From Porto: Coimbra, Aveiro and Costa Nova Day Tour

Travelers looking to explore beyond Porto’s city limits will find this day tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and local charm. The experience takes you through three very different but equally captivating destinations—each with its own unique character. Whether you’re into historic universities, picturesque canals, or vibrant seaside scenes, this trip covers it all.

What makes this tour stand out are the visits to one of Europe’s oldest universities, the enchanting canals of Aveiro, and the breathtaking, colorful beach huts of Costa Nova. The small-group aspect makes it feel intimate, and the included boat cruise in Aveiro adds a fun, relaxed touch. However, a potential hitch could be the limited free time at each site, especially if you’re eager to explore in depth. This tour is perfect for those who want a structured yet comprehensive day trip that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning.

If you enjoy cultural excursions, scenic drives, and authentic local sights, this trip will suit you nicely. It’s also a solid choice if you prefer guided experiences that include transport, since navigating these towns independently can be tricky or time-consuming.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi, water, and waterproof gear ensures a smooth day.
• Small group size (limited to 7 participants) fosters a more personal and flexible experience.
• Visit iconic sites like the University of Coimbra and Aveiro’s canals without worrying about ticket costs.
• Boat cruise in Aveiro provides a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective.
• Timing is key, with about 10 hours from Porto, including travel and sightseeing.
• Focus on value, with included guide and transport, though food, drinks, and entrance fees are extra.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure from Porto

The journey begins with a pickup from your Porto accommodation or designated meeting point, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. The tour uses a comfortable van with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and water, creating a welcoming environment for the roughly 2.5-hour total travel time to the first stops.

Stop 1: Costa Nova Beach

Your first real taste of coastal Portugal is at Costa Nova, famous for its striped, colorful beach huts that look like they belong on a postcard. You’ll spend about an hour here, giving enough time to stroll along the sand, snap photos of the vibrant structures, and enjoy the sea breeze. The scenery is striking and makes for great photos, especially if the weather is clear.

While the tour doesn’t specify a planned lunch stop, you might find local cafes nearby, or consider packing a picnic to maximize your time at this photogenic spot. The relaxed pace here makes it easy to soak in the seaside atmosphere.

Stop 2: Aveiro and Its Canals

Next, the journey continues to Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal.” Here, you’ll hop aboard a Moliceiro boat—a traditional colorful vessel— for a 1-hour cruise through the city’s canals. Reviewers mention that these boat rides are a real highlight, offering a leisurely way to see the charming bridges and pastel-colored houses.

During the walk along the canals, you’ll notice locals enjoying life in a setting that feels both lively and relaxed. The boat circuit is included in the tour, which adds excellent value, especially considering that some similar experiences require additional payment.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stop 3: Coimbra, a Historic University City

The highlight for many visitors is the visit to the University of Coimbra, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. While the tour doesn’t include tickets, you’ll have the chance to see the courtyards and gardens, as well as the historic Old Cathedral. These sites are open for exploration, and the guide will likely share fascinating stories about the university’s centuries of academic history.

A reviewer noted that “the university’s architecture and serene courtyards make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.” The Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for a quick stroll. Keep in mind, you might want to visit some sites independently if you’re particularly interested, as access is without tickets included in the tour.

The Village of the Little Shepherds

This lesser-known stop is a charming addition that gives insight into local culture. Though details are limited, it’s likely a small village where you can see traditional crafts and perhaps meet local artisans. It’s a nice break from the more touristic sites, adding authenticity to the day.

Return to Porto

After a full day of sightseeing, the journey concludes with a few more hours of driving back to Porto. Expect to arrive around 7-8 pm, depending on traffic and the pace of your group.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour costs $176 per person, which covers all transport, the guide, water, waterproof equipment, Wi-Fi, and taxes. This makes it a good value, considering all included features. However, meals and entrance fees are not included, so bringing some snacks or planning to buy lunch is advisable.

The small group size—limited to 7 people—means more personalized attention from your guide, as well as more flexibility in timing and questions. The tour runs about 10 hours, with starting times available based on your booking, allowing some flexibility depending on your schedule.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking around Coimbra and Aveiro, and bring a camera to capture the colorful sights. In terms of language, the guide speaks English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, making this accessible for most travelers.

Travelers have noted the high quality of the transport and the friendliness of the guides, who are attentive and knowledgeable. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and water adds to the comfort, especially during the long drive.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a bit of everything—history, scenery, and local culture—without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It suits those who enjoy guided groups, appreciate small-group intimacy, and value the convenience of included transport.

If you’re interested in exploring Coimbra’s university, cruising Aveiro’s canals, and enjoying Costa Nova’s colorful beach huts, this tour offers a well-rounded day. However, if you prefer to spend more time at each site or visit museums and attractions independently, you might want to customize your plans.

The Sum Up

This tour strikes a nice balance between structured sightseeing and relaxed exploration. The value is good, thanks to the included boat cruise, guide, and transport, making it a practical choice for those visiting Porto who want a comprehensive day out. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and are happy with a moderate pace that covers a variety of sights without feeling rushed.

The combination of culturally significant sites, scenic waterways, and picturesque beaches makes this a memorable day trip that captures the essence of central Portugal’s diverse attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone wanting to experience Portugal’s coastal charm, this tour offers a taste that’s both manageable and enriching.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transport is included in the price, with a comfortable van equipped with Wi-Fi, water, and waterproof gear.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and the boat cruise.

What sites do we visit?
You’ll visit Costa Nova Beach, enjoy a boat cruise in Aveiro, see the University of Coimbra and its Botanical Gardens, and explore the Old Cathedral.

Are tickets to the university and monuments included?
No, entrance tickets are not included, but you can explore the exteriors and grounds freely.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexible planning.

What about food and drinks?
Meals and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to buy lunch during the day.

Is this tour suited for small groups?
Absolutely, it’s limited to 7 participants, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring broad accessibility.

You can check if your dates are available here: