Discover a unique day trip departing from Lisbon with our Coimbra and Aveiro Tour. Explore the oldest university in Europe in Coimbra and be enchanted by the canals of the “Portuguese Venice” in Aveiro. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to visit two such beautiful and historic cities.
This private tour will start and end in Lisbon. For any questions, feel free to contact us.
Explore the charming Aveiro, known for its shipbuilding and salt production, as well as its canals that earned it the nickname “Portuguese Venice.” Sail along the canals aboard the traditional moliceiros, boats that once harvested seaweed and now take tourists around the city. The 19th and 20th-century buildings showcase unique architecture, reflecting Aveiro’s historical significance and its role in Portugal’s architectural development.
In Coimbra, don’t miss the stunning Joanina Library, an 18th-century Baroque treasure that houses a vast collection of rare books. With its lavish decor and historical atmosphere, the Joanina Library is a true sanctuary of knowledge. Discover these two iconic cities with our Coimbra and Aveiro Tour, the perfect way to explore while staying in your Lisbon hotel.
Itinerary
After a two-hour journey from Lisbon, we arrive in Coimbra, where we explore the vibrant Baixa district. Originally outside the city walls, it is now a picturesque neighborhood filled with artisanal shops and historic buildings. A must-see stop is the Church of Santa Cruz, where Dom Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, is buried. We can’t miss tasting the delicious Pastéis de Tentúgal, one of the many local delicacies.
Continuing our journey, we visit the University Palace, with the Joanina Library standing out as one of the most beautiful in the world. Built between 1717 and 1728, it reflects the splendor of Portuguese Baroque. It is a true cultural “gem,” showcasing King João V’s commitment to education and culture.
It’s crucial to reserve tickets in advance, as the visit is limited and highly sought after. When booking your Coimbra and Aveiro Tour, let us know your preference to ensure your visit to the University (ticket not included in the tour price).
If your visit includes a gastronomic experience, we suggest stopping for lunch at a renowned spot specializing in the regional dish: Bairrada-style roast suckling pig. Slowly roasted in a wood-fired oven for about two hours, it’s a must-try delicacy. The Bairrada region is famous for this cuisine, often paired with a local sparkling wine.
Upon arriving in Aveiro, we encounter the iconic product that has defined the region for decades: salt. This resource, used for centuries to preserve codfish, continues to be exported worldwide.
We offer the possibility of a picturesque ride on a Moliceiro, a boat traditionally used to transport seaweed, now used for tours through the canals of Aveiro. It’s a kind of Portuguese “gondola.” Afterward, we will explore the city center, filled with Art Nouveau buildings and one of Gustave Eiffel’s legacies in Portugal, the Aveiro Market.
