Share this tour
Offered languages
- Portuguese
- English
- French
- Spanish
This private full-day tour combines the historic city of Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, with the serene landscapes of the Buçaco National Forest. Travel in comfort with a licensed driver-guide and explore Coimbra’s UNESCO-listed university complex, medieval streets, and key monuments that reflect the city’s academic and royal past.
After time in Coimbra, the journey continues through the countryside, with an optional lunch stop in Mealhada, renowned for its traditional leitão à Bairrada. In the afternoon, enjoy a gentle walk in the Buçaco Forest, a place of remarkable natural and cultural heritage. The tour includes exterior visits to the Buçaco Palace Hotel, admired for its Manueline-inspired architecture, and the Convent of Santa Cruz of Buçaco, discreetly hidden within the forest.
Designed for travelers seeking culture, nature, and comfort, this private experience offers a balanced and unhurried perspective of central Portugal.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
At the door of Intercontinental Hotel
Itinerary
-
1
Stop 1: University of Coimbra (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Visit the historic university complex, including the former Royal Palace areas, ceremonial spaces, and the renowned Biblioteca Joanina.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
2
Stop 2: Porta Férrea Pass through the traditional ceremonial entrance to the university, marking the transition between the upper and lower city.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Se Velha De Coimbra
Stop 3: Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral) Explore Coimbra’s Romanesque cathedral, a key monument from the medieval period.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4Torre de Almedina
Stop 4: Arco de Almedina Walk through the former main gate of the medieval city walls, connecting the upper town with the historic centre.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Igreja de Santa Cruz
Stop 5: Monastery of Santa Cruz Visit one of Portugal’s most important monastic foundations, closely linked to the early Portuguese monarchy.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
6Coimbra
Stop 6: Coimbra Historic Centre - Stop for Lunch 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 -
7Mata 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 -
8
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 free -
9
See the former Carmelite convent, discreetly hidden in nature and associated with a life of contemplation.
30 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.
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.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Company
Get our app
