Coimbra’s historical roots date back to Roman times. It has played an important part in Portugal’s history over the centuries, and even served at the country’s first capital from 1131-1255. Coimbra is perhaps best known for its university, which is the oldest in the country, and one of the oldest universities in the world. The best way to discover and experience this historic city is to take a private tour of its city center.
During this 8 hour private tour you will learn about the city’s history, neighborhoods, and historic landmarks. The full day tour gives you more time to take in the city, explore the sites in more depth, and stop for lunch. Your guide/driver will pick you up at your hotel, or meet you at the train station if visiting Coimbra as a day trip from Lisbon. The tour can be customized to meet your specific interests.
A suggested itinerary for the tour includes the following stops/visits:
- Panoramic view of Coimbra from the Vale do Inferno lookout
- Santa Clara-a-Nova Convent
- Arco de Almedina
- Monastery of Santa Cruz – National Pantheon where the country’s first two kings are buried
- Fado House
- Old Cathedral
- University of Coimbra – Library, Chapel, Ceremonial Hall, Private Exam Room, Academic Prison
- Panoramic tour by car, including Republic Aquare, Roman aqueduct, Botanical Garden, Penedo da Saudade, Estádio Cidade de Coimbra, Norton de Matos district, Queen Santa Isabel Bridge
- Quinta das Lágrimas Garden
2023 Prices and other info:
Tour price for 1-3 People in a Sedan
- US $625 – Daily (start time from 9:00am to 10:00am)
Tour price for 4-7 People in a Minivan
- US $795 – Daily (start time from 9:00am to 10:00am)
Prices available on request for larger groups
All tours:
- Price includes a tour with a licensed guide/driver with transportation for 8 hours
- Price does not include meals or entrance fees (if any), which are extra
- Guide/driver will accompany clients inside of monuments
- Vehicles are insured, as required by Portuguese law
- Common languages available: English, Portuguese, Spanish, French
- Gratuities are not included and are at the discretion of the client
- Prices are subject to change
If visiting Coimbra as a day trip from Lisbon: Coimbra is easily reached from Lisbon by train. The high-speed Alfa Pendular (AP) train has frequent service daily between Lisbon-Santa Apolónia station and Coimbra-B station. The ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance online from Comboios de Portugal, the national rail network. For train schedules and ticket prices, click here.
Photo credit: © Christopher Pappas · All rights reserved.
For assistance with your travel plans, including hotel and private tour reservations, click here.