Explore the University of Coimbra on a guided walking tour, including visits to the Biblioteca Joanina, São Miguel Chapel, and Royal Palace. Start your tour in Porta Férrea, where you can access the historic sections of the University of Coimbra. Visit the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel of Saint Michael and the Joanine Library. Next, see how this area has transformed over time with a walk through the Upper Town. Stop near the New Cathedral and learn about the student traditions that take place there. Pass by the "Repúblicas", typical student houses in Coimbra. End our visit in front of the Cathedral of Santa Maria (Old Cathedral), site of the biggest student part in the country: the Queima das Fitas. Learn about the Monumental Serenade and other traditions.

Venture into the heart of Coimbra’s historical centre with me, Sara Cruz, a local guide. On this walking tour, I’ll guide you through downtown Coimbra, called Baixa, where you’ll traverse its narrow streets and church-adorned squares. We'll walk through the city’s old medieval gates to Cidade Alta (or ‘Upper Town’) where you’ll see the Old and New Cathedrals. Most of this historical area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. You'll hear about the style of Fado music unique to Coimbra and, along the way, I’ll show you some of the city’s Roman ruins. I’ll also tell you about its early beginnings, and the history of Coimbra's university and its traditions. Our tour ends at the university campus, where you’ll be treated to amazing views over the city and Mondego River. So, let's roam these cobbled streets, echoing with the mournful sounds of Fado and the memories of times past.

Your tour begins with the pickup from your hotel in the Lisbon area. This private tour is provided mainly with the objective of showing the city of Coimbra and it's heritage, nevertheless, this itinerary can be changed to best suit your preferences. After leaving Lisbon, you should arrive in Coimbra after an approximately 2-hour drive. Start by the University Grounds where you can visit the university and the unique 17th-century Joanina Library. Please note that you will need a pre-booked ticket purchased separately to enter the Library and it may not be available on the day.  After the university we will visit the historical center of the city where the important church of Sta. Cruz is located along with some other points of interest of the town. Have lunch in one of the typical restaurants, after which you will cross the Mondego river to the south bank to visit St Claire's monastery, one of the most important monasteries in the center of Portugal and home to the relics of Isabel, the holy Queen.  Finally, visit the Quinta das Lágrimas, home to the love story of Pedro and Inês, one of the most tragic and moving episodes of Portuguese history. If time allows or if you prefer you can also visit Little Portugal, a small theme park that unites all of the Portuguese culture and architecture in kid-sized houses. Return to Lisbon by approximately 6:30 pm.