University of Coimbra and Old Town Walking Tour

Discover Coimbra beyond the guidebooks on a 2-hour small-group walk through the university and the medieval heart of Portugal's first capital. Your host is Mateus, a current University of Coimbra student who grew up spending his summers in Florida and speaks fluent English. Starting at the Iron Gate, hear about the university's traditions, student rituals and the iconic black capes. Explore the university, founded in 1290, and see the exterior of the Joanina Library, then the Sé Nova, a Jesuit church turned cathedral. Pass the 12th-century Sé Velha and descend the cobbled Rua de Quebra Costas, hearing about Fado de Coimbra and the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês de Castro. Continue through the medieval Almedina Tower to Rua Ferreira Borges, the main pedestrian street, and the Santa Cruz Monastery, where Portugal's first two kings are buried. Finish by the Mondego River, with views back over the old town and the university on its hill.