coimbra portugal walking tour

Free walking tour near Coimbra

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Self Guided Walking tour of Coimbra (With Maps)

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Coimbra, located in central Portugal, is steeped in living history and is a natural stopping point for those travelling between Porto and Lisbon. While not as vast as its neighbouring cities, Coimbra is brimming with character. Its grand old university is at the centre of much of its story, but its history and location are equally alluring.

Although Coimbra may not be a recognized highlight of Portugal, for travellers seeking a more authentic experience of Portugal, Coimbra is a smart choice.

Arriving by Car: At the south side of the river is a great car park, close to the old town. https://goo.gl/maps/sY6dfuTBU6Jq8wjw5. If that is full there is a free underground car park at the Convent San Francisco

Largo da Portagem (Toll Square)

Cross over the Mondego River on the Ponte de Santa Clara. The bridge gives you a great view of the city, often strewn with flags of the city and the country.

Largo da Portagem is a small square with lots of little cafes, restaurants and gelaterias. There is always a buzz of energy here. Make sure to come back after dark and see all the beautiful lights. It is open to the Mondego river which was used to bring goods to town and collect customs duties here, hence the name – Toll Sqaure.

Igreja São Bartolomeu

From the square leave by walking down the steps to the north.

The Church of St. Bartholomew is one of the oldest religious sites in Coimbra, with its initial construction predating the year 957, when it was donated to the Lorvão Monastery. Over the centuries, the church has undergone significant architectural interventions. The current Baroque style is a result of a complete reconstruction during the second half of the 18th century.

Inside the church, two notable paintings depicting the death and resurrection of Christ can be found on the left side of the nave chapel. The main gold altarpiece, featuring a painting by Italian artist Pascoal Parente, depicts the Martyrdom of St. Bartholomew and is a fine example of Baroque style. Despite its modest appearance, the Church of St. Bartholomew holds significant historical and artistic value.

Arco de Barbacã & Torre de Almedina

From Igreja São Bartolomeu walk up the steps to join pedestrianized Rua Ferreira Borges.

The street was named after Jose Ferreira Borges (1786-1838), a graduate of Coimbra University, was an attorney and the leading author of the Portuguese Commercial Code of 1833, also called the Ferreira Borges Code. He wrote many books concerning economic and political topics.

As you join the street on the opposite side of the road is the Arco de Almedina or Almedina Arch.

Arco de Barbacã, a gothic arch erected in the 16th century, topped with a shield of King Manuel I. This arch is the best kept structure of the ancient Coimbra’s wall, which corresponded to the main entrance in the city during the Islamic period. On the arch is the sculpture of our Lady, the national arms and the symbol of the city foundation.

Just beyond the Arco de Barbacã is the Arco e Torre de Almedina, is a gothic arch and old medieval gateway into the old city of Coimbra. It is surmounted by a tower that has had various functions. In the 14th and 15th centuries, this was the seat of municipal power, the Casa da Câmara, and later the Casa de Audiência, where council meetings were held.

Sé Velha de Coimbra

Pass under to Torre and walk up the R. Quebra Costas (Backbreak Street) – a narrow whitewashed street that winds steeply upward. At the top bear right and walk up the steps. At the top turn left and you should see the Cathedral.

The initial cathedral of Coimbra is known as the “Old” (“Velha”) Cathedral because a newer cathedral became the city’s second cathedral in the 18th century. Constructed in 1117 by Portuguese and French architects, it maintains much of its original Romanesque architecture, which is quite unusual for major churches of that period throughout Portugal and Europe.

Externally, it appears like a fortress, but the Renaissance-style side portal serves as a reminder that it is a church. The delicately adorned front portal, influenced by Islamic architecture, is the venue for one of the city’s major cultural events, the May “serenade,” in which male graduates perform fado music to bid farewell to student life.

Inside, very little has altered over time. Over time, only tiles imported from Seville in 1503, Gothic altarpieces, and baroque paintings have been added, with the highlight being the chancel’s exceptional gilded Gothic altarpiece, created by Flemish sculptors in the early 1500s. The cloisters, which were built in 1218, were Portugal’s first to follow the Gothic style.

Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro

Leave the old cathedral and turn right and left onto R. do Norte. National Museum Machado de Castro is on your left.

The impressive 16th century loggia dominates the large patio, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting this part of the city. This space has a rich history, serving as an administrative, political, and religious center in Roman times, a Christian temple since at least the 11th century, an episcopal palace from the second half of the 12th century, and a museum since 1911. As a result, it is one of the most complex and captivating places in the city.

After being classified as a National Monument, the former episcopal palace of Coimbra was given to the Portuguese State to house the Machado de Castro Museum. Successive adaptations allowed for the discovery of the building’s history and archaeological value. However, it was only with the recent refurbishment and expansion project that a comprehensive intervention program encompassing archaeology, architecture, and museography could give greater visibility to the scientific study of the complex.

With brand new, spacious, and well-lit areas, the Museum can now better showcase its collections and offer greater comfort and accessibility to diverse audiences. It aims to solidify its identity as a space for sharing knowledge and creating meaningful connections with visitors. Following its recent reopening, the Museum is ready to welcome visitors and continue its legacy as a cultural landmark in the city.

Sé Nova de Coimbra (New Cathedral of Coimbra)

The National Sé Nova de Coimbra is directly opposite the Museum Machado de Castro.

Sé Nova was built in the late 16th century by the Jesuit Order and became the new cathedral in 1772 when the Jesuits were expelled from Portugal. The church has a mix of Jesuit and Baroque architecture and inside, there is a barrel vaulted ceiling and ornate choir stalls and altarpiece. The stone baptismal font is also a beautifully carved feature that was transferred from the older cathedral.

Museu da Ciência de Coimbra

As you leave the cathedral turn left from the steps, and left again when you reach the road (R. Estudos). The science museum is on your right.

Museu da Ciência de Coimbra, or the Science Museum of Coimbra showcases scientific instruments and objects from various fields of science. The museum is housed in the former Royal Palace of Coimbra, which was built in the 18th century. The exhibits cover topics such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, and medicine, among others. The museum also hosts events and educational activities for visitors of all ages. The Science Museum of Coimbra is one of the oldest science museums in Europe and is considered a national monument of Portugal.

Paço das Escolas

Make your way back to the new Cathedral and walk south along R. São João. Tunr right again to reach the Porta Férrea or Iron Gate and the entrance to the Paço das Escolas.

Paço das Escolas is a historic complex of buildings located in the heart of Coimbra, Portugal. It was originally built in the 16th century as the Royal Palace of King John III and was later donated to the University of Coimbra. The complex includes several buildings such as the Joanina Library, the Royal Palace, the Academic Prison, and the Chapel of São Miguel.

The Joanina Library is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world with its ornate Baroque design and collection of rare books and manuscripts. The Royal Palace is now used as the university’s administrative headquarters and contains impressive rooms such as the Throne Room, the Coat of Arms Room, and the Room of the Capelos.

The Academic Prison is a unique building that was used to imprison students who broke the university’s rules. It is now a museum displaying the harsh conditions and punishments that students endured. The Chapel of São Miguel is a small but beautiful Baroque chapel that served as the university’s chapel until the construction of the larger and more grandiose chapel in the 16th century.

Overall, Paço das Escolas is a must-see attraction in Coimbra for those interested in history, architecture, and academia.

Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden)

Leave the square down the steps in the south west corner. These are the Escadas de Minerva or Minerva Stairs, double back on yourself with the Paço das Escolas on your left. At the end of the road turn right and you will see the Botanical Gardens.

The Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden) in Coimbra is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Portugal and one of the most beautiful in Europe. It was founded in 1772 by the Marquis of Pombal, the same prime minister who transferred the episcopal seat to Sé Nova.

The garden covers an area of about 13 hectares and is located on the hillside behind the University of Coimbra. It is home to more than 1,200 species of plants, including many rare and exotic species from all over the world.

The garden is divided into several areas, each with its own particular theme. These include the systematic beds, where plants are arranged according to their scientific classification, the medicinal garden, the aromatic and dye plants section, and the succulent plants area.

One of the highlights of the garden is the beautiful Baroque-style fountain, known as the Fonte dos Amores (Fountain of Love), which is located in the central area. There are also several greenhouses containing tropical and subtropical plants, as well as a small museum displaying scientific instruments and botanical specimens.

The Jardim Botânico is not only a beautiful place to visit but also an important scientific and educational institution. It is actively involved in the conservation and research of plant species, and it also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors.

Aqueduto de São Sebastião

Nestled behind the Botanical Gardens is the Aqueduct of São Sebastião in Coimbra is a reconstruction, produced during the reign of D. Sebastião, from 1570 onwards. It is also known as the Arcos do Jardim or Arches of the Garden. In accordance with the project attributed to the Royal architect, Filipe Terzi, it measures 1 km in length and is constituted by 21 arches.

From the Gardens make your way to the river and walk back through the Parque da Cidade Manuel Braga. You will pass by the Water Museum located in the Coimbra old Water Collection Station, built in 1922. This space houses art exhibitions and cultural activities.

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I have built many themed routes in Coimbra, so that you could enjoy the best of the “city of knowledge”! Here I present you all the details and allow you to book a guided tour alongside me: I’ll be glad in welcoming you in my city!

Scavenger’s Hunt Of Coimbra

Self-guided.

[[en]]Coimbra Under The Moonlight [[pt]]Coimbra Sob o Luar

“by night” tour for panoramics, food tour gastronomic whims, downtown & city market, riverside & tales of love, joanina library & university of coimbra vip access, all entrances included, coimbra's historical highlights, historical center of coimbra, jewish history of coimbra, fado of coimbra, live show included, pick-up point, thank you your submission has been received we will answer as soon as possible. please note reservations are only confirmed upon payment., go walks portugal, [[en]]our company is based by the principles of "fair trade" and we believe that all our employees should be properly remunerated for their services, providing them with a fair labor contract in order to provide them with happiness in their professional lives and stability in their personal life.[[pt]]a nossa empresa assenta nos princípios do “comércio justo” e acreditamos que os nossos colaboradores devem ser remunerados adequadamente pelos seus serviços, concedendo-lhes um contrato de trabalho justo que lhes garanta felicidade e estabilidade a nível profissional e pessoal., [[en]]contacts[[pt]]contactos, [[en]]+351 910 163 118 (whatsapp available)[[pt]]+351 910 163 118 (disponível no whatsapp), [email protected], [[en]]recommended by[[pt]]recomendado por.

Coimbra walking Tours

2,5 Hours tour

Morning & Afternoon tours

Stroll through Coimbra’s top attractions

Experience the city as a local!

User ratings of my tour

Read what other tourists are saying

English Group free Tour

Meeting point.

Next to the Iron Gate (“Porta Férrea”) on the outside of the University

(on the left when facing the entrance)

Booking is mandatory. I only go to the meeting point when I have reservations

Iron Gate (Meeting Point), Botanical Garden, Dinis Square, New Cathedral, Machado de Castro Museum, University & Old Cathedral, St James Church, Santa Cruz Church & Manga Garden

Itineray may be changed due to religious services

Is your date not available? Ask about my availability – submit this form or send an email to [email protected]

Yes, I consent to having this website store my submitted information so they can respond to my inquiry.

If you prefer, you can send me an email to: [email protected]

Morning free Tour

Book Morning

I don’t have any tours planned for this week. I’ll be back nex Monday.

If you still want to do the tour, drop me an email at [email protected]. But please be aware that weather conditions are not ideal and this affects the quality of the tour.

Discover the history of the church and the ancient monastery & highlights. A visit to the inside is included!

Manga Garden

Learn why it’s called Manga Garden. No, it’s not because of the mango fruit

New Cathedral

Marvel at the façade of the cathedral located right next to the museum.

One of the oldest universities in Europe. Visit the exterior, learn the history and get some tips about the visit.

Old Cathedral

Built like a fortress, it’s a key part of the burning of the ribbons festivities

Barbican Gate

Discover the place that was the city’s main entry point in medieval times

Jewish Heritage

Learn more about the Jewish presence over time in the city

Botanical Garden

Enjoy Portugal’s largest botanical garden, included in the UNESCO classification

St James Church

Learn about the dramatic changes this church has undergone over time

Discover the city’s only national museum, which is itself a piece of history.

Academic Traditions

Explore the traditions of one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Funicular Ride

If your tour goes from downtown to uptown we’ll go up on a funicular

Portagem Square

This is the Meeting Point

What is a free tour?

This is a tip-based tour.

At the end you can give a gratification according to what you can afford and what you thought of the quality of the tour.

About Me – The guide

My name is Jose. I live in the city since I was a student here a few years ago.

I like history, culture and art. And I love meeting new people

I’m registered in the National Tourism Registry (RNAT 924/2023)

About the tour

The aim of the tour is to give you a broad idea of the city’s history & traditions, covering all major attractions.

I want to show you the best of the city and what it’s like to live and study in it.

After all, that’s not in the guidebooks 😉

On all tours from downtown to uptown I take the financial risk of offering you the funicular ride to uptown.

I’m sure you’ll agree to this option later on.

This is a tip-based free tour, so we visit the outside of the attractions and only visit the inside of the Santa Cruz Church.

We’ll be walking from the university to downtown, so wear comfortable shoes

Free Tour Under the Stars

The hidden Coimbra will be unveiled to you in this dark, mysterious Free Walking Tour. Discover legends, secret stories and not-so-known characters walking through the city at night!

 University       Monastery of Santa Cruz       Mysteries & Legends

A Free Tour is different than any other kind of tour: they’re based on tips only! Part of this covers marketing and operational expenses, which are usually very high. This way we achieve great quality in the tours, high guest satisfaction and we also make sure that, regardless of the budget, everyone can enjoy Coimbra as much as we do.

Free Tours Coimbra

Discover this wonderful place with our  Free Walking Tours in Coimbra . This lively student city, once the capital of Portugal, is home to the oldest university in the Portuguese speaking World! Come stroll through its charming Medieval streets and riverside houses and enjoy the traditions, legends, azulejos and overall incredible life this city has to offer.

We don’t like lecturing you with years and names of people. Our tours are a fun way of discovering each city, not only its history but also its traditions, legends and way of life, by the hands of experienced locals! At Free Tour Portugal we think that anyone should be able to enjoy our country and that this is the best way to expand culture and achieve fairer prices for everyone.

Come enjoy Coimbra with us. Book now one of our fabulous Free Walking Tours in Coimbra !

How did we calculate this rating? A weighted average has been calculated from the reviews on the following platforms: TripAdvisor:  4.911 ratings, average of 5/5 FreeTour.com: 864 ratings, average of 9,4/10 GuruWalk: 261 ratings, average of 4,8/5 Google: 60 ratings, average of 4,5/5

THE 10 BEST Coimbra Walking Tours

Walking tours in coimbra.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Multi-day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lousa Mountain Private Tour

2. An adventure through the Schist Villages of Lousã

3. Joanina Library & University of Coimbra VIP ACCESS!

4. Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain

5. Conimbriga and The Roman Tour

6. Coimbra Private Walking Tour with U.C. Tickets Early Access

7. An adventure through the Forest and Palace of Bussaco - Coimbra

8. Hiking in Conimbriga and Mouros River Valley

9. jewish history of coimbra.

10. A tour between Cascades and Schist Villages, Piodão

11. Coimbra's Historical Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

12. Discovering Nature in Serra da Lousã

13. Discovering the Roman Ruins of Conímbriga and the Caves of Sicó

14. From the Schist Villages of Lousã to the Mills of Penacova

15. Roman Ruins of Conímbriga, Penela Castle and Buracas do Casmilo

16. Arista Tour - Penacova Windmills and Landscapes (noon)

17. A journey through the forgotten Sierra ... - Serra de Brasfemes, Coimbra

18. Aliança Underground Museum and Mata do Bussaco - Coimbra

19. Private guided tour of the University of Coimbra - Ticket Included

20. Gaios Trail and Penedo C'Abana Viewpoint, Coimbra

21. Private tour of the Historic Center of Coimbra - skip-the-line, includes tickets

22. coimbra's historical highlights.

23. Lisbon to Porto Private Tour stoping in Coimbra and Aveiro

24. Bussaco Forest Walking Experience, half day from Coimbra

25. Buracas do Casmilo Private Hiking Tour from Coimbra

26. Coimbra Enchanted: A Romantic Journey Through Time

27. Coimbra Chronicles: A Walking Journey Through History

28. Coimbra gastronomic experience - City Sightseeing Private Tour From Lisbon

29. Coimbra Christmas Magic: A Festive Family Exploration

30. Coimbra Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide

What travellers are saying.

• Guided tour of the University and city of Coimbra.
• Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain
• Joanina Library & University of Coimbra VIP ACCESS!
• Conimbriga and The Roman Tour
• University of Coimbra - more complete and private visit, ticket included
• Aventuras Forte(s) - Turismo de Natureza
• GOwalksportugal
• Take Coimbra
• Coimbra Free Tours
• FreeTour Coimbra
• Rembobinons Coimbra

THE 10 BEST Coimbra Walking Tours

Walking tours in coimbra.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Multi-day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lousa Mountain Private Tour

2. An adventure through the Schist Villages of Lousã

3. Joanina Library & University of Coimbra VIP ACCESS!

4. Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain

5. Conimbriga and The Roman Tour

6. Coimbra Private Walking Tour with U.C. Tickets Early Access

7. An adventure through the Forest and Palace of Bussaco - Coimbra

8. Hiking in Conimbriga and Mouros River Valley

9. jewish history of coimbra.

10. A tour between Cascades and Schist Villages, Piodão

11. Coimbra's Historical Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

12. Discovering Nature in Serra da Lousã

13. Discovering the Roman Ruins of Conímbriga and the Caves of Sicó

14. From the Schist Villages of Lousã to the Mills of Penacova

15. Roman Ruins of Conímbriga, Penela Castle and Buracas do Casmilo

16. Arista Tour - Penacova Windmills and Landscapes (noon)

17. A journey through the forgotten Sierra ... - Serra de Brasfemes, Coimbra

18. Aliança Underground Museum and Mata do Bussaco - Coimbra

19. Private guided tour of the University of Coimbra - Ticket Included

20. Gaios Trail and Penedo C'Abana Viewpoint, Coimbra

21. Private tour of the Historic Center of Coimbra - skip-the-line, includes tickets

22. coimbra's historical highlights.

23. Lisbon to Porto Private Tour stoping in Coimbra and Aveiro

24. Bussaco Forest Walking Experience, half day from Coimbra

25. Buracas do Casmilo Private Hiking Tour from Coimbra

26. Coimbra Enchanted: A Romantic Journey Through Time

27. Coimbra Chronicles: A Walking Journey Through History

28. Coimbra gastronomic experience - City Sightseeing Private Tour From Lisbon

29. Coimbra Christmas Magic: A Festive Family Exploration

30. Coimbra Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide

What travellers are saying.

• Guided tour of the University and city of Coimbra.
• Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain
• Joanina Library & University of Coimbra VIP ACCESS!
• Conimbriga and The Roman Tour
• University of Coimbra - more complete and private visit, ticket included
• Aventuras Forte(s) - Turismo de Natureza
• GOwalksportugal
• Take Coimbra
• Coimbra Free Tours
• FreeTour Coimbra
• Rembobinons Coimbra

• Destinations

Free tours in Coimbra

• Tours in Coimbra

Experience the Timeless Beauty of Coimbra with FREETOUR.com

Coimbra is the former capital of Portugal and the owner of one of the oldest universities in Europe. There is a vast cultural and architectural heritage here, which is essential for the country. During the free tour in Coimbra, the traveler will be pleasantly surprised by the presence of magical historical monuments. It will be interesting to hear about each attraction from a qualified guide here.

Walking Tours in Coimbra

Booking the free walking tour in Coimbra, you should visit the various sights that are truly mesmerizing. Let's take a closer look at the places available for inspection.

University of Coimbra

It is worth starting your free tour in Coimbra from the University of Coimbra - one of the oldest in Europe and throughout the world. In fact, it was founded in 1290, though not in Coimbra, but in Lisbon. The educational institution finally moved to its current place in 1537. Today, the University of Coimbra, located on a hill in the city center, is a very popular tourist attraction, and rightfully so, because the buildings in which it is located really deserve attention.

Sé Velha (Old Cathedral)

With its high crenelated walls, Sé Velha Cathedral resembles a castle. Similar associations are born at the sight of narrow, like loopholes, windows. The cathedral acquired the features of a fortress not by chance: at the time of construction, it was located on the border separating the territory of Christianity and the territory of Islam. Sé Velha was consecrated in 1184 when Coimbra was the capital of the state.

Sé Nova (New Cathedral).

Having visited the old cathedral, you must attend the new cathedral during your free walking tour in Coimbra. Sé Nova (The new cathedral), can only be called new in comparison: being founded back in 1598, it is still 400 years younger than the Old Cathedral of Coimbra. This is a rather attractive building from an architectural point of view - with a beautiful baroque facade and statues of four Jesuit saints in niches decorating it, with two bell towers and a dome that complement this magnificence. 

Theme park "Portugal in miniature"

"Portugal dos Pequenitos" is an exciting place that will appeal to all family members without exception. This fun and educational theme park features miniature replicas of Portugal's most famous landmarks.

Praça do Comercio (Marketplace)

The lively main square of Coimbra is the commercial center of the city. It is a popular tourist destination, surrounded by shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. In one corner of Praça do Comércio stands the Church of São Tiago, consecrated in the 12th century. This building is beautiful at night when it is beautifully illuminated.

Book Your Free Walking Tour in Coimbra Today!

Coimbra is a place to see. Going there, you will find interesting architectural works of art and other iconic sites. By ordering a free walking tour in Coimbra, you will get not only interesting sights but also:

- a fascinating story of all architectural creations woven into one exciting tale;

- a lot of fun and unforgettable impressions;

- the opportunity to see all the sights at your own pace.

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THE 10 BEST Coimbra Walking Tours

Walking tours in coimbra.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Multi-day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lousa Mountain Private Tour

2. An adventure through the Schist Villages of Lousã

3. Joanina Library & University of Coimbra VIP ACCESS!

4. Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain

5. Conimbriga and The Roman Tour

6. Coimbra Private Walking Tour with U.C. Tickets Early Access

7. An adventure through the Forest and Palace of Bussaco - Coimbra

8. Hiking in Conimbriga and Mouros River Valley

9. jewish history of coimbra.

10. A tour between Cascades and Schist Villages, Piodão

11. Coimbra's Historical Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

12. Discovering Nature in Serra da Lousã

13. Discovering the Roman Ruins of Conímbriga and the Caves of Sicó

14. From the Schist Villages of Lousã to the Mills of Penacova

15. Roman Ruins of Conímbriga, Penela Castle and Buracas do Casmilo

16. Arista Tour - Penacova Windmills and Landscapes (noon)

17. A journey through the forgotten Sierra ... - Serra de Brasfemes, Coimbra

18. Aliança Underground Museum and Mata do Bussaco - Coimbra

19. Private guided tour of the University of Coimbra - Ticket Included

20. Gaios Trail and Penedo C'Abana Viewpoint, Coimbra

21. Private tour of the Historic Center of Coimbra - skip-the-line, includes tickets

22. coimbra's historical highlights.

23. Lisbon to Porto Private Tour stoping in Coimbra and Aveiro

24. Bussaco Forest Walking Experience, half day from Coimbra

25. Buracas do Casmilo Private Hiking Tour from Coimbra

26. Coimbra Enchanted: A Romantic Journey Through Time

27. Coimbra Chronicles: A Walking Journey Through History

28. Coimbra gastronomic experience - City Sightseeing Private Tour From Lisbon

29. Coimbra Christmas Magic: A Festive Family Exploration

30. Coimbra Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide

What travellers are saying.

• Guided tour of the University and city of Coimbra.
• Schist Villages at Lousa Mountain
• Joanina Library & University of Coimbra VIP ACCESS!
• Conimbriga and The Roman Tour
• University of Coimbra - more complete and private visit, ticket included
• Aventuras Forte(s) - Turismo de Natureza
• GOwalksportugal
• Take Coimbra
• Coimbra Free Tours
• FreeTour Coimbra
• Rembobinons Coimbra

One Day In Coimbra Portugal Itinerary

Wondering how to spend one day in Coimbra Portugal? I’ve got you covered.

This 1 day Coimbra itinerary covers all the top attractions and best things to do and see in beautiful Coimbra.

Dating from the 9th century, Coimbra is a surefire charmer with no end to its embarrassment of riches. The city is one of the best day trips from Porto and also makes the perfect midway stop between Lisbon and Porto.

Coimbra is known as the “Athens of Portugal” for its heritage and culture. Coimbra was the capital of Portugal from 1139 to 1385, and was the birthplace of six Portuguese monarchs.

The city never fails to appeal, with a combination of old world charm and a lively student population.

The prestigious UNESCO-listed Coimbra University crowns the top of the hill. You’ll see students swirling their black cape uniforms everywhere you go.

Overview Of One Day In Coimbra Itinerary

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll see with this 1 day in Coimbra itinerary:

• Coimbra Univeristy
• Botanical Garden
• Historic Center
• Santa Clara-a-Nova
• Santa Clara-a-Velha
• Santa Cruz Church
• Machado Museum
• Dinner & Fado

One Day In Coimbra Itinerary

Here is my recommended itinerary to help you have the most efficient 1 day in Coimbra. It covers all the best things to do in Coimbra in a day. I also give you tips on where to eat, where to stay, transportation, tours, and tickets.

As with all of my suggested itineraries, I recommend that you use this Coimbra itinerary as a guide. You can tailor it to suit your individual interests, needs, and pace of travel. 

If you have extra time in Coimbra, you can easily turn this 1 day itinerary into a 2 day itinerary by moving at a slower pace.

1. Coimbra University

Perched on the top of Coimbra is the fortress-like Coimbra University . It’s an ancient UNESCO-listed site and a must see with one day in Coimbra.

It’s one of the oldest universities in the world, older than Oxford University. The university was founded by royal charter in 1290. 

The university is a U shaped structure that started life as a Moorish fortress. The scale and sturdiness of the structure was intended to symbolize the power of the caliphate of Córdoba .

The Royal Palace of Alcaçova was formerly the home of King Alfonso Henriques. Today, it houses the Great Hall of Acts, whose current design dates from 1655. This room is where doctoral theses are defended.

This grand room was originally meant to be the throne room, and it still feels palatial. The wooden ceiling is fantastical and dates from the 17th century. 

The Private Exam room is also stunning. It has a colorful painted ceiling dating from 1701. 

The room is lined with 38 rather stiff portraits depicting the rectors from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The lower walls are lined with blue and white Coimbra tiles. Don’t miss the balcony with views over the city.

You can also climb the Palace Tower. The 184 steps aren’t for the claustrophobic, with an exceedingly narrow stone staircase.

Your next stop is St. Michael’s Chapel, which you enter through an intricate Manueline doorway. The chapel’s vaulted ceilings are covered in delicate frescos.

The walls are spectacular, clad in “azulejos de tappet,” carpet tiles forming a repeating pattern. There’s a magnificent organ in a carved and painted casing.

But the chapel is just a warm up for the extravagance of the university’s over-the-top Joanina Library. Think Baroque delirium.

You enter the library on the left side of the main entrance via the Minerva Stairs. You must enter during your designated time slot, no exceptions.

The magnificent Nobel Floor is jaw dropping, sheer visual delight. The tour guide opens the grand double doors and you are ushered in, as if entering a sacred temple. Your first impression is that gold is everywhere.

The famous library was built from 1717-28 during the reign of Joao V. It was designed by Gaspar Ferreira in Baroque style and is known as the Baroque Library.

It has a large central hall with a nave like structure divided into three lofty main rooms.

Tapering small columns support some gilded and painted bookcases. The upper levels are accessed by a ladder.

There’s a large painting of Dom Joao V, founder of the library. A statue of the corpulent man stands outside.

The university sits on top of the Alcaçova hill. It’s a somewhat back breaking flight of stairs. If steep hills aren’t your thing, you can hop on a bus to get to the university.

Take the one marked “Botanica,” directly across from the tourist office downtown. I took the bus up to save time and then walked back down. But if you like climbing, it’s a steep 30 minute walk down narrow winding streets past beautiful sites.

Once there, you queue up to purchase your ticket. Get Program 1, which includes all sites. 

No other ticket includes the Joanina Library, and you can’t miss that. 60 people are admitted every 20 minutes to the library, so pay attention to your admission time.

There are placards, at least in the palace rooms, giving you information on what you’re seeing. But you may want to book a 2 hour private guided tour to get the full scoop.

Address : Pacos das Escolas, 3004-531 Coimbra

2. Coimbra Botanical Garden

From the university, walk down Rua Larga. You’ll see the arches of the San Sebastián Aqueduct and the entry to Coimbra’s Botanical Garden.

Founded in 1772 by the Marquee de Pommel, it’s the largest botanical garden in Portugal. And admission is completely free.

The garden has an orchard, bamboo grove, a Neo-Classical fountain, and an ornamental terrace.

From the Sky Garden, you can even zip line through the trees.

Address : Calcada Martim de Freitas 3000-456 Coimbra

3. New Cathedral, Se Nova

Se Nova is Coimbra’s “new” church, founded by Jesuits in 1598. It’s just a short walk from the university. 

It’s one of the best examples of new Jesuit buildings. Jesuit saints even look at you from the grand facade. 

Inside, the interior is much more spacious than the “old” cathedral. It has a barrel vaulted ceiling with a dome over the crossing. 

There’s a Manueline style baptismal font and wooden choir stalls. The altar is flanked by a pair of 18th century organs.

Address : Largo Feira dos Estudantes, 3000-214 Coimbra

4. Old Cathedral, Se Velha

Off the main drag, you find some steep and narrower streets. This is where you’ll find Coimbra’s Old Cathedral, Se Velha , a beautiful old structure.

The austere 12th century Sé is Portugal’s finest example of Romanesque architecture. It austere design was the product of two Frenchmen.

The main portal and facade are particularly striking, almost gold in the warm afternoon sunshine.

The cathedral has been on its present site since the Visigothic period. The early 10th century basilica was destroyed in 1117. You can see the votive foundation of the earlier church in the Sé.

The first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, financed construction of the current structure, along with another austere beauty the UNESCO site of Alcobaça Monastery .

As appropriate for a church built during the Reconquista era, the Sé has a crenellated, fortress-like exterior and narrow, slit-like lower windows.

Inside, the focal point is an ornate late Gothic retable altar. There’s also a delightful 13th century cloister, from which you have a unique view of the university.

The high barrel vaulted nave preserves the Sé‘s main Romanesque features. There are many side altars and well-preserved Gothic tombs of bishops and saints, backed by bright 16th century Mudéjar tiles from Seville. 

Once outside again, you can walk around the building and stand in front of the Especiosa Door, or Beautiful Door, a symbol of the Renaissance.

Address : Large da Se Velha 3000-383 Coimbra

You’ll have endless options for great food in Coimbra. We settled in at DUX Taberna Urbana , for a contemporary take on traditional dishes. 

You could also try Pastelaria , a bakery-cafe. It’s very popular. You should expect a line. For desert, try the gourmet brownies at Doce Amor.

You can also sam p le some of the port wine Portugal is famous for.

6. Strolling The Old Town

Coimbra’s pedestrianized main drag is the very photogenic Rua Ferreira Borges, accessed by the Arco de Almedina.

The arch is the remaining entrance gate of Coimbra and one of the city’s last examples of Moorish architecture.

Rua Ferreira Borges is the oldest cobbled street in Coimbra. It stretches from Santa Cruz Church down to the pretty square of Largo da Portagem. Its cobbled stone lanes seem like steep stacked slopes.

The street is filled with bookstores, cozy shops, patisseries, and stores with objet d’arts .

You may want to do some ceramic shopping. Coimbra has a special ceramic style, distinct from the simpler designs of Porto or Lisbon. 

Coimbra pottery is based on museum reproductions dating back to 15th century with polychromatic styles in geometric forms and images of rosters, fish, and peacocks. The pottery has definite Asian and Moorish influences.

The best place is Carlos Tomás Handicrafts. You can even see the artist at work in his studio.

Address : Largo da Sé Velha 4

7. Convent of Santa Clare-a-Nova

As with the cathedrals, there’s a new and old convent in Coimbra. 

Sanat Clara-Nova is the new convent. It’s one the other side of the Mondega River, so a bit of a trek to visit.

It was built between 1649-1677 to house the Poor Clare nuns from the old convent, whose home was repeatedly ruined by flooding. 

The convent has a lovely Baroque church. It’s must see masterpieces are a 17th century gilt and wood sculpture of a saint and the silver and crystal tomb of Queen Isabel, the wife of Dom Dinis I and Coimbra patron saint.

The convent also has a magnificent large cloister. It was funded by Joao V, a generous benefactor to nuns.

Address : Calcadsa Santa Isabel 3040-270 Coimbra

8. Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha

This 13th century convent complex has been eerily abandoned since it was flooded in the 17th century. It was once home to the Poor Clare nuns.

Almost from the day it was built, the convent suffered from flooding. It was finally abandoned in 1677 and lies in well preserved ruins.

The original Gothic church, at least, has been restored 

The convent has an intriguing mini-museum and useful pamphlets providing information on the everyday lives of the monastic community who once lived there. 

Address : Calcada Santa isabel 3040-270 Coimbra

9. Igreja de Santa Cruz

This grand church sits in a lovely square, Praca 8 de Maio. It was founded in 1131 by the canons of St. Augustine.

The interior has beautiful blue and white azulejo tiles, which line both sides of the church. They tell the story of Portugal’s history and St. Augustine’s life.

The monastery is also the final resting place for two historical figures, the first two kings of Portugal, Afonso Henriques and Sancho I.

There’s also a superb Renaissance pulpit. You can also visit the Chapter House and an elegant Manueline cloister.

Address : Praca 8 de Maio 3001-300 Coimbra

10. Machado de Castro National Museum

This art museum is named after the renowned Portuguese sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro. It’s housed in a former bishop’s palace. 

The museum is Portugal’s foremost sculpture museum. There are also paintings from the 12th to 20th century. 

A cool spot is the Criptoportico. It’a a maze of underground passages displaying Roman sculptures and Visigothic artifacts. 

The museum also has a fine restaurant, Loggia , where you can grab dinner. 

Address : 3000-236 Coimbra

Rua das Azeiteiras, a pedestrian only street, is loaded with restaurants. 

O Trovador is a traditional Portuguese place near the old cathedral. Notes Bar & Kitchen is a bistro style restaurant that serves up excellent steak. 

Why not listen to some fado to end your one day in Coimbra?

Like its pottery, Coimbra has a distinctive type of bluesy fado, the melancholy music about unrequited love. It’s more boisterous and romantic than Lisbon’s fado.

A lone singer is accompanied by two guitars. The traditional costume, like the university students, is a black cape. In Coimbra, the singer is always a man. 

You can usually catch some fado at Cafe Santa Cruz . The restaurant-bar is built into the cavernous former Church of São João, which dates to 1530. 

Dappled light streams in through the intricate stained glass entrance. You can plunk down on medieval style wooden chairs and sit under impressive stone arches. The cafe is known for its Pastél de Santa Clara – a pastry made with flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and almond filling.

You can also book a ticket to listen to fado at the Coimbra’s Fado Center .

Tips For Spending One Day In Coimbra

Here are some must know tips for day tripping to Coimbra or spending one day in Coimbra. 

1.   How To Get To Coimbra

Coimbra is located in central Portugal. It’s a convenient mid way stop between Lisbon and Porto. You can day trip to Coimbra from either city, but Porto is closer.

Coimbra is a 90 minute ride on the high speed train from Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia Station. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Porto, it’s 1 hour from Porto to Coimbra.

From either destination, you will arrive at Coimbra B Train Station. From there, it’a about a 20 minute walk to the historic center.

Coimbra is a 2 hour drive from Lisbon Airport and about 90 minutes from Lisbon. Coimbra is also 90 minutes from Porto.

There is ample public parking at the Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas. If you park on the street, be sure to pay for parking at the kiosk.

By Guided Tour :

If you don’t have a car, you can book a guided day tour from Porto . You can also book a day tour to Coimbra and Aveiro from Lisbon or a private tour from Lisbon .

2. How To Get Around Coimbra

Coimbra has a compact historic center. You can get everywhere on foot and see all the main attractions in one day.

You may want to start your one day in Coimbra with a guided walking tour . Coimbra has steep hills, so be sure to wear comfy shoes.

You can also hop aboard a riverboat for a 50 minute cruise on the Mondego River. Cruises leave from the quay, south of the Santa Clara Bridge. The company also gives tuk tuk tours of Coimbra.

4. Where To Stay In Coimbra

Coimbra makes an ideal base for touring central Portugal and it’s less expensive than Lisbon or Porto.

If you’d like to stay overnight or more than one day in Coimbra, there are some great hotels you can check out.

Solar Antigo L uxury Coimbra is a great place to stay. The hotel has charming rooms with exposed stone walls.

The Sapien tia Boutique Hotel is a pretty hotel in a historic building right by the university. Some of the rooms have amazing city and river views.

The Ho tel Quinta das Lagrimas is a small luxury hotel. It has a library filled with ancient books and a spa. This is where I stayed in Coimbra.

5. When To Visit Coimbra

I don’t advise spending one day in Coimbra in high season, which is July and August. It’s just too hot and more crowded.

The shoulder season, May or October, is a good time to visit.

In May, you can experience one of Coimbra’s famous festivals, The Burning of the Ribbons, Queima das Fitas . It’s a symbolic burning of faculty ribbons.

It marks the end of university life for graduating seniors with a week-long series of galas, parades, and partying.

6. Is Coimbra Worth Visiting?

100% yes. It’s a charming and underrated city in Portugal that’s not teeming with tourists. It will make a nice city break after the crowds in Lisbon or Porto.

Plus, you can check off a magnificent UNESCO site, enjoy the city’s medieval architecture, and relax at a quaint cafe.

7. Places To Visit Near Coimbra

Do you have more than one day in Coimbra? 

There are plenty of other places to visit near Coimbra, either as a day trip or combined visit. Here are a few attractions that are close to Coimbra.

Conimbriga  is just 20+ minutes from Porto. It was once a flourishing Roman settlement.

It’s one of the largest Roman settlements outside Italy, dating from as early as the 9th century B.C. But it really flourished under the reign of Emperor Augustus.

Romans built an amphitheater for over 10,000 people, city walls, three bathing complexes (with stone heating ducts) temples, an aqueduct, and several residences.

Conimbriga wasn’t excavated until the late 19th century. Only about 20% of the entire city is currently unearthed. 

The highlight of Conimbriga is its exquisite and well-preserved collection of colorful mosaic floors. The ones at the House of Fountains are especially remarkable.

You can also visit the onsite museum, which offers a good introduction to the archaeological site.

You can book a small group guided tour from Porto to Conimbriga . If you’re traveling from Lisbon by car, you can also stop here before heading to Coimbra University to start your own day in Coimbra.

Just a little over an hour from Coimbra is the he breathtaking Alçobaca Monastery. If you love history or architecture, the 800 year old Alcobaça Monastery is a must visit destination in Portugal.

The monastery became a UNESCO site in 1989 because of its “size, the purity of its architectural style, the beauty of the materials and the care with which it was built make this a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art.”

Construction took place over centuries and it’s a mix of Gothic and Cistercian architecture with intricate workmanship. The monks moved into their new stone digs in 1223, and the church was finished in 1252.

When you approach the great edifice from the street, you are confronted with an imposing and ornate Baroque facade from 1702.

Once you enter the doors, everything changes. The monastery is actually a monument to simplicity that feels light and airy.

You can visit the monastery church, completed in 1269, for free.

In the transept, you’ll find the marble tombs of the star crossed lovers King Pedro I of Portugal and the catastrophically beautiful Inês de Castro of Spain. The doomed pair are the Romeo and Juliet of Portugal.

You can visit Alcobaca and other monasteries on a guided day tour from Coimbra .

Buçaco

About 18 miles from Coimbra lies the National Forest of Buçaco. It’s one of the most bucolic woodland spaces in all of Portugal.

The park was a monastic retreat and home to the Carmelite monastery for over 1,000 years. In the magical and secluded forest, they maintained a strict vow of silence.

The monks also set about propagating some exotic species. There are approximately 700 species of trees in the forest. At the highest point, Cruz Alta, you’ll have fine views of the sea.

As you wander the moss covered paths, you can also check out the faded splendor of the Bussaco Palace . It’s a Neo-Manueline building commissioned by King Carlos. 

Inside, you’ll find a lavish interior decorated with murals and beautiful azulejo tiles. In 1907, the palace was reborn as a luxury hotel. 

You can visit the national park on a guided day tour from Coimbra .

About 80 miles northeast of Coimbra is the lively town of Viseu. It’s the center of the Dao wine-growing region and packed with history.

The medieval old town is well preserved. There’s a remnant of the ancient city walls. The Town Hall in the main square has a grand azulejo-clad stairway.

But the real star of Viseu is the town’s cathedral, Viseu Se. 

The cathedral has a Manueline-style facade and forbidding granite towers. Inside, there’s a magnificent triple nave that’s flooded with light.

In the north chapel, are fine 18th century azulejos. In the Manueline cloister, the azulejos are a century older and wrap around the walls.

Here’s my complete guide to the best things to do in Viseu .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Coimbra itinerary. You may enjoy these other Portugal travel guides and resources:

• 10 day itinerary for Portugal
• Historic landmarks in Portugal
• 2 days in Lisbon itinerary
• 4 day itinerary for Lisbon
• 2 days in Porto itinerary
• Guide to Lisbon’s Alfama neighborhood
• Guide to Lisbon’s Belem neighborhood
• Guide to Pena Palace
• Day trips from Lisbon
• Tips for Visiting Sintra

If you’d like to spend one day in Coimbra, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 23, 2023 by Leslie Livingston