Madrid

Madrid is the capital and largest city of Spain. The population of the Madrid metropolitan area is calculated to be around 6.5 million- making it the third largest in the European Union after London and Paris. 

The city is located on the Manzanares River in the centre of both the country and the Community of Madrid (which comprises the city of Madrid, its conurbation and extended suburbs and villages); this community is bordered by the autonomous communities of Castile and León and Castile-La Mancha. As the capital city of Spain, seat of government, and residence of the Spanish monarch, Madrid is also the political, economic and cultural center of Spain.

While Madrid possesses a modern infrastructure, it has preserved the look and feel of many of its historic neighborhoods and streets. 

Our day began with a visit to the beautiful Bull Fighting Stadium.  Then a walk through Old Town past the Royal Palace.  We enjoyed lunch in San Miguel Mercado where we tasted many local specialities.  Afternoon was spent at the Prado Museum.

Toledo, Spain

Today we took a day trip to the city of Toledo, Spain.  It is a treasure trove of architectural, artistic and artisanal attractions-a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Toledo is known as the "Imperial City" for having been the main venue of the court of Charles I, and as the "City of the Three Cultures", having been influenced by a historical co-existence of Christians, Muslims and Jews. In 1085, the city fell to Alfonso VI of Castile as the first major city in the Christian Reconquista. Toledo has a history in the production of bladed weapons, which are now popular souvenirs of the city.

Salamanca, Spain

We were sad to say adeus to the MS AMAVIDA this morning.  A stop in Salamanca-a UNESCO world heritage site.  A walking tour in this lovely city and lunch with a Flamenco show.  A late afternoon arrival in Madrid.

     The city hall of Salamanca near the terrace of the Café Novelty founded in 1905.

    Looks like Paella

Castelo Rodrigo

Portuguese barbecue lunch while cruising down the river.  Afternoon excursion to Castelo Rodrigo a charming town that dates back to 1100 AD.

Vila Real, Pinhao, and the Captain's Cocktail Party

This morning we visited the Mateus Palace and Gardens just outside the city of Vila Real.  In the afternoon we walked to the train station in Pinhao where we are docked to see the beautiful blue tiles. 

Portugal is the premier producer of cork in the world obtained from cork oak trees.

Captain's Cocktail Party