Private Historical Highlights Discovery Walk, Coimbra

Join a privately guided walk of Coimbra's historical center, led by a local resident and former university student, uncovering the city's UNESCO-recognized charm. Starting at Largo da Portagem, you'll amble along medieval streets, visiting notable landmarks like the Church of Santa Cruz and the famous University of Coimbra (Portugal's oldest!), and take in panoramic views as you follow your guide from downtown to uptown. Ideal for history buffs and culture enthusiasts, this discovery walk offers an immersive dive into Coimbra's academic traditions and historical significance.

You'll begin your walk of UNESCO-protected Coimbra and its historical heart at the iconic Largo da Portagem square. Here, you'll meet your guide, a resident of Coimbra and a former student of the city's renowned university. They'll lead you through the cobblestone streets and up the (modest) hills of the riverfront city, sharing captivating stories about its rich history and academic traditions that date back centuries. 

Wandering the downtown area, you'll be treated to the beauty of Coimbra's medieval walls and towers. as you visit significant landmarks such as the Medieval House (the oldest in the city) and Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square), the largest square in Coimbra surrounded by 18th-century apartment buildings. En route, listen to your guide recounting insights into how these sites contribute to the city's UNESCO World Heritage status. You'll also check out Igreja de Santa Cruz's (Church of Santa Cruz) interior and learn about the kings who are interred here.

The fun wouldn't be complete without making your way uptown to Pólo 1 (Campus I), the historical core of the famous Università di Coimbra (University of Coimbra). Here, you'll listen to your guide share what it might have been like to live as a student in the City of Knowledge as you visit student houses, both old and modernist university departments, and the 18th-century Jardín Botánico (Botanical Gardens). And before the walk is done, you'll have time to see the ancient Aqueduto de São Sebastião and the prominent Escadas Monumentais (Monumental Steps), which are iconic to the university experience.