Top Coimbra How to Get Around - page 3

The city of Coimbra was the first capital of the kingdom of Portugal, but its history goes back much further. It came to prominence in Roman times, but it was during the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula that the city of Coimbra became instrumental in consolidating the formation of the kingdom of Portugal, the oldest nation-state in Europe. That’s why this city has some of the most impressive medieval monuments in Portuguese history, which we invite you to discover in the company of local guides who were former students at the University of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal.

Located just north of Coimbra, the 19th-century Buçaco Palace is a beautiful piece of architecture tucked away in the forest of the same name. On this private excursion, take a guided tour of the palace, gardens, and surrounding forest to learn about the history of the neo-Manueline style building.

Founded by the Romans as "Aeminium", Coimbra buzzes with life till today. We'll gather downtown near the river, where the music of street performers meets the daily hustle of one of Coimbra's most iconic streets. Surrounded by small streets that weave in and out of the main road, you'll learn about the churches and the stories they keep within their walls. We'll get to know these places more intimately, and we'll stop for a coffee or a snack along the way. Up the hilly way we go to take in view and get acquaintance with the University, academic culture in Coimbra, and its many quirks. After getting to know the University we'll make our way just down the road by the impressive Roma aqueduct, and enter the country's most important botanical garden where you'll learn of its origins and relevance that it still holds today. The plaza where the students gather in the late afternoons, by entrance of the magical Mermaid Garden, awaits you at the end of your journey. - What are you waiting for?

Step back in time with a visit to two historic schist villages—Candal and Talasnal—located in the Lousã Mountains. These villages feature homes dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, offering a glimpse into the region's rich medieval history and timeless charm. Enjoy scenic landscapes, rustic architecture, and peaceful surroundings on this private tour from Coimbra.

If you’re a history buff, don’t miss this private tour focusing on sights significant to the Knights Templar, a Catholic military order. You’ll be able to ask as many questions as you like as you explore with your guide, who gives you ample time at historic gems such as Almourol Castle and the medieval town of Tomar.

Venture away from the bustling city and spend a day in wine country on this full-day excursion. Visit central Portugal’s Bairrada wine region for a day filled with tastings and local experiences. Stop at a few vineyards to learn about the winemaking process, including how to make sparkling wine. Sample various wines, stroll through the vines, walk through deep cellar tunnels, and more over the course of the day.

Discover Coimbra beyond the guidebooks on a 2-hour small-group walk through the university and the medieval heart of Portugal's first capital. Your host is Mateus, a current University of Coimbra student who grew up spending his summers in Florida and speaks fluent English. Starting at the Iron Gate, hear about the university's traditions, student rituals and the iconic black capes. Explore the university, founded in 1290, and see the exterior of the Joanina Library, then the Sé Nova, a Jesuit church turned cathedral. Pass the 12th-century Sé Velha and descend the cobbled Rua de Quebra Costas, hearing about Fado de Coimbra and the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês de Castro. Continue through the medieval Almedina Tower to Rua Ferreira Borges, the main pedestrian street, and the Santa Cruz Monastery, where Portugal's first two kings are buried. Finish by the Mondego River, with views back over the old town and the university on its hill.

Explore three UNESCO World Heritage sites in Portugal—Tomar, Batalha, and Alcobaça—in just one day when you book this private excursion from Coimbra. Dive into the history of the “Templar City,” witness the grandeur of the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, and marvel at Alcobaça Monastery, which features a mix of Gothic and baroque architecture.

Make the most of limited time in Northern Portugal with this private half-day excursion from Coimbra to Aveiro. Skip the hassle of time-consuming public transport and instead benefit from the convenience and insight of your driver-guide as you stop to ride a moliceiro boat along the canals of Aveiro and visit the beaches of both Barra and Costa Nova.

Coimbra, a city of students, a city where we learn to say saudade, a city full of charms and nooks where sections of the old wall will guide us in an adventure full of history, memories and wisdom. We will start this adventure along the banks of the river Mondego, where we will cross a pedestrian colored bridge, the Pedro and Ines Bridge, towards the Tollgate. On this bridge, you still have the privilege of contemplating a great panoramic view to the magnificent city of Coimbra and surrounding mountains. Along this route, the vast historical, cultural and natural heritage of this city awakens, in each one of us, the desire to set out on an adventure. An adventure to discover the history and mysteries hidden along the streets and staircases, from the downtown area to the high zone of the city, an adventure to get to know the old walled city and the oldest University of Europe, the University of Coimbra.

Escape the crowds and delve into the natural and agricultural wonderland of the Gaios trail— leading to the Penedo C'Abana viewpoint—on a hiking tour of Tábua. Throughout this private hike, you'll be able to stop to rest and take photographs whenever you like, as well as walking at a pace that suits you and your party.

The Roman Empire had an enormous weight in our culture and the evidence of this can be found a bit everywhere in the Sicó area. In this adventure we will start to discover the complex of the Roman Ruins of Conímbriga where you can contemplate the architectural capability of the Roman people and how they lived. From here we will head towards another “ex-libris” of this region, the Casmilo Holes, majestic geological formations that were once complexes of underground caves that are now exposed to the surface. All this and much more is what we will discover in this adventure... ENTRY INCLUDED

Unveil the best kept secrets of the traditional culinary of Coimbra, paired with excellent local wines, in hidden locations you could not find on your own, learn about how these authentic delicacies end up on our tables and understand the importance of the Portuguese Maritime Expansion contribution to the local economy, society and gastronomy. Visit a hidden old tavern still in business since the 15th Century and finally, taste our best wine product: the "Espumante", traditionally made at this Wine Region DOC Bairrada while enjoying the best views over the city!

Guided tours are good for getting oriented, but often follow strict itineraries on tight schedules. With this self-guided audio tour, explore the heart of Coimbra’s historical center at your own pace. Walk through the city’s old medieval gates to the alleys, sidewalk cafes, and music venues of Alta da Cidade (Upper Town). Learn about the history of Fado music, and finish your tour at the university campus, where you’ll catch amazing views of the city and Mondego River.

Discover one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world on our private Fátima tour from Lisbon. At Lisbon Daytrip, we offer pick-up and drop-off services in a 9-seat van, ensuring you enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience. During this tour, you will visit the iconic Chapel of the Apparitions, the site where the Virgin Mary appeared to the three shepherd children in 1917. You will also see the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity. Attend a mass and light a candle on this spiritual journey. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the religious and regional souvenir shops in Fátima. Book now to discover the spiritual side of Portugal on our private Fátima tour from Lisbon.

Learn all about Fatima today in this half day guided tour. You'll have plenty of stops along the way, and be driven to each in an air conditioning, private vehicle. Your guide will be an English speaker, and they will explain the history and significance of the places you see along the way. Visit churches, chapels, and significant houses along the tour today.

Explore the Portuguese pilgrimage site of Fátima on this half-day tour. After a convenient pickup from your Fátima hotel, visit the Chapel of Apparitions and the basilica where the three children to whom the Holy Lady of Fátima appeared a century ago are buried. Visit their homes in the village of Aljustrel, see the church where they were baptized, and learn their compelling story from an informative local guide.

Lose yourself in the flavors and sights of the Douro Valley with this private guided tour. Travel to Peso da Régua for port wine tasting and views of the Douo River. Drive along the scenic N-222 road through the valley to Pinhão to see its ornate railway station and sample some local olive oil and honey with a visit to another winery.

Bairrada is one of Portugal’s most prestigious wine regions and lies just north of Coimbra. On this tour, learn more about Portuguese wine and Bairrada’s wine-making heritage as you visit one of two wine cellars, and sample the region’s famous sparkling wine. Afterwards, explore the natural landscapes of the Bussaco Forest and perhaps stop at a local restaurant to sample local delicacy, Roasted Piglet (own expense).

Discover what’s left of the ancient Roman empire in Portugal when you visit the Conímbriga ruins from Coimbra. Alongside a private guide, explore the site that dates back to prehistoric times but was established as the capital of Lusitânia by the Romans in 139 BC. See the remains of the manor houses, the Roman Forum, Domus, and much more.

Schist villages have already been called “magic villages”, their names sound like Romans, Arabs and even barbarians, but it is their characteristic appearance that makes them so fantastic. These structures dating back to medieval times exude an architectural beauty that is still difficult to match today, even more fascinating are the places where they are located due to the need to settle for pastoral and agricultural activities. During this adventure we will take you to know some of the most beautiful schist villages of Serra da Lousã as well as the breathtaking landscapes that this unique place has to offer… It includes a jeep ride through the Lousã mountain range and a visit to the beautiful Schist villages in the morning and a walk of about 6 km and an intermediate level of difficulty in the afternoon along some of the most beautiful trails in the mountain.

Step into the world of the Knights Templar on this immersive self-guided walking tour of Tomar. The legendary order didn’t just defend pilgrims—they founded this remarkable city. You’ll explore Praça da República, where Gualdim Pais established Tomar in 1160, visit the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, the final resting place of Templar grand masters, and stroll through the Seven Hills National Forest, once the knights’ agricultural heart. Discover the gripping story of their rise and fall before ending at the imposing Castelo de Tomar, where a brilliant defense helped them defeat Moorish invaders. Along the way, see Portugal’s oldest synagogue, an ancient Arabic waterwheel, and more. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, this tour brings Tomar’s past to life!

Discover the natural wonder of the Mira de Aire Caves, one of the 7 Wonders of Portugal, on a private tour from Coimbra. Explore the stunning underground world shaped over 150 million years, featuring illuminated galleries, limestone formations, and underground lakes. The journey also includes a visit to the Medieval Castle of Porto de Mós, offering a glimpse into Portugal's rich history. Enjoy the convenience of private transportation from your hotel, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. - Private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience - Explore Mira de Aire Caves with an expert guide and see geological formations - Visit the historical Medieval Castle of Porto de Mós - Experience the stunning Aires and Candeeiros Mountain Range en route

Venture away from the city of Coimbra and spend a day immersed in nature during this private excursion. Head to the mountains for a look at the small shale villages that dot the landscape including Piodao, relax on the riverside beach in Coja, and see a few waterfalls. Throughout the tour, your guide regales you with information about the local area and makes time for you to explore.