From Lisbon: Aveiro and Coimbra Food Experience

Discover the culinary and cultural gems that lie beyond Lisbon’s bustling city limits. This captivating 12-hour journey takes you to the charming canals of Aveiro and the historic university town of Coimbra. Indulge in the region’s renowned suckling pig, sip local Bairrada wine, and learn about the rich heritage of these captivating destinations. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, this experience promises to delight and inspire.

Good To Know

• Explore the charming canals of Aveiro via a leisurely boat ride and visit either Costa Nova Beach or historic monuments.
• Savor the renowned suckling pig, known as "leitão da Bairrada," in the town of Mealhada during a traditional Portuguese lunch.
• Discover the oldest university in Portugal, the University of Coimbra, and marvel at the 18th-century Joanina Library.
• Contrast the Old and New Cathedrals in Coimbra and uncover the city’s medieval heritage at Almedina Tower and Arch.
• Explore the religious history of Coimbra by visiting the Santa Cruz Church and Santa Clara Monastery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour provides a delightful exploration of the culinary and cultural delights of Aveiro and Coimbra.

Guests will embark on a 12-hour journey from Lisbon, starting with a boat ride through Aveiro’s picturesque canals.

They’ll then visit the stunning Costa Nova Beach or historic monuments in Aveiro before savoring Portugal’s famous suckling pig in Mealhada.

The tour continues in Coimbra, where travelers will discover the oldest university in Portugal, its cathedrals, and other architectural gems.

With a live guide, included lunch, and hassle-free cancellation, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of these two charming Portuguese destinations.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a leisurely boat ride through Aveiro’s picturesque canals, allowing guests to admire the city’s charming scenery from a unique vantage point.

After the canal experience, the tour visits either Costa Nova Beach or explores historic monuments in Aveiro.

Next, the group stops in Mealhada to savor Portugal’s famous suckling pig.

In Coimbra, the tour highlights include:

• Visiting the oldest university in Portugal with its breathtaking 18th-century library

• Seeing the new and old cathedrals, Almedina Tower, and Arch

• Exploring the Santa Cruz Church and Santa Clara Monastery

Aveiro: Boat Ride and Sights

As visitors embark on the tour, they commence their experience with a leisurely boat ride through Aveiro’s picturesque canals.

Gliding along the serene waterways, they marvel at the charming architecture and colorful houses lining the banks. The boat tour provides a unique perspective of the city, allowing guests to appreciate Aveiro’s distinctive character.

After the relaxing boat ride, the tour continues with a visit to either Costa Nova Beach or historic monuments in Aveiro, giving travelers a chance to further explore this captivating coastal city before moving on to the next destination.

Mealhada: Savoring Suckling Pig

Next, the tour makes a stop in Mealhada, where visitors can savor Portugal’s renowned suckling pig. This local delicacy, known as "leitão da Bairrada," is a specialty of the region.

Visitors can indulge in:

• Slow-roasted suckling pig with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat

• Traditional accompaniments like roasted potatoes, rice, and a refreshing salad

• Savory sauces and condiments to enhance the flavors

• Pairing the dish with a glass of local Bairrada wine

• An opportunity to learn about the preparation and cultural significance of this iconic Portuguese cuisine.

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Coimbra: Exploring the Former Capital

After savoring the renowned suckling pig in Mealhada, the tour continues on to the historic city of Coimbra, which was once the capital of Portugal.

Visitors will explore Coimbra’s oldest university, featuring an impressive 18th-century library. They’ll also see the new and old cathedrals, Almedina Tower, and Arch.

Coimbra’s oldest university, with its impressive 18th-century library, as well as the new and old cathedrals, Almedina Tower, and Arch.

Plus, the tour includes visits to the Santa Cruz Church and Santa Clara Monastery.

This comprehensive exploration of Coimbra’s rich history and architecture provides an immersive experience for participants to appreciate Portugal’s former capital.

Coimbra: Historic Landmarks

Coimbra’s historic landmarks captivate visitors with their architectural grandeur and cultural significance. The former Portuguese capital boasts an array of must-see sites:

• The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, is the oldest in Portugal and home to the stunning 18th-century Joanina Library.

• The Old Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece, and the New Cathedral, a Baroque jewel, stand in striking contrast.

• The Almedina Tower, a fortified gateway, and the Arch, a triumphal arch, showcase the city’s medieval heritage.

• The Santa Cruz Church and Santa Clara Monastery offer insights into Coimbra’s religious history.

• Visitors can wander the charming historic center, taking in the city’s timeless ambiance.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a guided experience with a live tour guide who can provide commentary in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese.

A boat ride through Aveiro’s picturesque canals is included, as is a lunch showcasing Portugal’s culinary delights. Tips are also covered.

However, entry and admission fees to monuments in Aveiro and Coimbra aren’t included in the tour price.

Participants can expect a relaxed tour atmosphere and a friendly guide, based on positive customer feedback.

The tour is available for selection of participants and date, with availability checks for starting times.

Customer Experience and Booking

Customers who’ve taken this tour have praised its relaxed atmosphere and the friendliness of the guide. Based on a single review, the tour received an impressive 5/5 rating.

Highlights of the customer experience include:

• Overall relaxed and enjoyable tour atmosphere

• Knowledgeable and personable tour guide

• Opportunity to savor Portugal’s culinary specialties during the included lunch

• Hassle-free booking process with flexible start times

• Ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Booking the tour is straightforward – simply select the desired date and participants, then check availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour operator offers the option to reserve the tour exclusively for your group. Additional fees may apply for a private tour.

Are There Options for Vegetarian or Vegan Meals?

The tour accommodates vegetarian and vegan dietary needs. Guests can select these meal options when booking the tour. The lunch will feature Portuguese dishes tailored to suit a range of dietary requirements.

Do We Get Free Time to Explore Aveiro and Coimbra on Our Own?

The tour provides free time for participants to explore Aveiro and Coimbra on their own. Travelers can wander the picturesque canals, historic monuments, and university in Coimbra during the allocated free time segments of the day.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, with stops to explore Aveiro’s canals by boat and visit historical sites in both Aveiro and Coimbra. Guests can expect a relaxed pace, allowing them to fully experience the highlights of each destination.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but the itinerary includes a mix of walking and boat rides. Travelers should check with the tour provider if they need to make any special accommodations for the duration or activities.

The Sum Up

This food and cultural experience from Lisbon offers a delightful 12-hour journey to explore the charms of Aveiro and Coimbra. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through Aveiro’s canals, savor the renowned suckling pig in Mealhada, and learn about Coimbra’s rich heritage, including its historic university. It’s a well-rounded tour that showcases the culinary and cultural treasures of these captivating Portuguese cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: