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Activities in Coimbra

Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova Tickets

Book your tickets to the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova and uncover its fascinating past, the tomb of Queen Saint Isabel, and the daily life of the Poor Clare nuns who once lived here. As a bonus, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over Coimbra.

Book your tickets to the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova and uncover its fascinating past, the tomb of Queen Saint Isabel, and the daily life of the Poor Clare nuns who once lived here. As a bonus, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over Coimbra.

Why Visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova?

Perched on a hill overlooking Coimbra, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova is one of the city’s most important historical and spiritual landmarks. It was here that the Poor Clares finally found a safe haven. The building was designed by the architect Mateus do Couto, who created a structure worthy of the order and of the deep devotion to Queen Saint Isabel.

As soon as you step through the main gate, your eyes are drawn to sixteen gilded altarpieces glowing against the interior, their intricate woodwork catching the light. Inside, you’ll also see the imposing tomb of Queen Saint Isabel, whose legacy still feels very much alive within these walls. As you continue exploring, you’ll pass through former cells, prayer rooms, and the spaces where the nuns lived from the 17th century onward.

During your visit, take time to wander through the Baroque cloister, now listed as a national monument. Its balanced proportions, rounded arches, and peaceful atmosphere create a sense of stillness that makes it easy to imagine the quiet rhythm of convent life. This was also the setting for private processions reserved exclusively for the religious community.

We recommend ending your visit on the terraces, where panoramic views of Coimbra unfold before you. From here, you can spot the University, the Old Cathedral, the River Mondego, and a sea of terracotta rooftops stretching across the city.

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More Information

Language

The activity takes place with an audioguide in English. The activity takes place with an audioguide in English.

Included

Admission to the Santa Clara a Nova Monastery

Audio guide in English

When to book?

You can book up until 1 hour before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Physical: Only some areas are accessible. Accessible toilets. Show more

Auditory: Has measures for hearing accessibility. Offers technological adaptations for the deaf. Security system and visual alarm.

Visual: Has measures for visual accessibility. Audible security and alarm system. Information in accessible formats. Provides signage for wayfinding and orientation.

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Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • Printed material is avoided.
  • No single-use plastics are used.
  • The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Promotes local employment.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis, we offer tickets at official prices, with full transparency and exclusive benefits for our users. In a few exceptional cases (less than 5%), these rates may be slightly higher than the ticket office price as they include booking fees and/or audio guides. The advantage is that your spot is guaranteed, and you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket office(although there may still be wait time at security and to access the monument).

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Grupo Gala Corporate name: Grupo Gala, LDA Registered Office: Rua da Cerca, Urb. Madefil, Lote 4-B, Coimbra, Portugal Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): PT514003898 Contact information Email: geral@grupogala.pt Phone: +351 239-918-440 This supplier is commited to providing services in accordance with applicable European Union laws.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery

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