Portugal’s River of Gold

Walk through the maritime history of the great Portuguese explorers and see the impressive Jerónimos Monastery. Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach past the bold and soaring Monument to the Discoveries and the elegant Belém Tower, where there will be time for photos. Arrive at the Jerónimos Monastery, a Manueline masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its exterior. Enter the West Wing, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the Maritime Museum and explore the Golden Age of Discovery, when Portuguese caravels set sail in search of new worlds. Here, you will view naval exhibits, including ceremonial barges from the 18th century and the royal cabin from Queen Amelia’s 19th-century yacht. You will also stroll through displays of maritime artifacts, see replica maps showing the caravels’ 16th-century discoveries and admire the wooden figurine of the archangel Raphael that accompanied Vasco da Gama on his voyage to India.

Get to know Lisbon’s rich culture through its food during a walking and cultural tour. Meet your guide and head to the city’s historic center to Campo de Ourique. Learn more about local life here as you pass the market and hear about Lisbon’s culinary delights. You will have the opportunity to sample local favorites at several tasting stops. Enjoy authentic regional dishes as you savor a selection of petiscos, small servings of tasty bites, accompanied by a chilled beverage. Portuguese food is known for its simple yet flavorful approach, using fresh ingredients, such as cod, cheese and smoked sausage. Cap your gourmet experience with a delicious, sweet treat, Portugal’s famed pastel de nata—a baked egg custard pastry—accompanied by coffee, before returning to your hotel.

Stroll through Portugal’s coastal capital to see its most iconic landmarks and panoramic views from above. With your guide, pass through some of the city’s impressive squares, including the Rossio, Martim Moniz and Restauradores, learning about Portugal’s rich history and taking in the vibrant scenes of daily life as you make your way to the city center. From there, ascend to the Miradouro da Graça, where you can take in the breathtaking views over the city. After, see the 17th-century church and monastery São Vicente de Fora and hike to trace the walls of São Jorge Castle, an 11th-century fortress. Here, pause for coffee before continuing to the Garden of Rua de Recolhimento and Chão do Loureiro terrace for more panoramic views of Lisbon and the sea. Conclude your walk in the heart of the city, where you can choose to return to your ship or stay and explore, and return after.