Starting Your Walk from Largo da Portagem

Your journey begins at Largo da Portagem, which is the most central square in lower Coimbra. This bustling area serves as the main meeting point for locals and tourists throughout the day. You can easily find this square by looking for the large statue of Joaquim Antonio de Aguiar. Many small cafes nearby offer a great spot to grab a quick coffee before you start walking.

From the square, you will see the wide Mondego River stretching out right in front of you. The atmosphere here is always lively and provides a perfect introduction to the city's unique charm. You should take a moment to admire the colorful buildings that line the edge of the historic district. This location is the ideal starting point for any adventure into the southern part of the city.

Before you head toward the bridge, make sure you have your camera ready for some great photos. The walk is very straightforward and follows a clear path that most travelers find very easy to navigate. You will notice many signs pointing toward the various monuments located on the other side of the water. Follow these simple steps to ensure you are on the right track:

• Stand with your back to the main shopping street.
• Look directly toward the large bridge crossing the river.
• Walk toward the pedestrian crossing at the edge of the square.

Crossing the Scenic Santa Clara Bridge

The next step in your route involves walking across the famous Ponte de Santa Clara. This bridge is the primary link between the old city center and the newer Santa Clara neighborhood. It features wide sidewalks on both sides that are safe and comfortable for all types of walkers. You will feel a refreshing breeze coming off the Mondego River as you make your way across.

While you are walking across the bridge to Santa Clara, look back at the hill. You will see the University of Coimbra towering over the city in a truly spectacular display of architecture. This view is often considered one of the most beautiful sights in all of central Portugal. It is the perfect place to stop for a few minutes to enjoy the scenic urban landscape.

The bridge is roughly two hundred meters long and takes only a few minutes to cross at leisure. You will see many rowing boats and small kayaks gliding through the calm river waters below you. The path is completely flat, making it accessible for families with strollers or travelers with limited mobility. Keep to the right side of the bridge for the best views of the upcoming park.

Navigating the Walking Route to Portugal dos Pequenitos

Once you reach the end of the bridge, you have officially entered the Santa Clara district. You should continue walking straight for a short distance until you reach the first major intersection. The Mondego River walking paths will be visible to your right and left along the bank. Stay on the main sidewalk and follow the road as it curves slightly to the left.

You will soon see the large entrance gates of the miniature park appearing on your right-hand side. The walking route to Portugal dos Pequenitos is very well-marked with bright signs and helpful tourist maps. It should only take you about five minutes to reach the gates after you leave the bridge. The sidewalk is wide and lined with trees that provide welcome shade during the hot summer months.

If you prefer a more natural path, you can walk through the green park area near the river. This alternative route is slightly longer but offers a much quieter environment away from the local street traffic. Both paths eventually lead to the same destination near the main entrance of the attraction. Most visitors find the street route to be the fastest way to arrive at the ticket office.

• Follow the signs for Santa Clara.
• Keep the river on your right side.
• Look for the colorful flags near the entrance.

Passing the Historic Santa Clara Monastery

As you approach the park, you will pass very close to the ruins of an ancient monastery. This site is a key part of any Santa Clara-a-Velha walking guide and is worth a quick look. The Gothic ruins sit lower than the current street level because of many years of river flooding. It provides a fascinating contrast to the miniature houses you are about to see inside the park.

The monastery was built many centuries ago and holds a very important place in the history of Coimbra. You can see the old stone walls and arches from the sidewalk as you continue your walk. Many people choose to visit both locations on the same day because they are so close together. It adds a wonderful layer of historical context to your afternoon of exploring the local area.

The walk between the monastery ruins and the miniature park takes less than three minutes on foot. You will find that the terrain remains very flat and easy to manage for most fitness levels. This part of the city feels much quieter and more relaxed than the busy downtown shopping streets. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic neighborhood as you reach the final destination of your trek.

Essential Tips for Your 2026 Park Visit

Planning your visit for 2026 requires knowing a few practical details about the park and the local area. The park typically opens at ten in the morning and stays open until late in the afternoon. You should check the official website for the most current ticket prices before you start your walk. Expect to pay around twelve to fifteen Euros for an adult entry during the peak travel season.

Wearing comfortable shoes is very important because you will be doing a lot of walking inside the park. The miniature village features many small paths and stone walkways that can be uneven in some specific areas. You should also bring a hat and some water if you are visiting during the sunny summer months. There are several small kiosks inside where you can buy snacks and drinks for your family.

The best time to arrive is early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds of school groups. You will have more space to take photos of the tiny houses without many people in the way. The park is a fantastic destination for children who love to explore the small-scale versions of famous buildings. Make sure to allow at least two hours to see everything inside the park properly.

1. Arrive before 11:00 AM for fewer crowds.
2. Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens.
3. Check the weather forecast for rain before leaving.