Day 1
08:45 — Ascent to Alta
Expected duration: 15 min · Travel: bus or taxi.
Don't turn this part into a list of points: leave time for side streets, local shops and a break.
09:00 — University, Paço das Escolas and Biblioteca Joanina
Expected duration: 150 min · Travel: on foot.
The Joanina Library includes tours by appointment. Book in advance and be at the indicated entry point in advance.
11:45 — Sé Nova and streets of Alta
Expected duration: 45 min · Travel: on foot.
It is an active place of worship: dress respectfully, maintain silence and accept interruptions from celebrations.
12:45 — Lunch at Alta
Expected duration: 90 min · Travel: on foot.
Suggested area for a leisurely break; confirm weekly rest and avoid tying the itinerary to a specific restaurant.
2:30 pm — Machado de Castro National Museum**Expected duration:** 60 min · **Travel:** on foot.
Count on entry and time control for the collection; confirm the last access and closing date.
15:45 — Sé Velha, Quebra Costas and Arco de Almedina
Expected duration: 75 min · Travel: on foot.
Don't turn this part into a list of points: leave time for side streets, local shops and a break.
17:15 — Praça do Comercio and Mondego riverbank
Expected duration: 60 min · Travel: on foot.
Don't turn this part into a list of points: leave time for side streets, local shops and a break.
Day 2
09:30 — Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery
Expected duration: 90 min · Travel: on foot.
Count on entry and time control for the collection; confirm the last access and closing date.
11:15 — Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova or Portugal dos Pequenitos
Expected duration: 60 min · Fromlocation: on foot.
Choose just one option according to interests, weather and energy; don't try to accumulate both.
12:45 — Lunch in Santa Clara or Baixa
Expected duration: 90 min · Travel: on foot.
Suggested area for a leisurely break; confirm weekly rest and avoid tying the itinerary to a specific restaurant.
14:45 — Coimbra Botanical Garden
Expected duration: 120 min · Travel: on foot.
Allow at least two hours, wear grippy footwear and confirm the last access before going up.
17:15 — Green Park and pedestrian bridge
Expected duration: 60 min · Travel: on foot.
Don't turn this part into a list of points: leave time for side streets, local shops and a break.
Practical summary
Rhythm
Full days, normally between 6 and 9 km on foot. Adjust hills, heat and uneven ground to the group's mobility.
Reservations
Book in advance monmonuments, experiences, gardens and transport by appointment.
Alternative
In heavy rain, swap viewpoints, beaches and gardens for museums and indoor visits.