Full Day Tour From Porto to Coimbra and Aveiro With River Cruise

Exploring Portugal’s historic cities of Coimbra and Aveiro can be a captivating experience. This full-day tour from Porto promises to take travelers on a journey through the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will wander the UNESCO-listed university, marvel at Baroque architecture, and cruise along Aveiro’s canals in traditional boats. With an opportunity to take in the unique atmospheres of these destinations, this tour offers a chance to uncover the stories that have shaped Portugal’s past. Whether seeking an educational excursion or a chance to witness the country’s enchanting scenery, this expedition could prove a highlight of any visit to the region.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Porto.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Porto that visits the historic cities of Coimbra and Aveiro, including a cruise along Aveiro’s canals in traditional ‘moliceiro’ boats.
• Allows exploration of ancient monuments and historic treasures in Coimbra, such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed University of Coimbra.
• Provides a unique perspective of Aveiro’s distinctive architecture and waterways through the river cruise.
• Includes a local guide who provides insights and commentary throughout the tour.
• Lunch and bottled water are provided, but entry fees for the Coimbra University Complex are excluded.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Porto takes visitors to the historic cities of Coimbra and Aveiro, allowing them to explore ancient monuments and historic treasures in one day.

The tour includes a cruise along Aveiro’s canals in a traditional ‘moliceiro’ boat, providing a unique perspective of the city’s distinctive architecture and waterways.

In Coimbra, travelers will discover the university complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and other significant landmarks.

Throughout the journey, a local guide provides insights and context, enhancing the overall experience.

With included lunch and bottled water, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the highlights of these two captivating Portuguese destinations in a single day.

Inclusions

The tour from Porto to Coimbra and Aveiro includes a local guide, a river cruise in Aveiro, lunch, and bottled water, as well as a fuel surcharge.

The local guide will provide insightful commentary and lead the group through the historic cities.

The river cruise in Aveiro allows you to explore the city’s canals on a traditional ‘moliceiro’ boat, offering a unique perspective.

Lunch is also included, ensuring you’ll have the energy to continue your adventure.

Plus, bottled water is provided to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Finally, the fuel surcharge is covered, so you don’t have to worry about any additional costs.

With these inclusions, you’re set for a full and enjoyable day of exploration.

Exclusions

The tour from Porto to Coimbra and Aveiro does not include:

• Personal expenses
• Entry fees for the Coimbra University Complex

Travelers will need to cover any additional costs they incur during the day, such as souvenirs or extra food and drinks.

The tour does not include admission to the Coimbra University Complex, which is one of the main attractions in Coimbra. Visitors will need to purchase tickets separately if they wish to explore this historic site.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins at 8:30 am from the meeting point located at Rua das Carmelitas 70 in Porto, where you will be picked up by the local guide.

The tour ends at the same location in Porto, allowing guests to easily return to their starting point.

Transportation isn’t provided, so guests will need to make their own way to the meeting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a minimum of 3 people is required for the tour to operate.

Infant seats are available, making it suitable for families with young children.

With a maximum of 8 travelers per tour, this small-group experience ensures a more intimate and personalized journey.

Additional Information

Travelers can expect confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility challenges may need to make alternative arrangements. A minimum of 3 people is required for the tour to operate, ensuring a shared experience among a small group. Public transportation is available near the meeting point, allowing guests to conveniently reach the starting location. Infant seats are provided, making the tour suitable for families with young children. The group size is capped at 8 travelers, fostering a more intimate and personalized journey.

Feature	Description
Confirmation	Provided within 48 hours, subject to availability
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible
Group Size	Minimum of 3, maximum of 8 travelers
Transportation	Public transit available near meeting point
Family-Friendly	Infant seats provided

Explore Historic Coimbra

Often, visitors start their exploration of Coimbra by wandering through the historic city center, where they’ll find ancient monuments and buildings that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.

One of the must-see sights is the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can stroll through the stunning Baroque library, explore the university’s courtyards and gardens, and visit the Joanina Library, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece.

Another highlight is the Sé Velha, a Romanesque cathedral that dates back to the 12th century and features intricate stone carvings.

Throughout the city, visitors will find charming plazas, lively cafes, and a palpable sense of history and tradition.

Cruise Aveiro’s Canals

One of the highlights of visiting Aveiro is the opportunity to cruise along the city’s intricate network of canals aboard a traditional ‘moliceiro’ boat. These colorful, gondola-like vessels are iconic to the region and offer a unique perspective of Aveiro’s charming waterways.

The canal cruise provides:

• A leisurely way to admire the art nouveau architecture that lines the canals.
• A chance to learn about the history and culture of Aveiro from the knowledgeable boat captains.
• A tranquil respite from the bustling streets, allowing visitors to soak in the peaceful ambiance of the city’s waterways.

The Aveiro canal cruise is a must-do activity that immerses visitors in the heart of this enchanting Portuguese city.

Full-Day Itinerary

After enjoying a leisurely cruise along Aveiro’s picturesque canals, the tour continues to the historic city of Coimbra, where visitors can discover ancient monuments and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Portugal.

The guided tour takes guests through Coimbra’s old town, including a visit to the iconic Coimbra University, one of the oldest universities in Europe. Visitors can explore the stunning buildings, libraries, and courtyards that have been the heart of academic life for centuries.

The tour also includes a stop for a traditional Portuguese lunch, providing an opportunity to savor the local cuisine. Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide shares insights and stories, enhancing the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

The tour does not specify whether participants can bring their own food. However, the inclusions indicate that lunch is provided as part of the tour, so bringing personal food may not be necessary.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Casual, smart-casual attire is generally appropriate for this type of sightseeing tour.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Visitors can expect to walk through the historic cities of Coimbra and Aveiro to see monuments and landmarks. The river cruise in Aveiro provides a break from walking.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes stops in the historic cities of Coimbra and Aveiro, which offer opportunities to explore local shops and markets for traditional Portuguese handicrafts, art, and other keepsakes.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Based on the tour overview, there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is specifically described as a "full day tour" with a fixed start and end time.

Recap

This full-day tour from Porto provides a captivating exploration of Coimbra’s historic university and Aveiro’s picturesque canals.

Visitors can wander through Coimbra’s UNESCO-listed campus, admire its Baroque library, and visit the Romanesque cathedral.

Then, they’ll cruise Aveiro’s enchanting waterways on traditional ‘moliceiro’ boats, taking in the city’s art nouveau architecture and learning about its rich culture.

This tour offers a unique perspective of these two enchanting Portuguese destinations.