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.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Transport in luxury vehicles, with maximum comfort and extra equipment tailored to your needs.
✔ Other options can be added on request – See section Exclusions
✔ Personal accident and liability insurance.
✔ Our executive vehicles offer Wi-Fi, bottled water, refreshments, and a relaxing atmosphere.
✖ Gratuities are not included and are left to individual discretion.
✖ No Transportation of suitcases or excess baggage, unless specified.
✖ Extra - Typical Lunch (Starter-Main course–Drink–Dessert–Coffee) with Red or White Wine - 25,00€
✖ Extra - Ticket - Paço das Escolas – €12.50
✖ Extra - Ticket – Visit to Mata do Buçaco - €7.00
Departure & Return
Departure:
Praça da Liberdade 19, 4000-322 Porto, Portugal
At the door of Intercontinental Hotel
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
Mata 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
Duration: 60 minutes
2
The Palace of Bucaco
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
3
Porta Ferrea
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.
Duration: 10 minutes
4
Universidade de Coimbra Alta & Sofia
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.
Duration: 60 minutes
5
Se 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.
Duration: 15 minutes
6
Se 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.
Duration: 10 minutes
7
Sao Sebastiao Aqueduct
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.
Duration: 15 minutes
8
Coimbra
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).
Duration: 60 minutes
9
Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
10
Igreja 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.
Duration: 15 minutes
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
