Coimbra Free Tour
Medieval lanes, the Old Cathedral and the University of Coimbra, with a guide in English
Reserve your free spotQuick answer
Yes, it is free: no ticket, you tip the guide at the end. Coimbra Free Tour meets at Largo da Portagem, in front of Agência Banco de Portugal, lasts about 2h45 and is guided in English; rated 9.4/10 from 109 reviews on Civitatis.
Start times vary by date and are confirmed when you book.
A walk of about two hours and 45 minutes through the historic centre of Coimbra, led in English and starting at Largo da Portagem, in front of the Agência Banco de Portugal. The route goes through the medieval lanes of the centre, where Fado is heard during celebrations, passes two monuments along the way, the Old Cathedral among them, and ends at the University of Coimbra. A good first outing in the city if you like to hear the stories behind the buildings.
The tour starts in the heart of Coimbra and first goes through the medieval lanes of the centre, where Fado music is heard during various celebrations. Two monuments stand out on this stretch. One is the Sé Velha, or Old Cathedral, which dates from the era of the Christian Reconquista and is in the Romanesque style.
Between stops the guide tells stories from the city's history, including the life of one of the most venerated saints in Christianity, who studied in Coimbra. The walk ends at the University of Coimbra, established in 1290 and one of the oldest universities in Europe.
Tour highlights
- Largo da Portagem
- Medieval lanes of the city centre
- Sé Velha (Old Cathedral)
- Stories from Coimbra's history
- University of Coimbra
Good to know before you go
- The guide speaks English only.
- Groups of more than 6 people are not accepted, even with separate bookings.
- Tips are not part of the booking: you leave them at the end, if you wish.
Meeting point
Largo da Portagem, in front of Agência Banco de Portugal
Largo da Portagem, in front of Agência Banco de Portugal
After the tour
This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Coimbra Free Tour really free?
Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.
Where does the Coimbra Free Tour start?
The tour meets at Largo da Portagem, in front of Agência Banco de Portugal (Largo da Portagem, in front of Agência Banco de Portugal). The exact meeting point and how to spot your guide are confirmed in your Civitatis booking.
How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?
It lasts around 2h45 and is guided in English. One booking covers up to 8 people; larger parties need a private tour. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Is the Coimbra free tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is listed as not wheelchair accessible.
How do I recognise the guide at Largo da Portagem?
Meet at Largo da Portagem, next to the Agência Banco de Portugal. The guide wears a green T-shirt and carries a green bottle. Arrive at least 10 minutes before the start.
Can I bring a pet or children?
Pets are allowed and there is no minimum age. Groups are limited to 6 people, even with separate bookings.