11 Day Douro River Cruise with Porto
From
$2599
Land Only
$3489*
Air & Land
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Cabin D | ||
|---|---|---|
| MS Douro Cruiser | ||
| Eurostars Aliados Hotel Porto | Porto | |
| Cabin C | ||
|---|---|---|
| MS Douro Cruiser | ||
| Eurostars Aliados Hotel Porto | Porto | |
| Cabin B | ||
|---|---|---|
| MS Douro Cruiser | ||
| Eurostars Aliados Hotel Porto | Porto | |
| Cabin A | ||
|---|---|---|
| MS Douro Cruiser | ||
| Eurostars Aliados Hotel Porto | Porto | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1550 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
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$2599 | $3489* | ||||
| $2699 | $3939* | |||||
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$2849 | $4029* | ||||
|
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$2799 | $4029* | ||||
|
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$2799 | $4159* | ||||
|
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$2799 | $3879* | ||||
|
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$3049 | $3859* | ||||
|
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$2799 | $3609* | ||||
|
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$2849 | $3909* | ||||
|
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$2799 | $3749* | ||||
|
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$2599 | $3519* | ||||
|
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$2699 | $3559* | ||||
|
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$2499 | $3349* | ||||
|
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$2299 | $3069* | ||||
|
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$2299 | $3149* | ||||
|
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$2199 | $2929* | ||||
| $2199 | $3049* | |||||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1650 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
|
|
$2699 | $3659* | ||||
| $2799 | $4169* | |||||
|
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$2799 | $4029* | ||||
|
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$3049 | $4239* | ||||
|
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$3049 | $4279* | ||||
|
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$3049 | $4269* | ||||
|
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$3149 | $3959* | ||||
|
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$2899 | $3999* | ||||
|
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$2949 | $3699* | ||||
|
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$3049 | $3999* | ||||
|
|
$2849 | $3679* | ||||
|
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$2949 | $3829* | ||||
|
|
$2749 | $3699* | ||||
|
|
$2549 | $3399* | ||||
|
|
$2549 | $3509* | ||||
|
|
$2299 | $3029* | ||||
| $2299 | $3159* | |||||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1850 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
|
|
$2899 | $3799* | ||||
| $2999 | $4339* | |||||
|
|
$2999 | $4219* | ||||
|
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$3099 | $4429* | ||||
|
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$3099 | $4329* | ||||
|
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$3099 | $4219* | ||||
|
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$3199 | $4399* | ||||
|
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$3099 | $3999* | ||||
|
|
$2999 | $3899* | ||||
|
|
$3099 | $3929* | ||||
|
|
$2899 | $3749* | ||||
|
|
$2999 | $3849* | ||||
|
|
$2799 | $3649* | ||||
|
|
$2599 | $3449* | ||||
|
|
$2749 | $3599* | ||||
|
|
$2499 | $3349* | ||||
| $2499 | $3489* | |||||
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1950 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
|
|
$2999 | $3889* | ||||
| $3099 | $4289* | |||||
|
|
$3099 | $4319* | ||||
|
|
$3399 | $4629* | ||||
|
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$3399 | $4629* | ||||
|
|
$3399 | $4479* | ||||
|
|
$3299 | $4199* | ||||
|
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$3199 | $4379* | ||||
|
|
$3299 | $4249* | ||||
|
|
$3399 | $4229* | ||||
|
|
$3149 | $4069* | ||||
|
|
$3299 | $4209* | ||||
|
|
$3049 | $4139* | ||||
|
|
$2849 | $3699* | ||||
|
|
$2849 | $3839* | ||||
|
|
$2599 | $3309* | ||||
| $2599 | $3489* | |||||
Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Embarkation will begin at 2 PM however early arrivals may rest in the lounge if their assigned cabin is not ready upon check-in.
Passengers arriving to Porto on day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 4 PM.
Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.
While sailing with MS Douro Cruiser, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: MS Douro Cruiser Terms & Conditions.
Know Before You Book - High & Low Water
European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of our chartered ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
River Cruise Package Includes
- Round trip flights New York-Porto, Porto-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 9 nights accommodations
- 7 nights outside cabin aboard the MS Douro Cruiser
- 2 nights Porto
- Cruise & hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 22 meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
- Cruise director & activity host throughout cruise
- Services of local guides in all major cities
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
- Shore excursions per itinerary
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- See magnificent panoramic views of Douro River
- Tour the Douro Museum, and learn about the wine making industry of the area
- Discover the medieval village of Castelo Rodrigo, perched on a hilltop and surrounded by imposing walls
- Visit Salamanca with its ancient sandstone buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage City
- Embark on a tour of Porto and view the Cathedral, S. Bento Train Station, famous for its azulejos tiles, and the Stock Exchange
- Visit Aveiro, a charming coastal city known as the "Venice of Portugal"
River Cruise Features & Amenities
- Welcome dinner and farewell dinner
- Wine and beer with dinners
- Lounge serving premium spirits
- Non-smoking ship interior
- Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
- Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English by licensed guides
Know Before You Book - High & Low Water
European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a River Cruise Ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
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The sequence of the port of calls and shore excursions may be changed by the local port authorities.
|
Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Tour a renowned wine estate. Visit the vineyard and learn about Porto and red wine production, aging, and bottling. Sample some of them at the tasting room.
Advance purchase is highly recommended for this tour. Tickets are not available for purchase locally.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $75.00 |
Embark on a tour of Mateus Palace, located in the city of Vila Real. Explore the beautiful Baroque palace with its elaborate carved ceilings and stroll through the manicured gardens. Afterward, savor dinner at Quinta da Avessada, located in the vineyard plateau of Favaios, in the center of the Douro demarcated area.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #6 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $115.00 |
Explore the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its wealth of architectural treasures. Visit the Guimarães Castle where Alfonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal was born, and Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
Approximate tour duration is 5 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | $75.00 |
Explore the captivating charm of northern Portugal on a tour to Barcelos and Braga. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of these two cities. First, stop at Barcelos, a city famous for its pottery and folklore. Discover the legend of the Barcelos Rooster an emblematic symbol of Portugal and explore the historic center with its medieval castle ruins and charming squares. Then head to the historic city of Braga, often referred to as the "Rome of Portugal." The city has over 2,000 years of history and a lot of ancient Roman influence. Later, enjoy the scenic drive back to Porto.
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
| Day #10 | 01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2025 | $98.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Portugal - Spring and Summer are usually sunny, with hot days during July and August. Autumn and Winter are typically rainy and windy, yet sunny days are not rare either. Spring and Autumn: 44–81°F; Summer: 63–86°F; Winter: 41–61°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Portugal Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#portugal-weather |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| Afurada Port Information - The port address is Douro Marina (Afurada), R. da Praia 430, 4400-554 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. The ship access is at Gate E. |
| MS Douro Cruiser - If you do not have a Gate 1 Transfer to the ship, we recommend you telephone the ship reception on your embarkation day to receive the most recent & precise docking information. * Ship reception/Hotel Manager: +(351)-912-981-814 * Local office emergency number: +(421)-907-707-947 |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| River Cruises |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each cruise ship based on overall quality, itinerary, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All MS Douro Cruiser cabins are standard rooms with private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. All cabins have two twin beds that can be pushed together or separated. Traveling with bags and luggage that fold up is recommended as cabins cannot store hard luggage. Due to the closeness of cabins there may be potential noise pollution from adjoining cabins. While at port, the vessel may be docked adjacent to another ship which may obstruct window views. We recommend you close the cabin curtains before turning in at night for privacy. While double docked, ships often continue to run their engines for air-conditioning and other services. Depending upon the wind direction, residual engine fumes may enter some cabins. This is a temporary situation, alleviated once the ship moves. We reserve the right to make ship substitutions with those of equal standard. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: European River Cruises |
River Cruise Crew (Shared by all crew members): US $16 per person per day Cruise Director: US $4 per person per day Activity Host: US $4 per person per day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Local Driver (Provides chauffeur services at specific locations): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Crew gratuities will be shared by all crew members and may be paid via the on board ship account or dropped in the designated box at reception. Gratuities for the Gate 1 Cruise Director, Activity Host, and local service providers should be paid in cash and given to the person directly. Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Tour Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $5 per person per day of sightseeing, US $3 per half day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day City Host (Gate 1 hotel assistant): US $4 per person per day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Portugal - Tipping in restaurants is optional, as waiters earn wages in Portugal and a tip is considered a note of appreciation. It is common practice to round up the total bill to the next euro. Tipping taxi drivers and daily tips for hotel staff are not customary. However, it is important to note that in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists gratuities may be expected for good service. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Water Level |
| A rise or fall in the river water level, or other factors which may impact safe navigation, can prevent the ship from passing under bridges and/or moving further along the river. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach. If this becomes necessary, Gate 1 Travel will endeavor to provide equal or similar services, however no cruise will be canceled and no monetary compensation will be made for those changes. A fluctuation in water level can change in a matter of hours and may occur at any time of the year. In this case, the situation will be closely monitored by captain and crew to ensure services are delivered with as few substitutions as possible. If you have planned independent travel prior to the cruise it is advisable to leave local contact information with Gate 1 Travel before departing. Should an embarkation point be changed, Gate 1 Travel will attempt to contact passengers by phone or email. |
| Portugal - The Euro is the currency of Portugal. |
| European River Cruises - The Euro is the currency used for purchases on board the ship. Money-changing services (to Euro) will be available on board. Ship Account and Payment: There is a cashless system on board. All on board expenditures (in the bar, restaurant and shop) are added to the ship's account. Closing invoices will be presented to the passengers for settlement. Payment can be made by cash in Euro or by credit card (VISA and MasterCard). Payment made by credit card may be subject to an international credit card transaction fee. Please note we cannot accept USD as a form of cash payment. Passenger's are not eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for purchases made on board the ship. |
| European River Cruises - On board expenditures are processed through a banking center in Cyprus. Passengers wishing to settle their on board account by credit card should advise their credit card provider of potential charges from Cyprus in addition to the countries that will be visited on your itinerary. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Portugal - Items of particular interest include handicrafts such as handmade leather purses or clothes and glass items. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| European River Cruises - You are on a ship with a high safety standard and reliable crew. In case of emergency, we ask you to follow the instructions of your crew. Please take further information concerning safety from the notice on your cabin door. Life jackets will be stored in your stateroom or in containers on the sun deck, marked clearly. When leaving the ship, kindly pick up your boarding pass from the reception desk and promptly return it upon arrival back to the ship. This procedure helps ensure your security by allowing the crew to immediately determine if all passengers are on board before continuing the cruise. While in port, please keep your cabin door locked. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Portugal
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| Languages |
| Portugal - The official language of Portugal is Portuguese. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Portugal - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| MS Douro Cruiser - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Portugal |
Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31: Easter Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day May 30: Corpus Christi Jun 10: Portugal Day Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 5: Republic Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 1: Independence Restoration Day Dec 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Holidays 2025 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 4: Carnival Apr 18: Good Friday Apr 20: Easter Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 10: Portugal Day Jun 19: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 5: Republic Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 1: Independence Restoration Day Dec 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day |
| On Your Cruise - European River Cruises |
| Attire: River cruise dress code is always casual. Modest attire (no bathing suits) is requested in the dining room at all meals. Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Language: The official language on board is English, although other languages may be spoken. All announcements and tours will be performed in English. Meals and Dietary Restrictions: There is open seating in the dining room for lunch and dinner. Please see your Maître d'hotel who is at your disposal for special needs. Passengers requiring special diet must advise Gate 1 Cruises at the least 20 days prior to departure. However we are pleased to assist within the limits of those products available on board. Smoking: Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the sundeck. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard. Amenities: A hairdryer is supplied to all cabins. Laundry service is available on board for an additional charge, however the ship is not equipped to care for dry cleaning. Charges are displayed on board. Valuables can be deposited in the cabin safe. Medical Services: Ship's crew may be able to provide basic first-aid, however ships do not carry a doctor or nurse onboard. Should professional medical attention be required, local services will be contacted upon the passenger's request. Excursions: During your journey you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of shore excursions. If you have not pre-booked the excursions, there will be an opportunity to do so on board with your Cruise Director. These excursions can paid for in cash (EUR), or charged to your credit card. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional About your sightseeing: To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our cruises. Color-coded group splits for shoreside included and Optional tours are coordinated which will be organized by your Cruise Director. Walking: River Cruise tours dock at inland towns and excursions may include a fair amount of walking on uneven or cobblestone streets. Passengers will be required to climb stairs to access the different decks of the ship and many ports have limited ramps. You may also experience "double-docking." In some ports, where there are limited docks available for the number of visiting ships, you may find your ship docked adjacent to another and may have to walk across one or more other river cruise ships before reaching the dock area. Children: The vessels do not maintain facilities or services for children aboard the cruise. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 16 years of age. Telephone: Cabins are not equipped with telephones. If you need to be contacted while on board the ship, please provide the emergency numbers outlined in your documents to family and/or friends. It is possible that the emergency numbers are out of the telephone network at the time of dialing. It is advisable to hang-up and dial a short time later. Email and Post: The MS Douro Cruiser offers complimentary basic internet access onboard based on mobile telephone networks for river cruise ships. Internet service is accessible in the reception lobby area. This service is complimentary and should enable you to browse the internet, check your email, access international publications, and view Facebook accounts on your personal device(s) in areas where there is a network. You will be unable to download movies or video, send videos or access Netflix or Jetflicks. At the beginning of your sailing, you will be provided with an access code which you may use on any of your devices. Please note the possibility of potential interruptions based on terrain and weather, plus factors such as populated ports where many ships are utilizing the same satellite signal, is high and to be expected. Any mail with postage can be handed in at the reception. It will be posted at the next port of call. |
This most recent 10-day Portugal tour with Luis, whom by the way, was the very best tour guide we have ever had in all of the tours in the past with your company and with other tour companies we've had in past years!! He made the tours exciting and with all the historical background information, the tour is one that will never be forgotten! The bus driver was kind and very considerate of all the travelers on the bus!! We rave about your tour company to many people on our way back home on the planes we traveled on home from Lisbon! You are the best! We can't wait for this August when we tour Ireland and Scotland with your tour company! Can't say enough good things about your company! Thanks for all you do to make it the best experience ever and always!!
Angela K.
Our trip was incredible. We were so lucky with the glorious weather. Our tour guide Antonio was wonderful, kind, considerate and knowledgeable. Some of the tour guides were outstanding - especially the lady who took us around the amazing early Christian, Roman, Visigoth, Catholic Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. Toledo was also a fascinating medieval city, Alhambra at night from St. Nicolas Church, walking the Alicante Promenade alongside a glorious blue Mediterranean, and Valencia. Enjoyed the Flamenco and Monserrat Monastery tour a profound experience. Everything was so well planned and timed. Only question is where to go next year?
Michele F.
It was FANTASTIC! The architecture in Portugal and Spain is the most exquisite I have had the pleasure to see. Starting with the Belem Tower in Lisbon Portugal to the MAJESTIC Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The people of Portugal and Spain were amazingly friendly and polite. Our Tour Manager, Hugo, was the BEST, he was very knowledgeable, accommodating, and helpful. It was another trip of a lifetime thanks to Gate 1.
Victoria C.
The trip was really enjoyable (except for the weather - rain every day). The tour guides were knowledgeable and very cordial. The itinerary was packed with activities, and we were busy the entire time. Elio was great. He watched out for everyone. The local guides were VERY knowledgeable. The hotels were first class. It was a large tour but handled very efficiently. Again, the only negative was the weather, which cannot be predicted or controlled. This was our 5th Gate1 trip, and all have been great. We will travel again soon.
Jerry P.
My first European trip was memorable partly to the excellent disposition of Jorge. Jorge's knowledge of both countries was a fun history lesson. His communication skills and undivided attention to each member of the group showed that he cared for our safety and our enjoyment. Jorge's friendly personality is well suited for his tasks and duties as Manager. He made the trip unforgettable with a desire to return for more. Jorge was an AWESOME Manager and Guide.
Marie S.
We had a wonderful trip! Ruí was a fantastic guide. He was very knowledgeable and helpful. Every city was amazing and we fully enjoyed all the optional trips. I love how Gate1 always puts an interesting stop during travel days. Évora, Ronda and Caiscas were wonderful stops. We were very pleased with all the hotels especially their locations. Having a balcony room in Torremolinos was a pleasant surprise. I can't wait to travel with Gate1 again!
Maitee H.
Ercilia, our tour manager, was absolutely amazing. This is the first guided Gate 1 tour that we took, (all others were independent) and me and my family enjoyed and loved it so much. You get to know and visit so much; we are in love with Portugal. Ercilia was absolutely professional, knowledgeable, respectful, sweet and kind. This experience was so fantastic that from now on we will book guided tours. Thank you Gate 1 for your excellent service, we love Gate 1.
Lina M.
Thank you Gate1 we had a marvelous trip , Luis our tour manager was excellent he made sure everyone in the group had everything we needed making sure everyone is having a great time, answering all our questions and even to our departure day waking up at 3am to see that everyone that have early flight have our packed breakfast from the hotel and see us off to catch our flight back home and our wonderful driver Alex the best driver he make sure we get to our destination safely and water is ready when we get back from visiting all the beautiful places that Gate1 prepared for us to visit. Thank you and we are looking forward with our next trip with Gate1.
Maribel R.
Trip was amazing! Jose manager tour guide was so professional, kind and amazing too!! The driver is wonderful! Overall it's much more than I expected... I'm so thrilled with hotels and their breakfast. My first time with escorted trip. Last 10 years I have told to ppl so much about gate one..my friends and family are very very pleased after they have tried. Thank you for doing that. Best of best.
Tina V.
Just wanted to let you know how pleased we were with our travel to Portugal and Spain the end of Feb. March. It was fabulous!! Alex, our tour manager, made us feel welcome and safe throughout our time. Our bus driver Marco, was also great! We enjoyed all the tour guides and their information in every city we visited. Everything was so organized and well planned. I've been telling everyone what a wonderful time we had and to use Gate 1. I had read some of the reviews beforehand and wasn't sure, but this trip changed my mind and I hope to travel again soon. We met so many wonderful people in our group. Terrific experience!!!
Susan P.
My wife Jennifer and I just returned from our trip to Portugal and Spain. Our guide Lisa was amazing! In fact, all of the guides and drivers were wonderful. I have already recommended Gate1 to friends who were looking to travel to Spain. This was our second trip with your company, and I am so impressed. We are planning many more tours with Gate1!
John S.
Rui was an extraordinary tour guide he was knowledgeable about everything we visited. He provided context, and history. He was very engaging and our time together was really fun and interesting. We all got along well and Rui helped make our time in Portugal both welcoming and memorable. We will definitely travel Gate 1 again. Well done. Our driver Philippe was incredible. He navigated a large coach bus through terrain with ear and grace. He did it well and he did it safely.
Cherie D.
It was great! Our tour manager, Catia, was 5 star all the way. She was so knowledgeable and organized everything beautifully. The drivers and additional site guides were so fun and made the trip exceptional. All the hotels and meals were wonderful. I especially liked that the hotels were all so centrally located so walking was convenient. The "on our own time" was perfect. Thanks, and hope to go on another trip with Travel Zone again.
Barbara V.
Estefania was the absolute best travel guide for our entire tour. She was organized, friendly, very knowledgeable and took EXCELLENT care of our group. We hand some schedule changes and she handled everything efficiently and smoothly. She added some "WOW" moments for our group (pastries, tapas and an aerial gondola ride down Montserrat) that made us feel special and very lucky indeed. We all became great friends and by the time the trip was over, it was hard to say goodbye to everyone, and most especially Estefi. She is just such a wonderful person and guide, we LOVED HER. Let me know what other tours she will be in charge of in the future and we will be sure to sign up. Gate1 Travel, you've got a rare diamond in Estefi!! She is nothing short of amazing!
Suzanne H.
just a quick note about our recent trip to Portugal. Carla was our tour guide and she was exceptional!! Her knowledge, communication, sense of humor and just caring about every traveler went way beyond! This is our 3rd trip with Gate1 ( we had always used other tour companies on previous trips, Viking, Grand Circle etc) but Gate1 far exceeds all these tour companies. We recommend to all our family and friends! Basically what sets you apart are your tour guides!! We can't wait for our next trip with Gate 1!!
Brenda T.
Our Portugal Gate 1 Tour was fantastic. Miquel was endearing, super organized, super knowledgeable, and super engaging. He kept the whole group upbeat and fascinated with Portugal, its history and culture, it's folkways and food. Miquel's "mojo" kept the rain away, too! That's why our Douro River cruise was so remarkable and memorable. Louie was a skillful bus driver. Portugal is beautiful and Miguel, as well as local guides in Lisbon and Porto, made its history come alive. This was a lovely, compatible, friendly group of fellow travelers, led and inspired by Miquel and that always makes a Gate 1 tour special.
Francine C.
They were 13 unforgettable days, full of history and culture of the Iberian Peninsula. From Lisbon to Barcelona, every day was an experience and a journey through time. Portugal is beautiful and its people are friendly and hospitable. Spain is full of culture and history, with monuments, parks and museums that describe the passage of time. The landscapes, buildings, and places we visited transported us back in time, and everything was masterfully presented by each tour guide. Eva, Isabela, Monse, Juan, Egui and José, all of them, in an excellent and professional manner, presented relevant details of the facts and historical details of each area we visited. The performance of the tour manager, Daniel, was exceptional, and not forgetting the bus drivers, who diligently took us to different places and took care of us in safe manner. The hotels were in perfect locations, close to everything, easy access, and good quality service. I can't put into words how much we learned and fun we had, the places we visited, the people we met and shared, and the atmosphere we had. Everything was beautiful and exceeded all our expectations. We left Spain and Portugal, with a sweet taste in our mouths, and dreaming of returning, because Spain and Portugal are beautiful. Thank you Gate 1 and Daniel, for designing such a spectacular tour with high quality service.
Teresa C.
I want to tell you that Rui was one OUTSTANDING guide. He was friendly, knowledgeable, funny, passionate about his country and very professional. Communication was efficient & reinforced verbally & written with daily schedules. I just can't say enough about him! He made me love Portugal & want to return!
Patricia H.
I wanted to acknowledge our tour manager Caetano. He went above and beyond, always went the extra step and gestures. He was the best at providing assistance, suggestions, solving challenges, finding answers and was truly interested in his passengers and their wellbeing. His English was superb and he was so funny!!! Coach driver Paulo was also outstanding, polite, funny and very professional. They made us all feel comfortable, safe and that we got our money's worth. Actually I feel I more than did. I would so recommend this tour, although it should be mentioned that walking, hills and steps can be an issue for some. This was probably my favorite tour so far.
Flavia M.
The itinerary of 8 Day Affordable Portugal is well designed. It covers the essential cities and places in a short time. I have done the 10 day Classic Portugal before and it is also a gem. Our tour manager Francisco was outstanding in managing the trip and providing in depth analysis. His passion for Portugal was very evident. He planned a surprised side trip for us which made the trip even more memorable. We came away with an appreciation of all things: the history, the beauty, the culture, the language, and most of all, the wine and the food. I would recommend this trip to anyone who is interested seeing Portugal. I could not accomplish seeing all these if I was doing on my own in 8 or 10 days.
Helen C.
Let me start with the forecast of rain all week. Thought I could stay home as I had insurance. What a silly thought! Sonia, the cruise director, made sure we all had a good time. Loved that she announced "dear passengers of the Douro Cruiser;" made me feel special and part of the family. Her chant of We Choose to be Happy, helped get that positive spirit going. And then, she was excellent in all she did! She loved her boat and the crew. The river was high and Captain Jesus made sure we were all safe. All the other crew members did their jobs and made us welcome. The passengers on the boat banded together with the positive spirit to ensure a good time. Best trip!
Kathleen S.
The most amazing of ALL my 30+ Gate One trips! Guide was very informative and itinerary was well designed to see Portugal! Hotels were excellent and location perfect!
Charles L.
I have the most amazing trip. Portugal was a beautiful country. It was very interesting. I've learned so much about their culture and all those gorgeous churches that we visited. The walking was so good. I've never done a vacation like that before. I'll put it this way I had a trip of a lifetime specially, being with my sister,Brother in law And my husband of course. The group that we were in with the most amazing group we got along so well, and makes the trip so much smoother. We have the most amazing nicest. Patient kind wonderful Tour guide her name was a Odeth, she took us to the most wonderful places. Recommended a lot of beautiful restaurants and she spoil us. I'm planning for my next trip with Gate 1 Again, thank you for the wonderful experience. I couldn't tell you enough how wonderful it was.
Cecil M.
I want to let you know what a fabulous tour trip which my wife and I had in Portugal with Gate 1. I believe that this was our fifth tour with Gate 1 and it did not disappoint. The tour gave us a comprehensive view of this beautiful country, both cities and regional towns. Our trips through the countryside also provided us with a closeup look at the geography of Portugal. Our fellow travelers began as strangers and emerged as friends -in-travel. This entire experience did not happen by accident. Our tour guide, Rui, was the magician who transformed us into La Familia, as he called us. Besides having an encyclopedic knowledge of his country, its history and its people, Rui was a master of human relations who seemed to meet the needs of all of us. We truly admired his seamless skills. Thank you for a wonderful life- experience and thank you for letting us travel with Rui. We (and you) are lucky to have met him!
Loretta M.
I just want to say that our Hospitality/Activity Director onboard the Douro Cruiser, Eva, was fabulous. She really motivated and encouraged participation in activities and we all had a lot of fun joining in. She has a sparkling personality and was friendly, professional, and sincere. All the staff were amazing, but she really stood out.
Caroline P.
I just wanted to say that our Tour Manager, Ercilia, is an absolutely amazing person. She is a true asset and honestly I do not know how a tour manager/guide could be any better. From organizing the tour, to her knowledge of English, to her unbelievable knowledge of her country's history, to suggesting places to recommend and explore in every location, and even her sense of humor. It was an absolute treat to have her on our vacation.
David M.
Porto River Cruise was fantastic. Gate 1 did a great job. The river was spectacular, the stops very historical and informative, the ricver boat was comfortable, food was outstanding, and activities on board fun. Optional tours were outstanding.
Sharon S.
What a wonderful trip! Everything was just perfect. Our guide Philippe was amazing. Portugal is such a beautiful country and I feel like we hit all of the highlights. I am very impressed with Gate one and how every detail was taken care of. Will be traveling with you guys again hopefully soon! Thank you.
Kathleen A.
Incredible experience, it was fantastic, something inexplicable. The truth is that the experience of that country and of you as an agency was a dream come true, your agents there are very efficient, the service and quality of your vehicles is something on another level. Many Thank you and we will see you again very soon, you made me fall in love, with you forever. Thank you so much
Miguel R.
Our trip was wonderful. We had a great guide-Elio-who was friendly, knowledgeable, etc. We had a great group of fellow travelers. Spain and Portugal were both beautiful and rich with history, beautiful architecture and landscape. We will be doing another GATE 1 trip in the future for sure.
Barbara P.
I really want you to know how utterly spectacular our tour guide, Miguel was, just the best ever! So incredibly knowledgeable, great story teller, great personality and sense of humor and at the end of the tour I told him he was the single best part of the trip. He so obviously loves his career and you couldn't find anyone better for the job. So I wanted you to know how much everyone one the trip appreciated him.
Richard W.
We have traveled with Gate 1 all over the world and your guides are always the best. Our guide on this trip was Rui and he was amazing. Very knowledgeable, kind and had a great sense of humor. He handled our group of 37 perfectly. The hotels were all in good locations and they were always clean.
Alisa B.
I just completed my tenth Gate 1 tour, 10 day Classic Portugal. Portugal was beautiful, and the weather was fabulous, but Rui Barreiro, our tour manager and guide, was the major reason for the success of the trip. Rui was, "Simply the best; better than all the rest." His knowledge of the historical sites as well as his ability to detail the history of Portugal and the history of several cities and towns, was beyond comprehension. By offering detailed accounts of legends, of Portugal's history, of significant events that shaped Portugal, Rui made Portugal come alive. His English was better than many Americans. He could, without hesitation, answer every question posed by any member of a group of 41. He was serious, funny, patriotic, energetic, patient, proud of his country, extremely well organized, attentive to detail, and most importantly a great storyteller. He was truly exceptional in every facet of his role as tour manager and guide. Rui went beyond all expectations. When the porters were slow in delivering or retrieving luggage, he was beside them offering assistance. Regardless of the time of departure for travelers, he was there to offer assistance and to bid a farewell. Gate 1 has so many proficient managers, but Rui surpasses all. Because of guides like him, Gate 1 will forever be my go-to vacation tour company. I have loved every trip I have taken with them; I look forward to many more.
Linda R.
Our lasting memory of this cruise will be the quality and approachability of all the crew / staff on board. The Captain, the soon- to- be- appointed captain Louis and the other crew always greeted us like friends. The Bar staff brought great pleasure, especially Amalia, who perpetually radiated happiness and a welcoming attitude. A picture of her is attached that epitomizes her personality. The restaurant and cabin staff were also friendly and happy to interact. I think that the attitude of all the crew/staff created a happy atmosphere on board that led to general content among all passengers. I was also very impressed with Sonia, who demonstrated a great love and knowledge of her country, that resonated with me (born in England), as Portugal and England form the longest lasting alliance in history.
Nigel W.
It was amazing! We absolutely loved the tranquil pace of the river cruise and the Douro Valley is stunning. I loved the vineyards, olive trees and ramshackle old houses along with the beautiful estates dotting the river. The food on the boat was wonderful and I miss the Portuguese bread! The wait staff was so kind and helpful. Sonia did such a great job keeping us organized and knowing what to expect - and I appreciated her in-depth knowledge of the Portuguese culture and people. Jorge also was a welcome member of the team. The crew who got us through the locks and docked did it in a way that made it look easy - although it is not! We were in very capable hands throughout! And the trip to Salamanca was also exceptional! What a beautiful city. The other excursions we took were also very valuable experiences: Guimareis, Castelo Rodrigo and Obidos. And in Lisbon, the tour of Belém - the tower and Pasteis de Belem were great! This was our first Gate 1 trip and first river cruise - and it absolutely exceeded our expectations! I think a part of that was how beautiful and fascinating we found Portugal. What an amazing country! We will have to go back! We filled out the survey before leaving the boat, and I just want to add that the entire team works extremely hard! I think the wait staff and kitchen crew worked the hardest - we descended upon that dining room as if we had never eaten before! And the food was always plentiful, varied and delicious. Thanks to you all!!!
Nancy Z.
All compliments The travel group was wonderful...folks participated and shared life's adventures, stories and journeys with one another. The hotels were well-placed in their communities, immaculately kept common and private spaces. Felt safe on these properties and staffs were efficient and friendly. Breakfasts were very good and I single out Porto location for excellent breakfast and service. Dinners and add-on features were more than worth the price paid. Bus was kept clean and the driver was absolutely practiced safe, defensive driving skills. He was friendly and efficient. The sites were well-selected, and interesting commentary was presented by local guides. Saving the best for last: from the moment we met Adriana, our Gate One guide, to when we departed, she never failed to impress with her patience, good humor, willingness to share her story and the stories, history, culture (many facets, for that matter) of Portuguese people and nation. All together a marvelous experience.
Lee S.
The Portugal tour I just finished is the first time I am with Gate One. My husband and I are very happy with the hotels, meals, tour guides, drivers and the itinerary. Thank you and I'm glad I've booked Iceland tour in Feb 2024. We will definitely travel with Gate One again and recommend to our friends.
Betty M.
It was wonderful!! Our tour manager Francisco was great and the local guide Martha in Porto was very good as well. We were very happy with all of the Hotel choices. Portugal is an amazing country with incredible history , Fado music , delicious cod fish dishes, custard tarts and Port Wines. Thank you Gate 1 for this memorable trip!
Deniz O.