Yesterday, we told you about some of the classic Christmas Markets voyages you can take throughout Europe – but did you know you can sail Portugal’s famed Douro River Valley during the 2013 Holiday season?
Next year, Viking River Cruises will sail through Portugal’s famous port-wine producing region aboard the Viking Douro; and Viking will enter the market in a big way, with sailings running from March 22, 2013 to December 27, 2013.
Most other vessels plying the Douro finish their last sailings in November – making Viking’s Holiday sailings through the Douro River Valley something of a catch, particularly if you love great port wine and warm temperatures.
On Viking’s Portugal’s Rivers of Gold itinerary, guests are treated to two days of exploration in Lisbon, Portugal before journeying further north to board the Viking Douro in Porto; the epicenter of port wine production. Here, an overnight stay allows guests to truly enjoy the local flavor of this fascinating city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afterward, an evening visit to Bitetos precedes day calls on Regua and Pinhao, both noted for their exquisite examples of baroque architecture. An overnight stay in Pinhao once again allows you to take in the nightlife – all the more important during the winter months, when the smells of local baking and traditional beverages are in the air.
This itinerary even boasts an overland journey to visit the Spanish city of Salamanca. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salamanca is a living testament to the middle age. Here, you’ll visit the Gothic House of Shells; the 13th century Salamanca University; and the “new” Cathedral, which was constructed between 1513 and 1733.
Over the course of 10 days, you’ll come to know and appreciate the best that Portugal and Spain have to offer, along with – no doubt – some very fine port wines. But it’s the memories of a holiday season spent sailing the Douro that will remain for years to come.
More information on Viking River Cruises can be found by viewing our complete Viking River Cruises’ company and fleet overviews right here on River Cruise Advisor!
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