Coimbra: Cathedrals, Kings, and Calla Lilies

Coimbra , Portugal

Coimbra: Cathedrals, Kings, and Calla Lilies

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Did you know Coimbra was the capital of Portugal for about 100 years? On this self-guided walk, explore the rich history of the Alta, where the city’s centuries-old university presides majestically over the River Mondego. Discover ancient landmarks, enjoy breathtaking views, and unlock local recommendations by solving fun location-based riddles. All while following in the footsteps of Tricia, a New York writer who calls Coimbra her home for almost a decade.

During this experience you will:

- Explore The Hague during this interactive discovery walk
- Keep a comfortable distance from other people throughout the experience
- Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way
- Solve location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop
- See popular sights from a different angle and discover local spots

This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.

Available options

Coimbra: Cathedrals, Kings, and Calla Lilies

What's included

A link to the web app game (received via email). The game is played in the browser of your phone.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

See the incredible university building

Explore the magnificient cathedrals of Coimbra, both the old and new one

Wander trough the lush Botanical Gardens

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Mobile data

Available languages

Written guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Meeting point

Largo Sé Velha 4-8 (in front of Carlos Tomas)

Important notes

This is a self-guided tour with no tour guide and no one will meet you at the starting location.
This is not your final voucher, you should have received message from us in Tripadvisor with all instructions, access, and everything you need for the discovery game. If not, then please get in touch.

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