Tour Information
90 minutes
2.4 miles / 3.8 km
Discover the charm and history of Coimbra, the former capital of Portugal, on this self-guided walking tour. Begin at the iconic University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world, where you’ll wander through its majestic halls, including the famous Joanina Library. Explore the medieval Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) and its Romanesque beauty, followed by a visit to the Sé Nova (New Cathedral), reflecting Coimbra's evolving architectural styles.
As the tour continues, you’ll cross the Mondego River to visit the haunting ruins of the Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery and the serene Botanical Garden of Coimbra. Conclude the tour with a fun visit to the miniature world of Portugal dos Pequenitos, where Portugal's rich cultural and architectural heritage is displayed in a playful and educational setting.
Welcome to Voyage Owl’s walking tour of Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most historic and culturally rich cities, often referred to as the intellectual heart of the nation. Situated along the banks of the ...
Stop 1
Our tour begins at the heart of Coimbra’s identity: the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world and a symbol of the city’s intellectual legacy. Established in 1290 by King D...
Stop 2
Leaving the university, we walk through the narrow, cobbled streets of Coimbra’s historic center, making our way to the Sé Velha, or Old Cathedral. Built in the 12th century, the Sé Velha is one of th...
Stop 3
Just a short walk from the Sé Velha is the Sé Nova, or New Cathedral, which offers a fascinating contrast to its older counterpart. Built in the late 16th century by the Jesuits, the Sé Nova reflects ...
Stop 4
Next, we make our way to the Monastery of Santa Cruz, one of the most historically important religious sites in Coimbra and in Portugal as a whole. Founded in 1131 by Afonso Henriques, the first King ...
Stop 5
Our next stop takes us across the Mondego River to the Santa Clara-a-Velha, or Old Monastery of Santa Clara, one of Coimbra’s most evocative and haunting historical sites. Founded in 1283 by Queen Isa...
Stop 6
After exploring the historical sites, we take a moment to relax in the Jardim Botânico, the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Por...
Stop 7
Our final stop on this tour brings us to Portugal dos Pequenitos, a unique and whimsical theme park that offers a miniature version of Portugal’s most famous landmarks and monuments. Created in 1940 b...
Our walking tour of Coimbra has taken you through centuries of history, from its ancient Roman roots to its role as a medieval capital and intellectual center. Along the way, we’ve explored the grand ...