The First Capital of Portugal
Coimbra was my dream college destination,
and the city where my love for tour guiding became more real!
It is a cradle of unique expressions of culture, such as the academic traditions of one of the world's oldest Universities.
Once in Coimbra, you'll get the chance to witness how Portugal
came to be a nation - and experience a UNESCO place that remains fiercely authentic to its history. Coimbra hides tales old as time...
come with me and I'll tell you what they whisper!
All tours are available in English & Portuguese
1.15h - 9€ - Maximum of 10 participants
 
The University of Coimbra was once the Palace of the first Portuguese King, D. Afonso Henriques. And his sixth successor, D. Dinis, founded the University in 1290 - making it the 17th oldest in the world.
In this tour, we’ll discover how Coimbra became the capital of Portugal, the scientific role of the institution... and how its students were responsible for so many colorful traditions and important revolutions!
 
THE GREEN BEAUTY OF COIMBRA’S GARDENS
(Currently Unavailable)
2h
 
When people think of Coimbra, their imagination goes straight to the University, yet the city also possesses a unique green Patrimony.
In this tour, we’re going to explore the Botanical Garden, learn about its scientific purposes, and enjoy Penedo da Saudade, a cozy garden dedicated to the nostalgia of ex-students!
 
DOWNTIME IN DOWNTOWN
(Currently Unavailable)
1h - 3h
 
If you already know about the University and prefer to do a bit of scrolling around, then this is the tour for you!
This visit focuses on the UNESCO perimeter outside of the University, allowing us to understand how the town interacted with the school system.
This is the best option to learn Portugal's most exciting moments in Medieval History... and of course, to also find the best shopping and eating places!
 
 
Recommendations for your Tour
 
WEATHER
Coimbra is close to the seaside, so the weather is usually more humid than in most cities in the interior. The Alta campus, where the University is located, is particularly windy and exposed to the sun, and the Downtown area is by Mondego’s riverside, which makes that part of the town colder.
Please remember that Coimbra’s urban perimeter is within very steep hills, so adjust your clothes and footwear accordingly to the physical fitness level that this demands.
Nonetheless, the temperatures tend to be friendly throughout the seasons, and full sunny days are common even at the peak of Winter.
I recommend you dress in layers and bring sunglasses. Check Portugal’s official Weather Institute website in advance to make sure you’re prepared.
TRANSPORTATION
The Downtown area of Coimbra is easily accessible, but please note that the bus stations and the train station are located 20 minutes on foot away from it. There are plenty of cabs and bus lines that make that trip, and a transfer from the Estação Velha station.
The area where the University is located might prove to be difficult to access due to the fact that it is at the top of a small hill. Walking is viable but grueling, so, if you would rather avoid it, here are my suggestions:
- CAR Due to the small number of parking spaces reserved for staff, I suggest you try parking your car in Rua Padre António Vieira, Praça da Sé Nova, or near the Botanical Garden. All of these are less than 5 minutes on foot from the University.
- BUS Lines 28, 34 and 103 are the ones whose trajectory includes the University. You can also try the small Buses Lines that stop nearby, by the Botanical Garden and the Sé Velha. Check Coimbra’s buses at SMTUC’s website.
- TAXI Most cabs charge around 5 - 7€ from the urban limits of Coimbra to the city's centre. Uber and Bolt are also available in most areas.