Coimbra & Aveiro Full-Day Private Tour from Porto
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Coimbra's historic University
- Wander through Aveiro's Art Nouveau district
- Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch
- Discover the secrets of Ovos Moles sweets
- Experience the charm of Portugal's Venice
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private transportation from Porto
- Guided tours in Coimbra and Aveiro
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Personal expenses
Itinerary
Pass by: our expert guide will collect you from your hotel/accommodation or meeting point and will drive you to Coimbra, your first stop! On your way, the guide will give you insights regarding the Portuguese history, development and cultural facts of portuguese heritage.
We begin this visit, precisely at the university founded in the XIIIth Century and which UNESCO has placed on its list of World Heritage sites, in a classification that also includes Rua da Sofia and the upper part of the city. It's well worth climbing its tower, which houses the bells that signal the start and end of classes, in order to appreciate the superb 360º view of Coimbra. But there is much to see at ground level, too: the Pátio das Escolas courtyard, the Sala dos Capelos hall where the most important ceremonies are held, the Chapel of São Miguel with an imposing Baroque organ and the Joanine Library, which has more than 300,000 works dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries arranged in beautiful gilt-covered bookcases. The buildings occupy the place of the Palace where the first Kings of Portugal lived, when they made the city the capital of the kingdom. Admission to the university and library is not included.
On the banks of the river Mondego, Coimbra is famous for its University, the oldest in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe, which over time has shaped its image to become "the city of students". There are several monuments from those times that display the splendour of Romanesque art. In the shopping area and area of historic cafés in the City Centre, visitors really must see the Monastery of Santa Cruz, which houses the tomb of the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, and on the other bank, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, recovered and rescued from the waters of the river that invaded it over the centuries. The Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), too, on whose steps the monumental serenade takes place in which students dressed in black capes sing the Coimbra Fado with heartfelt emotion. This is one of the events in the Queima das Fitas ritual (Burning of the Ribbons) every May, in which newly graduated students celebrate the completion of their course, at a very colourful party. This liveliness is felt throughout the year, however, in the many pubs, restaurants and “Repúblicas” (student residences), examples of community life.
For the afternoon, the tour proceeds to Aveiro, next to the sea and the ria (estuary), is crossed by a network of channels through which moliceiros (local boats) meander. These slim, colourful vessels used to be used to collect algae and seaweed, and today are for sightseeing trips.
Cruise Aveiro's dazzling canals on a classic Moliceiro (traditional boat) Relax and enjoy the landscape on this traditional boat, that once was used to collect seagrass in the lagoon.
Next and Last stop: Costa Nova do Prado beach, famous only by the name Costa Nova. The most picturesque aspect of Costa Nova is its coast road along which a line of wooden huts is painted in brightly coloured stripes alternating with white. Built by fishermen as shelters and equipment stores, the huts have now been converted into rather characteristic holiday homes.
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately.
- Private tour; maximum group size may apply.
- Advance booking recommended to secure your spot.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets.
- Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Please kindly be aware that the overall duration of the activity could be influenced by traffic conditions. We highly advise against scheduling any additional activities or making other plans within the hour following the anticipated completion time.
- Discover Porto in a unique way with a Free Walking Tour with Living Tours, available to all customers who book this activity. Our Free Walking Tour is available on a daily basis, in English and Spanish, at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. departing from Living Tours Agency located in Rua Mouzinho da Silveira 352, 4050-418 Porto
Traveler reviews
Bad experience
Incomplete. In Coimbra neither the university nor the Juanina library was visited. Out of stock on arrival
A Great Day out in Coimbra and Aveiro
Our driver and guide Nuno was excellent. He was extremely knowledgeable not only about the area but also the churches and monuments. He was excellent driver, keeping us informed of journey time, minutes to arrival etc. All of the above was done with a pleasant and easy going manner - you could not wish for more in a guide
Outstanding Day Tour to Coimbra and Aveiro
My wife and I booked a private full-day tour from Porto to Coimbra and Aveiro, and it exceeded all expectations! Our tour guide Miguel was absolutely outstanding - engaging, informative, and incredibly knowledgeable about not just the tour destinations but Portuguese culture and history as a whole. His fluent English made the experience seamless and enriching. The transportation was comfortable and safe throughout the entire day. Coimbra proved to be a beautiful college town with fascinating history surrounding what's often called "the Harvard of Portugal." There's so much to see and learn about this historic university city. Aveiro was equally charming - this delightful coastal town is definitely worth the drive. The canals and colorful homes create a magical atmosphere that shouldn't be missed. We highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Porto, especially if Miguel is available as your guide. His expertise and passion for his country truly made this an unforgettable experience. Five stars without hesitation!
Fátima day tour
Paulo was the tour guide very knowledgeable and nice . Give him 5 stars. I would recommend this company and this particular tour to my freinds
Fabulous Day Trip from Porto
Our guide Nuno was excellent -- personable, professional and extremely knowledgeable about history, architecture and religious art. The stops at Aveiro and Costa Nova were fun and interesting, but Coimbra was the highlight. The admission to the library, chapel and palace was well worth it, but the town itself is the jewel. Beautiful views, gorgeous cathedrals, the vibrant University, a flourishing historical and cultural center. A lovely day we will always remember. Thanks, Living Tours!