Top Beiras Art & Culture

One of the world's oldest universities, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Portugal's University of Coimbra is a special place—but it can be tricky for first-time visitors to know where to go. Instead, leave all the planning to someone else on this small-group, guided tour of the university's highlights. Look forward to discovering the magnificent Joanina Library, St. Michael's Chapel, and more, all while learning insider facts and stories.

The University of Coimbra is the oldest university in Portugal, and one of the oldest in Europe. Join a former student and explore the grounds of the school, learning about the centuries-old history, traditions, and secrets. Walk around campus and visit St. Michael’s Chapel, the St. Sebastian Aqueduct, and conclude at the stunning Joanina Libary.

Discover the rich history and traditions of Coimbra and its ancient university during this guided tour. Join your dedicated tour guide and walk around the campus of Portugal’s oldest university, visiting the Royal Palace, chapel, the assembly room, and the stunning Joanina Library. Then, venture out to the city to see key landmarks including the cathedral, the Barbican Gate, and the Santa Cruz Monastery.

Founded by the Romans as "Aeminium", Coimbra buzzes with life till today. We'll gather downtown near the river, where the music of street performers meets the daily hustle of one of Coimbra's most iconic streets. Surrounded by small streets that weave in and out of the main road, you'll learn about the churches and the stories they keep within their walls. We'll get to know these places more intimately, and we'll stop for a coffee or a snack along the way. Up the hilly way we go to take in view and get acquaintance with the University, academic culture in Coimbra, and its many quirks. After getting to know the University we'll make our way just down the road by the impressive Roma aqueduct, and enter the country's most important botanical garden where you'll learn of its origins and relevance that it still holds today. The plaza where the students gather in the late afternoons, by entrance of the magical Mermaid Garden, awaits you at the end of your journey. - What are you waiting for?

Embark on a journey through the heart of Coimbra with TouringBee's convenient mobile guide on your smartphone. This itinerary is specifically crafted to allow you to explore the city's attractions within a brief span of 1.5-2 hours. Experience the charm of quaint streets and lookout points, intriguing tales, and local folklore. Navigate the route at your leisure, without the need to keep up with a tour group. Feel free to pause at a café or detour to explore an intriguing side street, and return to the route whenever you wish. If you have just one day to visit Coimbra, spend it with a TouringBee audio guide and gain more insights than those who have spent a week there.

Guided tours are good for getting oriented, but often follow strict itineraries on tight schedules. With this self-guided audio tour, explore the heart of Coimbra’s historical center at your own pace. Walk through the city’s old medieval gates to the alleys, sidewalk cafes, and music venues of Alta da Cidade (Upper Town). Learn about the history of Fado music, and finish your tour at the university campus, where you’ll catch amazing views of the city and Mondego River.

Many visitors rush through Tomar on the way to see the Convent of Christ and miss the town itself. This small-group walking tour digs into the local history and culture, with a guide who shares tales of the Knights Templar and Tomar's old Jewish community. Wind through backstreets, a riverside park, and the oldest synagogue in Portugal while picking up local tips along the way.

Immerse yourself in a unique and intimate experience with a private guided walking tour of Fátima. Discover the story of the three shepherd children—Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta Marto—who witnessed the apparitions of Our Lady in 1917. Your tour will take you to the sacred sites of these apparitions, the shepherds' homes, the basilica where their tombs are located, and the places where the Angel of Peace appeared. For a more complete experience, choose the 4-hour option to complete the Way of the Cross along the path once traveled by the shepherds.

Discover one of Portugal’s most important religious landmarks (and UNESCO World Heritage sites) on this private tour of the Convent of Christ in Tomar. Meet your guide right outside the landmark (or opt for pickup from your hotel), head right in (tickets own expense), and soak up this 14th-century convent’s spectacular interiors. The landmark was once a stronghold of the Knights Templar, and you’ll learn all about its wealth of history.

Don't miss the chance to get to know Coimbra in a unique and unforgettable way! Book your place on the Alta and Sofia walking tour now. Discover its historical and cultural essence on a exciting walking tour by a world heritage site. Explore the unique narrow streets, charming squares and ancient monuments. The visit begins at the prestigious University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, with its fascinating panoramic view over the city. Then, passing by the Sé velha we will cross the Almedina arch, one of the medieval entrances to the city, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant life of Baixa de Coimbra. Here you will find picturesque streets, traditional shops and restaurants with authentic Portuguese cuisine. Luckly we will experience a spontaneous Fado performance, a unique musical style that emerged in the city in the early 20th century. Delight in the soulful sound of guitars and voices echoing through the cobbled Coimbra streets.

On this walking tour you’ll discover all of Coimbra’s main attractions. It’s the perfect way to discover the city if you only have a few hours. If you have more time, this is also the best way to get na introduction. Then you can take advantage of the tips given on the tour to explore some aspects in more detail in the following days. Don’t just limit yourself to a few historical anecdotes about the city. Take a tour led by a guide registered with the national tourist office, but in a more informal and relaxed atmosphere. Get the knowledge, context and experience from a local. With this tour you will get: - Na overview of the city’s history - Passage through all of Coimbra’s main attractions - Knowledge of the most important academic traditions - Tips on restaurants and best places for photos and panoramic views - A quick reference guide to the city in paper or pdf format

Take a break from city life and spend a day immersed in nature on this hiking tour from Coimbra. Join a private guide and head to the ancient ruins of Conimbriga to learn about its Roman history. Then, spend a good chunk of time hiking through the Mouros River Valley where you visit a waterfall and pass a small mountain village at the base of Sico mountain.

Discover one of Portugal’s largest Roman settlements—and couple visits to ancient ruins with a museum excursion—during this private-half day Conimbriga tour. Choose between morning and afternoon start times, depart from your Coimbra hotel, and travel via private vehicle. You’ll discover Conimbriga’s ruins and famed aqueduct, will visit the PO.RO.S - Portugal Roman Museum in Sicó, and can also explore the Museu Monografico de Conimbriga.

I trained as an actor at London's prestigious Arts Educational School where I learnt about the voice and the art of telling stories. I went on to work in theatre, television and film for 10 years eventually running my own theatre company for 20 years. As a company we tried to make the work as imaginative and unique as possible, in one show we walked across the UK with no money, food or accommodation to see if humanity was kind. In another play we emigrated to Poland and used the experience for an award winning UK tour about immigration. I turned shops into theatre spaces, I performed in barns, houses, fields and many of the UK's best theatres.

Discover some of the Coimbra region’s most spectacular ancient ruins and natural attractions—and enjoy a fully personalized sightseeing experience—on this private, half-day tour. Following pickup from your Coimbra hotel, head via private vehicle to the Serra de Sicó. You’ll visit the Buracas of Casmilo—dramatic natural caves—will tour local villages, and will soak up the tranquil pace. Then, head to the Conímbriga Roman Ruins and see the highlights of the archaeological site.

Learn about the history of Coimbra and the academic traditions of its university on a private tour of the most unique streets and landscapes of this exciting city. Let yourself be guided by former students from Portugal's most traditional university, who will take you to discover the most picturesque and traditional streets, the lesser-known corners and the places with the best panoramic views of Portugal's first capital. For photography lovers, romantic walks or simply to enjoy a panoramic and global view of the best Coimbra has to offer, this tour promises to surprise you.

This is a special visit for those who only have a few hours to visit Coimbra, but would like to see at least the essentials of the University of Coimbra (Joanina Library, Royal Chapel of S. Miguel and the Royal Palace). If you are this type of traveler, then this tour is designed for you, here you can discover all the rich history and unique secrets of the University of Coimbra, in the hands of experienced guides (who are historians and former students of the University of Coimbra). When you book with us, we guarantee entry to the buildings (ticket included), so you don't need to worry about logistics or even waiting in line to buy a ticket, you just have to be at the meeting point at the scheduled time and enjoy the visit. This visit has a huge demand from our visitors, it is a different visit and not to be missed, so we advise you to book as soon as possible and we will be happy to welcome you soon to our city of Coimbra.

The Best Way to Discover Coimbra: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour. Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a photo at Praça do Comércio or a stroll through Praça Dom Dinis and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups. The "Complete City" Package - Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems revealed along the way. Learn the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations. What you will visit: Santa Cruz Church, Praça do Comércio, Barbican Gate, Sé Velha, National Museum Machado de Castro, New Cathedral, University of Coimbra, Minerva Stairs, Praça Dom Dinis, and Jardín Botánico de la Universidad.

A great choice for history buffs, this tour takes you to several important religious sites. Visit the Church of the Most Holy Trinity, Chapel of the Apparitions, Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Monastery of the Battle. You’ll also visit the Lighthouse of Nazare and spend some time in the picturesque town of Obidos.

Dive into the rich history of Tomar, a town where the legacies of the Knights Templar and the Jewish community come together to create a unique cultural tapestry. This three-hour tour offers an essential experience for anyone looking to truly understand Tomar’s significance in Portuguese history. From the powerful presence of the Templars who once made Tomar their stronghold, to the deep-rooted Jewish heritage that has shaped the town’s character. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the stories that have shaped this remarkable town, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into Tomar's enduring legacy.

Our local guides are professional, friendly, and highly knowledgeable, offering both solid historical insight and fascinating Templar mythology. This small-group experience, including entrance tickets to the Convent of Christ, provides the most affordable and interactive way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover hidden symbols, captivating stories, and the mysterious secrets of the Knights Templar as you enjoy a memorable and enriching visit.

Discover the oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe, founded in the 13th century. Even today it is one of the most prestigious and recognized universities in the world. Discover the history, heritage and academic traditions on a private guided tour by former students of this ancient educational institution, which has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2013. Enjoy a complete private tour, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the places at the University of Coimbra most visited by tourists and other lesser-known places, to get the best out of your view. As the tour is private, challenge the guide with your personal tastes and interests and they will do everything they can to personalize your experience.

Visit remote places up in the mountains outside Coimbra that take a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to reach on this private tour of the schist villages around Lousã Mountain. Drive up into the mountains to see a series of these scenic villages made of shale stone, some of which will involve hiking to reach and passing through forest home to local wildlife. Places on this tour are limited to travelers.