This full-day private tour is designed for travellers seeking authentic stories, local traditions, and a deeper cultural connection to Portugal's Central Region, away from conventional tourist routes.
The day kicks off in Coimbra, Portugal's historic academic capital. Instead of a purely monumental visit, this experience focuses on the city's academic traditions and everyday life. Stroll through the historic streets around the University of Coimbra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) while learning about student rituals, academic attire, centuries-old customs, and how university life has shaped the city's identity. Stroll through the Sé Velha, medieval courtyards, and lesser-known viewpoints overlooking the Mondego River, uncovering stories usually shared only by locals.
After Coimbra, the tour continues to Aveiro, a city shaped by water, commerce, and creativity. Stroll along the canals of the Ria de Aveiro, observe the traditional moliceiro boats, and discover how salt production, navigation, and trade influenced the city's growth. This experience highlights Aveiro's Art Nouveau heritage, with explanations of facades, symbols, and architectural details often overlooked by visitors.
The route continues to Costa Nova, where the striped and colourful wooden houses tell the storey of fishing families and coastal life. Enjoy some chill-out time by the sea, panoramic stops for photography, and explanations of the traditions linked to the Atlantic.
With private transport, a flexible pace, and storytelling, this tour is ideal for those seeking in-depth cultural knowledge, photo opportunities, and a more relaxed and personalised exploration of Coimbra and Aveiro.