Portugal & Spain: Treasures Along the Golden Douro - 2022

PACING:

• The pace of this itinerary is moderately easy
• Visit 2 of the main cities of Portugal as well as 2 cities in Spain during your 14-day tour, as well as 5 ports of call during your 7-night Douro River cruise aboard the m/s Douro Serenity
• The m/s Douro Serenity is not Vantage-owned, and while it meets local high standards, the ship itself is much smaller and shorter than most cruise ships in order to fit the locks on the Douro River. Accordingly, cabins are smaller and public areas are also limited in space
• There will be plenty of time to enjoy the wonders of the Douro River Valley, with its history, port-producing wineries, and many cultural highlights
• Overnight stays in ports, with the ship sailing in the morning or afternoon

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The Douro River can be steep and many of the places visited rise up along the riverbanks. Therefore, expect short uphill walks from the ship as you set out to visit town centers (at the most, 5 minutes)
• Most of the walking on tours is approximately 2-3 miles in length

TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION:

• Most of the walking on tours is over uneven terrain, cobblestone walkways, and flagstone paths
• This cruise features more motorcoach time in order to reach many quintas and towns. Coaches are air-conditioned and private and will bring you as close to the pedestrian centers as the historic preservation of these older towns and cities allow

CLIMATE:

• Portugal and Spain enjoy a Mediterranean climate, although temperatures differ throughout the year
• On average, expect summer temperatures to peak in the 80s F with some cooler temperatures in other seasons
• Rainfall averages about 0-8 days a month depending on the season. During the summer months, the average is just 0-2
• Since the weather is unpredictable, please check weather sites online for 10-day forecasts closer to your departure date to plan your packing accordingly