“The Douro River Valley was beautiful. The people of Portugal were wonderful! So glad we got to experience Spain as well.”
– Barbara Rose (Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley)
Spain Golden by design
The cities of Spain hum with excitement, beckoning travellers with a fiesta of good food, fine wine, and friendly compañeros (someone you share bread with). A blend of architectural styles—from whimsical Gaudi masterpieces in Barcelona to the golden-hued streets of Salamanca—Spain is a place you’ll love to get lost in, meandering your way through street after beautiful street.
HIGHLIGHTS
Landmarks
Called the “Golden City” for its tawny sandstone buildings, Salamanca’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site prized for its Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. At its heart is Plaza Mayor, built in the 18th century for bullfighting and home to the 12th century Old Cathedral and the 16th century New Cathedral. Further south, Granada’s Alhambra palace stuns visitors with its Moorish-influenced architecture. And in Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia stands as the most ambitious cathedral project in history, with stunning stained-glass windows and impossibly intricate towers.
Cuisine
To Spaniards, food is life and meals are celebrations of camaraderie that may last between two to three hours. Lunch, which is the main meal of the day, is eaten between 2 and 3pm and dinner is normally served between 9 to 11 pm. Linger over regional favorites like michirones, a stew made with ham, chorizo, and broad beans or a plate of tapas—tasty little appetizers like magra longaniza roja y blanca (spicy sausage), almejas à la gaditana (clams in sherry sauce) and paloma (fried crust topped with vegetables that can only be found in Salamanca).
Wines
Along with France and Italy, Spain is one of Europe's big three wine producing nations and is home to more vines than any other country. Rioja, similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, may be Spain’s best known, but Albariño, a white wine with refreshing citrus flavors, is a favorite. Sherry, a heavily fortified wine, dates back 3,000 years, and sangria, a refreshing blend of fruits and spices, has its origins in the Middle Ages. Toast your visit to Salamanca with a glass of cava, the champagne of Spain.
Art
From street art to sculpture, one cannot walk through the streets of Spain without finding evidence of the country’s deep love for art nearly everywhere you go. Keep your eyes out for fascinating bas relief figures on Salamanca’s cathedral. Or if you’re in Madrid, head to the Prado to find the famous Las Meninas painting.
TRAVEL TIPS
When to go: We sail all of our Spain cruises between the months of March and November for the best weather. Our itineraries operate during this time frame to give you the best experience possible of this incredible destination.
How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You may participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.
Spring
MAR–MAY
Avg. Temp. 63º F / 17º C
Summer
JUN–AUG
Avg. Temp. 84º F / 28º C
Autumn
SEP–NOV
Avg. Temp. 67º F / 19º C
Winter
DEC–FEB
Avg. Temp. 52º F / 11º C
Currency
Euro (EUR, €)
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET)
Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Official Language
Spanish
Electricity
European 230V
Plug types F, C, and E
What Our Guests Have to Say
An inside look at the Uniworld experience in Spain
Verified reviews by 
“The tours were led by local and very knowledgeable guides who spoke good English and the highlight of the trip was certainly Salamanca.”
– Karen Goldman (Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley)
“This cruise gives you a wonderful overview of Portugal and a little of Spain. Loved all the daily tours, and the staff in every position from the housekeepers and Valets to the Tour Director were simply tops! The food and the wines were amazing!”
– Virginia Blanton (Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley)
FEATURED CRUISES
Wine Roads of France & Portugal
Bordeaux to Lisbon | 18 days
The Southern European climates and historic towns of both Bordeaux and Portugal are as complimentary as their palettes—expect bold reds and excellent dessert wines, from Sauternes to Port....
Ships: S.S. Bon Voyage, S.S. São Gabriel
Countries: France, Portugal, Spain
Rivers: Dordogne, Douro, Garonne
4.6/5 (17 reviews)
From R144 800 per person
Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley
Porto to Lisbon | 11 days
Following the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port and explore ...
Ships: S.S. São Gabriel, S.S. São Rafael
Countries: Portugal, Spain
River: Douro
4.3/5 (666 reviews)
From R73 600 per person
Douro River Valley
Porto to Porto | 8 days
As you follow the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages, and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port....
Ships: S.S. São Gabriel, S.S. São Rafael
Countries: Portugal, Spain
River: Douro
4.4/5 (322 reviews)
From R57 600 per person
Cruise & Tour: Discover Portugal & Spain
Madrid to Porto | 20 days
From the awe-inspiring collections of Madrid’s Prado Museum to the beautiful National Palace of Queluz in Portugal, your land tour of Iberia will leave its mark. Savor the region’s...
Ship: S.S. São Gabriel
Countries: Portugal, Spain
River: Douro
From R208 800 per person