We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the University of Coimbra. Our scheduled tour included the Library, which is amazing; and St. Michael's Chapel, which is a beautiful place. We were fortunate to be there when there were students present, who were dressed in their dark suits and dresses. It was a very unique and well worth while experience.

We decided not to do the timed library tour based upon reviews that said you only get about 10 minutes, it's a long line, etc. We only toured what we were allowed to see at the University, which wasn't that much. But it was still interesting. The Science Museum only took about 30 minutes, and the Academic Museum across the street from the Science Museum only took about 30 minutes. We also saw the Chapel and the Palace (not much to see). But it was fun going around the campus a little and watching/talking to some of the students. Definitely don't stay in a hotel or B&B near the University, though, since it's straight uphill and far from the train station.

My wife and I made a short stop in Coimbra on our way back to Lisbon from the Douro Valley. The city is cute, and the university is an obvious highlight. We didn't have time to visit the famous library (get your timed entry tickets in advance), but there are still some interesting buildings to look at, and the gift shop actually has some decent items at a reasonable price.

We had a private tour guide who happened to be an alumnus of this university. What phenomenal history and beauty! We also walked down from the university to the main part of town and learned more along the way. I wish we had spent a night or two here instead of just a few hours.

We had a local tour guide take use through the campus. He was a former student and very humorous. The library alone is worth the visit. It was visually sensational. The overall visit was informative and interesting. This probably isn’t good for young children but highly recommended for adults

Coimbra is a very nice Portuguese city totally worth a stop by. Very enjoyable on foot from the parks and restaurants along the river all the way up to the University. On the Main Street at river’s level enjoy typical local pastries at the outdoor traditional cafes.

Beautiful and interesting. the royal palace is nice and the chapel breathtaking. Ticket office is not so easy to find. Did not appear to have that many people visiting on the day we were there. Unfortunate that we were not able to visit the library. Although we normally book everything in advance (months and months) this was a stop on way from Lisbon to Porto. Would have had to wait over 2 hours but again we did not see many people. Strongly recommend you book those tickets in advance.

My wife and I were here on a Gate1 tour. Coimbra is the third-largest city in Portugal. We visited the University of Coimbra, among the oldest universities in Europe, with more than 700 years of history. Most impressive was their beautiful library. Interesting is the fact that the average yearly cost of tuition for a student at a public university is under $700 – yes, you read that right - $700, NOT $7,000 or $70,000! Grades 1-12 are compulsory. Some nice views overlooking the city.

We were fortunate to take two UC tours. The botanical gardens with Tania and the University with Patricia. Both were truly outstanding. Needs to be booked ahead, click the 'guided tours' tab on the ticket page. Thank you so much.