password Heat & Humidity Tamer Smooth-It is The Straightening Tool For All. Don’t just take our word for it! See ...