Highlights
- Discover Coimbra, Portugal's first capital, and its UNESCO university
- See iconic student capes that feel straight out of Hogwarts
- Hear the tragic love story of Dom Pedro and Inês de Castro
- Walk through medieval streets shaped by history and Fado de Coimbra
- See the monastery where Portugal's first two kings are buried
Full description
Discover Coimbra beyond the usual guidebooks on a 2-hour small-group walking tour through the university and the medieval heart of Portugal's historic first capital.
Meet your local host, Mateus, a current University of Coimbra student who grew up spending his summers in Florida and speaks fluent English. Starting at the Iron Gate, hear about the university's centuries-old traditions, student rituals and iconic black capes that look straight out of Hogwarts.
Explore the historic University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, and admire the exterior of the magnificent Joanina Library. Continue toward the Sé Nova, a former Jesuit church turned cathedral, while uncovering stories about student life and the university's influence on the city.
Pass the Sé Velha, Coimbra's 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, before descending the atmospheric Rua de Quebra Costas. Along its cobblestone streets, discover the traditions of Fado de Coimbra and hear the tragic love story of Dom Pedro and Inês de Castro.
Pass through the medieval Almedina Tower and continue along Rua Ferreira Borges, Coimbra's lively main pedestrian street. See the Santa Cruz Monastery, where Portugal's first two kings are buried.
Finish with a relaxed walk toward Parque Verde do Mondego, a riverside park with beautiful views of the historic center and university hill.
Includes
- University of Coimbra Main Square (Paço das Escolas)
- Local host: Mateus, a University of Coimbra student, hosting your 2-hour walk
- Local tips: real-time recommendations on where to eat, drink and explore
Not included
- Joanina Library: only the exterior is viewed; entry is not included
- University indoor spaces: Saint Michael's Chapel and the Great Hall are viewed from outside only
- Entrance tickets to attractions (Santa Cruz church is free but may close for mass)
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting point
Look for the Iron Gate (Porta Férrea), the historic main entrance to the University of Coimbra. Your host, Mateus, will be there and will introduce himself directly.
Open in Google MapsNot suitable for
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
- People with low level of fitness
- Hearing-impaired people
Important information
- Bring comfortable shoes — Coimbra is hilly with many stairs.
- Not allowed: pets, bikes, alcohol and drugs.
- The tour is conducted in English.
- The 2-hour duration is approximate.
- Be prepared for different weather conditions.
This is a small-group tour, not a private tour — you will be joined by other travelers (max 8 people). Looking for a private experience? See our private tours on the homepage — click here.
