Coimbra , Portugal

Coimbra Top Attractions Walking Tour

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About this experience

On this walking tour you’ll discover all of Coimbra’s main attractions.

It’s the perfect way to discover the city if you only have a few hours.

If you have more time, this is also the best way to get na introduction. Then you can take advantage of the tips given on the tour to explore some aspects in more detail in the following days.

Don’t just limit yourself to a few historical anecdotes about the city.

Take a tour led by a guide registered with the national tourist office, but in a more informal and relaxed atmosphere. Get the knowledge, context and experience from a local.

With this tour you will get:
- Na overview of the city’s history
- Passage through all of Coimbra’s main attractions
- Knowledge of the most important academic traditions
- Tips on restaurants and best places for photos and panoramic views
- A quick reference guide to the city in paper or pdf format

Available options

Coimbra Top Attractions Walking Tour

What's included

Expert and Passionate Tour Guide

Sheet or pdf with recommendations from a local to enjoy Coimbra to the fullest

Detailed itinerary

This is one of the main squares in the city center. Here you'll learn about the city's occupation over time and what you can visit on the other side of the river.

This square is dominated by two churches from the twelve century. You’ll learn more about it here at this spot

The Church of St. James was originally founded in the 12th century and has undergone many changes throughout its history

The Church of Santa Cruz was part of the monastery founded in the 12th century under the sponsorship of the first king of Portugal. His tomb is inside the church.

The Almedina arch and tower were part of the city’s main defense wall, giving access to the interior of the walled city. Here you can also admire the beautiful sculpture dedicated to Fado of Coimbra.

The Old Cathedral has a fortress-like appearance and was built in the 12th century. It also has a very strong relationship with the university’s academic traditions.

The history of the Machado de Castro museum goes all the way back to the Roman Empire. Often overlooked by tourists, this is one of the best views in the city.

The New Cathedral combines Baroque and Mannerist styles in a single building. This space was a Jesuit college before being converted into a cathedral.

This is the oldest university in the country and one of the oldest in Europe. You can learn more about the academic traditions and the evolution of this space since the occupation by the Muslims. With the help of some photos, you’ll find out what you can find inside and tips on visiting.

Our tour will end at this botanical garden created in the 18th century. Here you will learn about the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês with its dramatic episodes that took place in Coimbra.

What's not included

Other paid entrances

Tips or Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

25 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

90 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Look for the guide wearing a yellow T-shirt with a black logo next to the statue in the center of the square.

If it's cold or raining, I'll wear a jacket or vest saying "Coimbra Free Tours"

About Coimbra

Coimbra, known as the City of Students, is a historic city in central Portugal with a rich academic tradition. It's home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra, and is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

University of Coimbra

One of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and a rich history.

Historical 2-3 hours €12 (general admission)

Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)

This Romanesque cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Portugal, featuring beautiful architecture and historical artifacts.

Religious 1-2 hours €3 (general admission)

Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha

A ruined monastery that was once the home of Queen Saint Isabel, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past.

Historical 1-2 hours €4 (general admission)

Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra

A beautiful and serene garden with a diverse collection of plants, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Nature 1 hour Free (with University of Coimbra ticket)

Portugal dos Pequenitos

A miniature park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous Portuguese monuments and buildings, ideal for families and children.

Cultural 1-2 hours €7 (general admission)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cozido à Portuguesa

A hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and beans, cooked slowly in a clay pot.

Dinner Contains meat and beans

Bacalhau à Brás

A popular dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.

Dinner Contains fish and eggs

Leitão à Bairrada

Roast suckling pig, a specialty of the Bairrada region, served with a crispy skin and tender meat.

Dinner Contains pork

Pastel de Tentúgal

A traditional pastry from the Tentúgal region, filled with sweet cream and topped with cinnamon.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bussaco Forest Kayaking on the Mondego River Visiting thermal spas in Luso Strolling along the Mondego River Exploring the University of Coimbra Visiting the Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha) Swimming at nearby beaches Visiting the Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival)

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Coimbra for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with students and tourists.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Coimbra is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Francisco de Sa Carneiro Airport • 110 km from Coimbra

By train

Coimbra-B Station, Coimbra A Station

By bus

Coimbra Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Alta Baixa Sé Nova

Day trips

Conímbriga

15 km from Coimbra • Half day

Conímbriga is a well-preserved Roman settlement with impressive mosaics, ruins, and a museum.

Luso and Bussaco Forest

20 km from Coimbra • Full day

Luso is a charming spa town known for its thermal waters, while Bussaco Forest offers beautiful hiking trails and a historic palace.

Aveiro

60 km from Coimbra • Full day

Aveiro is a charming coastal city known as the 'Venice of Portugal' for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats.

Festivals

Queima das Fitas (Ribbon Burning Festival) • Late May Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival) • December

Pro tips

Visit the University of Coimbra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Try local specialties, such as Cozido à Portuguesa, Bacalhau à Brás, and Pastel de Tentúgal, at iconic eateries like O Sucesso, Zé Manel dos Frangos, and Café Santa Cruz
Explore the city's neighborhoods, such as Alta, Baixa, and Sé Nova, to discover hidden gems, local shops, and cultural sites
Take a day trip to Conímbriga, Luso and Bussaco Forest, or Aveiro to experience the region's history, nature, and unique culture
Attend a Fado performance at the University of Coimbra for a traditional Portuguese music experience