Private Coimbra & Buçaco Tour with University and Forest
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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.
Available options
Business Suv - 4 Pax
Hyundai Santa Fé<br/>Pickup included
Business Van - 7 Pax
Mercedes Class V<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
WiFi on board
Other options can be added on request – See section Exclusions
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed 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.
2
Stop 2: Porta Férrea
Pass through the traditional ceremonial entrance to the university, marking the transition between the upper and lower city.
3
Stop 3: Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral)
Explore Coimbra’s Romanesque cathedral, a key monument from the medieval period.
4
Stop 4: Arco de Almedina
Walk through the former main gate of the medieval city walls, connecting the upper town with the historic centre.
5
Stop 5: Monastery of Santa Cruz
Visit one of Portugal’s most important monastic foundations, closely linked to the early Portuguese monarchy.
6
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).
7
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
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.
9
See the former Carmelite convent, discreetly hidden in nature and associated with a life of contemplation.
What's not included
Joanine Library, St. Michael's Chapel, the Royal Palace
Ticket – Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) EUR
Tichet - Monastery of Santa Cruz
Ticket - Convent of Santa Cruz of Buçaco
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
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
Meeting point
At the door of Intercontinental Hotel
About Porto
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque Ribeira district, historic bridges, and world-famous port wine cellars, Porto offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.
Top Attractions
Ribeira District
The Ribeira district is the historic heart of Porto, known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone coming to Porto.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is one of the most famous bookstores in the world, known for its stunning neo-Gothic interior and as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Cultural
1 hour
€6 (includes a book voucher)
Clérigos Tower
The Clérigos Tower is a iconic Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of Porto. Climbing the 240 steps to the top is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.
Architecture
1 hour
€5
Dom Luís I Bridge
This double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck offers stunning views of the river and the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Port Wine Cellars
Vila Nova de Gaia is home to many of Porto's famous port wine cellars, where you can learn about the history of port wine and enjoy tastings.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€10-€30
Must-Try Local Dishes
Francesinha
A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and a special sauce, served with fries.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and dairy
Bacalhau à Brás
A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and eggs
Tripas à Moda do Porto
A traditional Porto dish made with tripe, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Pastéis de Nata
Delicious custard tarts with a flaky pastry crust, often dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Serra do Pilar
Kayaking on the Douro River
Sunbathing at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Enjoying a port wine tasting
Visiting the Livraria Lello
Exploring the Ribeira district
Swimming at Praia do Castelo do Queijo
Boat tours on the Douro River
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Porto is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before starting your journey
- • Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or poorly lit areas
Getting there
By air
- Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center
By train
Porto Campanhã, Porto São Bento
By bus
Porto Bus Terminal (Terminal de Camionagem de Porto)
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with six lines connecting major points of interest.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ribeira
Bolhão
Foz do Douro
Miguel Bombarda
Day trips
Braga
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Braga is a historic city known for its beautiful churches, monasteries, and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.
Guimarães
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Guimarães is a historic city known as the birthplace of Portugal. It's home to a well-preserved medieval center and the stunning Guimarães Castle.
Douro Valley
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
The Douro Valley is a stunning wine region known for its terraced vineyards, port wine cellars, and scenic boat tours.
Festivals
São João Festival • June 23-24
Festa de São João • June 24
Porto Wine Festival • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and long queues
- Take a port wine tasting tour to learn about the history of port wine and sample a variety of wines from different cellars
- Explore the historic center of Porto on foot, as many of its narrow streets and charming squares are best discovered by walking
- Try the local cuisine, such as Francesinha, Bacalhau à Brás, and Tripas à Moda do Porto, at traditional restaurants and cafes
- Take a day trip to the Douro Valley to see the stunning vineyards, visit port wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic boat tour on the Douro River
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
