Coimbra
Conimbriga
Coimbra
Coimbra
Coimbra
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Private tour - Coimbra University and Roman City of Conimbriga

(3)
Cascais, Portugal
Shore ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursCultural ToursLuxury
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About this activity

Explore two millennia of Portuguese history in a single day: the UNESCO-worthy University of Coimbra with its iconic baroque library, and the remarkably preserved Roman archaeological site of Conimbriga, located 200 km north of Lisbon. This private 12-hour tour combines Renaissance architecture with ancient ruins, ideal for culture-focused travellers seeking depth beyond typical coastal excursions.

At 200 km North of Lisbon, the city of Coimbra is full of history, home of one of the oldest universities in the world, with its magnificent Joanine Librar, the entire University Complex, the Monastery of Santa Cruz, the medieval houses... Close to Coimbra is the Roman Archeological city of Conimbriga and a place to visit.

We will leave Lisbon at 8 am for enjoying the full day. We will pick you up, in your hotel in Lisbon, Cascais, Oeiras or Sintra, please, contact us in advance to organize. 

It is a private day tour with maximum of 8 persons.

Monument fees and lunch is not included.

Highlights

  • Joanine Library—one of Europe's most ornate baroque libraries housed within a 16th-century university complex
  • Monastery of Santa Cruz with its intricate Renaissance portal and royal tombs
  • Medieval streets and historic townhouses preserved in Coimbra's old quarters
  • Roman archaeological ruins of Conimbriga—thermal baths, mosaics, and defensive walls from the 1st–2nd centuries
  • Private group tour (max 8 people) with hotel pickup flexibility across Lisbon area

Insider tips

  • Book monument entry and lunch separately in advance to maximise time and avoid queues; the Joanine Library has restricted daily visitor numbers
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes—Coimbra's steep medieval streets and archaeological site paths require steady feet
  • Visit Conimbriga early in the tour itinerary (before midday heat) to explore ruins comfortably; the site has minimal shade
  • Ask the guide to highlight the mosaic floors and Roman-era domestic layouts at Conimbriga—often overlooked but exceptionally well-preserved

Good to know

  • Pickup from hotels in Lisbon, Cascais, Oeiras, or Sintra starting at 8:00 AM; confirm location in advance with supplier
  • Monument entrance fees and meals are separate and not included—budget additional EUR 30–50 for entries and EUR 15–25 for lunch
  • Private tour capped at 8 passengers; ideal for small families or groups wanting personalised pace and commentary
  • 12-hour duration includes 400 km round-trip travel time; depart early and return late evening
  • Conimbriga site is partially exposed; bring sunscreen, hat, and water regardless of season

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts seeking Roman and Renaissance heritage beyond typical city toursUniversity and architecture lovers interested in one of Europe's oldest continuously operating universitiesCultural day-trippers from Lisbon wanting an in-depth excursion beyond beach or wine-tasting itinerariesSmall groups (families, friends) preferring private, flexible pacing over large coach tours

Best time to visit

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) offer comfortable temperatures for walking both town and archaeological site without summer crowds or winter rain. Visit Conimbriga before noon to avoid harsh afternoon sun and heat on exposed ruins.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€250
per person