Vega de Terron
Vega de Terron 05/02/2023
Board your river ship for your Flavors of Portugal & Spain cruise. (D),
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05/02/2023 |
05/02/2023 |
Vega de Terron
Vega de Terron 05/03/2023
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the "White Village" because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread, and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you'll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D),
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05/03/2023 |
05/03/2023 |
Castelo Rodrigo
Castelo Rodrigo 05/03/2023
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the "White Village" because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread, and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you'll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D),
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05/03/2023 |
05/03/2023 |
Barca d'Alva
Barca d'Alva 05/03/2023
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the "White Village" because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread, and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you'll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D),
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05/03/2023 |
05/03/2023 |
Pinhao
Pinhao 05/03/2023
Venture to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the "White Village" because of its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and Manueline-style windows. If you prefer a more active adventure there, you can hike up to the town. At the end of both tours, enjoy a tasting of local favorites, such as almonds, cheese, bread, and wine. Set sail to Pinhão where you'll be treated to a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D),
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05/03/2023 |
05/03/2023 |
Pinhao
Pinhao 05/04/2023
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and gardens known as the Palácio de Mateus, located in the beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real. The interior of the house features various religious images and exquisite furniture, artwork, and hand-carved wooden ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you'll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. Quinta da 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. (B,L,D),
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05/04/2023 |
05/04/2023 |
Mateus
Mateus 05/04/2023
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and gardens known as the Palácio de Mateus, located in the beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real. The interior of the house features various religious images and exquisite furniture, artwork, and hand-carved wooden ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you'll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. Quinta da 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. (B,L,D),
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05/04/2023 |
05/04/2023 |
Favaios
Favaios 05/04/2023
Enjoy an excursion to the palace and gardens known as the Palácio de Mateus, located in the beautiful region of Trás-os-Montes near the city of Vila Real. The interior of the house features various religious images and exquisite furniture, artwork, and hand-carved wooden ceilings. The exterior is equally stunning, with gardens that are among the most beautiful in all of Portugal. During the afternoon, enjoy lunch at Quinta da Avessada. Here, you'll enjoy an authentic and traditional dining experience complete with entertainment. Quinta da 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. (B,L,D),
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05/04/2023 |
05/04/2023 |
Peso da Regua
Peso da Regua 05/05/2023
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D),
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05/05/2023 |
05/05/2023 |
Lamego
Lamego 05/05/2023
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D),
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05/05/2023 |
05/05/2023 |
Caldas de Aregos
Caldas de Aregos 05/05/2023
You have a choice of two excursions, depending on your interests. Your first option is an excursion to ancient and picturesque Lamego, home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Portugal, the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies). Other attractions include a Gothic cathedral, a museum, and charming cafés. Active adventurers can also choose to hike up the famed Lamego Steps, also known as the Holy Staircase. (B,L,D),
|
05/05/2023 |
05/05/2023 |
Caldas de Aregos
Caldas de Aregos 05/06/2023
Enjoy a morning hike through the vineyards, and then set sail along the scenic Douro River. Later in the day, enjoy a special Portuguese dinner at a local quinta. (B,L,D),
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05/06/2023 |
05/06/2023 |
Entre-Os-Rios
Entre-Os-Rios 05/06/2023
Enjoy a morning hike through the vineyards, and then set sail along the scenic Douro River. Later in the day, enjoy a special Portuguese dinner at a local quinta. (B,L,D),
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05/06/2023 |
05/06/2023 |
Porto
Porto 05/07/2023
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 cafés; 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; afterwards, indulge in a Port wine tasting. (B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Porto: Cultural Porto Walking City Tour
<p><span><span>Visit the Church of São Francisco and its Catacombs, the Lello Bookshop store with an excellent neo-gothic façade, the Clerigos Tower, an architectural landmark of the city, Episcopal palace, Capela das Almas and the old Jewish quarter.</span></span></p>
<span><strong><span><span><span>4 hours tour</span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></span></strong></span>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guided Tour; Entrance Fees. </font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>The Church of São Francisco and its Catacombs with its Gothic exterior reflects the modest, earthy mentality of the Franciscan order, while the extreme wealth of the patrons influenced the interior's gilded styling. Below the church's three interior chapels, catacombs hold tombs for members of the Franciscan order as they await judgment day. Discreetly tucked in a corner of the crypt, in front of an hellish door to nowhere lies a glass, grated window in the floor allowing visitors to view the piles of human bones below their feet. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Lello Bookshop store has an excellent neo-gothic façade, where you can see two figures painted by José Bielman, representing the Science and the Art. This facade is only surpassed by its stunning interior, designed by Xavier Esteves. The building was inaugurated on January 13th, 1906, in an important social event for both Portuguese and Brazilian societies, attended by famous people from different spheres.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Clerigos Tower is one of the paradigmatic architectural landmarks of Porto. The structure is, in fact, part of the Clerigos Church, representing its bell tower. The church proper was built between 1732 and 1750, but the construction works at the Clerigos Tower started no sooner than 1754, only to be completed in 1763.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Capela Das Almas is a charming blue and white chapel that was given a remarkable tiled decoration all over its exterior walls by painter and ceramist Eduardo Leite. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Episcopal Palace is the former residence of the bishops of Porto. The palace is located on a high elevation and dominates the skyline of the city. The palace is an important example of late baroque and rococo civil architecture in the city.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Rua Sant'ana, in the heart of the old Jewish quarter and where the first Synagogue was located. The Rua dos Mercadores where Jews began to live and trade beyond the limits of the old Jewish Quarter. The Praça da Riberia, the business center for more affluent Jews. The Rua do Comercio do Porto where the second Synagogue was located and Largo de S. Domingos Square, where Jewish commerce shops and stalls existed in this area.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Don Luís I Bridge, in accordance with the Law of 11/02/1879, the government determined the opening of the competition for the "construction of a metal bridge over the Douro River, in the place considered the most convenient in front of the city of Porto, for the replacement of the current suspended bridge". The winning proposal was the project of engineer Teófilo Seyrig, from the Belgian company Societé de Willebroeck.</span></span>

<p></p>


<p></p>
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Porto: Full Day Excursion to Braga and Guimarães
<p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Drive north Porto to the city of Braga with the Cathedral, Palace do Raio and the Archbishop Palace. Continue to the lovely town of Guimarães to visit the Castle, the medieval quarter, the church of Sao Francisco and the fomer Monastery of our Lady of Oliveira.</font><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><span>8 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></span></span></strong></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Braga is a very important trading centre since recorded times and was given the name "Bracara Augusta" by the Romans in c.296 BC. During the 5th Century it was the capital of Suevian Kingdom but in 456 it was captured by Theodore II who later converted to Catholicism. The Moors took possession in about 730 and then later in 1040 Fernando I of Castile eventually liberated the city from these occupiers. In the 12th Century, Braga gained importance during the reign of King Dom Afonso Henriques.</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The 14th Century Torre de Menagem that stands in the City's square is all that remains of the original fortifications. The much altered and extended 12th Century Cathedral was built on the site of an older church destroyed in the 6th Century. Another building of note is the 16th Century Palácio dos Biscainhos that was originally an aristocratic lavish home with ornate interesting gardens. On display within the palace is a museum of Portuguese period furniture and many other ethnographic items. In one of the minor streets close to the 17th Century Baroque Church Santa Cruz is the ornate and blue tiled façade of the building known as Palácio do Raio. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">On the overlooking forested slope to the east of the town is one of Portugal's most famous tourist attraction, Igreja de Bom Jesus de Monte. Construction of this building was in 1776 and it's impressive Baroque staircase is symbolic of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross that lead the many visitors upwards to the Church. Archbishop's Palace (14th-18th centuries): Gothic, mannerist and baroque wings. Houses the Library of the City. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guimarães, King Alfonso de León in 840 convened a Council of Bishops and Counts in this town. Some 28 years later a nobleman named Vimara Peres established the town as a centre to be ruled as a Burgh in Germanic tradition. In the 10th Century this town was said to be ruled by a woman named Mumadona. She constructed a wooden castle from which she successfully defended her surrounding large estate. In the 11th Century a Monastery was founded and a castle was built. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Between 1095-96 Count Henry of Burgundy the father of the first King of Portugal maintained his court in this town. It follows that when Dom Afonso Henriques was first proclaimed King of Portugal in 1139 he chose this attractive town as his capital. The elegant castle that has since always featured on the Portuguese coat of arms is reputed to have been his actual birthplace and within the small Romanesque church within its grounds is the font in which he was supposedly baptized. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The Rua de Santa Maria in the old medieval quarter of the city declared World Heritage Site is still a tight narrow street with cobbles and lined with facades adorned with statues. The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança; the originally 14th Century church of São Francisco was reconstructed in the 18th Century and contains a chancel with impressive scenes from the life of "St Anthony". In the former monastery of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira there are excellent examples of religious artwork through the centuries. Other interesting exhibits are the battle tunic worn by Dom João I at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, and a 14th Century silver altarpiece said to be taken from the defeated Spanish King. </font></p>
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Porto: Historical Porto Walking City Tour
<em><span><span>It is the second largest city in Portugal and a very important commercial and industrial area by the Douro river. Visit the Cathedral, the Stock Exchange Palace, the Ribeira medieval quarter and San Bento station</span></span></em><span><span>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><strong><span><span>4 hour tour</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><span><strong>Included:</strong> </span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals, Taxis or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>Porto is the country´s second largest city. The cathedral was built in the 12th century, inside, it is worth admiring the paintings by Nicolau Nasoni, the silver altarpiece of the Holy Sacrament, the João Gordo ("Fat John") Chapel and the cloister.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>San Bento Station built on the site of an ancient convent, it was completed in 1916. Now, only regional trains pass through here. Inside, the immense panels of tiles creted by Jorge Colaço, reproducing historical scenes, add a rare artistic beauty to the station.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Stock Exchange Palace is a Baroque 18th century construction by Nicolau Nasoni. Worthy of notice are the church's interior decorated with Baroque-rococo gilt carvings, the polychromatic retable by Manuel Porto and the impressive 75.60-metres tower.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Don Luís I Bridge, in accordance with the Law of 11/02/1879, the government determined the opening of the competition for the "construction of a metal bridge over the Douro River, in the place considered the most convenient in front of the city of Porto, for the replacement of the current suspended bridge". The winning proposal was the project of engineer Teófilo Seyrig, from the Belgian company Societé de Willebroeck.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The genuine city is visible at the quarter of Ribeira ("River-bank"), right by the river. Narrow and winding streets, dark arcades, typical houses with colourful façades set in a place which preserves the charm of sites marked by history, full of contrasts and curious characteristics. This is the most picturesque spot in the city and declared a World Heritage Site. </span></span><br />
<br />
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Porto: Full Day Excursion to Aveiro & Coimbra
<br />
<strong><span><span>Visit the charming town of Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal and its Art Nouveau buildings, then we drive to Coimbra, once the capital of the country and famous World Heritage Site campus University.</span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<span><span><strong>Tour Details:</strong></span></span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<strong font-size:="" trebuchet="">8 hour tour<br />
Morning tour<br />
No wheelchair<br />
Light physical activity<br />
Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>Charming Aveiro is commonly known as the Portuguese Venice, that gained this denomination because of the canals generated by the Vouga River estuary, with its colorful gondolas, natural lagoons, elegant 19th century architecture and traditional cobblestone passageways. In this water-dominated labyrinth your local guide will be sure to highlight the Art Nouveau influence on the city’s architecture, as well as the importance of the traditional and fascinating blue and white tile work in the 16th century Renaissance church. This is also the perfect opportunity for you to peek into one of Aveiro's pastry shop and taste the famous Ovos Moles (traditional sweet) that you really cannot miss.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Once the capital of Portugal, Coimbra is now a major cultural center and home to the University of Coimbra, an UNESCO World Heritage Site campus, Founded in 1290 by King Dinis it now displays a tremendous amount of history and knowledge that has been accumulated within its walls, with its old quarter, Roman aqueduct and cathedral. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>A must see is the University's library with an incredible collection of over 200.000 books stored in incredible carved and gilded bookshelves. The chapel of Saint Michael next door is also worth the visit as well as a nice walk within the old medieval streets of Coimbra's ancient historical centre and Santa Clara Monastery.</span></span><br />
<br />
|
05/07/2023 |
05/07/2023 |
Porto
Porto 05/08/2023
Enjoy a day at leisure. (B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Porto: Cultural Porto Walking City Tour
<p><span><span>Visit the Church of São Francisco and its Catacombs, the Lello Bookshop store with an excellent neo-gothic façade, the Clerigos Tower, an architectural landmark of the city, Episcopal palace, Capela das Almas and the old Jewish quarter.</span></span></p>
<span><strong><span><span><span>4 hours tour</span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></span></strong></span>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guided Tour; Entrance Fees. </font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>The Church of São Francisco and its Catacombs with its Gothic exterior reflects the modest, earthy mentality of the Franciscan order, while the extreme wealth of the patrons influenced the interior's gilded styling. Below the church's three interior chapels, catacombs hold tombs for members of the Franciscan order as they await judgment day. Discreetly tucked in a corner of the crypt, in front of an hellish door to nowhere lies a glass, grated window in the floor allowing visitors to view the piles of human bones below their feet. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Lello Bookshop store has an excellent neo-gothic façade, where you can see two figures painted by José Bielman, representing the Science and the Art. This facade is only surpassed by its stunning interior, designed by Xavier Esteves. The building was inaugurated on January 13th, 1906, in an important social event for both Portuguese and Brazilian societies, attended by famous people from different spheres.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Clerigos Tower is one of the paradigmatic architectural landmarks of Porto. The structure is, in fact, part of the Clerigos Church, representing its bell tower. The church proper was built between 1732 and 1750, but the construction works at the Clerigos Tower started no sooner than 1754, only to be completed in 1763.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Capela Das Almas is a charming blue and white chapel that was given a remarkable tiled decoration all over its exterior walls by painter and ceramist Eduardo Leite. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Episcopal Palace is the former residence of the bishops of Porto. The palace is located on a high elevation and dominates the skyline of the city. The palace is an important example of late baroque and rococo civil architecture in the city.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Rua Sant'ana, in the heart of the old Jewish quarter and where the first Synagogue was located. The Rua dos Mercadores where Jews began to live and trade beyond the limits of the old Jewish Quarter. The Praça da Riberia, the business center for more affluent Jews. The Rua do Comercio do Porto where the second Synagogue was located and Largo de S. Domingos Square, where Jewish commerce shops and stalls existed in this area.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Don Luís I Bridge, in accordance with the Law of 11/02/1879, the government determined the opening of the competition for the "construction of a metal bridge over the Douro River, in the place considered the most convenient in front of the city of Porto, for the replacement of the current suspended bridge". The winning proposal was the project of engineer Teófilo Seyrig, from the Belgian company Societé de Willebroeck.</span></span>

<p></p>


<p></p>
-
Porto: Full Day Excursion to Braga and Guimarães
<p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Drive north Porto to the city of Braga with the Cathedral, Palace do Raio and the Archbishop Palace. Continue to the lovely town of Guimarães to visit the Castle, the medieval quarter, the church of Sao Francisco and the fomer Monastery of our Lady of Oliveira.</font><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><span>8 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></span></span></strong></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Braga is a very important trading centre since recorded times and was given the name "Bracara Augusta" by the Romans in c.296 BC. During the 5th Century it was the capital of Suevian Kingdom but in 456 it was captured by Theodore II who later converted to Catholicism. The Moors took possession in about 730 and then later in 1040 Fernando I of Castile eventually liberated the city from these occupiers. In the 12th Century, Braga gained importance during the reign of King Dom Afonso Henriques.</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The 14th Century Torre de Menagem that stands in the City's square is all that remains of the original fortifications. The much altered and extended 12th Century Cathedral was built on the site of an older church destroyed in the 6th Century. Another building of note is the 16th Century Palácio dos Biscainhos that was originally an aristocratic lavish home with ornate interesting gardens. On display within the palace is a museum of Portuguese period furniture and many other ethnographic items. In one of the minor streets close to the 17th Century Baroque Church Santa Cruz is the ornate and blue tiled façade of the building known as Palácio do Raio. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">On the overlooking forested slope to the east of the town is one of Portugal's most famous tourist attraction, Igreja de Bom Jesus de Monte. Construction of this building was in 1776 and it's impressive Baroque staircase is symbolic of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross that lead the many visitors upwards to the Church. Archbishop's Palace (14th-18th centuries): Gothic, mannerist and baroque wings. Houses the Library of the City. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guimarães, King Alfonso de León in 840 convened a Council of Bishops and Counts in this town. Some 28 years later a nobleman named Vimara Peres established the town as a centre to be ruled as a Burgh in Germanic tradition. In the 10th Century this town was said to be ruled by a woman named Mumadona. She constructed a wooden castle from which she successfully defended her surrounding large estate. In the 11th Century a Monastery was founded and a castle was built. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Between 1095-96 Count Henry of Burgundy the father of the first King of Portugal maintained his court in this town. It follows that when Dom Afonso Henriques was first proclaimed King of Portugal in 1139 he chose this attractive town as his capital. The elegant castle that has since always featured on the Portuguese coat of arms is reputed to have been his actual birthplace and within the small Romanesque church within its grounds is the font in which he was supposedly baptized. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The Rua de Santa Maria in the old medieval quarter of the city declared World Heritage Site is still a tight narrow street with cobbles and lined with facades adorned with statues. The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança; the originally 14th Century church of São Francisco was reconstructed in the 18th Century and contains a chancel with impressive scenes from the life of "St Anthony". In the former monastery of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira there are excellent examples of religious artwork through the centuries. Other interesting exhibits are the battle tunic worn by Dom João I at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, and a 14th Century silver altarpiece said to be taken from the defeated Spanish King. </font></p>
-
Porto: Historical Porto Walking City Tour
<em><span><span>It is the second largest city in Portugal and a very important commercial and industrial area by the Douro river. Visit the Cathedral, the Stock Exchange Palace, the Ribeira medieval quarter and San Bento station</span></span></em><span><span>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><strong><span><span>4 hour tour</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><span><strong>Included:</strong> </span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals, Taxis or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>Porto is the country´s second largest city. The cathedral was built in the 12th century, inside, it is worth admiring the paintings by Nicolau Nasoni, the silver altarpiece of the Holy Sacrament, the João Gordo ("Fat John") Chapel and the cloister.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>San Bento Station built on the site of an ancient convent, it was completed in 1916. Now, only regional trains pass through here. Inside, the immense panels of tiles creted by Jorge Colaço, reproducing historical scenes, add a rare artistic beauty to the station.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Stock Exchange Palace is a Baroque 18th century construction by Nicolau Nasoni. Worthy of notice are the church's interior decorated with Baroque-rococo gilt carvings, the polychromatic retable by Manuel Porto and the impressive 75.60-metres tower.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Don Luís I Bridge, in accordance with the Law of 11/02/1879, the government determined the opening of the competition for the "construction of a metal bridge over the Douro River, in the place considered the most convenient in front of the city of Porto, for the replacement of the current suspended bridge". The winning proposal was the project of engineer Teófilo Seyrig, from the Belgian company Societé de Willebroeck.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The genuine city is visible at the quarter of Ribeira ("River-bank"), right by the river. Narrow and winding streets, dark arcades, typical houses with colourful façades set in a place which preserves the charm of sites marked by history, full of contrasts and curious characteristics. This is the most picturesque spot in the city and declared a World Heritage Site. </span></span><br />
<br />
-
Porto: Full Day Excursion to Aveiro & Coimbra
<br />
<strong><span><span>Visit the charming town of Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal and its Art Nouveau buildings, then we drive to Coimbra, once the capital of the country and famous World Heritage Site campus University.</span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<span><span><strong>Tour Details:</strong></span></span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<strong font-size:="" trebuchet="">8 hour tour<br />
Morning tour<br />
No wheelchair<br />
Light physical activity<br />
Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>Charming Aveiro is commonly known as the Portuguese Venice, that gained this denomination because of the canals generated by the Vouga River estuary, with its colorful gondolas, natural lagoons, elegant 19th century architecture and traditional cobblestone passageways. In this water-dominated labyrinth your local guide will be sure to highlight the Art Nouveau influence on the city’s architecture, as well as the importance of the traditional and fascinating blue and white tile work in the 16th century Renaissance church. This is also the perfect opportunity for you to peek into one of Aveiro's pastry shop and taste the famous Ovos Moles (traditional sweet) that you really cannot miss.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Once the capital of Portugal, Coimbra is now a major cultural center and home to the University of Coimbra, an UNESCO World Heritage Site campus, Founded in 1290 by King Dinis it now displays a tremendous amount of history and knowledge that has been accumulated within its walls, with its old quarter, Roman aqueduct and cathedral. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>A must see is the University's library with an incredible collection of over 200.000 books stored in incredible carved and gilded bookshelves. The chapel of Saint Michael next door is also worth the visit as well as a nice walk within the old medieval streets of Coimbra's ancient historical centre and Santa Clara Monastery.</span></span><br />
<br />
|
05/08/2023 |
05/08/2023 |
Porto
Porto 05/09/2023
Disembark your cruise ship in Porto. (B),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
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Porto: Cultural Porto Walking City Tour
<p><span><span>Visit the Church of São Francisco and its Catacombs, the Lello Bookshop store with an excellent neo-gothic façade, the Clerigos Tower, an architectural landmark of the city, Episcopal palace, Capela das Almas and the old Jewish quarter.</span></span></p>
<span><strong><span><span><span>4 hours tour</span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></span></strong></span>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guided Tour; Entrance Fees. </font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>The Church of São Francisco and its Catacombs with its Gothic exterior reflects the modest, earthy mentality of the Franciscan order, while the extreme wealth of the patrons influenced the interior's gilded styling. Below the church's three interior chapels, catacombs hold tombs for members of the Franciscan order as they await judgment day. Discreetly tucked in a corner of the crypt, in front of an hellish door to nowhere lies a glass, grated window in the floor allowing visitors to view the piles of human bones below their feet. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Lello Bookshop store has an excellent neo-gothic façade, where you can see two figures painted by José Bielman, representing the Science and the Art. This facade is only surpassed by its stunning interior, designed by Xavier Esteves. The building was inaugurated on January 13th, 1906, in an important social event for both Portuguese and Brazilian societies, attended by famous people from different spheres.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Clerigos Tower is one of the paradigmatic architectural landmarks of Porto. The structure is, in fact, part of the Clerigos Church, representing its bell tower. The church proper was built between 1732 and 1750, but the construction works at the Clerigos Tower started no sooner than 1754, only to be completed in 1763.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Capela Das Almas is a charming blue and white chapel that was given a remarkable tiled decoration all over its exterior walls by painter and ceramist Eduardo Leite. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Episcopal Palace is the former residence of the bishops of Porto. The palace is located on a high elevation and dominates the skyline of the city. The palace is an important example of late baroque and rococo civil architecture in the city.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Rua Sant'ana, in the heart of the old Jewish quarter and where the first Synagogue was located. The Rua dos Mercadores where Jews began to live and trade beyond the limits of the old Jewish Quarter. The Praça da Riberia, the business center for more affluent Jews. The Rua do Comercio do Porto where the second Synagogue was located and Largo de S. Domingos Square, where Jewish commerce shops and stalls existed in this area.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Don Luís I Bridge, in accordance with the Law of 11/02/1879, the government determined the opening of the competition for the "construction of a metal bridge over the Douro River, in the place considered the most convenient in front of the city of Porto, for the replacement of the current suspended bridge". The winning proposal was the project of engineer Teófilo Seyrig, from the Belgian company Societé de Willebroeck.</span></span>

<p></p>


<p></p>
-
Porto: Full Day Excursion to Braga and Guimarães
<p><strong><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Drive north Porto to the city of Braga with the Cathedral, Palace do Raio and the Archbishop Palace. Continue to the lovely town of Guimarães to visit the Castle, the medieval quarter, the church of Sao Francisco and the fomer Monastery of our Lady of Oliveira.</font><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><span>8 hours tour</span></span></span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><span><span><strong>Morning tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port </strong></span></span></span></span></strong></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Braga is a very important trading centre since recorded times and was given the name "Bracara Augusta" by the Romans in c.296 BC. During the 5th Century it was the capital of Suevian Kingdom but in 456 it was captured by Theodore II who later converted to Catholicism. The Moors took possession in about 730 and then later in 1040 Fernando I of Castile eventually liberated the city from these occupiers. In the 12th Century, Braga gained importance during the reign of King Dom Afonso Henriques.</font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The 14th Century Torre de Menagem that stands in the City's square is all that remains of the original fortifications. The much altered and extended 12th Century Cathedral was built on the site of an older church destroyed in the 6th Century. Another building of note is the 16th Century Palácio dos Biscainhos that was originally an aristocratic lavish home with ornate interesting gardens. On display within the palace is a museum of Portuguese period furniture and many other ethnographic items. In one of the minor streets close to the 17th Century Baroque Church Santa Cruz is the ornate and blue tiled façade of the building known as Palácio do Raio. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">On the overlooking forested slope to the east of the town is one of Portugal's most famous tourist attraction, Igreja de Bom Jesus de Monte. Construction of this building was in 1776 and it's impressive Baroque staircase is symbolic of the Fourteen Stations of the Cross that lead the many visitors upwards to the Church. Archbishop's Palace (14th-18th centuries): Gothic, mannerist and baroque wings. Houses the Library of the City. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guimarães, King Alfonso de León in 840 convened a Council of Bishops and Counts in this town. Some 28 years later a nobleman named Vimara Peres established the town as a centre to be ruled as a Burgh in Germanic tradition. In the 10th Century this town was said to be ruled by a woman named Mumadona. She constructed a wooden castle from which she successfully defended her surrounding large estate. In the 11th Century a Monastery was founded and a castle was built. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Between 1095-96 Count Henry of Burgundy the father of the first King of Portugal maintained his court in this town. It follows that when Dom Afonso Henriques was first proclaimed King of Portugal in 1139 he chose this attractive town as his capital. The elegant castle that has since always featured on the Portuguese coat of arms is reputed to have been his actual birthplace and within the small Romanesque church within its grounds is the font in which he was supposedly baptized. </font></p>

<p><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">The Rua de Santa Maria in the old medieval quarter of the city declared World Heritage Site is still a tight narrow street with cobbles and lined with facades adorned with statues. The Palace of the Dukes of Bragança; the originally 14th Century church of São Francisco was reconstructed in the 18th Century and contains a chancel with impressive scenes from the life of "St Anthony". In the former monastery of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira there are excellent examples of religious artwork through the centuries. Other interesting exhibits are the battle tunic worn by Dom João I at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385, and a 14th Century silver altarpiece said to be taken from the defeated Spanish King. </font></p>
-
Porto: Historical Porto Walking City Tour
<em><span><span>It is the second largest city in Portugal and a very important commercial and industrial area by the Douro river. Visit the Cathedral, the Stock Exchange Palace, the Ribeira medieval quarter and San Bento station</span></span></em><span><span>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span><span><strong><span><span>4 hour tour</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span><span><strong>Morning or afternoon tour</strong><br />
<strong>No wheelchair</strong><br />
<strong>Light physical activity</strong><br />
<strong>Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong></span></span></strong></span></span></span>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><span><strong>Included:</strong> </span><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals, Taxis or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>Porto is the country´s second largest city. The cathedral was built in the 12th century, inside, it is worth admiring the paintings by Nicolau Nasoni, the silver altarpiece of the Holy Sacrament, the João Gordo ("Fat John") Chapel and the cloister.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>San Bento Station built on the site of an ancient convent, it was completed in 1916. Now, only regional trains pass through here. Inside, the immense panels of tiles creted by Jorge Colaço, reproducing historical scenes, add a rare artistic beauty to the station.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The Stock Exchange Palace is a Baroque 18th century construction by Nicolau Nasoni. Worthy of notice are the church's interior decorated with Baroque-rococo gilt carvings, the polychromatic retable by Manuel Porto and the impressive 75.60-metres tower.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Don Luís I Bridge, in accordance with the Law of 11/02/1879, the government determined the opening of the competition for the "construction of a metal bridge over the Douro River, in the place considered the most convenient in front of the city of Porto, for the replacement of the current suspended bridge". The winning proposal was the project of engineer Teófilo Seyrig, from the Belgian company Societé de Willebroeck.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>The genuine city is visible at the quarter of Ribeira ("River-bank"), right by the river. Narrow and winding streets, dark arcades, typical houses with colourful façades set in a place which preserves the charm of sites marked by history, full of contrasts and curious characteristics. This is the most picturesque spot in the city and declared a World Heritage Site. </span></span><br />
<br />
-
Porto: Full Day Excursion to Aveiro & Coimbra
<br />
<strong><span><span>Visit the charming town of Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal and its Art Nouveau buildings, then we drive to Coimbra, once the capital of the country and famous World Heritage Site campus University.</span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<span><span><strong>Tour Details:</strong></span></span><br font-size:="" trebuchet="" />
<strong font-size:="" trebuchet="">8 hour tour<br />
Morning tour<br />
No wheelchair<br />
Light physical activity<br />
Pick up and drop off at the Port</strong>
<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Included: </strong></font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Transportation by Deluxe Vehicle; Guided Tour; Entrance Fees</font></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""></p>

<p background-color:="" font-size:="" sans="" source="" trebuchet=""><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2"><strong>Not Included: </strong>Any meals or other services not specified</font></p>
<span><span>Charming Aveiro is commonly known as the Portuguese Venice, that gained this denomination because of the canals generated by the Vouga River estuary, with its colorful gondolas, natural lagoons, elegant 19th century architecture and traditional cobblestone passageways. In this water-dominated labyrinth your local guide will be sure to highlight the Art Nouveau influence on the city’s architecture, as well as the importance of the traditional and fascinating blue and white tile work in the 16th century Renaissance church. This is also the perfect opportunity for you to peek into one of Aveiro's pastry shop and taste the famous Ovos Moles (traditional sweet) that you really cannot miss.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>Once the capital of Portugal, Coimbra is now a major cultural center and home to the University of Coimbra, an UNESCO World Heritage Site campus, Founded in 1290 by King Dinis it now displays a tremendous amount of history and knowledge that has been accumulated within its walls, with its old quarter, Roman aqueduct and cathedral. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span><span>A must see is the University's library with an incredible collection of over 200.000 books stored in incredible carved and gilded bookshelves. The chapel of Saint Michael next door is also worth the visit as well as a nice walk within the old medieval streets of Coimbra's ancient historical centre and Santa Clara Monastery.</span></span><br />
<br />
|
05/09/2023 |
05/09/2023 |
