University of Coimbra (Universidade de Coimbra)

Overview

The University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world, is a historic institution that blends stunning architecture with vibrant student life. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval and Renaissance buildings.

The University of Coimbra is a symbol of Portugal's educational heritage and has been a center of learning since its founding in 1290.

Historic Site Cultural Attraction Architectural Marvel

Location

Address

Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra

Neighborhood: Upper Town (Alta)

Coordinates

40.215800, -8.425900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€10

Children

Free (under 12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day, multiple visits

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• flowers
• gardens in bloom

summer

hot

• extended hours
• outdoor performances

autumn

cool, crisp air

• fall colors
• autumn foliage

winter

cold, rain

• holiday lights
• Christmas decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead for tours
Bring ID for students
Check weather for outdoor areas

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets comfortable shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella sunscreen

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate, some walking and stairs

• uneven surfaces
• stairs in historic buildings

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit/debit cards

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry €10

guided tour €15

parking €5

food €10-20

souvenirs €5-30

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels for tours

Booking Tips

• 2-3 weeks
• official website, local tour operators
• 48 hours
• available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Information center

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

UC Coimbra Official App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafés, Main library

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafés

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)

Distance: 190 km

Travel Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

taxi

€150-180 2 hours

public_transport

€25-30 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 1 km

walking

15-20 min

bus

€1.50 10 min

taxi

€5-8 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, vibrant student life, cultural events

Historical Significance: Important events happened here, center of Portuguese education and culture

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for some areas
Best food at the back entrance cafés
Check for student-led tours for unique insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local café 'Café Santa Cruz'
• Ask for guide João for in-depth historical insights
• Visit the Botanical Garden for a peaceful break

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá

thank_you Obrigada/Obrigado

where_is Onde está

how_much Quanto custa

beautiful Lindo/Linda

ticket Bilhete

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Joanina Library

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide shots, details of books and decorations

Result: Beautiful, historic library

#UniversityOfCoimbra #HistoricLibrary #Coimbra

University Tower (Torre da Universidade)

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Panoramic views of the city

Result: Stunning cityscape

#CoimbraViews #UniversityTower #PortugueseHermitage

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, public spaces

prohibited areas libraries, museums, specific exhibitions

flash photography not allowed in most indoor areas

commercial photography permit needed for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy restricted, check with staff

selfie sticks allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Historic Site

Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Botanical Garden

Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha

Distance: 1.2km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Historic Site

Portugal dos Pequenitos

Distance: 1.5km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Miniature Park

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book online for guided tours"
"Visit early to avoid crowds"
"Great views from the tower"
"Don't miss the Joanina Library"

Contact Information

+351 239 859 959

recepcao@uc.pt

www.uc.pt

Social Media

Related Tours & Activities (12)