Free Tour in Coimbra
Explore Coimbra at your pace and according to your interests with free tours in your language using our AI tourist guide
Discover Coimbra
Explore the best of Coimbra through free walking tours. Simply take a picture of any landmark, artwork, or even a traditional dish, and our AI will instantly provide detailed explanations and fascinating facts, just like a professional tour guide in your preferred language.
About Coimbra
Coimbra, a charming city in central Portugal, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Once the capital of Portugal, Coimbra is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Coimbra, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Places to visit and see in Coimbra
Discover the top attractions and landmarks in Coimbra with our free tour web app. Explore these must-see spots that define the essence of Coimbra:
University of Coimbra
Founded in 1290, the University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe. Its historic buildings, including the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace, are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Old Cathedral of Coimbra (Sé Velha)
A Romanesque masterpiece dating back to the 12th century, the Old Cathedral of Coimbra is one of the most important religious buildings in Portugal.
Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha
This Gothic monastery, founded in the 14th century, offers a glimpse into the medieval religious life of Coimbra. It is located on the banks of the Mondego River.
Portugal dos Pequenitos
A miniature park that showcases scaled-down versions of Portugal's most famous monuments and buildings. It's a great place for families and children.
Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra
Established in 1772, this beautiful garden is one of the oldest in Portugal and features a wide variety of plant species from around the world.
Things to do in Coimbra
Elevate your Coimbra experience with top recommendations from our free tour web app. Here’s what you can’t miss when exploring Coimbra:
Explore the University of Coimbra
Take a guided tour of the University of Coimbra to learn about its history and visit its iconic buildings, including the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace.
Stroll Through the Historic Center
Wander through the narrow streets of Coimbra's historic center, where you can find charming shops, cafes, and historic landmarks.
Visit the Machado de Castro National Museum
This museum, housed in a former bishop's palace, features an impressive collection of Roman artifacts, sculptures, and religious art.
Relax by the Mondego River
Spend some time relaxing by the Mondego River, where you can enjoy a picnic, take a boat ride, or simply soak in the beautiful views.
Attend a Fado de Coimbra Performance
Don't miss the chance to attend a live Fado de Coimbra performance, which is a unique and soulful musical experience.
Insider tips for your Coimbra tour
Make the most of your Coimbra adventure with expert advice from our free tour web app. Here are some essential tips to enhance your visit:
Local Cuisine
Don't miss trying the local delicacies such as 'Leitão à Bairrada' (suckling pig) and 'Chanfana' (goat stew). Pair your meal with a glass of Bairrada wine.
Fado de Coimbra
Experience the unique Fado de Coimbra, a traditional Portuguese music genre that originated in the city. It is usually performed by students and is distinct from the Fado of Lisbon.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Coimbra is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded.
Getting Around
Coimbra is a walkable city, but you can also use the local bus service or taxis to get around. Renting a bike is another great option to explore the city.
Interesting facts about Coimbra
Discover intriguing insights about Coimbra with our free tour web app. Here are some fascinating facts to enrich your tour:
Historical Capital
Coimbra was the capital of Portugal from 1131 to 1255 before the title was transferred to Lisbon.
Academic Traditions
The University of Coimbra has a rich academic tradition, including the 'Queima das Fitas' (Burning of the Ribbons) ceremony, which marks the end of the academic year.
Roman Heritage
Coimbra has a significant Roman heritage, with remnants such as the aqueduct and the cryptoporticus, an underground gallery that can be visited at the Machado de Castro National Museum.
Cultural Festivals
Coimbra hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of the Holy Queen (Festa da Rainha Santa) and the Coimbra Arts Festival.
Literary Legacy
Coimbra has inspired many Portuguese writers and poets, including the famous poet Luís de Camões, who is said to have studied at the University of Coimbra.