Coimbra , Portugal

Coimbra Medieval Castles Guided Tour

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About this experience

Discover the history of Coimbra on a guided tour of the city's castles. Learn about the city's military fortresses and the role they played in the conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. During the ascendancy of D. Afonso Henriques, he focused heavily on in the protection of the city, as it was essential for the conquest of the territory. At this time they were created a set of buildings and military fortresses that made it possible to fill the gap security and protect the city. At this time, the first king D. Afonso Henriques was fighting against Moors and Muslims and other communities that inhabited the Iberian Peninsula, through the conquest of kingdom. This network of castles was fundamental not only to protect the city of Coimbra, which at the time it was the place where the court was established, but also to guarantee the stability necessary for the continuation of the conquest of the south.

Available options

Coimbra Medieval Castles Guided Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Guided Tour

Detailed itinerary

Our first stop will be at Montemor-o-Velho Castle, the first castle in Portugal. We will learn about its history, the connection to our first King, D. Afonso Henriques, the founder of the country. We will walk through centuries-old walls and discover some remarkable episodes of history that took place in this beautiful and well-preserved castle.

Then we will visit the emblematic castle of Soure. Unique, both for its location and for its connection to the Knights Templar who settled here for the first time in Portugal.
We will also visit the castle's interpretation center and its surrounding areas.

Our next stop will be at the majestic castle of Penela, a castle whose origin dates back to an ancient Roman fort, and which was rebuilt and used by D. Afonso Henriques as a military instrument of defense, integrating the defensive line of the Mondego Castles. The castle was built entirely under stone, and is one of the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture at the time of its construction.
He will get to know the history, legends, discover some necropolys and see some models of medieval constructions.

At our last stop, we will visit the Castle of Foz de Arouce, a castle whose foundation dates back to the Moorish king Arounce, and which was later used by King D. Afonso Henriques as another instrument of defense of the city of Coimbra, also integrating the network of Castles of the Mondego.
On this visit we will not only visit the castle and learn a little more about its history and associated legends, but also get to know the places that surround it, which make it a true paradise.
The castle is located in the middle of the Lousã mountain range, and its location is undoubtedly the result of a strategic vision that would give it a protective function.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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