From Porto: Coimbra, Aveiro and Costa Nova Day Tour

Explore the enchanting cities of Coimbra, Aveiro, and Costa Nova on this captivating day tour from Porto. Uncover the historic University of Coimbra, marvel at the striking Sé Velha, and indulge in a leisurely lunch. Then, venture to the picturesque Costa Nova, famous for its vibrant, striped beach houses, before embarking on a serene boat cruise through Aveiro’s captivating canals. This tour offers a well-rounded experience, showcasing the diverse beauty and rich heritage of Portugal’s central region.

Good To Know

• Depart from Porto for a full-day tour to Coimbra, Aveiro, and Costa Nova, with a small group of up to 7 participants.
• Explore the historic University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, and visit the optional Sé Velha Gothic cathedral.
• Enjoy free time in Coimbra to indulge in local cuisine and discover the town’s charming streets and shops.
• Experience a boat cruise through the canals of Aveiro, the "Venice of Portugal," and visit the picturesque beach of Costa Nova.
• The tour includes transportation, a driver/guide, water, Wi-Fi, and the Aveiro boat cruise, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour departs from Porto and takes visitors to the historic university city of Coimbra, the vibrant coastal town of Aveiro, and the charming beach resort of Costa Nova.

Set out on a journey from Porto to the historic Coimbra, vibrant Aveiro, and charming Costa Nova.

It’s a small-group tour limited to 7 participants, with live guides available in English, French, and Portuguese.

The full-day tour lasts 10 hours and is priced from $169.01 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and customers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes transportation, a driver/guide, water, waterproof equipment, Wi-Fi, and a boat cruise in Aveiro.

University of Coimbra

One of the highlights of the Coimbra, Aveiro and Costa Nova Day Tour is the visit to the University of Coimbra, which stands as one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Explore its centuries-old courtyards and corridors, marveling at the historic architecture and rich academic legacy. An optional visit to the Sé Velha, Coimbra’s Gothic cathedral, provides a glimpse into the region’s religious heritage.

With 105 minutes allocated for the university tour, you’ll have ample time to learn about this renowned educational institution and its captivating sense of timelessness.

Sé Velha, Coimbra

Although an optional add-on, visitors can enhance their University of Coimbra experience by exploring the nearby Sé Velha, Coimbra’s impressive Gothic cathedral. Dating back to the 12th century, this architectural gem features intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and well-preserved medieval elements. Visitors can marvel at the cathedral’s grandeur and learn about its rich history.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Gothic style with Romanesque influences |

| Construction | Began in 1162, completed in 13th century |

| Notable Elements | Stone carvings, stained glass, medieval features |

Exploring Sé Velha provides a deeper understanding of Coimbra’s religious heritage and architectural legacy.

Lunch & Free Time in Coimbra

After the visit to the University of Coimbra, the tour provides 1 hour of free time for participants to enjoy lunch and explore Coimbra’s charming city center at their own pace.

This allows travelers to indulge in the local cuisine, which is renowned for its rich flavors and traditional dishes.

Visitors can wander through the historic streets, browse specialty shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this university town.

With ample time to discover Coimbra’s highlights, this segment of the tour offers a chance to truly take in the city’s charm.

More Great Tours Nearby

Costa Nova Beach

Following the visit to Coimbra, the tour now journeys to the charming coastal town of Costa Nova. Nestled along the Atlantic Ocean, Costa Nova is renowned for its picturesque praia (beach) and distinctive striped haystacks. Visitors can stroll along the sandy shores, marvel at the vibrant-hued wooden cabanas, and capture stunning photographs. The tour provides ample time to explore this quaint seaside destination at leisure.

| Highlights | |

| — | — |

| Praia da Costa Nova | Colorful striped haystacks |

| Wooden cabanas | Seaside strolls |

| Photo opportunities | Relaxation by the ocean |

Aveiro Boat Cruise

Next, the tour takes participants on a delightful boat cruise through the canals of Aveiro. Known as the "Venice of Portugal", this picturesque city offers a unique opportunity to explore its charming waterways.

The 1-hour boat ride allows visitors to:

1. Admire the colorful traditional moliceiro boats, traditionally used for harvesting seaweed.

2. Discover the city’s architecture, including art nouveau buildings and charming bridges.

3. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and get a different perspective of Aveiro from the water.

This tranquil boat tour is a highlight of the day, providing a chance to take in Aveiro’s enchanting aquatic setting.

Key Attractions

The tour highlights some of Portugal’s most renowned historical and cultural attractions.

Visiting the centuries-old University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, guests can explore its storied courtyards and corridors. The optional tour of the Gothic Sé Velha cathedral provides a glimpse into the region’s religious heritage.

In Aveiro, known as the "Venice of Portugal," the boat cruise offers a charming perspective of the picturesque canals and bridges.

The tour’s final stop at Praia da Costa Nova features the area’s iconic colorful seaside haystacks, perfect for those seeking stunning photography opportunities.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes transportation via an air-conditioned van, a driver/guide, bottled water, waterproof equipment, and Wi-Fi. The boat circuit ticket in Aveiro is also covered.

Enjoy a comfortable journey with a knowledgeable guide, water, and Wi-Fi, along with a boat tour in Aveiro.

However, the tour excludes:

1. Food and drinks

2. Entrance tickets for university visits and monuments

3. Tips

These exclusions allow travelers to personalize their experience and budget according to their preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 7 participants. The small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience for all travelers on the excursion.

Do Participants Need to Bring Their Own Lunch?

Participants don’t need to bring their own lunch, as there’s an optional 1-hour lunch break in Coimbra, where they can purchase food at their own expense. The tour includes transportation but not meals.

Can the Boat Cruise in Aveiro Be Extended?

The boat cruise in Aveiro can’t be extended. The tour itinerary includes a 1-hour boat cruise, which is fixed and can’t be lengthened. Participants should plan their time accordingly during the Aveiro portion of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer discounts for students or seniors, but travelers can check with the tour provider to inquire about any available discounted rates or special offers prior to booking.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

The tour can be customized to include additional stops, though this may incur an extra fee. Customers should inquire with the tour provider about the possibility and cost of adding more destinations to the itinerary.

The Sum Up

This day tour offers a chance to explore the historic charm of Portugal. Visitors can discover the prestigious University of Coimbra, wander the picturesque Costa Nova, and cruise through the canals of Aveiro. With a mix of architecture, culture, and natural beauty, this tour provides a well-rounded experience showcasing the highlights of central Portugal.

You can check availability for your dates here: