Coimbra: Day Trips and Tours from Porto

Just a short drive from Porto, Coimbra is a city steeped in tradition, home to one of the world's oldest universities and a wealth of architectural wonders. Known for its captivating blend of medieval charm and academic vitality, Coimbra offers an alluring blend of old-world ambiance and youthful energy.

Whether you're drawn to explore the historic university, wander through its cobbled streets, or immerse yourself in the city's cultural treasures, a day trip to Coimbra from Porto promises an enriching and immersive experience in Portugal's heritage and intellectual legacy.

Read on to learn more about Coimbra, one of the most captivating day trips from Porto.

How to get to Coimbra from Porto?

Coimbra is conveniently located about an hour and a half south of Porto.

From Porto to Coimbra by car

The easiest and most direct route between Coimbra and Porto is the A1 south out of the city. The drive is just over 120 kilometers along a well-maintained highway.

From Porto to Coimbra by public transport

Trains depart Porto every hour towards Coimbra. The AP and IC lines provide a dependable service that also takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Guided tour to Coimbra from Porto

Undoubtedly the best way to visit Coimbra is with a guided tour. You will visit more than one city along the way and you will enjoy the expert knowledge from a local guide that provides excellent value for money.

What is the typical itinerary?

The most popular day trips to Coimbra also include a visit to Fatima, a renowned pilgrimage site south of Coimbra.

Your 10-hour tour can start with hotel pickup and then a 2-hour drive to the city of Fátima. Here, you'll visit the Neoclassical Basilica and Sanctuary, with the option to participate in a mass.

You'll also have time to explore the vibrant city center, buzzing with modern-day pilgrims and a variety of dining options. Some tours offer the option for lunch included in the itinerary and you will sit down to enjoy a meal with your group.

Continuing your adventure, the tour proceeds to Coimbra. Your exploration of Coimbra takes you to the Sé Cathedral, a remarkable testament to the city's resilience during the Reconquista. In the historical center, you can wander through the atmospheric streets, including the Quebra Costas, Arco da Almedina, Porta do Barbacã and Rua Ferreira Borges.

The journey concludes with a visit to the University, housed in the former medieval Royal Palace. The highlight of this academic institution is the magnificent Joanine Library. At the end of your enriching tour, you'll return to Porto where you will be dropped off back at your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Coimbra?

Day trip to Coimbra plus Fátima from Porto

Join this ultra-popular day tour to Coimbra and Fátima to experience two significant cities in one day. These group tours include plenty of free time too, allowing you to enter certain monuments and attractions that might not be included in the tour.

You can also book an option that includes lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off or opt for a more flexible tour where all of those are at your own expense.

Day trip to Coimbra plus Aveiro from Porto

Another highly popular Coimbra day trip itinerary also includes a visit to Aveiro. You will enjoy a relaxing canal cruise and a tour through the charming city before heading off to Coimbra for more historic exploration. You can also choose upgraded tours to include pickup and lunch or go for the full luxury experience with a private tour.

Private tour to Coimbra from Porto

For unparalleled convenience, book a private day tour to Coimbra. You can either choose a combo tour to Fatima or Aveiro along with your Coimbra excursion. These tours start with pickup from your doorstep and you have the convenience of a flexible itinerary, allowing you to spend more time at the attractions that matter most to you.

How much does a day trip to Coimbra from Porto cost?

The most popular day trips to Coimbra and Fatima start from €70 per person. That option does not include pickup or lunch. Tours that include lunch cost €85 per person while a tour with pickup and lunch costs €95 per person. These prices include entry to Fátima monuments but not to the Coimbra Library, University and Cathedral.

A small group tour to Coimbra and Aveiro costs €110 per person or €125 per person if pickup is selected. It would cost €150 per person for pickup and drop-off as well as all the entry tickets. All these prices include a river cruise in Aveiro.

Private tours to Coimbra and Fatima cost around €390 per person and around €290 for tours to Coimbra and Aveiro.

What will you see and do?

These are some of the top sights you will see during a day trip to Coimbra:

Sé Cathedral

The Sé Cathedral in Coimbra stands as a remarkable testament to the city's long and remarkable history. It is the only church in Portugal to have survived the Reconquista relatively intact, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.

As one explores its hallowed halls, they're transported to a bygone era, with the cathedral's intricate design and ancient aura offering a glimpse into Coimbra's rich past.

University of Coimbra

The University of Coimbra, founded in the 13th century, is a renowned institution and a major focal point in the city. It features a treasure trove of historical architecture and cultural significance.

Nestled within the university, the Joanine Library is a true gem, boasting baroque aesthetics enriched with red and green lacquer. The library's trompe-l'oeil features create an almost surreal atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those interested in the intersection of academia and art.

Aveiro

Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," is a coastal town celebrated for its picturesque canals, charming colorful houses, and delightful gondola-like boats known as "moliceiros." Strolling along the scenic waterways, visitors are immersed in Aveiro's unique maritime atmosphere.

The town is renowned for its fresh seafood, and a visit to the bustling fish market and sampling the region's famous "ovos moles," a traditional sweet treat, are culinary delights not to be missed.

Fátima

Fátima, located just south of Coimbra, is an iconic pilgrimage destination with deep religious significance. It gained worldwide recognition after three young shepherds reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1917. The Fátima Sanctuary, including the Neoclassical Basilica and the Chapel of Apparitions, welcomes millions of pilgrims each year.

The city's spiritual aura, as well as the historic events recognized by the Vatican, have transformed Fátima into a place of profound faith and devotion, making it an essential stop for those seeking spiritual experiences in Portugal.

When is the best time to visit Coimbra?

The best time to visit Coimbra is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and sunny, ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and the University of Coimbra without the intense heat of the summer.

Spring brings the city to life with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, while autumn offers milder temperatures and fewer tourists, making it perfect for a more relaxed visit. Additionally, these seasons avoid the peak tourist crowds of summer and the cooler, rainier days of winter, providing a comfortable balance for sightseeing and enjoying the city's outdoor cafes and riverfront.

Are there any tours to other cities in Portugal from Porto?

Yes, there are tours departing from Porto to other cities in Portugal:

• Day Trips to Douro Valley from Porto
• Day Trips to Braga from Porto
• Day Trips to Aveiro from Porto
• Day Trips to Fátima from Porto

Travel tips

• Climb the University Tower. For a small fee, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Stroll Along the Mondego River. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, which offers beautiful views and relaxing spots.
• Experience Fado de Coimbra. Listen to the unique Coimbra style of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre.