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Offered languages
- Portuguese
- English
- French
- Spanish
Our private tour experience to Bussaco Palace and the University of Coimbra offers travelers a chance to delve into the rich history and cultural significance of central Portugal. The tour will begin with a visit to Bussaco Palace, a magnificent 19th-century palace nestled amidst the forest's greenery.
Next, the tour will take travelers to the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Travelers will stroll through the university's ornate buildings and expansive courtyards, soaking up the lively atmosphere and learning about the university's rich history. They'll also have the chance to visit the famous Joanina Library, one of the most beautiful and historic libraries in the world, filled with rare books and manuscripts.
Overall, this tour promises to be a unique and enriching experience, offering travelers a chance to discover the cultural richness and historical significance of central Portugal in a way that few other tours can match.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
At the door of Intercontinental Hotel
Itinerary
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1Mata Nacional do Bucaco
Trail through the Luso Water Trail is a beautiful and peaceful hike that offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the Bussaco Mountains and the historic water system that once supplied the town of Luso. Experience this 1.9-km loop trail near Luso. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 37 min to complete. The Buçaco National Forest is classified as a national monument since 2018 due to its architectural, natural, and landscape richness, with unique identity characteristics in the world
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2
The Bussaco Palace Hotel is a historic luxury hotel located in the heart of the Bussaco National Forest. Built in the late 19th century, the hotel features ornate decoration and opulent furnishings, as well as a beautiful garden.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
3
Entrance of the former Royal Palace to which two portals with alleged sculptures of ancient faculties (Medicine, Law, Theology and Canon Law) were approved in 1634, the founding monarch, King D. Dinis and King D. João III and Wisdom, insignia of the institution.
10 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4
1. Visit the University of Coimbra: This historic university is one of the oldest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional (13,50 € p/person) a. Be sure to check out the Biblioteca Joanina, the university's stunning Baroque library with a collection of over 300,000 books. b. Royal Palace it was built at the end of the 10th century, serving as a fortress for the governor of the city during Islamic rule. In 1131, it became the first Portuguese royal household, the residence of Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. c. Saint Michael's Chapel, that was probably built in the 12th century and served as the private oratory for the former Royal Palace.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
5Se Nova Catedral de Coimbra
Founded in 1542 by the Jesuits (Society of Jesus), it was the first faculty of the order and the largest of the city. Its objective was to prepare missionaries for all territories discovered and conquered by the Portuguese.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
6Se Velha De Coimbra
As soon as the bishopric's place is transferred from Conímbriga to Æminium – former roman city of Coimbra -, a temple will have been built. However, the only physical evidence that attests to the existence of such a kind of building dates from 1117 – a date inscribed on the church's holy stone.
10 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
7
Commonly known as "Arcos do Jardim" – Archs of the Garden - given its location, this acqueduct is contiguous to the Botanical Garden of the Coimbra University. It built in 1570 by King D. Sebastião, to supply water to the uptown by taking advantage of the layout of a previous Roman aqueduct.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8Coimbra
5. Explore the Coimbra Old Town: The winding streets and colorful buildings of the old town are a delight to explore. Try the local cuisine: Coimbra is known for its traditional cuisine, including chanfana (goat stew), leitão (roast pig), and arroz doce (sweet rice pudding).
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
9
This 14th-century monastery was flooded in the 17th century and rediscovered in the 20th century. It's now a fascinating museum and a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10Igreja de Santa Cruz
Founded in 1131, with the advancement and encouragement of King Afonso Henriques, for the Order of St. Augustine, it was the most influential convent house of the city, contributing to the cultural, economic and political development of the country.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchair accessible
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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