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Coimbra Free Tour

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Coimbra Free Tour

Coimbra Free Tour

Portugals First Capital City

Take Coimbra Free Walking Tour. Explore rich history, culture, and legends. Europe’s oldest university. Vibrant city. Ideal for first-timers. Expert local guides.

Journey through the historic and vibrant city of Coimbra with our comprehensive Coimbra Free Walking Tour. This walking tour is an ideal introduction for first-time visitors, offering a exploring the city’s rich history, culture, and local legends.

Coimbra is one of Portugal’s most fascinating destinations. Known primarily for its prestigious university, one of the oldest in continuous operation in Europe, Coimbra offers a unique blend of ancient traditions, rich architectural heritage, and captivating local lore, including its own special variation of Fado music.

This ancient city was once the capital of Portugal and is filled with stories, traditions, and historical marvels. This free tour is a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Portuguese culture.

So, whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to explore Coimbra’s charm, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. In Coimbra every corner of the city tells a story.

You’ll be led by engaging expert local guides who love to share and show off Coimbra’s secret places and the best things to do to make your stay as memorable as possible.

Duration: Approximately 2hr 30min

Your Coimbra Free Tour meets at:

Look for our
beautiful Blue Umbrella!

Coimbra Free Walking Tour

Heart of Portuguese Heritage

Coimbra is a mesmerizing blend of culture, academia, and architectural grandeur. This ancient city was once the capital of Portugal and is filled with stories, traditions, and historical marvels. This city is a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Portuguese culture.

Coimbra boasts one of the oldest universities in Europe, established in 1290. This prestigious institution, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts the stunning Joanina Library, an exquisite example of Baroque architecture. Amazingly this library is home to a colony of bats. They guard the treasured books against damage by feasting on insects that would otherwise destroy them.

The city's architectural showcases Roman, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque influences. You’ll see this variety whey you visit The Old Cathedral of Coimbra (Sé Velha), the Santa Cruz Monastery, the university's Royal Palace, and numerous churches and university buildings.

Coimbra also has its own flavor of Fado music distinct from its Lisbon counterpart. Coimbra's Fado is deeply intertwined with the university's student traditions and is often performed by male students in their traditional black robes. These robes are part of a rich tapestry of academic customs.

Toward the end of the Coimbra Free Tour you’ll hear the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês, akin to Romeo and Juliet, is etched into Coimbra's history. The Quinta das Lágrimas, associated with their legend, adds a romantic and melancholic charm to the city's already enchanting atmosphere.

Coimbra is a living museum of Portuguese history and culture.

From its ancient university and architectural wonders to its rich musical traditions and captivating legends, Coimbra offers a cultural experience that is both profound and unforgettable. It’s a city where the past and present merge, creating an atmosphere that is uniquely Portuguese.

Highlights of Your Coimbra Free Walking Tour

Each Coimbra Free Walking Tour is a unique experience. The stops listed in the highlights may change due to the guide leading the tour and other conditions such as weather and local events. If you are particularly interested about a specific item please ask your guide before the beginning of the tour to confirm it is on the agenda.

São Sebastião Aqueduct

We will meet at this impressive aqueduct, introduce Coimbra and discuss the saints depicted in the main arch. This ancient structure sets the tone for our through the past.

Botanical Garden

Learn about its history and the unique student traditions associated with it. This serene oasis offers a glimpse into the academic life of Coimbra.

Treason Arch

Discover the intriguing story behind the name and the significance of the plaques on the floor. This site has a fascinating history and is filled with local lore.

Monumental Stairways

Learn about the urban revolution during the New State Dictatorship and the urban myth surrounding these iconic stairways, a symbol of Coimbra's evolution.

Statue of D. Dinis

Learn about his pivotal role in Coimbra's history, and the discovery of his sword. This monarch left an indelible mark on the city.

Faculties of Mathematics and Humanities

Explore the architectural style of the New State and the 1969 academic crisis. This was prelude to the Carnation Revolution of 1974.

University of Coimbra

At this UNESCO World Heritage site, we explore the Iron Gate, Via Latina, Tower of the Goat, and the famed Joanina Library. We also discuss King John III and the unique academic culture of Coimbra.

The New Cathedral

Learn about the cathedral's history and the expulsion of the Jesuits by the Marquis of Pombal. Learn about the turbulent religious history of Portugal.

Machado de Castro Museum

Here, we talk about Coimbra's Roman heritage and the city's ancient roots.

The Old Cathedral

Discover the various architectural styles and Coimbra's significance as the first capital of Portugal. This free walking tour also explores the traditions of the monumental serenade and the ribbon burning festivities.

Tower of Anto

Uncover the history behind the Tower and the Canção de Coimbra, a unique style of Fado music.

Back-breaking Ladder Street

Hear the story of the Tricanas of Coimbra, adding a human touch to the city's history.

Corpus Christi Street

Delve into the Jewish heritage of Coimbra, a testament to the city's diverse past.

Jardim da Manga

We discuss the garden's symbolic importance, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Courtyard of the Inquisition

Learn about the Inquisition's impact in Coimbra, a dark but significant chapter in the city's history.

Church of Santa Cruz

Discover the conventual sweets and pastries and the miracle of the roses by the Holy Queen Isabel, blending history with local culinary traditions.

Mondego River

The Coimbra Free Walking Tour concludes with the legendary love story of Inês de Castro and King D. Pedro, a tale that has captivated hearts for centuries.