Leixoes (Porto),Portugal

Leixoes (Porto),Portugal

Leixoes (Porto),Portugal
Portugal

Leixoes (Porto)

Excursions

Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life

DOURO VALLEY WINERY TOUR

DOURO VALLEY WINERY TOUR

The Douro Valley, an 18th century demarcated wine region, encloses one of the most spectacular landscapes in Portugal. The valley is mostly covered by terraces, being the oldest ones entirely built by hand out of schist. This amazing handmade creation is speckled here and there with Quintas, the wine producing estates once exclusive property of the greatest port wine producing families. You will first stop at charming Amarante, the hometown of many artists and writers and the ideal place for a short walk passing by the Town Hall, the roman bridge and S. Gonçalo Church. There will be some free time for leisure before heading to Peso da Régua. You will then visit a local winery, where you will have the chance to learn more about Port wine history and its producing methods as well as the new table wines produced in the region with increasing reputation. You will also have the opportunity to taste these wines followed by a buffet lunch presenting you traditional Portuguese gastronomy. As the visit ends, it will be time to drive back to the pier (approx. 2 hours).

Please note: this tour includes long transfers by coach. This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. Conservative attire recommended for visiting places of religious importance. Alcoholic drinks will not be served to guests minor than 18 years old.<-p>

THE LOVELY CITY OF GUIMARÃES: BIRTHPLACE OF A NATION

THE LOVELY CITY OF GUIMARÃES: BIRTHPLACE OF A NATION

Discover Guimarães, the former medieval capital of Portugal, rich in history and magnificent buildings, considered a "must visit" city by The New York Times for 2012. Travel through time as you visit the 15th-century Dukes Palace which houses a museum and art gallery with portraits, tapestries, fine furniture, and porcelain. Walk towards the town s centre, a UNESCO heritage site, to discover its quiet corners, narrow streets, a former manor house and a 10th-century church situated in the main square. There will be free time to browse around and discover more about this marvellous town. On your way back to the coach, take a glimpse at the castle s tower bearing the inscription: "Portugal was born here".

Please note: this tour includes long periods of walking on uneven ground- it is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties.<-p>

PORTO & RIVER CRUISE

PORTO & RIVER CRUISE

Oporto, once a mercantile city connected to Port wine trade, stands quite variegated architecturally having medieval living side by side with modern. As you head to the city centre you will pass by Foz, an exclusive and cosmopolitan waterfront district. Enjoy the view of the 18th-century Clerigos tower and continue past Aliados Avenue towards Ribeira, the city s most characteristic district. Here you will board one of the traditional river boats. In the past the boats sailing in Douro River used to carry port wine barrels from the wineries to the cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia. As you cruise along the Douro passing beneath some of the many bridges connecting the two parts of the city you will admire wonderful views of the historic district with its narrow streets, houses and buildings that slope picturesquely down towards the riverbanks. Following the cruise, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the wine cellars that holds the world-famous port, which you will be able to taste before returning to the ship.

Please note: the rivercruise is subject to navigability conditions of the Douro river. This tour is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. Alcoholic drinks will not be served to guests minor than 18 years old. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call.<-p>

RIVERFRONT TRAM RIDE & PORTO S RIBEIRA QUARTER WALK

RIVERFRONT TRAM RIDE & PORTO S RIBEIRA QUARTER WALK

An approx. half-hour transfer by coach brings you to Passeio Alegre, a lovely garden that graces the point where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Here you will board the tramway, which dates from the early 20th century, for a memorable ride along the riverfront. Take in the beautiful views and discover old sections of town that offer a glimpse into the past, when fishermen predominately lived here. During the ride you can sample a snack with some wine. The next part of your outing takes place in the medieval Porto-Ribeira quarter. A walk through the enchanting streets gives you an intimate look at this historic part of town.

Please note: as this tour includes periods of walking on uneven ground, it is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call.<-p>

PORTO PANORAMIC TOUR

PORTO PANORAMIC TOUR

Explore Portugal s second largest city, beautifully settled near the mouth of Douro s river. From the comfort of your coach, your sightseeing begins by passing through several of Oporto s landmarks namely Foz do Douro, Clerigos tower, the 12th-century Romanesque-styled Oporto Cathedral. Across the Douro River stands Gaia where the Port wine cellars are located. Visit and sample the famous Port wine. Continue to Aliados Avenue known as the city s "living room", where Porto inhabitants gather to celebrate special times, enjoy some time on your own leisure before the drive back to the ship.

Please note: alcoholic drinks will not be served to guests minor than 18 years old. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call.<-p>

PORTO WALKING TOUR

PORTO WALKING TOUR

Oporto, Portugal s second city and port, is both the collegial and Episcopal seat as well as the trade and industry center of the country. This excursion will take you into the heart of the city, which is also known as the "City of Granite". Due to the ample use of granite, the city has a severe and grandiose appearance contrasting with the surrounding lush green vegetation. Your bus will take you to Cordoaria, from where you will start your walk thought the labyrinth streets in the city centre. Clerigos Tower, once the tallest structure in Portugal (exterior only) was designed by the architect Nicolau Nasoni. Continue to Lello Library (exterior explanation followed by free time), considered one of the most beautiful ones in the world, with its neo-gothic façade. Walk to Aliados Avenue and then to São Bento Railway Station, one of the city s grandest buildings with its magnificent tiles by Jorge Colaço that take on two great themes - the history of transport and the battle of Aljubarrota. Continue walking past the traditional and Charming Rua das Flores towards Ribeira quarter where you will have a guided walk followed by some time at your own leisure to explore small shops and nice terraces and its splendid views over Douro River and southern Gaia margin.

Please note: as this tour includes periods of walking on uneven ground, it is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties.<-p>

THE COASTAL & CULTURAL PEARLS OF PORTO BY BIKE

THE COASTAL & CULTURAL PEARLS OF PORTO BY BIKE

Embark on a bike tour, accompanied by our bike leaders, in Porto, Portugal, starting directly from your ship. Explore Matosinhos beach, the Douro River, and the charming old city center at a relaxed pace, with safety support from our onboard bike leaders.

Excursion details<-strong><-p>

Upon disembarkation, our onboard bike leaders will welcome you and provide all necessary equipment, ensuring your comfort and safety. After a brief orientation, follow our bike leaders on a cycling journey. Your route begins with a ride to Matosinhos Beach, a popular coastal stretch renowned not only for its golden sands and lively atmosphere but also for its sustainable fishing traditions and fresh seafood markets. Spend time soaking in the ocean views and the invigorating Atlantic breeze. Continue following the scenic path that hugs the Douro River. This historic waterway has been central to Porto¿s identity for centuries, once serving as a vital route for transporting the region¿s famous Port wine. Enjoy panoramic vistas and perhaps stop for photographs at key points along the riverbanks. Your journey then leads you into Porto¿s old city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, cobbled streets wind past centuries-old architecture, colourful facades, and vibrant cafés. Discover landmarks such as the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and the Ribeira district, where you can sense the city¿s rich cultural heritage. Cross the river and discover the iconic Vila Nova de Gaia district, where you will find all the historic Port cellars. During the tour different breaks will be given to enjoy local life. The route is designed for discovery and indulgence, balancing activity with moments of relaxation and cultural immersion.<-p>

Important Information:<-strong> This bike tour can be booked, where available, using two different codes: BK1 for regular bikes and BK2 for e-bikes. Both experiences will ride together on the same route, with identical duration, highlights, and cycling pace for the entire group. Minimum age for participation is 9 years old. This is a shared regular-electric bike tour. The distance covered on this biking tour totals approx. 26 km with a 250 m gain in elevation. Before joining this excursion, you¿ll need to fill out and sign a safety waiver form, which our bike leaders will provide. You won¿t be able to take part in the tour without completing the waiver. Children who are at least 155 cm tall are welcome to take part in this tour with the parent s-guardian s written consent. Comfortable sports attire and closed shoes are recommended. Sun protection and a reusable water bottle are. The tour is suitable for guests with moderate fitness. Please respect the local environmentally conscious ethos by minimizing waste and avoiding single-use plastics. The itinerary may vary depending on weather and local conditions.<-p>

THE COASTAL & CULTURAL PEARLS OF PORTO BY E-BIKE

THE COASTAL & CULTURAL PEARLS OF PORTO BY E-BIKE

Embark on a bike tour, accompanied by our bike leaders, in Porto, Portugal, starting directly from your ship. Explore Matosinhos beach, the Douro River, and the charming old city center at a relaxed pace, with safety support from our onboard bike leaders.

Excursion details<-strong><-p>

Upon disembarkation, our onboard bike leaders will welcome you and provide all necessary equipment, ensuring your comfort and safety. After a brief orientation, follow our bike leaders on a cycling journey. Your route begins with a ride to Matosinhos Beach, a popular coastal stretch renowned not only for its golden sands and lively atmosphere but also for its sustainable fishing traditions and fresh seafood markets. Spend time soaking in the ocean views and the invigorating Atlantic breeze. Continue following the scenic path that hugs the Douro River. This historic waterway has been central to Porto¿s identity for centuries, once serving as a vital route for transporting the region¿s famous Port wine. Enjoy panoramic vistas and perhaps stop for photographs at key points along the riverbanks. Your journey then leads you into Porto¿s old city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, cobbled streets wind past centuries-old architecture, colourful facades, and vibrant cafés. Discover landmarks such as the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and the Ribeira district, where you can sense the city¿s rich cultural heritage. Cross the river and discover the iconic Vila Nova de Gaia district, where you will find all the historic Port cellars. During the tour different breaks will be given to enjoy local life. The route is designed for discovery and indulgence, balancing activity with moments of relaxation and cultural immersion.<-p>

Important Information:<-strong> This bike tour can be booked, where available, using two different codes: BK1 for regular bikes and BK2 for e-bikes. Both experiences will ride together on the same route, with identical duration, highlights, and cycling pace for the entire group. Minimum age for participation is 9 years old. This is a shared regular-electric bike tour. The distance covered on this biking tour totals approx. 26 km with a 250 m gain in elevation. Before joining this excursion, you¿ll need to fill out and sign a safety waiver form, which our bike leaders will provide. You won¿t be able to take part in the tour without completing the waiver. Children who are at least 155 cm tall are welcome to take part in this tour with the parent s-guardian s written consent. Comfortable sports attire and closed shoes are recommended. Sun protection and a reusable water bottle are. The tour is suitable for guests with moderate fitness. Please respect the local environmentally conscious ethos by minimizing waste and avoiding single-use plastics. The itinerary may vary depending on weather and local conditions.<-p>

WONDERS OF THE PAIVA RIVER: A HIKING ADVENTURE

WONDERS OF THE PAIVA RIVER: A HIKING ADVENTURE

Prepare yourself for a delightful day at the breathtaking Paiva Walkways, an 8-kilometre trail that gracefully hugs the banks of the Paiva River. Since its construction in 2013, this innovative project has garnered national and international acclaim, earning numerous awards in tourism since 2016. Your six-and-a-half-hour adventure begins at the pier when you meet your English-speaking driver who will also be your guide, and board your vehicle for a 90-minute drive to your destination. As you travel towards the start of the trail, you will receive fascinating insights about life in Portugal, anecdotes about local customs and traditions, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. Upon arrival, the next three and a half hours will be spent with an existing hike along the Paiva walkways and time for a break to enjoy a picnic box. The hike route is not only stunning but rich in geological, natural, and archaeological interest allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, with the river¿s crystal-clear waters and lush greenery providing a perfect backdrop for your adventure. After your invigorating trek, you will have the opportunity to relax and recharge with a delightful picnic, soaking in the serene environment and reflecting on the day¿s experiences. Once your time at Paiva concludes, you will depart for Porto, enjoying a 90-minute ride to the pier. This excursion offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable day spent in one of Portugal¿s most beautiful settings.

Please note: as this tour includes a long, sometimes challenging walk on even uneven ground, it is unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair. The walkway route includes a total of 450 steps. It is advisable to wear hiking or trainers with rubber soles, ankle-length sandals (flip-flops are not allowed). In addition, it is recommended to dress according to the weather conditions on the day of the excursion and, in the summer months, to bring a hat and sunscreen. Guests with any type of food intolerance are required to communicate it to the Shore Excursions Office at least two days before the call. Minimum age: 6 years old. This tour does not include 516 Suspension Bridge.<-p>