Portugal and Spain River Cruises - Viking River Cruises

It's just a little bit ironic that Portugal, which is known for a strong history of discovery and exploration, is barely visited by Americans. Portugal, which sits on the edge of the Iberian Peninsula, is a popular vacation spot for Europeans, with its beautiful beaches, romantic architecture and delicious seafood. Viking River Cruises is seeking to bring more Americans to this fascinating country with cruises along the Douro River.

Viking River Cruises along the Douro River transport guests to the region’s most fascinating and important cities, including Lisbon, Porto, Pinhao, Regua and more. Along the way, you’ll be able to juxtapose the bustling cultural cities of Lisbon and Porto with the serene and picturesque Barca d’Alva, located amongst some of the area’s most beautiful orchards and vineyards.

The water surrounding and flowing through Portugal has really shaped this nation. Thanks to its tremendous coastline, a lot of Portugal's food comes from the ocean. Portugal has the highest fish consumption per capita of any other European nation. Cod is king in Portugal – not only is it the most popular dish, it's also a major export. The Portuguese claim to have a cod recipe for every day of the year. The water has also helped Portugal sail the world in search of new trade routes and territories, like the Azores and Madeira archipelagos, along with Brazil, the largest nation in South America.

The fertile lands surrounding the Douro River Valley are also vital to the Portuguese. After all, it’s here where you’ll find the award-winning vineyards and wineries that make Portugal’s famous wine and Port. So not only will you enjoy the scenic views of the Douro Valley, you'll also get to taste its bounty! Continue below for a few more ideas of the experiences available on a Douro River cruise with Viking River Cruises:

• Tour downtown Lisbon and see the city’s famous late Gothic architecture – featured prominently throughout the Jeronimos Monastery and Tower of Belem.
   
• Visit one of Porto’s traditional port wine makers as you tour downtown Porto and its UNESCO World Heritage-certified historic city center. Especially popular is the old fishing village of Foz do Douro, where the town’s elite maintain their summer homes.
   

• Take a pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies in the small town of Lamego. This lovely 14th century baroque-style shrine is ornately decorated, inside and out.
   
• Sip local wines onboard your Viking river cruise ship while enjoying panoramic views of the terraced vineyards and rolling hills and mountains of the Douro River Valley.
   

• Enjoy a guided tour of the marvelous Mateus Palace in Vila Real. Walk through the painstakingly landscaped gardens and wander throughout the mansion to admire the artwork and architecture.
   
• Embark on a full-day tour to Salamanca, Spain where you’ll take in a tremendous flamenco show during lunch. Your tour continues to the “New” Cathedral (finished in 1733) and the House of Shells with its library and open-air courtyard.
   

Douro River cruises with Viking River Cruises are filling up fast. To ensure a beautiful cruise into the heart of Portugal, be sure to book your cruise today with the expert consultants at The Cruise Web.

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