VIP Joanina Library & Coimbra University | led by former students
Active
1h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the heart of Portugal’s most prestigious university — with VIP access and in the company of an official, passionate local guide.
As a certified guide and travel consultant since 2012, and a proud graduate of the University of Coimbra in Tourism, Leisure & Heritage, I’ll give you an insider’s perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Together with my handpicked team of guides, we’ll adapt the tour to your pace and interests — no rushed group visits here.
This exclusive experience gives you direct access to the Royal Palace, the stunning St. Michael's Chapel, and the breathtaking Joanina Library — one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
More than just facts and dates, we’ll share the legends, student traditions, and hidden stories that bring centuries of Portuguese history to life. Whether you're a curious traveler, a history lover, or simply looking to be amazed — this is your moment to discover Coimbra like few ever do.
Available options
Joanina Library Tour
PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR of 1h30min
PRIVATE TOUR UPGRADE!: High-quality, intimate experience led by a certified guide. For an even more personal touch, upgrade to a private tour.<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: Enjoy a full 90-minute experience designed to give you time to truly appreciate each space, ask questions, and immerse yourse<br/>Choose your favourite schedule: We believe great travel should fit your rhythm – that’s why you can select the starting time that suits you best.
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
we will visit the campus and all its monuments, classified as UNESCO World Heritage in 2012
2
Stop 2
we will visit this famous library and you'll learn everything about it!
3
We will enter the beautiful St Michael Chapel at the University of Coimbra
What's not included
Coffee and/or Tea
Snacks
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
83 reviews
5★
77
4★
3
3★
1
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
49 reviews
5★
44
4★
3
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting in Front of D. Dinis Statue, at the University of Coimbra.
About Coimbra
Coimbra, known as the City of Students, is a historic city in central Portugal with a rich academic tradition. It's home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra, and is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant student life, and cultural heritage.
Top Attractions
University of Coimbra
One of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and a rich history.
Historical
2-3 hours
€12 (general admission)
Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)
This Romanesque cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Portugal, featuring beautiful architecture and historical artifacts.
Religious
1-2 hours
€3 (general admission)
Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha
A ruined monastery that was once the home of Queen Saint Isabel, offering a glimpse into the city's medieval past.
Historical
1-2 hours
€4 (general admission)
Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra
A beautiful and serene garden with a diverse collection of plants, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Nature
1 hour
Free (with University of Coimbra ticket)
Portugal dos Pequenitos
A miniature park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous Portuguese monuments and buildings, ideal for families and children.
Cultural
1-2 hours
€7 (general admission)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cozido à Portuguesa
A hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and beans, cooked slowly in a clay pot.
Dinner
Contains meat and beans
Bacalhau à Brás
A popular dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, potatoes, and eggs.
Dinner
Contains fish and eggs
Leitão à Bairrada
Roast suckling pig, a specialty of the Bairrada region, served with a crispy skin and tender meat.
Dinner
Contains pork
Pastel de Tentúgal
A traditional pastry from the Tentúgal region, filled with sweet cream and topped with cinnamon.
Dessert
Contains dairy and sugar
Popular Activities
Hiking in Bussaco Forest
Kayaking on the Mondego River
Visiting thermal spas in Luso
Strolling along the Mondego River
Exploring the University of Coimbra
Visiting the Coimbra Cathedral (Sé Velha)
Swimming at nearby beaches
Visiting the Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival)
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Coimbra for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with students and tourists.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Coimbra is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Francisco de Sa Carneiro Airport • 110 km from Coimbra
By train
Coimbra-B Station, Coimbra A Station
By bus
Coimbra Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alta
Baixa
Sé Nova
Day trips
Conímbriga
15 km from Coimbra • Half day
Conímbriga is a well-preserved Roman settlement with impressive mosaics, ruins, and a museum.
Luso and Bussaco Forest
20 km from Coimbra • Full day
Luso is a charming spa town known for its thermal waters, while Bussaco Forest offers beautiful hiking trails and a historic palace.
Aveiro
60 km from Coimbra • Full day
Aveiro is a charming coastal city known as the 'Venice of Portugal' for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats.
Festivals
Queima das Fitas (Ribbon Burning Festival) • Late May
Festa das Latas (Bottle Caps Festival) • December
Pro tips
- Visit the University of Coimbra early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Try local specialties, such as Cozido à Portuguesa, Bacalhau à Brás, and Pastel de Tentúgal, at iconic eateries like O Sucesso, Zé Manel dos Frangos, and Café Santa Cruz
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, such as Alta, Baixa, and Sé Nova, to discover hidden gems, local shops, and cultural sites
- Take a day trip to Conímbriga, Luso and Bussaco Forest, or Aveiro to experience the region's history, nature, and unique culture
- Attend a Fado performance at the University of Coimbra for a traditional Portuguese music experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
