Porto (Leixões), Portugal

Historic Coimbra & Aveiro

Visit Portugal’s Oldest University Town and Enjoy Fado Music Explore historic Coimbra and charming, canal-lined Aveiro, and savor a Portuguese lunch accompanied by fado music. Drive to Coimbra, birthplace of six Portuguese kings and home to Portugal’s first university, the Universidade de Coimbra. Founded in Lisbon in 1290 by King Dinis, the school was among the first established in Europe, relocated to Coimbra in 1537 and attracted a steady stream of teachers, artists and intellectuals from across the continent. Marvel at the views from the city’s highest point and see the ancient hillside buildings. Enjoy lunch at a typical Portuguese restaurant while listening to a fado performance. The Portuguese are famed for their sweet tooth; try one of the local specialty dishes, the soft eggs ( ovos moles ). Continue north to Aveiro for a panoramic tour through this little “Venice of Portugal,” lined with canals. Afterward, return to your ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.