Magical guided tour of the University of Coimbra, UNESCO

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Provided by: Mariana
Duration
1h 15min
Meeting point
Porta Férrea
Languages
English
From €9.00
Per person
Free Cancellation. No Booking Fees.
Cancel for free up to 24 hours. We price match.

Overview

Hello, nice to meet you! My name is Mariana and I'm a professional guide with a degree from the University of Coimbra! As I'm passionate about history and communication, I love showing visitors my alma mater. On this tour, we'll see all the main sights and understand why the Royal Palace was the residence of Portugal's first king and later became an educational institution. The topics covered include: the Reconquista, the first monarchy, the Jesuits, science and the Reformation of the Enlightenment. And, of course, the famous and peculiar student traditions that even inspired Harry Potter! As I studied Journalism at the University, I can show you the emotional side of the place and help you understand why it is protected by UNESCO.

This tour takes place in a small area, with a flat and easily accessible walkway, so you don't need to walk far to learn a lot!
Are you ready? Then let's go!
Tour Conditions
Accessibility
Suitable for people with reduced mobility
Pets
Pet-friendly
Read more

This activity includes:

  • University of Coimbra
  • Exterior of the Royal Palace and Joanina, Exterior of Science Museum, Repúblicas

Meeting point

Porta Férrea

On arrival

The Iron Gate is very easy to find! The Porta Férrea - or Iron Gate - is the main entrance to the Royal Palace, which is also home to the Faculty of Law. The Royal Palace has the General Library on its left and the Faculty of Letters on its right.
When you get to Alta, you'll see the Goat Tower inside the Royal Palace - the Gate is right at the entrance. It's a historic door with sculptures, usually guarded by uniformed guards. It has a large stone work of art on the sidewalk.
You can wait outside or inside the Gate.

Things to note

This tour takes place in the Alta area, at the top of the hill where the university campus is located. Due to the altitude and the small number of parking spaces, getting there on foot or by car can be a little tricky. I suggest you try parking your car in Rua Padre António Vieira, Praça da Sé Nova or near the Botanical Garden.

Alternatively, you can always take a cab (from the center of Coimbra to Alta is a quick and cheap trip) or buses 28, 34 or 103.
This tour only takes in the exterior of the University, but we can visit the interior later if you're keen to see the rest!

Free Cancellation

Free Cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Late cancellation or your non-arrival is not refundable.

Availability & Language
December 2025
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Today, 14 December 2025
english
english
11:15 AM
2:15 PM
From €9.00
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