This private day tour from Lisbon offers a unique opportunity to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Coimbra and Tomar. Priced at $519.93 for up to three participants, the 10-hour adventure promises an immersive experience. Visitors will marvel at the Convent of Christ‘s stunning architecture, explore Tomar’s historic center, and be captivated by the renowned University of Coimbra. With convenient transportation and an insightful guide, this tour provides a chance to uncover the rich history and cultural significance of these remarkable destinations.
Key Points
- This private day tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Coimbra and Tomar, including the University of Coimbra and the Convent of Christ.
- The tour is priced at $519.93 per group of up to 3 participants, with a 10-hour duration including pickup, drop-off, transportation, and a guide/driver.
- The itinerary includes a guided tour of the Convent of Christ in Tomar, exploration of Tomar’s historic center, and a visit to the University of Coimbra.
- The tour offers a flexible reservation with a pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Guests can enjoy scenic countryside views, air-conditioned transportation, WiFi access, and insights from a knowledgeable guide/driver throughout the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private day tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historic cities of Coimbra and Tomar, each with its own UNESCO World Heritage site.
Priced from $519.93 per group (up to 3 participants), the 10-hour tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a guide/driver who provides a seamless experience.
Along the way, you’ll visit the Convent of Christ in Tomar, the University of Coimbra, and their respective landmarks.
The tour is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a departure from Lisbon to Tomar, a 1.5-hour drive.
The first stop is the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour, photo stops, and free time, totaling about an hour.
A guided tour, photo stops, and free time at the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ, totaling about an hour.
Next, they’ll explore Tomar’s historic center, including the Synagogue of Tomar (optional, extra fee), a lunch break, and a 30-minute guided tour.
Afterward, the group will travel to Coimbra, about an hour away, to visit the University of Coimbra, another UNESCO site.
The tour includes a guided visit, photo stops, and 1.5 hours of free time to explore the Joanina Library and Royal Palace.
Departure to Tomar
The tour departs from Lisbon, making the 1.5-hour drive to the historic town of Tomar.
Along the way, the air-conditioned vehicle offers:
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Scenic countryside views
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Comfortable seating
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Fresh bottled water
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WiFi access
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A knowledgeable guide/driver to provide insights
The destination is the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 12th century.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore this impressive religious complex, taking in its architectural wonders and rich history during the guided tour and free time.
Exploring the Convent of Christ
Visitors to the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will be immersed in the impressive religious complex dating back to the 12th century.
The guided tour takes guests through the Templar castle, exploring its ornate chapels, cloisters, and towers. Highlights include the intricately carved Manueline-style windows and the stunning octagonal Charola, a Templar church and the centerpiece of the complex.
Guests will have ample time to wander the grounds, discovering hidden corners and capturing stunning photos. The visit provides a glimpse into Portugal’s rich history and the lasting influence of the influential Templar Order.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering Tomar’s Historic Center
After exploring the grandeur of the Convent of Christ, visitors can enjoy Tomar’s historic center, a charming maze of winding streets and picturesque plazas.
Visitors can enjoy Tomar’s historic center, a charming maze of winding streets and picturesque plazas after exploring the Convent of Christ.
Highlights include:
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The Synagogue of Tomar, a well-preserved 15th-century structure that offers insights into the town’s Jewish heritage.
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Lively lunch spots serving traditional Portuguese cuisine in cozy cafes and restaurants.
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A guided walking tour highlighting key landmarks, such as the Igreja de São João Baptista and the Praça da República.
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Free time to stroll through the charming town, browsing local shops and absorbing the historic ambiance.
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An optional visit to the Synagogue, providing further cultural enrichment (for an additional fee).
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Journey to Coimbra
Next, the tour heads to the historic city of Coimbra, about an hour’s drive from Tomar.
The highlight is a visit to the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guided tour takes visitors through the Joanina Library, an ornate Baroque structure, and the Royal Palace. Guests have ample time to explore the campus and capture stunning photos.
After the university visit, the tour allows for free time to wander Coimbra’s picturesque streets and enjoy a lunch break.
The day concludes with the return trip to Lisbon, providing an immersive experience in Portugal’s rich academic and cultural heritage.
Exploring the University of Coimbra
The University of Coimbra stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing a rich tapestry of architectural and academic excellence.
Visitors are treated to a guided tour of the University’s highlights, including:
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The Joanina Library, a stunning 18th-century Baroque structure housing over 200,000 volumes.
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The University’s Royal Palace, a majestic building that once served as the residence for Portuguese royalty.
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The Tower of the University, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mondego River below.
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The Écoles Générales, a series of historic lecture halls and classrooms.
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The Chapel of São Miguel, a beautiful example of Mannerist architecture.
Transportation and Logistics
To ensure a seamless experience, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Lisbon or Oeiras.
Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, and the guide/driver is the same person, ensuring a smooth flow throughout the day. Guests can enjoy fresh water and Wi-Fi on board.
An air-conditioned vehicle with the guide/driver ensures a smooth flow, and guests can enjoy fresh water and Wi-Fi on board.
The itinerary is designed to maximize time, allowing for comprehensive visits to the Convent of Christ and the University of Coimbra, with ample opportunities for photo stops and free time to explore.
This private tour offers a personalized and efficient way to discover these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues. The itinerary includes visits to historical sites that may have uneven terrain, stairs, and lack of accessible facilities. It’s best to consult with the tour provider for specific details about accessibility.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops. The operator offers a flexible booking policy that allows travelers to tailor the itinerary to their interests, as long as the total tour duration doesn’t exceed 10 hours.
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols Observed During the Tour?
The tour operator follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including sanitizing the vehicle, providing hand sanitizer, and requiring masks when social distancing isn’t possible. Guests’ temperatures are checked before the tour, and group sizes are limited to ensure a safe experience.
Can the Tour Be Extended to Include a Visit to Fatima?
Yes, the tour can be extended to include a visit to Fatima. Clients can discuss this option with the tour provider, who can customize the itinerary to incorporate a visit to the Sanctuary of Fatima within the tour’s duration and budget.
Does the Tour Include Any Shopping or Souvenir Opportunities?
The tour doesn’t include dedicated shopping time, but visitors can browse the historic centers of Tomar and Coimbra for souvenir opportunities. There’s free time allotted for exploring the towns and potentially picking up local crafts or Portuguese specialties.
The Sum Up
This private day tour offers an immersive exploration of two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Coimbra and Tomar. Travelers will discover the rich historical and architectural wonders of the Convent of Christ in Tomar and the renowned University of Coimbra, all while enjoying convenient transportation and an insightful guide throughout the 10-hour adventure. It’s an ideal way to explore Portugal’s captivating past.
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