Coimbra and Aveiro Private tour from Lisbon

The city of Coimbra known internationally for its University (one of the oldest in Europe), was the capital of Portugal until 1255. The “City of Knowledge”, as it is known, breathes culture everywhere, from the banks of the Mondego River to the hills where the university is located. Here we will visit the Joanine Library, considered by the British newspaper The Telegraph , “…the most spectacular library in the world…”. Its construction was commissioned by Portuguese King Joao V. This baroque-style library of indescribable beauty and wealth, was the result of the cultural vision of the richest monarch in Europe at that time. His royal safes were overflowing with gold from “Minas Gerais” in the Portuguese colony, Brazil. Free time to walk in the town’s center and visit the Santa Cruz Church where we can find the tombs of the first king of Portugal, King Afonso I and of his son King Sancho I. You can also try tasting the local sweets and pastries “Pasteis de Santa Clara, “Pasteis de Tentugal” and the ” Arrufadas de Coimbra” if you so wish.

Time to taste the famous “leitao da Bairrada” (suckling piglet cooked on wood fired oven) at one of the many local restaurants (optional). This is one of the most typical and celebrated dishes of Portuguese cuisine. Of course, there is a variety of other choices in the region for your lunch if you so desire.

Aveiro is known as the Venice of Portugal. A tour in a Moliceiro, the traditional boat of this region, is a must. You will cruise through the innumerable water channels that run through the city and the “Ria” (a saltwater river) where the salt industry has been one of the main work occupations for residents since the Roman Era. Leisure time to walk around the historic center, dominated by “Art Noveau” style buildings, local stores and pastry shops where you can buy the famed “Fleur de Sel”, the king of salts. You can also taste the famous “Doce de Ovos Moles” of Aveiro, the traditional egg sweets of the region.