The University of Coimbra is one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities, with a rich history and a UNESCO listed architecture. Founded in 1290 in Lisbon by King Dinis, the university moved between Lisbon and Coimbra several times before permanently settling in Coimbra in 1537 and has played a pivotal role in the development of Portuguese culture and science. Notable buildings on campus include the Sala dos Capelos, the Great Hall where doctoral examinations and important ceremonies take place, the University Tower, with panoramic views over the city and the stunning Biblioteca Joanina, a Baroque library with elaborately painted ceilings, gilt woodwork and decorated shelves and tens of thousands of ancient books.
The university has eight faculties covering arts, sciences, law, medicine, economics, psychology, sports sciences, and pharmacy catering to approximately 25,000 students. Students wear distinctive black capes (capas negras) as part of their academic attire and mark the end of the academic year with the "Queima das Fitas" (Burning of the Ribbons) festival.
Between the bustling capital of Lisbon and the majestic city of Porto, there is a wealth of smaller cities seeped in history and authentic Portuguese charm, offering a rich and rewarding experience for any traveller sage enough to seek them out. Our comprehensive private day trip from Porto offers you the chance to spend a morning on the enchanting streets of Coimbra, discovering the home of Portugal’s oldest university and UNESCO-listed architecture, followed by an afternoon overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where you’ll visit the gorgeous coastal city of Aveiro and glide along its emblematic canals in a traditional boat.
On your private full-day excursion, you will:
Set out on a private full-day excursion that unveils the history, architecture, and culture of Coimbra and Aveiro, two of Portugal’s most fascinating cities. Your journey begins with hassle-free hotel pick-up in Porto, where your knowledgeable local driver-guide will accompany you on a scenic drive south toward Coimbra, a city steeped in history that once served as the capital of Portugal for over a hundred years.
Upon arrival, you’ll step into Coimbra’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, where centuries of history unfold before your eyes. As you wander its atmospheric streets, you’ll hear the stories of Coimbra’s transformation from a Roman settlement to a medieval stronghold and an intellectual powerhouse. No visit to Coimbra is complete without seeing its legendary University. One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, it was founded in 1290, and is known for its grand courtyards, historic lecture halls, and magnificent Baroque library. As you see the opulent exterior, your guide will transport you back to an era when scholars shaped the future of Portugal. After exploring Coimbra's timeless alleyways and majestic cathedrals, you’ll pause for lunch, giving you a chance to enjoy some free time and some delectable local flavours (not included).
In the afternoon, your adventure continues as you make your way to Aveiro, a city defined by its charming canals, elegant Art Nouveau architecture, and unique maritime heritage. Often called the “Venice of Portugal”, Aveiro’s winding waterways are best explored by boat, so you’ll have the exciting opportunity to set sail on a Moliceiro boat cruise. You’ll glide along the tranquil canals in one of these beautifully painted, traditional vessels, learning about the city’s salt-harvesting and seaweed-collecting traditions. Strolling through the city’s historic centre, your guide can explain how Aveiro’s complex topography has shaped its development and cultural identity across the centuries.
Before returning to Porto, you’ll take a short detour out to Costa Nova, a former fishing village famous for its striking Palheiros, the vividly striped wooden houses that line the coastline. After snapping a few pictures, you can soak up the fresh Atlantic breeze, admire the white sand beaches, and take in the stunning ocean views before a relaxed drive North, with your guide dropping you off directly at your hotel.
This tour offers an intimate and immersive experience of two of Portugal’s most emblematic destinations with your expert guide able to adapt the itinerary to your interests. It is the perfect option for those wishing to make their most of their time in Portugal and go beyond the biggest cities, getting a feel for the vibrant and multifaceted culture.
Portugal has a remarkably rich history, and several cities have played pivotal roles in shaping the country’s cultural, political, and religious identity. Fátima is without doubt the religious capital, holding enormous spiritual weight due to the Marian apparitions that took place there in 1917 and has become one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Coimbra, on the other hand, can be seen as the country’s intellectual capital, home to one of the world’s oldest universities and a remarkably well-preserved historic centre. Our comprehensive excursion from Porto allows you to see the best of both cities and gain a deeper understanding of their profound impact on Portugal across the centuries.
On your private full-day excursion, you will:
Discover the spiritual and scholarly heart of Portugal on this enriching private day trip to Fátima and Coimbra. Departing from your hotel in Porto in the company of a knowledgeable driver-guide, who will bring centuries of Portuguese history and culture to life. You’ll journey first to Fátima, the country’s most important pilgrimage site. Along the way, hear the fascinating story of the three shepherd children who, in 1917, witnessed the Marian apparitions that would transform this quiet village into a spiritual hub known around the world.
Your first stop is the Aljustrel House Museum, the preserved home of the visionaries, offering intimate insight into their daily lives. From there, you'll continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a sacred complex that welcomes millions of pilgrims each year. You’ll see the Chapel of the Apparitions, built on the very spot of the Virgin Mary’s first appearance, the vast esplanade where masses are held, the striking Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the massive modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity, one of the largest Catholic churches in the world. After time for personal reflection and exploration, you’ll enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at a local restaurant before continuing north toward Coimbra.
Once the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra remains one of its most culturally significant cities. Upon arrival, you’ll begin with a visit to the hilltop Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and learn about Queen Saint Isabel, the revered monarch laid to rest here. Then you will descend to the atmospheric streets of Coimbra’s UNESCO-listed historic centre for a walking tour where your guide will reveal the city’s Roman roots, its vital role in the early formation of the Portuguese nation, and its enduring academic legacy. You’ll see the prestigious University of Coimbra, among the oldest in Europe, and hear stories of illustrious scholars and particular student traditions that carry on to this day while you admire the intricate details of its stunning historic architecture.
By the time you embark on the scenic journey back to your hotel in Porto, you’ll be left with a profound appreciation of Portugal’s spiritual and scholarly heritage brought to life by two of its most beloved cities.
Join the fastest growing community of professional tour guides.
Use our easy to integrate toolset to include Tours & Attractions in your customer journey.