Discover the captivating heritage of Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most historic cities, on this immersive full-day private tour from Lisbon. Explore the UNESCO-listed University of Coimbra, a 13th-century institution renowned for its stunning Baroque library and grand ceremonial halls. Explore the tragic love story of Prince Pedro and his mistress Inês de Castro at the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha, and uncover Coimbra’s pivotal role in shaping Portugal’s development. With seamless hotel pickup, private transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an enriching and unforgettable exploration of Coimbra’s captivating legacy. Get ready to be swept away by the city’s timeless charm and uncover the remarkable stories that have shaped its enduring legacy.
Key Points
- Full-day private tour from Lisbon to explore the historic city of Coimbra, including the UNESCO-listed University of Coimbra and the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha.
- Discover the architectural and cultural highlights of the University of Coimbra, such as the Biblioteca Joanina and the Sala dos Capelos.
- Uncover the tragic love story of Prince Pedro and his mistress Inês de Castro, which unfolded within the walls of the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation in central Lisbon, with a private minivan or sedan for a seamless and comfortable journey.
- Explore Coimbra’s rich heritage and gain a deeper understanding of Portugal’s history and culture during this comprehensive private tour.
Tour Highlights
Visitors on this full-day private tour from Lisbon to Coimbra will have the opportunity to explore one of the oldest universities in the world, enjoy the rich heritage of a city pivotal to Portugal’s development, and uncover the tragic love story of a revered queen.
They’ll tour the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 13th century, and marvel at its stunning baroque library and ceremonial halls.
Next, they’ll discover the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha, where the relics of Queen Isabel, one of Portugal’s most beloved historical figures, are kept. Along the way, they’ll learn about the poignant love story between the queen and her husband, King Dinis.
University of Coimbra
The University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world, stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich educational heritage. Established in the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site captivates visitors with its stunning baroque library, opulent ceremonial halls, and a history that has shaped the nation’s intellectual landscape for centuries.
Highlights of a visit include:
- The magnificent Biblioteca Joanina, a breathtaking Baroque library adorned with ornate woodwork, gilded shelving, and thousands of ancient tomes.
- The Sala dos Capelos, a grand ceremonial hall where students once received their degrees, featuring lavish décor and intricate ceiling frescoes.
- The Pateo das Escolas, a picturesque courtyard surrounded by the university’s historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the institution’s storied past.
Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha
The Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha, nestled along the banks of the Mondego River, stands as a captivating relic of Portugal’s religious heritage.
Its centuries-old walls and elaborate architectural details offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s monastic history and the lives of the devout women who once called this hallowed place home.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, which include the impressive church, cloisters, and other monastic buildings.
The convent is also home to the relics of the Holy Queen Isabel, a beloved Portuguese monarch who spent her final years in this sacred sanctuary.
Exploring the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha is a humbling and enriching experience, offering a deeper understanding of Portugal’s rich spiritual legacy.
Love Story of Pedro and Inês
One of Portugal’s most captivating love stories unfolded within the halls of the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha, where the ill-fated romance between Prince Pedro and his mistress Inês de Castro played out in tragic fashion.
Their love was as passionate as it was forbidden, as Pedro defied his royal duties to lavish his affections on the beautiful Inês.
Though their time together was tragically cut short, Pedro’s devotion knew no bounds – he even had Inês’s body crowned and enthroned as Queen after her death, forcing his subjects to kiss the cold, lifeless hand of their new ‘Queen.’
This extraordinary tale of forbidden love has captivated audiences for centuries.
Pickup and Drop-off
Conveniently, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation in central Lisbon, ensuring a seamless start and end to your day exploring Coimbra’s heritage.
You’ll be whisked away in a private minivan or sedan, depending on the size of your group, and enjoy the comfort of Wi-Fi, bottled water, and professional insurance throughout the journey.
No need to worry about parking or tolls – it’s all taken care of.
Your knowledgeable guide will be with you every step of the way, providing insights and ensuring you make the most of your time in Coimbra.
It’s the perfect way to learn about Portugal’s history and culture without the hassle of transportation.
Private Transportation
Your private transportation for the day is a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan or sedan, carefully selected to accommodate your group size. This modern, well-maintained vehicle ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, with the convenience of built-in Wi-Fi, complimentary bottled water, and comprehensive insurance coverage.
Your professional driver will expertly navigate the roads, handling any parking or toll requirements so you can simply sit back, relax, and learn about the historic sights of Coimbra.
The private transportation offers:
- Ample space and seating to comfortably accommodate your group.
- Cutting-edge features like Wi-Fi and climate control for your convenience.
- A skilled driver dedicated to ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Guided Tour Inclusions
The guided tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who’ll accompany you throughout the day, providing in-depth insights and historical context to enrich your experience of Coimbra’s rich heritage.
With their expertise, you’ll explore the stories behind the city’s iconic landmarks, uncovering the fascinating past that has shaped this important Portuguese destination.
You’ll explore the centuries-old University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in the world, and learn about its role in shaping Portugal’s intellectual and cultural landscape.
The guide will also take you to the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha, where the relics of the revered Queen Isabel are kept, and share the captivating tale of this tragic love story that has become part of Portugal’s national legacy.
Important Details
This full-day private tour from Lisbon to Coimbra offers a seamless, hassle-free experience. Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off ensure a comfortable and convenient start and end to your journey. Depending on the size of your group, you’ll be transported in a private minivan or sedan, complete with onboard Wi-Fi and bottled water to keep you refreshed along the way.
The tour includes several must-see highlights, such as:
- Visiting one of the oldest universities in the world.
- Exploring a historic city crucial to Portugal’s development.
- Discovering the convent housing the relics of the revered Queen Isabel.
With child seats available on request, dietary requirements accommodated, and a maximum of 7 people per booking, this tour is tailored for comfort and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific Vehicle Type?
Yes, you can request a specific vehicle type for your private tour. The tour provider offers minivans or sedans based on the size of your group. They’ll accommodate your preferences to ensure a comfortable and tailored experience.
What Is the Policy for Rescheduling the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing travelers to reschedule the tour as needed. Clients can easily modify their plans with no penalties, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Are There Any Additional Fees for Larger Groups?
The tour’s pricing is based on the full trip, not per person, so there are no additional fees for larger groups. The maximum group size is 7 people, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
Yes, the tour provider offers flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit your interests. They’ll work closely with you to design an engaging experience tailored to the sites and activities you’re most excited about exploring.
How Do I Obtain a Refund if I Need to Cancel?
Travelers can obtain a full refund if they cancel the tour at least 24 hours in advance. This flexible policy allows customers to plan with confidence and get their money back if their plans change unexpectedly.
Recap
Enjoy Coimbra’s captivating heritage on this private tour.
Explore the UNESCO-listed university, uncover the tragic love story of Prince Pedro and Inês, and explore the city’s pivotal role in Portugal’s development.
With seamless transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an enriching experience, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Coimbra’s enduring legacy and its significance in the country’s history.
