Attractions and Places To See around Santo António Dos Olivais - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Santo António Dos Olivais, an urban civil parish in the municipality of Coimbra, Portugal, offers a blend of cultural heritage and serene landscapes. The area features historical sites and a tranquil atmosphere, benefiting from its proximity to Coimbra's vibrant city life. Visitors can explore significant landmarks and enjoy local green spaces within its boundaries.
Best attractions and places to see around Santo António Dos Olivais
- The most popular attractions is Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools), University of Coimbra, a historical site located at the highest point of the city and a symbol of Coimbra. It features an 18th-century clock tower and a university church combining different styles.
- Another must-see spot is Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz), Coimbra, a religious building that was rebuilt in the Manueline style in the 16th century. Visitors can see the grave monuments of the first Portuguese kings, Alfonso I and Sancho I.
- Visitors also love Coimbra Old Cathedral, an impressive Romanesque church that resembles a fortress. Its interior is a three-aisled basilica, and it features a Gothic cloister with richly detailed capitals.
- Santo António Dos Olivais is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and local green spaces. The area offers a variety of landmarks and cultural sites, alongside local parks and viewpoints.
- The attractions around Santo António Dos Olivais are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 120 upvotes and 190 photos shared.
Last updated: May 4, 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.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz), Coimbra
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Coimbra Old Cathedral
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Portagem Square
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Church of Saint John of Almedina
Highlight • Religious Site
The church was rebuilt between 1684 and 1704 when it took on its current appearance. Like the rest of the episcopal palace, it was ceded to the community of Coimbra in 1912 and thus became part of the Machado de Castro National Museum, which has housed a department of church art since 1923.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Santo António Dos Olivais.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Santo António Dos Olivais
Tips from the Community
The Igreja de São João de Almedina is a national monument, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019. It is fully integrated into the complex of the former Episcopal Palace, where today the prestigious National Museum Machado de Castro operates, in the Alta de Coimbra.👍🥾
0
0
Who is Andreas? What does Andreas want?
4
2
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.
6
1
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.
8
0
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.
10
1
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.
4
0
Very nice place surrounded by great buildings 🤩
12
1
Very beautiful monastery church. Be sure to see it from the inside!
13
2
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Santo António dos Olivais?
Santo António dos Olivais is rich in history. You can visit the Monastery of Celas (Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Celas), a 13th-century Cistercian monastery known for its Romanesque-Gothic and Manueline architecture. Another significant site is the Church of Santo António dos Olivais, where Saint Anthony was ordained, featuring an 18th-century Baroque style and historical azulejo tiles.
Are there any significant religious sites to visit in the area?
Yes, the Church of Santo António dos Olivais is a key religious site with origins tracing back to the 13th century. Additionally, nearby Coimbra offers impressive religious buildings such as the Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz), rebuilt in Manueline style, and the Coimbra Old Cathedral, an impressive Romanesque church resembling a fortress.
What natural features or green spaces are available in Santo António dos Olivais?
While not featuring large natural parks, Santo António dos Olivais offers several local green spaces. You can enjoy the Jardim de Santo António dos Olivais, the Parque de Merendas dos HUC (a picnic site), and the Parque Infantil e de Lazer da Mainça for families. The parish also maintains significant rural characteristics in areas like Picoto and Vale de Canas, historically known for pine and olive groves.
Can I find family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are considered family-friendly. The Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools), University of Coimbra, and the Church of Santa Cruz (Igreja de Santa Cruz), Coimbra are both categorized as family-friendly. The Parque Infantil e de Lazer da Mainça is also specifically designed for children and leisure.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views?
Absolutely. The churchyard of the Church of Santo António dos Olivais itself serves as a stunning panoramic viewpoint, offering expansive vistas of the surrounding areas, including the city, countryside, mountains, and valleys. Additionally, the Paço das Escolas (Palace of the Schools), University of Coimbra, located at the city's highest point, provides magnificent views.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near these attractions?
The area around Santo António dos Olivais offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and cycling routes. For detailed options, explore the Hiking around Santo António Dos Olivais guide or the Cycling around Santo António Dos Olivais guide. There are routes suitable for various difficulty levels, from easy to moderate.
Are there specific hiking trails recommended around Santo António dos Olivais?
Yes, there are several hiking trails nearby. Popular options include the 'Coimbra Old Cathedral – Pedro and Inês Footbridge loop from Coimbra' (moderate, 11.6 km) and the 'Mata Nacional de Vale de Canas – Tallest Tree in Europe loop from Tovim' (easy, 3.1 km). You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Santo António Dos Olivais guide.
What cultural events or festivals take place in Santo António dos Olivais?
The parish is known for its religiosity and hosts important festivals and pilgrimages throughout the year, notably the Romaria do Espírito Santo. These events often include a variety of cultural initiatives, ranging from folklore and fado to modern music, dance, and handicrafts, offering a vibrant local experience.
Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Portagem Square is noted as being wheelchair accessible. This central square in Coimbra is surrounded by impressive buildings and is a great place to experience the city's atmosphere.
What is the best time of year to visit Santo António dos Olivais?
The best time to visit Santo António dos Olivais generally aligns with Coimbra's pleasant weather, typically spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is mild, ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Visiting during local festivals like the Romaria do Espírito Santo can also offer a unique cultural experience.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Santo António dos Olivais and nearby Coimbra?
Visitors frequently praise the historical significance and architectural beauty of sites like the University of Coimbra, noting its magnificent views and vibrant student atmosphere. The Church of Santa Cruz is admired for its beautiful interior, and the Coimbra Old Cathedral is appreciated for its fortress-like appearance and detailed Gothic cloister. The blend of cultural heritage and serene landscapes is a common highlight.
Are there options for mountain biking near Santo António dos Olivais?
Yes, mountain biking enthusiasts will find several routes. Examples include the 'A1 Bridge - Choupal – View of Coimbra loop from University of Coimbra' (easy, 21 km) and the 'Mondego River Beach – View from the bridge loop from Coimbra' (moderate, 45.8 km). For more trails, consult the MTB Trails around Santo António Dos Olivais guide.
What architectural styles can I expect to see in the historical buildings?
The historical buildings in Santo António dos Olivais and nearby Coimbra showcase a range of architectural styles. The Church of Santo António dos Olivais is predominantly Baroque, while the Monastery of Celas features Romanesque-Gothic and Manueline elements. The Coimbra Old Cathedral is a prime example of Romanesque architecture, and the Church of Santa Cruz was rebuilt in the distinctive Manueline style.
Most popular routes around Santo António Dos Olivais
Most popular attractions around Santo António Dos Olivais
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
