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Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro with 3 Nights in Lisbon and a Taste of Madeira

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro with 3 Nights in Lisbon and a Taste of Madeira

Explore the Best Douro River Cruises: Portugal Cruise Vacation

Cruise Amarante Aw_Europe Aw_Featured Barca D'alva Braga Coimbra Douro River Europe Ferradosa + 15 More Funchal Guimarães Leverinho Portugal Madeira Palácio Nacional Peso Da Regua Pinhao Pocinho Porto Antigo River Cruise Salamanca Sintra Avalon Waterways 15 Days from Lisbon to Lisbon
Like a blue ribbon threading through the green Douro Valley, the River Douro carries you through some of Portugal’s most legendary landscapes. Meaning “River of Gold,” the Douro River lives up to its name by revealing priceless gems along sloping vineyards and sleepy villages where rugged landscapes have been tamed for centuries to produce a bounty of wines and cuisine. Before sailing, begin your vacation in Portugal with a three-night stay in the captivating capital city of Lisbon. See the spectacular sights and stop in the medieval riverfront city of Coimbra en route to embark on Avalon’s newest Suite Ship ®, the Avalon AlegriaSM to be swept away by Douro’s timeless treasures and traditions in the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Embark on your Portugal river cruise in the city of Porto as we set sail to share the proud traditions of winemaking, agriculture, architecture, artistry, and adventure. From the sweet life of farming legacies to the smooth sounds of passionate Fado music, Portugal comes to life in its artistry, architecture, and always welcoming locals who share the scenic mysteries and treasured moments awaiting you on this dazzling Douro River cruise vacation in Portugal.

Next, celebrate your Douro River cruise vacation with a three-night stay on the magical island of Madeira where crystalline waters, centuries of tradition, and culinary tastes await you. Visit Funchal and be inspired by the captivating charm of “Little Lisbon.” Relax in the quaint fishing villages and let your imagination wander amid quiet reflections from luminous pools and lofty plateaus. Your Avalon Douro River cruise and vacation in Madeira serve up a feast for the senses and adventure for the soul on this unforgettable vacation in Portugal.

A Journey That Changes with the Seasons.
Each season along the Douro brings its own character – from sun-warmed summer days to the quieter beauty of spring and fall. Depending on when you sail, you can take part in a cozy harvest experience with grape picking and stunning views of grape laden vineyards. As the seasons change, so do the colors of the terraced hillsides, the rhythm of riverside life, and the feel of Portugal’s celebrated wine country. Sail this iconic river when it speaks most to you, with every season offering a distinct point-of-view.

Day 1: LISBON, PORTUGAL

Welcome to Lisbon Your day in Lisbon is free to explore at your leisure.

Day 2: LISBON

Portuguese Treasures CLASSIC Explore Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, with a Local Guide. Do not miss the must-see sights, including Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. You might opt to join an optional gastronomic walking tour to learn about the authentic flavors, aromas, and traditions of Portugal.This evening, you might join an optional excursion including a traditional Portuguese dinner, followed by a live concert of traditional Portuguese Fado music. (B)

Day 3: LISBON. EXCURSION TO SINTRA AND VISIT OF PALÁCIO NACIONAL

A Resplendent Royal Residence CLASSIC Join us on a guided excursion to Sintra, where you will visit the National Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, drive to Cabo da Roca and enjoy some free time in the Westernmost point of continental Europe. (B)

Day 4: LISBON–COIMBRA–PORTO (EMBARKATION)

Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding CLASSIC Stop in Coimbra for a guided city sightseeing tour. Accompanied by a Local Guide, you’ll explore the historical area of the city and learn all about the oldest university in Portugal, and one of the oldest in the world. Transfer to Porto to board your Avalon Suite Ship® Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PORTO(B,D)

Day 5: PORTO–PORTO ANTIGO. EXCURSION BRAGA AND GUIMARÃES

Portuguese Panoramas CLASSIC Join a guided sightseeing tour of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue your experience with a ride to the riverside city of Matosinhos and up Avenida da Boavista to admire some of the modern charms of Porto – from ancient avenues to avant-garde graffiti street art, OR:CLASSIC Enter a world of Celtic history and the reign of Cesar Augustus where five roads diverged to form an empire with a full-day guided tour of Braga. Marvel at the magnificent castle and San Miguel church in Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site*. Later, feel the passion of Portugal’s soulful and stirring Fado music during a visit with local musicians on board.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PORTO ANTIGO *On March, second half of September, October & November departures this excursion will be offered on day 7 and replaced by bike tour or Porto wine tasting.(B,L,D)

Day 6: PESO DA RÉGUA

Pastoral Pleasures of Portugal DISCOVERY Experience life on one of the oldest farms in the Douro Valley with a personal tour by the owner of the house, including a wine tasting, OR: DISCOVERY Join a wine painting class with the guidance of a resident artist for a unique and new experience to portray an image linked to the culture of wine through an innovative process, OR:CLASSIC Take a guided walking tour of the charming town of Lamego. Enjoy a taste of the local bola de Lamego with sparkling wine and stroll past iconic landmarks like the majestic Lamego Cathedral.Enjoy a short sailing to Pinhão. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the quaint riverside town of Pinhão or consider joining an optional excursion to learn about the Douro Valley’s “liquid gold” at a traditional olive-oil mill.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PINHÃO(B,L,D)

Day 7: POCINHO

Kayaks and Quintas in the Douro ValleyEnjoy a relaxing cruise to Pocinho for a day in the Terra Quente region.DISCOVERY Join a Workshop conducted by a professional painter to discover the process of painting azulejos (traditional Portuguese tile).ACTIVE Discover the Douro River by kayak on a guided adventure through Portugal’s stunning valley. Enjoy breathtaking views and unforgettable moments*, OR:DISCOVERY Experience the charm of the Douro region with a visit to a historic vineyard estate. Enjoy a tasting of exquisite red, white, and port wines while soaking in stunning views and uncovering the rich heritage of this renowned winemaking region.DISCOVERY Join us for an onboard workshop to learn Portuguese language and culture. Discover essential words, charming stories, and clever tricks that bring this centuries-old language to life in an interactive and memorable way.This evening, enjoy an onboard Flamenco show with local artists.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BARCA D’ALVA*On March, April, second half of September, October & November a bike tour will be offered to replace this excursion.(B,L,D)

Day 8: BARCA D’ALVA. EXCURSION TO SALAMANCA

The Reign in Spain CLASSIC Join our guide for a guided tour this morning to of one of the most remote villages of the country, Freixo de Espada à Cinta village in the Douro International Natural Park, home to majestic birds of prey, OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a guided tour to the historical village of Castelo Rodrigo, which, from the top of a hill, dominates the plateau that stretches from Spain in the east to the deep valley of the Douro in the north. Stroll through its medieval streets and discover the small details that give it colour, such as the Hebrew inscriptions and crosses carved on the doorposts and voussoirs, OR:CLASSIC Get a taste of Spain with a full-day excursion to Salamanca. This Spanish city will take your breath away with its stunning streets and squares, featuring a feast for the eyes with Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and "Plateresque" architecture. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN FERRADOSA(B,L,D)

Day 9: FERRADOSA–LEVERINHO

Mountains and Moving Music This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing through the Douro River. DISCOVERY Enjoy an onboard pastry demonstration.DISCOVERY Join us for an onboard Lecture to learn more about the wines of the region.DISCOVERY Take a visit to a wine-producing property and taste the freshness and lightness of iconic Vinho Verde wine, considered one of the world’s unique white wines, OR:CLASSIC Join a guided visit to Casa de Mateus, iconic symbol of the well-known "Mateus Rosé" wine and enjoy a tasting of locally produced wine. This evening, enjoy an onboard live entertainment.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LEVERINHO(B,L,D)

Day 10: PORTO*

Ancient Charm Meets Avant-GardeACTIVE Enjoy the wharfs of the Douro River and the coastal magnificence of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, on a guided bike tour, OR; DISCOVERY Enjoy a guided visit to one of the many Port wine cellars, where a guide will accompany you through the cellar's facilities, explaining where the grapes are harvested and how the wines are made. At the end of your explorations, taste some of the wines, OR:CLASSIC Join a guided sightseeing tour of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue your experience with a ride to the riverside city of Matosinhos and up Avenida da Boavista to admire some of the modern charms of Porto – from ancient avenues to avant-garde graffiti street art.This afternoon, you may choose to join in a guided optional excursion such as a visit to family-owned factory to witness the Portuguese art of cork and barrel production or a culinary tour experience. Perhaps simply spend time strolling through Porto’s cobblestone lanes, lovely shops, and tempting tapas bars this afternoon before experiencing the energy of Porto’s buzzing nightlife. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PORTO*On March, second half of September, October & November the Porto sightseeing excursion, the bike tour and the Porto wine tasting will be offered on day 2. The full-day excursion to Braga and Guimarães originally planned for day 2 will be offered on this day. As an alternative, enjoy a sailing morning and free time in the afternoon in Porto.(B,L,D)

Day 11: PORTO (DISEMBARKATION)–FUNCHAL

Crystalline Waters & Waterfront Wonders Disembark your Suite Ship® and leave the Portuguese mainland to fly to Funchal, capital of Madeira.CLASSIC Join an orientation walk to admire the historic landmarks and attractive waterfront. Enjoy free time to explore more.(B)

Day 12: FUNCHAL

Traditions, Flora, and FaunaCLASSIC Enjoy a Guided Tour of the northern part of the Island to discover amazing viewpoints and beautiful landscapes. (B)

Day 13: FUNCHAL

Natural Landscapes, Vineyards and Traditional CuisineEnjoy a free day to enjoy the island at your pace. Enjoy the sea, immerse yourself in local nature, or simply take a stroll to discover historical monuments and museums or taste typical dishes and the famous Madeira wine. There are so many ways to enjoy this beautiful island!(B)

Day 14: FUNCHAL–LISBON

Portugal’s MainlandLeave the island of Funchal with a flight to Lisbon. Enjoy free time to explore the city.(B)

Day 15: LISBON

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Details

Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship Name
Alegria
Departure Port
LIS
Arrival Port
LIS
Number of Nights
14

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16610 Pocono Drive

Austin, TX 78717

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (713) 730-5996