Imagine gliding along Europe’s storied rivers while worldclass experts bring history, art, and culture vividly to life—that’s exactly what our new partnership between Smithsonian Journeys and AmaWaterways delivers. At Sunlit Travel, we couldn’t be more thrilled to introduce this extraordinary collaboration, designed for curious travelers who want more than postcards and clichéd tours. Get ready for a river cruise experience that feels like a living classroom beneath the open sky.

Smithsonian Journeys, the Smithsonian Institution’s acclaimed travel arm, has been setting the gold standard for immersive cultural adventures for decades. Their roster of handpicked experts—from archaeologists and art historians to botanists and anthropologists—have dedicated entire careers to unearthing hidden stories. On your cruise, these charismatic scholars will share behind  the scenes insights, unlocking layers of meaning in everything from medieval castles to Renaissance masterpieces.

AmaWaterways, renowned for its award winning ships and impeccable service, provides the perfect stage for Smithsonian’s experts to shine. Think elegantly appointed staterooms, farm totable dining inspired by local ingredients, and thoughtfully curated shore excursions—all designed around a small ship atmosphere. With no more than 150 fellow travelers aboard, you’ll enjoy an intimate, boutique atmosphere that encourages meaningful connections and genuine discovery.

Every Smithsonian Journeys sailing features two dedicated experts on board. Each morning or afternoon, you’ll gather in the ship’s panoramic lounge for a lively lecture or Q&A session. Then, step ashore for up to six guided excursions daily—some traditional, some exclusive Smithsonian only experiences, like afterhours museum tours or private artisan workshops. And back on deck, complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hours set the perfect tone for swapping reflections with newfound friends.

​This partnership isn’t just about stacking itineraries; it’s about enriching the soul of your voyage. You’ll taste regional wines once sipped by emperors, examine Gothic cathedrals with fresh eyes, and hear local legends passed down for centuries—each moment underscored by scholarly context. And because Sunlit Travel handles every logistical detail, from airport transfers to pre/post cruise stays, you’re free to dive deep into the experience without any stress or hassle.

Ready to turn your next river cruise into an unforgettable Smithsonian styled adventure? Reach out to Sunlit Travel today, and let’s find the perfect departure date for you. Whether you’ve dreamt of charting the Danube’s regal waters or exploring the Rhône’s Provençal charm, our new Smithsonian Journeys alliance promises an extraordinary blend of luxury, learning, and lasting memories.

Thinking of traveling to Portugal? It's become a popular destination due to its relative affordability in relation to other Western European countries such as France or Italy. The country offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are a sunseeker, history buff or just love the vibrant culture of Europe, Portugal has something for everyone! 

People often struggle trying to decide between Porto and Lisbon. If you have time, consider both since they are two magnificent cities offering different experiences. Lisbon has sundrenched hills and historical neighborhoods, with a vibrant urban feel. The public transportation system makes it easy to get around. Porto has an intimate riverside charm, laid back pace with a world renowned wine culture. It is smaller than Lisbon making it easy to explore on foot. 

Summer months are most popular due to the beach weather and lively festivals; but it's also the most crowded and most expensive time to go.  Shoulder months such as May and September offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds and a sense of authentic local life. While Portugal may seem small geographically, there is much to see and do - so the amount of time needed is a personal choice.

A week gives you the chance to explore both Lisbon and Porto as well as other regions such as the Douro Valley, Sintra or the Algarve. You can easily catch a train to explore at your leisure. 

Suggested Places to see during a week in Portugal: 

1. Lisbon
The capital city is a blend of traditional charm and modern vibrancy. Wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, take in panoramic views from São Jorge Castle, or hop on a tram to Belém, where you can enjoy the famous pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém. Don’t miss the lively Bairro Alto district, home to Fado music and trendy bars.
2. Porto
Porto, the city of port wine, is set along the Douro River and is known for its colorful buildings, charming riverside, and delicious wine. Take a boat tour along the river, visit the Livraria Lello (one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world), and don’t forget to cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for spectacular views.
3. Sintra
Just a short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale town surrounded by lush forests and stunning palaces. Visit the Pena Palace, a colorful and eccentric castle perched on a hilltop, and explore the Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious estate with hidden tunnels and magical gardens.
4. Algarve
Portugal’s southernmost region is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira. The Algarve is ideal for sunbathing, water sports, and hiking. You can also explore the beautiful caves of Lagos by boat or visit Ria Formosa Natural Park, a haven for bird-watching.
5. Douro Valley
For wine lovers, the Douro Valley is a must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to terraced vineyards and traditional quintas (wine estates). Take a scenic drive or boat cruise along the river, stopping to taste port wine and enjoy the breathtaking views.
6. Madeira and the Azores
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Portugal’s islands are perfect for nature lovers. Madeira is known for its lush gardens, rugged cliffs, and hiking trails, while the Azores offer volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and whale watching. 

Portugal isn't just a destination it's an invitation to explore, taste, and discover.

Whether you're wandering Lisbon's historic streets, sipping port in Porto, or exploring coastal treasures, each moment promises a unique story.

Ready to transform this inspiration into your personal adventure?

Sunlit Travel specializes in crafting personalized journeys that go beyond typical tourist experiences.
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Let's design your dream Portuguese expedition!

Recently, Sunlit Travel crowd-sourced advice from 85 experienced river cruisers to uncover the ultimate insider tips for first-time travelers. By analyzing responses from seasoned travelers who have navigated Europe's most beautiful waterways, I've compiled their collective wisdom into an easy to digest list. These recommendations are straight from fellow travelers and they will transform your initial river cruise experience from potentially overwhelming to absolutely stress-free.

PACKING: LESS IS MORE

One piece of advice stands out among the rest - PACK LIGHT! It's not just about saving luggage space, since there is plenty of room for that suitcase under the bed! Instead, it's about having a minimalist approach that affords a light packer extra freedom and more flexibility.
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The survey revealed that most people recommend bringing neutral colors and packed layers to be easily dressed up or down. Nearly 65% of respondents praised the onboard laundry services! The low cost and ease of service mean you can pack fewer clothes and refresh your wardrobe mid-trip. Most travelers reported next day turn around - quick and easy!

Shoes were a hot topic. Multiple respondents stressed the importance of comfortable walking shoes with good soles. You want to have shoes suitable for all weather conditions and able to handle the cobblestone streets that Europe is known for.

PRE-CRUISE PREPARATION

Most experienced cruisers strongly recommend arriving at least 1-2 days before your cruise. This isn't just about avoiding travel mishaps, it's about truly experiencing your embarkation city. The extra days allow you to adjust to the time zone, buffer against potential flight delays, and explore the city at a leisurely pace. Travelers agree, it sets the right tone for vacation when you start your journey feeling relaxed instead of rushed.

EMBRACE THE RIVER CRUISE LIFESTYLE

Many people who are embarking on their first river cruise have already experienced an ocean cruise. Well, you can forget all you know about ocean cruising because river cruising is an entirely different, more intimate experience. It's less about massive entertainment productions and more about immersive cultural experiences.
Some of the things that were suggested to do onboard included attending the 'sip and sail' happy hour - perfect for meeting fellow travelers! The intimate nature of river ships, typically hosting 150 or fewer passengers, creates a unique environment where strangers quickly become travel companions, and sometimes, lifelong friends. And be sure to book the Chef's Table experience early. This specialized dining experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ship's culinary artistry, typically featuring a multi-course meal with wine pairings and interactive chef presentations. And while you are making reservations, consider making one for the spa as well! 

The cruise manager will speak each evening after dinner to prepare you for the day ahead and they also provide you will a 'Daily Cruiser'. This rich document is a treasure trove of information according to seasoned travelers, outlining excursion details, onboard activities, dining options, and local insights that can dramatically enhance your travel experience.

MONEY MATTERS

A little known tip: your iphone calculator has a built in currency converter! Pro Tip, it also converts temperature (Celsius to Fahrenheit and vice versa). Seasoned travelers recommend paying directly in local currency and carrying a few Euro coins for restroom access, while using credit cards that waive foreign transaction fees to simplify financial transactions abroad. The key is to focus less on finding the perfect exchange rate and more on enjoying your travel experience, understanding that minor currency fluctuations will have minimal impact on your overall trip budget.

Each recommendation comes from travelers who've stood where you're standing now: excited, perhaps a bit nervous, and eager to embark on an extraordinary journey. These insights aren't theoretical suggestions, but real-world experiences shared by those who've transformed river cruising from a simple vacation into a transformative adventure. 
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I hope this roadmap helps to ensure your first river cruise with AMAwaterways is nothing short of spectacular!