Known as “the city of knowledge” since Roman times, Coimbra still lives up to its moniker as home to one of the oldest active universities in Europe. Founded during Roman times, Coimbra expanded in the early 700s as a commercial link between the Christian north and Muslim south. During the Late Middle Ages, Coimbra began to blossom into a major cultural center, with the establishment of its university in 1537.

Your Coimbra tour begins with a visit to the 16th-century library and university. We then continue through the historic center, passing churches dating as far back as 957, before reaching our destination—the 12th-century cathedral. Along the way, you may come across Fado performances, delivered to perfection by university students. You can choose to add a refreshing wine tasting in the sparkling wine region, or enjoy a dreamy boat tour in Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal.”