With its sunny disposition, sloping vineyards and sleepy villages, Portugal offers a treasure trove of experiences. And the Globus family of brands says travellers have taken notice.
Bookings for Portugal in 2023 were up 80% over 2022. Recognizing this trend, in 2024, Globus and its river cruise line Avalon are helping travellers dive into Europe’s hottest destination in even more ways, with new tours, a new Suite Ship and river cruise.
Wine lovers have a new destination – and vacations – to raise their glasses to. Portugal promises some of Europe’s most delectable views, vistas and vino and in 2024, Globus is ready to show travellers the best of this incredible destination with a new tour, including extensions to its picture-perfect islands Madeira and the Azores.
New Globus Tour: Taste of Portugal, 11 days from Porto to Lisbon
Tantalizing tapas. Thrilling natural wonders. Timeless traditions. Portugal delivers a wealth of wonders to amaze and enchant. From Porto to Lisbon, senses are filled with visions of natural wonder, wonderful wines, tempting tastes and amazing artistry on this escorted tour of Portugal.
Porto: Nestled along the Douro River, Porto pulls travellers in with its labyrinthine cobbled streets, baroque splendor and the intoxicating allure of its world-famous port wine.
Coimbra: Once Portugal’s medieval capital, this city enchants visitors with its historic university, Moorish alleyways and evenings fills with soulful fado that reverberates off its ancient walls.
Lisbon: Set against the backdrop of seven hills, Lisbon offers a blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism, from historic tram rides to modern art scenes.
New Globus Portugal Extensions:
For those wanting to add a little Atlantic island-hopping to their “wow” list for 2024, Globus is offering two new extensions in Portugal.
Madeira: Untamed beauty and cultural richness converge on this beautiful island that offers everything form verdant hiking trails to centuries-old wine cellars. Known as the “Garden of the Atlantic,” this Portuguese archipelago is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with its dramatic landscapes while also serving as a hidden haven for wine connoisseurs with its Madeira wine – a storied drink with a history as rich as the island itself.
Azores: Dubbed the “Hawaii of the Atlantic,” the Azores offer a medley of experiences from whale-watching and hiking volcanic craters to soaking-in geothermal pools. Perfect for both the adventure traveller and the solitude seeker, this island is a multifaceted gem in the heart of the Atlantic.
A rendering of the Panorama Suite onboard the Avalon Alegria. (photo via Avalon Waterways) (Photo Credit: (photo via Avalon Waterways))
Avalon Makes Its Portugal Debut: Avalon Waterways will explore Portugal beginning in March, 2024 with its new, Suite Ship – the Avalon Alegria. Like the rest of the company’s fleet, the ship will feature signature, award-winning Panorama Suites on two full decks. This new ship will also have a pool on the Sky Deck. Built exclusively to sail the Douro, the Alegria will have a total of 14 Deluxe Staterooms and 37 Panorama Suites, accommodating just 102 guests and 33 crew.
Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro, 8 days from Porto to Porto
Hillside vineyards and historic villages await guests as they sail through Portugal’s postcard-perfect views on Avalon’s all-new cruise that begins and ends in Porto and is filled with Avalon’s signature, included “Classic,” “Discovery” and “Active” excursion choices.
This new cruise promises countless ways to soak up splendor – from medieval castles to cinematic scenery and all the vinho, baked bread, olives and cheese that guests’ desire.