Add dates

University of Coimbra

University of Coimbra: Our most recommended tours and activities

Fátima and Coimbra Full-Day Tour from Porto

1. Fátima and Coimbra Full-Day Tour from Porto

Travel to Fátima and Coimbra on a full-day trip from Porto. See the Shrine of Fátima and one of the oldest university cities in Europe. Choose from a tour with lunch and hotel pickup, a tour with lunch and a meeting point, or a tour with a meeting point.   Relax on the drive in an airconditioned vehicle to Fátima where apparitions of the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared 3 children tending sheep in 1917.The miracle was recognized by the Vatican in 1930, and 3 different popes have been to Fátima since. Visit the stunning Neoclassical Basilica and Sanctuary, and can even have the option to attend mass in the Sanctuary. Spend some free time for lunch in the bustling city center which is full of modern-day pilgrims. Continue to Coimbra and discover the area that was Portugal’s only university city until the early 20th century. Founded in the 13th century, the hilltop college is one of the oldest in Europe. Today the university provides a backdrop to the city's charming streets.  Head to the Sé Nova Cathedral to see the only church in Portugal to survive the Reconquista almost intact. During the visit in Coimbra's historical center you can walk through the Quebra Costas, Arco da Almedina, Porta do Barbacã, and Rua Ferreira Borges. End at the University in the former buildings of the medieval Royal Palace. Among the highlights is the stunning Joanine Library with baroque details of red and green lacquer and trompe-l’oeil features. Return to Porto at the end of your tour.

Coimbra: University of Coimbra Guided Tour

2. Coimbra: University of Coimbra Guided Tour

Explore the University of Coimbra on a guided walking tour, including visits to the Biblioteca Joanina, São Miguel Chapel, and Royal Palace. Start your tour in Porta Férrea, where you can access the historic sections of the University of Coimbra. Visit the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel of Saint Michael and the Joanine Library. Next, see how this area has transformed over time with a walk through the Upper Town. Stop near the New Cathedral and learn about the student traditions that take place there. Pass by the "Repúblicas", typical student houses in Coimbra. End our visit in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria (Old Cathedral), site of the biggest student part in the country: the Queima das Fitas. Learn about the Monumental Serenade and other traditions.

From Lisbon: Day Trip to Porto, Óbidos, and Nazaré

3. From Lisbon: Day Trip to Porto, Óbidos, and Nazaré

Discover three amazing Portuguese cities: Porto, Nazaré, and Óbidos with a bus sightseeing tour from Lisbon. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Portugal and feel inspired by the architecture, history, and culture of these beautiful cities. Get comfortable in an air-conditioned vehicle as you start your journey toward the town of Óbidos, where we will start with a guided tour accompanied by a local guide. Completely surrounded by ancient walls and preserving all its medieval charm, Óbidos is one of the most famous and visited places in Portugal, and a must-see in the surroundings of Lisbon. The narrow cobbled streets that can be seen in Óbidos will immediately transport you to a medieval atmosphere. These streets are home to perfectly preserved old houses, historic buildings, and important monuments. Dominating the historic center in the highest part of the village, visit the Castle of Óbidos, which is declared one of the 7 wonders of Portugal. Start at the village main gate, and discover the amazing narrow streets outside of the beaten track. Visit the secret Jewish neighborhood and its white-painted houses with some great spots to take pictures. Walk along Rua Dereita, the most famous street, full of stores and traditional restaurants, and get to the castle of Óbidos. It was built in the 12th-century, although it has Roman constructions in its beginnings. It can be said that it is one of the best preserved and largest fortresses of the country, being listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. From there, you will clearly see the great wall of Óbidos, another of the town’s great symbols. Continue the trip heading to possibly the most famous fishing town in Portugal, Nazaré, where you will visit the Forte de Sao Miguel. This site has become world-famous for the giant wave that hits its coast every winter and attracts lots of surfers from all over the world. Then, walk through O Sitio, where the famous streets present a collection of religious buildings and are a hugely popular site for pilgrims from all around the globe. Hike your way up to the summit, where you'll find medieval fortifications, 17th-century churches, and modern shrines. Wander the courtyards and plazas surrounded by ornate structures, basilicas, and statues. Next, head to Oporto, the last stop of the day. First you will have 1h to have a typical Portuguese lunch on your own to regain energy, and then, the visit will start. A vibrant 1.5-hour walking tour, where you will admire the stunning Old Town on the picturesque Douro River, complete with six bridges, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Igreja Carmen, Estação São Bento, Igreja São Francisco and Ponte Don Luis. At the end of your tour, you will return to the center of Lisbon and your guide will recommend things to do during the rest of your stay.

University of Coimbra Walking Tour

4. University of Coimbra Walking Tour

Visit one of the oldest universities in the world (and the oldest university in Portugal). Founded originally in 1290, the University of Coimbra has occupied its spot in the city of Coimbra since 1537. Accompany your knowledgeable guide to the Royal Palace, Chapel of St. Michael, Joanina Library, Academic Prison, and other highlights. Go deeper than the average tourist with stops at the university.

From Porto: Aveiro and Coimbra Private Tour

5. From Porto: Aveiro and Coimbra Private Tour

Departing from the city of Porto, in a short, comfortable and private trip of 30 minutes, discover the beauty of the city of Aveiro and its famous Ria de Aveiro. Enjoy the peace and tranquility that this place provides. At your own pace and away from the crowds, interact with the community and learn about their stories in a mix between nature and gastronomy, in a unique and unforgettable experience. Have a memorable lunch at a local restaurant and choose the places to enjoy: • discover why it is known as the Venice of Portugal • explore its numerous canals and bridges. • visit the fish market, past Art Nouveau buildings, and colorful moliceiro boats. • Add a cruise on the Ria Aveiro, to further explore the city from the Ria. • discover Costa Nova, where you will have the opportunity to see and photograph the colorful fishermen's houses, typically painted with vertical stripes. The journey continues to the historic city of Coimbra. The city of students and the oldest university in the country, (12th century), and one of the oldest in the world. Take the time to: • visit the Joanina Library with its collection of over 300,000 books and some of the rarest manuscripts in the entire country. • visit the Old Romanesque style Cathedral (Sé Velha). • crossing the river to visit the Santa Clara Convent and the Quinta das Lágrimas (Estate of Tears), where the love between Pedro and Inês blossomed. • having a lunch at one of the taverns downtown, where you can find the most delicious snacks. Return comfortably to your hotel in Porto after a day filled with culture and beauty that will surely stay in your best memories.

Sanctuary of Fátima and Coimbra City Tour

6. Sanctuary of Fátima and Coimbra City Tour

Visit one of the great religious centers of Portugal on a full-day tour to the Sanctuary of Fátima in Cova da Iria. Learn about the Marian apparitions that took place at the site in May 1917. Look inside the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and other religious monuments, before visiting the Chapel of the Apparitions at the very heart of the sanctuary. Attracting more than 5 million visitors per year, Fátima is one of the largest sanctuaries in the world and the most popular pilgrimages occur in October and on May 12 and 13 on the anniversary of the visions. See the house of the shepherd that the Virgin Mary appeared before, and then continue to the university city of Coimbra. Explore the historic center to see medieval houses among the majestic Renaissance monuments. Discover remnants of the Roman Empire, and go to the university area to admire the UNESCO World Heritage buildings of one of the oldest universities in the world.

From Lisbon: Óbidos and Coimbra Private Guided Tour

7. From Lisbon: Óbidos and Coimbra Private Guided Tour

Enjoy the convenience of hotel pick up in Lisbon and head to the first stop, the medieval village of Óbidos. A favorite of the Portuguese Queens, this village boasts charming small streets and ancient castle walls and is known as one of the most romantic spots near Lisbon.  Journey 2 hours onward to the city of Coimbra, home to the University of Coimbra, the oldest Portuguese university and one of the oldest in Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, many come to admire the University's elegant Joanina Library, a Baroque library from the XVII century. Admire the elaborate azulejo wall tiles of São Miguel Chapel and visit the tomb of the first Portuguese King before enjoying free time to explore the city center.  After a day full of touring, return to Lisbon in an air-conditioned car.

From Lisbon: Aveiro, Moliceiro Boat and Coimbra Tour

8. From Lisbon: Aveiro, Moliceiro Boat and Coimbra Tour

First you will visit one of the most beautiful places in Portugal, Aveiro. Discover the city's many canals and bridges as you take a ride on a Moliceiro, a small boat typical of the local area. By taking a trip on a Moliceiro you will be able to enjoy the city's beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and bridges from the water. Next, stroll through Aveiro's historic center on a walking tour. See the Convent of Santa Joana, Aveiro Cathedral, Chapel of St. Gonçalinho, and the Misericordia Church. Try the famous Ovos Moles de Aveiro, a sweet pastry typical of Aveiro. You'll then explore one of the city's must-see attractions, the Costa Nova Beach. Pose for photos in front of the beach's famous striped and colorful houses. Next, continue towards Coimbra, a city full of history and tradition, with the Mondego River passing through it. Visit the narrow and steep streets of the University of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal. Finally, discover the Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), the riverside area, and of course the Convent of Santa Clara.

From Lisbon: 5-Day Private Portugal Tour

9. From Lisbon: 5-Day Private Portugal Tour

Day 1: Lisbon Spend a full day exploring Portugal's charming capital city. Take a guided walking tour and become acquainted with one of Europe's most fascinating cities. With your informative guide, see and learn about some of this city's most famous historical landmarks. Return to your hotel in Lisbon and stay overnight (not included).   Day 2: Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril On the second day, visit Sintra, the Portuguese Aristocracy paradise and discover the charm of its narrow alleys and the typical shops. Visit a local pastry shop where the famous sweets Queijadas de Sintra and Travesseiros de Sintra will be waiting for you. Then, customize your tour and choose from the many palaces to visit in the area, including Quinta da Regaleira and Moorish Castle Palaçio da Pena. Later, visit the geological formation of Cabo da Roca, also known as "The Snout of the Rock" or "Promontory of the Moon," and marvel at the unimaginable beauty of the area. Next, it's time to explore Cascais, an ancient fisherman village turned beautiful and cosmopolitan beach resort. Return to your hotel in Lisbon and stay overnight (not included). Day 3: Lisbon, Fatima, Coimbra, and Oporto On the third day, escape the bustle of Lisbon and head out to Fatima, where you'll visit three places of interest and attend a mass (optional). Then, make your way to Coimbra and start the tour of the city at the oldest University in Europe. See the highlights including the Joanine library, built in the XVIII century on the grounds of the former prison of the University and marvel at one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, Then, transfer to your hotel in Oporto and stay overnight (not included). Day 4: Oporto and Gaia Start your day tour of Oporto at the central Avenida dos Aliados, a famous spot for celebrations and events. Admire the imposing Oporto Municipal Council building. Walk around the city center and past the Lello Bookstore with its renowned staircase, known for its link to the Harry Potter series. Then visit Gaia, a hub of the port wine industry where the wine is being aged in hundreds of different cellars. Visit a local winery, where you will be shown the various aspects of winemaking and also taste some of the best wines in the world. At the end of your day, return to your hotel in Oporto and stay overnight (not included) Day 5: Douro Valley Check-out at your hotel in Oporto and take your luggage with you as you will be taken to the airport in Lisbon or Oporto at the end of the day (if desired). The day starts with a visit to Amarante in the Douro Valley, where you can see numerous examples of the Romanesque and medieval buildings. Then, stroll along the S. Gonçalo bridge and enjoy some of the most popular sites of the city, including the Church and Convent of São Gonçalo and the Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Museum. Next, head over to the market where you see vendors selling the delicious S. Gonçalo sweets, always a source of curiosity and great laughter due to their phallic appearance.

Coimbra: Historic Center Guided Tour

10. Coimbra: Historic Center Guided Tour

Stroll the historic city center of Coimbra with a guide. Learn about the city as you visit its historic university, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the Church of Santa Cruz. Meet your guide in front of the Porto Ferrea to start your tour. Begin with a visit to the old University of Coimbra. Visit the historic buildings at the university with your guide. See the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel of São Miguel, and the Joanina Library. Afterward, visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria, also known as the Old Cathedral. Admire the collection of Romanesque sculptures adorning the building. End our visit to the Church of Santa Cruz. Experience this old monastery where the first two kings of Portugal are buried.

16 activities found
Sort by:

Other Sightseeing Options in University of Coimbra

Want to discover all there is to do in University of Coimbra? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about University of Coimbra

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 289 reviews

Highly recommend this tour.You will see three diferent spots in one day - old village of Obidos, ocean and waves in Nazare and colorful Porto.Guide Flavio is great guide!He has excelent knowlegde about the history of these places, he was so supportive in providing recommendations and in answering all questions, even helping us with photos!

If you have little time and a day to dedicate to an activity outside Lisbon, this tour is the solution. The timing is right, you have the opportunity to see the center of Porto even in a short time, capturing its essence and beauty. Pleasantly discovered the other two destinations, including Nazarè for a breathtaking view of the ocean.

We had a small group leaving from Porto and the ride was comfortable and clean. The guide was excellent .on our way to Fatima he played great music and told the story of the miracle at Fatima. He gave us a tour of old Fatima as well as the basilica and then we went on to Cuimbra .

Well organized trip, comfortable ride in conditioned mini-bus, guide gave free time in each location to walk. Recommend if you want to visit Porto but do not have much time

The trip was definitely worth it. Flavio did a great job