The capital of the Beira Litoral region, Coimbra has a number of monuments, medieval churches and the most important library in Portugal in store for you. It is here where rare treasures and books unique to the world are kept, a vast range of knowledge safeguarded within them.

Coimbra, on the edge of the River Mondego, is waiting for you. The city’s narrow streets, courtyards, medieval arches, flowering terraces, bars, cafés, galleries and bookstores are most lively during the academic year.

Start at the Arco de Almedina to discover this fascinating world of students. You’ll come upon the medieval Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), considered to be the most beautiful Romanic monument in Portugal, and the Santa Cruz Church, founded by Portugal’s first king, D. Afonso Henriques. Next to the Colégio de Santo Agostinho (the current Faculty of Psychology) you can see a nearly intact remnant of the city wall where, in the 16th century, the Torre de Anto (Anto Tower) and the Palácio de Sub Ripas (Sub Ripas Palace) were built.

After passing by the house where Eça de Queirós once lived, you’ll come upon the Repúblicas da Alta area that renders Coimbra so unique.

The noteworthy ensemble of buildings comprising the University of Coimbra should not be missed. Here, you can visit some of the University’s most precious treasures: the Biblioteca Joanina (the university library, now a national monument), the Capela de S. Miguel (Saint Michael’s Chapel), the Via Latina, the Sala dos Capelos (Graduate’s Hall), the Rectory, the Porta Férrea (Iron Gate) and the Archives. Schedule your visit now to be charmed by Coimbra’s student-focused traditions.