Portugal is often overshadowed by larger European countries like Spain and France, but it shouldn’t be! With its stunning coastline, award-winning wine, exciting cities, and unique cuisine, Portugal is the ideal destination for your next vacation. It’s also home to the delightful Douro River, which is perfect for river cruise lovers.
There’s no better way to experience Portugal than on an AmaWaterways river cruise on the Douro River!
Read on to find out just a few of the reasons why Portugal should be added to your bucket list!
1. Stunning Beaches
The beaches in Portugal are some of the most beautiful in the world. With over 1,000 miles of coastline, there are hundreds of different beaches to choose from. Whether you’re looking for pure white sands to stretch out on or to find the perfect wave, there’s a beach in Portugal for you. They all have sparkling, crystal clear water that rival any tropical beach! Try Praia do Guincho beach for a leisurely day of laying out in the sun, or for a little more adventure, head to Praia da Rocha beach to explore its amazing caves.
2. Incredible Wine
If you are a wine lover, you need to go to Portugal. Wine has been produced in Portugal since ancient times, with its first wine exports to Rome during the Roman Empire. Wine is simply a way of life for the Portuguese! The country is known as the home to Port, the delicious dessert wine, which is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley region. If Port isn’t your style, Portugal also produces exceptional table wines that are being recognized across the globe (according to the Wine Spectator). So relax, have a glass, and enjoy the Portuguese lifestyle!
3. Charming Neighborhoods
Portugal’s two main cities offer friendly people and fascinating sights! Lisbon is the capital city (and the second-oldest capital city of Europe!) and features charming neighborhoods, lively restaurants, and architectural treasures throughout. Walking through this hilly town you’ll stumble upon scenic vistas at every turn! With its prime location on the water, Lisbon also has stunning beaches that will excite any ocean-lovers. Porto is slightly smaller but no less delightful than Lisbon! Located on the dreamy Douro River, it is known for its Port wine production as well as its Ribiera district, which is filled with medieval style buildings, baroque churches, and cobbled streets. In both cities, you’ll find azulejos, or Portuguese tiles, covering buildings, houses, and their interiors. These beautifully detailed tiles add to Portugal’s magic!
4. Delicious Food
Foodies, get ready, because Portugal is known for having some of the best seafood around! Portuguese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and hearty, with dishes ranging from eel to octopus to Portuguese sausage. Meals are simply prepared, but the fresh ingredients are what make them stand out: the fish has been caught that day and the olive oil used to cook it was produced from an olive grove nearby. Plus, Portuguese dishes are always packed with flavors that have been passed down for generations! To satisfy your sweet tooth, be sure to try a freshly baked pastel de natas, or custard tart (pictured above). Portugal is famous for these delicious little pastries—you must try them for yourself to understand how good they are!
5. The Douro River
Roughly translated from Portuguese, Rio Douro means ‘river of gold’. Catch the river during sunset and you’ll see it live up to its name when golden, glittery hues dance across the water! The Douro winds through northern Portugal for over 200 miles and goes through the most incredible scenery. Each side is flanked by terraced hills covered in grapevines that will eventually turn into Port (the Douro River water is what gives Portuguese wines such a unique flavor!). The vineyards are as pretty as a postcard—be sure to stop for wine tasting with a view of the river.
Tip: the best way to see the Douro is on the water! Cruise down the river on one of the many AmaWaterways river cruise sailings that will take you the best spots.
A trip to Portugal is unlike any other! This under-the-radar country is one of few places in Europe where you can have a truly authentic cultural experience. Whether you’re visiting for the wine or the scenery, you’re going to love all that Portugal has to offer.
Sail the Douro River on an intimate, luxurious ship with an array of amenities and entertainment. Go explore on different excursions led by knowledgeable guides where you can fully immerse yourself in Portuguese culture. Experience the country best on a river cruise with AmaWaterways!
