March - October | AmaWaterways:
Two iconic cities, Lisbon and Madrid, provide the perfect start and end to a grand journey through Portugal and Spain. Cosmopolitan Lisbon offers a treasure trove of Old World architecture and a wealth of stories about its famed explorers; and then there is the seaside town of Sintra, one of the loveliest mountain villages in Portugal and a favorite summer residence of the Portuguese royal family for more than 500 years. Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey before visiting some of Spain’s glorious cities: the golden hued city of Salamanca, the ancient walled city of Toledo, and cosmopolitan Madrid, renowned for its world class museums, stately gardens and lively tapas bars.
AAA Exclusive Benefits on select sailings:
7, 10 & 11-NIGHT CRUISES:
• Up to $500 per stateroom discount
• Up to $150 per stateroom onboard credit
PLUS A WELCOME GIFT
• Europe—wine & chocolates
Day 1 - PORTO
Embark on your cruise in Porto. This evening meet your fellow passengers on board.
Day 2 - PORTO
Join a guided tour of Porto’s historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see the Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments; the main square, ringed with shops and cafes; and the São Bento Railway Station, known for its blue and white tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of port, Portugal’s most renowned contribution to the world of wine. For a more active adventure, join a hike in Porto and explore the old harbor quarter, passing through the medieval streets of Porto.
Day 3 - ENTREOS RIOS
Entreos Rios translates to “between the rivers,” and this small village is, quite appropriately, located at the confluence of the Tâmega and Douro rivers. For an authentic slice of Douro River life, enjoy a traditional “homecooked” meal at a local quinta. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - RÉGUA
Begin your day with a tour of the 18th century Palacio Anadia, or Palace of the Counts, known for its beautiful interior and Baroque style. Inside the house, you’ll see intricate panels of blue and white tiles throughout the rooms and a striking vaulted ceiling that retell the history behind the palace.
Day 5 - RÉGUA PINHÃO
Venture to the town of Lamego, where you’ll see the “Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies” on a city tour or climb the 686 step “Holy Staircase,” beautifully decorated with white and blue tiles, to the top on a guided hike. Whichever excursion you choose will conclude with a tasting of local specialties such as Bôlas de Lamego, bread filled with smoked ham; Presunto, a type of drycured ham; and Espumante, a Portuguese sparkling wine. Later in the day, cruise along the scenic Douro to Pinhão, where a wine tasting will be waiting for you in a local quinta.
Day 6 - PINHÃO
Embark on a leisurely walk to the charming Pinhão Railway Station, a stunning train station along the Douro Line, one of the most iconic rail journeys in Portugal. The station’s main building is revered for its 25 tile panels, all in shades of blue, that depict scenes from the Douro region. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive lunch at Quinta da Avessada, where you’ll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. The warm, spirited hospitality of this family-run quinta is quite special as you will discover. Several family members play in a band, and while dining, they will entertain you. Quinta de Avessada is also a fascinating interactive museum commemorating the history and culture of wine in the Alto Douro region, so you’ll have fun discovering all the various stages of wine production as well as doing plenty of tasting. Later in the day, indulge in some free time to explore the town on your own.
Day 7 - BARCA D’ALVA VEGA DE TERRÓN
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the “White Village” because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16thcentury facades and Manueline style windows. Prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine.
Day 8 - VEGA DE TERRÓN
Disembark your cruise in Vega de Terrón.
Start: March 1, 2025 End: October 31, 2025 Price: Varies pp Price My Trip |
Start: March 1, 2026 End: October 31, 2026 Price: Varies pp Price My Trip |
Please refer to vendor brochure or their website for general information, itineraries and all terms, conditions and responsibility statements. Wi-Fi access may be limited. Applicable AAA benefits apply to first two passengers, are non-transferable, have no cash value if not used, and may not be applied to purchase. Gov’t misc fees/taxes and travel insurance not included. Restrictions and limitations apply. Ask AAA for details. Agency #178-018-521AAA Vacations valid on new FIT cruise bookings made from October 1, 2021 through sailing date on the select 2022 AAA Vacations® Amenity dates listed. Offer does not apply to Groups. AAA Vacations® Amenity offer is combinable with AAA Member Benefits and with current promotional offers available at the time of booking. *AAA Vacations® Amenity offer of up to $800 per stateroom savings is already inclusive of AAA Member Benefits for 14-night Europe cruises, based on double occupancy (solo travelers receive half). 7-, 10- & 11-night cruises receive $500 savings per stateroom based on double occupancy (solo travelers receive half). Onboard credit is $150 per stateroom on 7-, 10- & 11-night cruises and $300 per stateroom on 14-night Europe cruises, based on double occupancy (solo travelers receive half). AAA advisor must request the AAA Vacations® amenities at the time of booking. Cruise must be booked through AAA Travel in order to receive AAA Vacations® Amenities and AAA Member Benefits. Stateroom category upgrades, land programs, roundtrip airfare, gratuities and port charges are additional. Availability is limited on each cruise and the offer is subject to change or discontinuation without notice. Other restrictions may apply. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. CST#2065452-20.