Chapel of São Miguel

Chapel of São Miguel: Our most recommended tours and activities

Coimbra: A Local's Tour of the University + Skip-the-Line

Coimbra: A Local's Tour of the University + Skip-the-Line

Begin your journey at the Paço das Escolas, the historic core of the University of Coimbra, a place where history and knowledge have intersected since 1537. Once a royal palace, this courtyard became the hub of academic life after the university’s relocation from Lisbon. Surrounded by magnificent architecture, the Paço das Escolas reflects Portugal's cultural and intellectual history. Pass through the Porta Férrea, a triumphal arch built in 1634 that symbolizes the university’s legacy. Designed by António Tavares, it features statues of D. Dinis, the university’s founder, and D. João III, who brought it to Coimbra. Look closer to find representations of the original faculties and hear about the tradition of students tying their academic attire to the gate upon completing their studies. Visit the Biblioteca Joanina, a Baroque treasure often recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Built between 1717 and 1728 under D. João V, this extraordinary space holds 60,000 rare books. Inside, admire its gilded woodwork, frescoed ceilings, and meticulously crafted exotic hardwoods. Learn about the unique role of bats, which help preserve the collection by controlling insects, and the innovative design that maintains the ideal conditions for conservation. Descend to the Prisão Acadêmica, a medieval prison located beneath the library. Once used to discipline students who broke university rules, this site represents the university's autonomy. Your guide will share stories of how students spent time in these narrow cells, reflecting on their behavior in this secluded environment. Continue to the Real Capela de São Miguel, a richly decorated chapel blending 12th-century origins with Baroque embellishments. Marvel at its gilded altars, intricate azulejos, and a grand organ with over 2,000 pipes. Learn how this chapel remains an active part of university life, hosting religious ceremonies, concerts, and weddings. Step into the Sala dos Capelos, the university’s ceremonial hall and the centerpiece of its academic rituals. Once a royal throne room, this space features stunning blue azulejos, grotesque ceiling motifs, and portraits of Portuguese monarchs. Your guide will reveal the hall’s historical significance, from royal proclamations to modern-day doctoral defenses. End your tour at the Via Latina, a neoclassical colonnade that overlooks the Paço das Escolas. Built in the 18th century, it symbolizes the university’s transition from Latin to Portuguese as the official teaching language. From here, enjoy stunning views of Coimbra and reflect on the university’s role as a timeless center of learning and culture.

Coimbra: University of Coimbra Guided Tour

Coimbra: University of Coimbra Guided Tour

Explore the University of Coimbra on a guided walking tour, including visits to the Joanina Library, S. Miguel Chapel and the Royal Palace. Start your tour in Porta Férrea, where you can access the ancient historic sections of the University of Coimbra. Visit the Royal Palace, the Royal Chapel of S. Miguel 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 still take place there. Pass by the "Repúblicas", typical student houses in Coimbra. End our visit in the area of the Cathedral of Santa Maria (Old Cathedral), site of the biggest student party (academic festival) in the country: Queima das Fitas. Learn about the Monumental Serenade and other rich student traditions.

From Lisbon: Tansfer to Porto with stops until 3 cities

From Lisbon: Tansfer to Porto with stops until 3 cities

Discover Portugal's Allure: The Lisbon-Porto Tourist Transfer - Your Unique Expedition! Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Portugal's heart, where each street whispers history, each monument shares stories, and coastal vistas unveil the nation's rich heritage. The Lisbon-Porto Tourist Transfer offers more than a journey; it's an immersive odyssey that creates indelible memories. Choose up to 3 of 5 captivating destinations to craft a personalized expedition. Nazaré: Coastal Beauty Nazaré beckons with stunning beaches and monumental waves for those who adore the sea. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and immerse in timeless maritime traditions, offering coastal charm and cultural authenticity. Óbidos: A Medieval Jewel Visit Óbidos, a town within ancient walls exuding medieval charm. Cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture create a captivating ambiance. Don't miss Ginja, a local liqueur capturing the essence of this picturesque town. Fátima: A Place of Faith Your journey leads to Fátima, one of the foremost religious pilgrimage destinations. The Sanctuary of Fátima houses the iconic Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the revered Chapel of the Apparitions, exuding profound spirituality and devotion. Coimbra: The Cultural Cradle Continue to Coimbra, a testament to Portugal's cultural heritage and home to the esteemed University of Coimbra. Explore the historic campus, from the baroque library to lively squares, and immerse in the unique Coimbra Fado. Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal Aveiro, often called "Portugal's Venice." Serene canals, vibrant moliceiro boats, and colorful facades create a romantic atmosphere. Glide on a traditional moliceiro, savor "ovos moles de Aveiro," and enjoy the harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The Comfort of the Lisbon-Porto Transfer Your comfort and safety are paramount. Our private Lisbon-Porto transfer ensures an elegant journey in a well-maintained vehicle, guided by skilled chauffeurs. They provide gracious service and a flexible itinerary for an immersive experience. In Conclusion The Lisbon-Porto Tourist Transfer reveals Portugal's cultural, historical, and spiritual treasures. Customize your experience with up to 3 destinations. Capture the essence of Portugal's allure, and let the enchantment of Portugal beckon your exploration.

Coimbra Historic Center - Private visit

Coimbra Historic Center - Private visit

Our product is unique, when booking this visit, know that you will have a guide, just for your reservation, we only carry out private visits. This product includes a visit to the Joanina Library, the Royal Chapel of São Miguel and the Royal Palace, but the visit to the University, in addition to the spaces, includes other information, which no other tour offers, we are specialists in the traditions of students at the University of Coimbra. After visiting the University, we will go down to the Sé Velha, to find out which king was crowned in this same space. It is an imposing cathedral, and it deserves a visit and hear its history. Then we go down to leave the walled city, we go to the Monastery of Santa Cruz, current Church of Santa Cruz, the first building to be built at the request of Dom Afonso Henriques, even before he was king, where the first two kings of Portugal are located.

Private Guided Tour: Coimbra Best Of

Private Guided Tour: Coimbra Best Of

Explore Coimbra, the city of students, on a private tour with a guide who is a former student of the University of Coimbra. Discover the main attractions of the city and learn about its history and traditions. Meet your guide and set off to explore the city. See the oldest Portuguese university, founded in the 13th century, built next to the old royal palace and attached to the old Roman forum. Learn about the academic traditions of the city and how they merge with the legends and traditions of Portugal’s almost millennia-old history. Gaze at the peaceful Mondego River, which runs through the city and Portugal. Talk to your guide about your personal tastes and interests and they will do everything they can to adapt the tour to your needs and expectations.

From Lisbon: COIMBRA and AVEIRO

From Lisbon: COIMBRA and AVEIRO

Discover the best of Aveiro and Coimbra in a day full of culture and beauty! Start your adventure in Aveiro, known as the "Portuguese Venice", with its picturesque canals and moliceiros boats. Embark on a boat trip to admire the city's unique landscapes and Art Nouveau architecture. Delight in the famous ovos moles, a traditional sweet that reflects the essence of the region. Explore the charming historic center and capture unforgettable moments in Aveiro's famous salt pans. Then head to Coimbra, a city steeped in history and knowledge. Visit the renowned University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be enchanted by the majestic Joanina Library, one of the most beautiful in the world. Visit Coimbra's Old Cathedral, an iconic example of Portuguese Romanesque architecture, and stroll through the historic center, full of narrow, charming streets that tell stories from centuries past. This tour is a perfect combination of culture, unique flavors and stunning landscapes, ideal for those who want to live an authentic experience in Portugal. Includes: Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned car or van. Moliceiro boat trip in Aveiro. Tasting of ovos moles. Entrance to the Joanina Library and Coimbra's Old Cathedral. Specialized local guide. Free time to explore Aveiro and Coimbra. Duration: 12 hours. Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish. Meeting point: In front of HF FÊNIX LISBOA, Praça Marquês de Pombal 8, Lisbon.

Private Tour to the University of Coimbra and an Roman city

Private Tour to the University of Coimbra and an Roman city

A tour experience to Coimbra and Conímbriga offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Portugal. Visitors to Coimbra can explore the historic city center, home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Coimbra, which features a stunning baroque library and breathtaking views of the city. Tourists can also visit the medieval Sé Velha cathedral and the 18th-century Biblioteca Joanina, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Just outside of Coimbra, visitors can travel back in time to the ancient Roman city of Conímbriga, where they can explore the ruins of the city's temples, baths, and homes. This archeological site also features an excellent museum with artifacts from the Roman period. During the tour experience, visitors can also enjoy local food, such as the famous Leitão (suckling pig) and traditional Coimbra sweets, such as the Queijadas de Coimbra. Overall, a tour experience to Coimbra and Conímbriga provides a wonderful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Portugal.

Private tour | Conímbriga Roman Ruins + Joaninha Library

Private tour | Conímbriga Roman Ruins + Joaninha Library

Enjoy a private tour of Coimbra with a private car and driver. Explore the Roman ruins of Conímbriga and visit the Joaninha Library. Start your day with a pick-up from your accommodation in Porto. Travel to the Roman ruins of Conímbriga, which date back to the second century BC. After this historical and meaningful experience, continue to the center of the city of Coimbra. Visit the Joaninha Library, one of the first libraries in the world and the most beautiful baroque-style library in Europe. This library was built in 1717. After your visit, enjoy some free time to have a coffee. On the way back, play your own music in the car so you enjoy as it was your car. After your tour, choose to be dropped off at your accommodation in Coimbra or Porto.

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What people are saying about Chapel of São Miguel

Overall rating

5 out of 5 stars
5
5 out of 5 stars
(2 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

Had a great 90 minute tour with David. He was very friendly and gave us tons of information about the university, the city, and Portugal as a whole. He explained the history very clearly and focused on the most interesting aspects of it. David even stayed around over the allotted tour time at the end to converse with us and answer any other questions we had. Would highly recommend!

5 out of 5 stars

As a graduate of the University of Coimbra, I was able to hear more vivid explanations and experiences. I learned about the entire history of the University of Coimbra through professional explanations. The guide kindly answered all my questions and guided me on time. I highly recommend it! :)

5 out of 5 stars

The tour guide was very informative and led a good tour. I appreciated the stories he shared and the pace of the tour.

5 out of 5 stars

It is a beautiful university and our guide was very informative and knowledgeable :)

5 out of 5 stars

Joao our guide was really knowledgable and made the tour really enjoyable