Explore Coimbra's primary historical landmarks on this comprehensive tour, including admission to the stunning Joanina Library.
This tour is operated by RM Guided Tours Coimbra.
Designed for those seeking an in-depth understanding of Coimbra's rich history, this tour expands upon our popular "Universidade de Coimbra skip-the-line guided tours." The city of Coimbra holds significant historical importance in Portugal, not only for its renowned University but also as the nation's first capital. Prepare for an immersive journey through history with plenty of walking.
Coimbra boasts one of Portugal's most significant historical narratives. Celebrated for its University, it also played a crucial role in the nation's past as its initial capital. Within this context, we embark on a guided exploration of the University and the city of Coimbra, so be ready for extensive walking and historical insights.
✓ Entrance tickets✓ Professional guide1 Universidade de Coimbra
Begin your Coimbra experience at the University, visiting the Paço das Escolas, the Joanina Library, São Miguel Chapel, and the Royal Palace.
This segment lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, with entry included.
· 1 h 30 min · Admission included
2 Se Nova Catedral de Coimbra
We will briefly pass by the Sé Nova Cathedral before continuing our exploration through the historic heart of the city.
· Non-stop passage
3 Se Velha De Coimbra
The Old Cathedral is situated in one of Coimbra's most frequented tourist areas and represents one of the most ancient sites in Portuguese national history.
This stop is 15 minutes, and entry is not included.
· 15 min · Admission not included
4 Porta da Barbaca
We will proceed through the main gateway of Coimbra's ancient fortified city.
· Non-stop passage
5 Igreja de Santa Cruz
Concluding our guided tour, we will discuss Rua da Sofia and Pátio da Iniquiricao before arriving at the beautiful Santa Cruz Church.
This part of the tour lasts 25 minutes, and entry is not included.
· 25 min · Admission not included
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking.
Please note: The meeting point is in front of the statue of Dom Dinis, located in the center of the square.
The tour concludes in front of the Church of Santa Cruz, a central landmark in Coimbra.
There is no need to print any confirmation; your reservation made via TripAdvisor is sufficient.
Your guide will be waiting for you at Dom Dinis Square with the actual tickets.
Public transportation options are available nearby. Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries. Not recommended for pregnant travelers. Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. Guided visit to the University and city of Coimbra.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a significant amount of walking involved. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful historical sites. Be prepared for stairs and uneven surfaces within the University. Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early. All sales are final, and no refunds are available for cancellations.
Product code: 162104P5
Activity offered by RM Tour via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center History enthusiasts University visitors Cultural explorers Explore Coimbra's historic University. Visit the magnificent Joanina Library. Discover the city's rich past, including its time as Portugal's capital. Walk through charming historic streets. Led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Population 140,816 (2021)
Elevation 43 m
Currency euro
Official language Portuguese
Driving on the right
Power plugs C, F · 230 V
Emergency number 112
Capital city Lisbon Average temperatures 7° Jan 8° Feb 10° Mar 12° Apr 16° May 19° Jun 22° Jul 23° Aug 20° Sept 16° Oct 10° Nov 7° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
Is the Joanina Library entrance included? + Yes, the entrance to the Joanina Library is included in this tour.
What should I bring with me? + There is no need to print any kind of proof, only the Reservation made by tripadvisor is enough. Your guide will be waiting for you at Dom Dinis Square with the real tickets.
What is the meeting point? + The meeting point is in front of the statue of Dom Dinis in the middle of the square.
Is this tour suitable for everyone? + This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health. Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
How long does the tour last? + The tour duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours.
★★★★★ Viator review
Coimbra university and city tour
Linda_M, October 2026
The tour was a perfect introduction to the university and old part of the city of Coimbra. Felipe was an excellent guide and answered our questions.
★★★★★ Viator review
Highly recommended
Dana_S, October 2026
Filipe was wonderful. The other tour guides, on the other hand, were extremely loud and disruptive. At times, it made it very hard to hear our tour guide.
★★★★★ Viator review
Coimbra: University & City
Julia_K, October 2026
A very good tour, with an in-depth visit to most Most of the time on this tour was spent at the university with only about 45 minutes or so on the old part of the city below the university. The tour was a very good in-depth tour of Coimbra University (library, chapel, history, student customs, etc). Eva, our guide, as very knowledgeable about both the university and city. I would definitely recommend her as a guide.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Coimbra Tour
K1142HEtonya, October 2026
Felipe was very knowledgeable, helpful and patient. He gave us a lot of historical and cultural background for everything we saw. It was an excellent tour.
★★★★★ Viator review
Coimbra University Tour
DanaSuzanne_S, September 2026
Filipe was very knowledgeable and attentive to our group. We had a very good experience and enjoyed out tour.
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