Attractions and Places To See around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) include a rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. The city, situated along the Mondego River, is home to one of Europe's oldest universities and significant religious monuments. Visitors can explore ancient cathedrals, botanical gardens, and historic squares that reflect centuries of Portuguese heritage. The area offers diverse points of interest for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Coimbra (Santa Cruz)
- The most popular attractions is Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools), University of Coimbra, a historical site that serves as the central courtyard of the university. It hosts academic ceremonies and offers views, with the Biblioteca Joanina also located within the complex.
- Another must-see spot is Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz), Coimbra, a religious building. This 12th-century monastery church was rebuilt in the Manueline style and houses the tombs of Portugal's first two kings.
- Visitors also love Coimbra Old Cathedral, an impressive Romanesque church. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it is the best-preserved Romanesque cathedral in Portugal, featuring an austere façade and a Gothic cloister.
- Coimbra (Santa Cruz) is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and cultural landmarks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient university grounds to significant cathedrals.
- The attractions around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 120 upvotes and nearly 200 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools), University of Coimbra
Highlight • Historical Site
On the west side of the square is the university church, which combines different styles. It was built in the place of a medieval prayer room from 1517. The Manueline windows and the braided archway in front of the choir also date from this period. The wood-carved altar with column-framed paintings is one of the purest works of Portuguese Mannerism. Classical elements of the Renaissance were combined to form an aedicule. The altar was created in 1612/13 in collaboration with various Portuguese artists. The ceiling, painted with floral motifs, dates from the 17th century, the organ from 1733. The side portal of the church was built in the Manueline style in 1517-21. It shows two symbols that are often found in Portugal, namely the Christ Knight's Cross and the so-called armillary sphere as a sign of Portugal's great affinity with seafaring.
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Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz), Coimbra
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Coimbra Old Cathedral
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Portagem Square
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University of Coimbra Botanical Garden
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16 sitesThe Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, founded in 1772 by the Marquis of Pombal, is the largest botanical garden in Portugal. Located in the University's Alta district, this historic 13.5-hectare site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and offers free and open access for informal visits.🕒 Opening HoursThe garden is open every day of the year, except for December 25th, January 1st, and during academic festivities (Cortejo da Latada and Queima das Fitas).Summer Hours (April 1st to September 30th): 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.Winter Hours (October 1st to March 31st): 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. 👍🥾
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A must for all visitors
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Who is Andreas? What does Andreas want?
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This is the old cathedral of Coimbra. The cathedral is a massive, compact fortress building with a crenellated parapet and Romanesque portal and window arches on the west façade. It was built in the 12th century on the foundations of a 6th/7th-century church. Inside, the baptismal font (supported by lions and monsters, 16th century), the Gothic high altar (wonderfully crafted), Renaissance tombs, and a quiet cloister (south side of the cathedral, 13th century) are worth seeing.
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A must-visit: A bamboo forest and some rare trees. Beautiful grounds with a greenhouse. Great photo opportunities.
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An absolute must: book tickets in advance. You can visit several buildings, and all of them are worthwhile. You'll need a time slot, especially for the Baroque library.
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This square owes its name to the fact that taxes were formerly levied on goods arriving in the city from the south. This square houses one of Coimbra's architectural symbols: the Hotel Astória, built in 1926, and the Bank of Portugal Building, both by Adães Bermudes. It also houses the statue of Joaquim António de Aguiar by sculptor Costa Mota (uncle). Connected to Largo da Portagem is the main street in downtown Coimbra, Rua Ferreira Borges, a street currently closed to traffic and home to several traditional shops.
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The Monastery of the Holy Cross (Monasterio della Santa Croce) is a historic and religious Catholic site located in Florence, Italy. Founded in 1294, it is one of the most important Franciscan monasteries in the city. Features: Architecture and Art 1. Italian Gothic style. 2. Simple but imposing façade. 3. Interior: chapels decorated with frescoes by Giotto and other artists. 4. Novitiate Cloister. 5. Monastery Museum. Historical Importance 1. Burial place of personalities such as Michelangelo, Galileo and Dante Alighieri. 2. Center for theological and philosophical studies. 3. Important role in the Catholic Reformation. Practical Information 1. Address: Piazza Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI. 2. Opening hours: 9:30am-5:30pm (Monday to Sunday). 3. Entrance fee: around 8 euros.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Coimbra (Santa Cruz)?
Coimbra (Santa Cruz) is rich in history. You can visit the Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools) at the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes the stunning Joanina Library and the Chapel of São Miguel. Don't miss the Church of Santa Cruz, housing the tombs of Portugal's first two kings, and the well-preserved Romanesque Coimbra Old Cathedral. The Church of Saint John of Almedina and the Portagem Square are also significant historical landmarks.
Are there any natural attractions or green spaces to visit in the area?
Yes, Coimbra offers several beautiful natural spaces. The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra is Portugal's largest, spanning 13 hectares with diverse plant collections. You can also relax at Santa Cruz Park, also known as Jardim da Sereia (Mermaid Garden), featuring fountains and waterfalls. The Mondego River, which flows through the city, has riverside parks like Parque Verde do Mondego, perfect for walks and cycling.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Coimbra (Santa Cruz)?
Families will enjoy Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools) at the University of Coimbra, which offers engaging historical insights. The Church of Santa Cruz is also considered family-friendly. For a unique experience, Portugal dos Pequenitos is a miniature park with replicas of Portuguese monuments and traditional houses, making it a popular choice for children.
Where can I experience traditional Coimbra Fado music?
To experience the unique Coimbra Fado, a traditional Portuguese musical style often sung by university students, you can visit Fado ao Centro. For a more casual setting, Café Santa Cruz, located in a former chapel next to the Santa Cruz Monastery, sometimes hosts Fado performances.
Are there good viewpoints to see the city of Coimbra?
Absolutely. The University Tower, part of the University of Coimbra complex, offers panoramic views of the city. Additionally, Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools) itself provides magnificent views. Penedo da Saudade, a rocky garden near the botanical gardens, is another excellent spot for spectacular city and river vistas.
What outdoor activities can I do near Coimbra (Santa Cruz)?
The area around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) offers various outdoor activities. You can find several running trails, such as the 'Santa Clara Bridge – Pedro e Inês Bridge loop', which you can explore further on the Running Trails around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) guide. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the 'Loureiro Picnic Park – Palheiros River Beach loop' available in the Road Cycling Routes around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) guide, and gravel biking options like the 'Rio Mondego – Choupal Inner Trail loop' detailed in the Gravel biking around Coimbra (Santa Cruz) guide.
Can I explore ancient Roman structures in Coimbra?
Yes, Coimbra has a significant Roman past. The Machado de Castro National Museum, housed in a former bishop's palace, features an impressive underground Roman cryptoporticus, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient foundations.
What is the Old Town of Coimbra like for visitors?
The Old Town of Coimbra, particularly around Rua Ferreira Borges, is a charming area to explore. It's the main shopping district, characterized by medieval streets, traditional shops, and cafes. It's perfect for wandering and soaking in the city's historic atmosphere.
Is there an aqueduct in Coimbra worth seeing?
Yes, the São Sebastião Aqueduct, also known as Arcos do Jardim, is a notable 16th-century structure. It once supplied water to the old town and is a beautiful series of arches located near the Botanical Garden, making for a pleasant historical walk.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Coimbra (Santa Cruz)?
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and architectural beauty of the attractions. The Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools) is loved for its magnificent views and academic atmosphere. The Church of Santa Cruz is admired for its beautiful interior and historical significance. The Coimbra Old Cathedral is often highlighted for its impressive Romanesque architecture and fortress-like appearance. The area's blend of ancient history, cultural landmarks, and scenic spots along the Mondego River consistently receives high appreciation.
Are there any ruins of old monasteries to visit?
Yes, on the left bank of the Mondego River, you can visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha. These are the restored Gothic ruins of a 13th-century monastery, offering insights into medieval monastic life and the challenges posed by the river's historical flooding.
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