Portugal Journey with Viking River Cruises

My journey started in Lisbon, a metropolis recognized for its vibrant tradition and historic allure. The bustling Alfama district, with its slender streets and soulful Fado music, set the tone for my journey. The Belem district, well-known for the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, provided a glimpse into Portugal’s wealthy historical past.

I started my day in Lisbon with a panoramic drive, stopping on the Monument to the Discoveries, Belem Tower, and the Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO website. We then paused at Eduardo VII Park for pictures and views over the Tagus River and St. George Fortress. With some free time afterward, I took a day journey to Sintra and Cascais. Sintra, with its romantic palaces and plush gardens, felt like a fairy story. The colourful Pena Palace, perched on a hill, provided panoramic views of the encompassing countryside. In Sintra, I had my first pastel de nata, a deal with that originated in Lisbon. Created by monks to forestall meals waste, pastéis de nata are made with egg yolk-based custard and are offered throughout Portugal.

Cascais, a coastal city, was an ideal distinction with its stunning seashores and relaxed environment. I strolled alongside the marina, visited Boca do Inferno, and loved a conventional Portuguese meal of grilled octopus with garlic, olive oil, and broccoli at a neighborhood restaurant.

Day 3: Coimbra and Porto

On my method to Porto, I explored Coimbra, considered one of Portugal’s oldest cities and residential to a medieval-era college. Coimbra holds a particular place in Portuguese hearts, because it was the birthplace of six kings. I visited the Santa Clara-a-Velha convent and ascended the hill to the college, the place 700 years of studying are preserved. The library, with its 300,000 books, and the baroque organ within the chapel had been highlights. After a lunch accompanied by fado music, I continued my drive to Porto.

In Régua, overlooking the Douro River, I explored the guts of Portugal’s wine-making area. At Casa do Douro, I admired stunning stained glass home windows and realized concerning the area’s wealthy port wine historical past. The encompassing Serra do Marão mountains offered a surprising backdrop.

Later in Pinhão, the epicenter of port wine manufacturing, I visited a number of quintas, the place I realized concerning the wine-making course of and sampled native wines amidst serene vineyards. A go to to the Mateus Palace, well-known for its baroque structure and wine labels, was one other spotlight. The grand stairway and formal gardens had been spectacular. The day ended with a wine tasting at a neighborhood quinta, deepening my appreciation for port wine.

Barca d’Alva, the final Portuguese city on the Douro River, sits only a quick distance from the Spanish border. The village is surrounded by cherry, almond, and olive groves, and its terraced vineyards supply beautiful views. The straightforward cafés and scenic riverbanks add to its quiet allure.

I ventured into the breathtaking countryside to go to hilltop Castelo Rodrigo, a tiny medieval fortress city. This Nationwide Monument, acknowledged since 1922, is called for its fort. The city’s maze of cobblestone streets and Sixteenth-century homes, together with the distinct Portuguese Manueline-style home windows, took me again in time. I explored Sinagoga Road, a poignant reminder of the Jewish neighborhood that after sought refuge right here from the Spanish Inquisition, and visited the native church earlier than returning to the ship.

Crossing into Spain, I explored Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site recognized for its fantastically preserved buildings. Based by a Celtic tribe earlier than the arrival of the Roman Empire, Salamanca is house to considered one of Europe’s oldest universities, established in 1134. The principle sq., typically bustling with college students, is commonly referred to as probably the most stunning in Spain. My tour included visits to the College of Salamanca, the Home of Shells, and the New Cathedral.

In my free time, I totally embraced the native flavors of Spain. I indulged in conventional tapas, savoring the number of small, flavorful dishes. Churros dipped in wealthy chocolate offered the proper afternoon deal with. For lunch, I loved a hearty plate of paella, accompanied by a refreshing glass of sangria. Exploring town by its food and drinks added a scrumptious layer to my expertise in Salamanca.