My name is Jose. I live in Coimbra since I was a student here a few years ago. I like history, culture and art. And I love meeting new people. I offer general tours of the city in Portuguese and English. I also offer more specific and in-depth tours of the New and Old Cathedrals and the University of Coimbra.
I'm José, a Portuguese guide with a university degree and over 20 years of experience living in Coimbra.
I hold all the necessary licenses for conducting tours (RNAT registration number 924/2023).
To bring the city's history to life, I use visual aids like photos, diagrams, and maps. After all, seeing the past is often more impactful than just hearing about it.
Our journey begins in the heart of the university and covers all the main sights in Coimbra:
Along the way, you'll discover Coimbra's academic traditions and gain insight into student life and the city's culture.
We’ll also stop at fantastic spots for panoramic and artistic photos, and I’ll share tips on great restaurants and other highlights.
At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a handy guide with essential information about Coimbra.
Let’s make your Coimbra experience unforgettable!
I'll be at Dom Dinis Square ("Praça Dom Dinis") next to the statue at the center of the square. I'll have a yellow t-shirt that says "Coimbra Free Tours" and a blue folder with me. (if it's cold I'll have a yellow-mustard jacket/vest with a black pin that says “Coimbra Free Tours”).
Meeting Point Here you'll learn more about the aqueduct and the city's castle
Founded in 1290, is one of the oldest universities in europe and the oldest in Portugal. It's an UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will see the outside (Paço das Escolas courtyard) and I'll show photos of the inside with some explanations
We will admire the outside and learn more about the academic traditions that take place here
It's one of the best views in the city. We'll visit the museum's courtyard (a great place for some photos) where you'll learn more about the presence of the romans in the city.
Built like a fortress, it's a key part of the burning of the ribbons festivities. Inside you will find a beautiful flamboyant gothic altarpiece with 15 meters and the first gothic cloister in Portugal.
Discover the place that was the city's main entry point in medieval times
This church from the 12th century has undergone many changes throughout history. We'll find out more about that.
The Santa Cruz Church was once part of a large monastery. Inside, It hosts beautiful blue and white tiles and the 18th-century organ.
End Point Learn why it’s called Manga Garden. No, it’s not because of the mango fruit
Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).
This guru has 68 reviews in other tours.