Things to do in Santa Cruz

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Coimbra showing a river or creek, a sunset and landscape views
Coimbra showing a bridge, night scenes and a city
Coimbra which includes a city
Coimbra featuring a river or creek, a bridge and night scenes
Coimbra which includes a river or creek

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Recommended things to do in Santa Cruz

Number of things to do
46
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Coimbra Downhill Tour Highlights History and Student Traditions: $2
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Santa Cruz

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Cruz

Coimbra University featuring a sunset and a square or plaza

Coimbra University

Enjoy the views from the bell tower and visit the Baroque library in the former prison on the campus of one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Coimbra University
Portugal dos Pequenitos

Portugal dos Pequenitos

Embrace your inquisitive side, as you inspect the various homes, pavilions and monuments of this intriguing and fun miniature village.

Portugal dos Pequenitos
Biblioteca Joanina featuring a sunset

Biblioteca Joanina

Go on a guided tour of a library containing countless tomes, Baroque architecture and an intriguing history entwined with a prison.

Biblioteca Joanina
Velha Cathedral which includes heritage elements and interior views

Old Cathedral of Coimbra

One of the main attractions of Coimbra’s central historic area, this fascinating preserved cathedral has a fortress design and Arabic touches.

Old Cathedral of Coimbra
Santa Cruz Church featuring a church or cathedral, a square or plaza and heritage architecture

Santa Cruz Church

Examine the range of Manueline and Romanesque architecture and inspect the artworks in the final resting place of two kings.

Santa Cruz Church
Jardim da Manga which includes heritage elements

Jardim da Manga

This small garden centers on an old fountain, believed to be one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture in Portugal.

Jardim da Manga
Convento de Santa Clara-a-Velha which includes a church or cathedral

Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha

Visit the museum for an explanatory film and explore the remaining parts of this nunnery that was often at risk of flooding.

Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha
Coimbra which includes a church or cathedral and heritage elements

New Cathedral of Coimbra

An austere Mannerist and Baroque façade makes way for an opulent gilded interior at this 400-year-old church founded by Jesuits.

New Cathedral of Coimbra
Coimbra featuring a fountain and heritage elements

Museu Nacional Machado de Castro

Appreciate the magnificent architecture of the former Bishop’s Palace, see religious sculptures and delve into an eerie Ancient Roman corridor.

Museu Nacional Machado de Castro

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

Velha Cathedral showing a city, heritage elements and landscape views

Coimbra City Centre

4.5/5(124 area reviews)

Historic sites, river views, and bars are some highlights of Coimbra City Centre. Make a stop by Santa Cruz Church or Old Cathedral of Coimbra while you're exploring.

Coimbra City Centre
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Popular day trips from Santa Cruz

Coimbra showing a river or creek, a sunset and landscape views

Coimbra

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Cruz worth visiting?
Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or local cuisine, there's a lot to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Santa Cruz?
Casa Museu Bissaya Barreto is an excellent place to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Santa Cruz while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Cruz?
New Cathedral of Coimbra is rated the top tourist attraction near Santa Cruz, so don't leave without checking it out.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Cruz?
With a three-day getaway to Santa Cruz, you can comfortably explore the area's many fabulous sights, like New Cathedral of Coimbra and Museu Nacional Machado de Castro.
Is Santa Cruz a walkable neighborhood?
Exploring Santa Cruz on foot is easy, with key attractions like New Cathedral of Coimbra and Museu Nacional Machado de Castro just a short walk away. Well-known neighborhoods like Sé Nova, Santa Cruz, Almedina e São Bartolomeu and Coimbra City Centre are also located only 1 mile and 0.4 miles from the center of Santa Cruz, so you can keep your adventure going --- no wheels required.
What are some activities to do in Santa Cruz with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Santa Cruz with kids.

What to do in Santa Cruz for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Santa Cruz, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Museu de Conimbriga.
Are there free things to do in Santa Cruz?
Near Santa Cruz, New Cathedral of Coimbra is a top spot for anyone looking to experience this area without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local green spaces and other neighborhoods nearby, and ask a local tour guide for insider tips. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Santa Cruz.