UC Exploratório – Centro de Ciência Viva is one of Coimbra’s most engaging spaces for hands‑on scientific discovery, designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. Located in the city’s green park area, it offers interactive exhibitions that explore physics, biology, astronomy, technology, and the natural world through playful, immersive experiences. The centre encourages experimentation, allowing guests to learn by touching, observing, and testing ideas in a relaxed and creative environment. Its planetarium adds an extra layer of wonder, guiding audiences through the mysteries of the universe. As part of the national Ciência Viva network, the Exploratório promotes scientific literacy and connects the public with ongoing research at the University of Coimbra. It is a lively destination where learning becomes an adventure and science feels accessible, inspiring, and fun.
Coimbra Portugal
UC Exploratório - Centro de Ciência Viva da Universidade de Coimbra is located at Rotunda das Lages in Parque Verde do Mondego, on the left bank of the Mondego River in Coimbra, Portugal, specifically in the parish of Santa Clara e Castelo Viegas. This interactive science centre occupies a modern 2500m² complex built in 2008, featuring a 360° hemispherical cinema and hands-on exhibits. Nearby attractions include the expansive green spaces of Parque Verde do Mondego for riverside walks and picnics, the iconic Pedro and Inês Bridge across the river, the historic Santa Clara Monastery a short stroll away, and easy access to Coimbra’s city centre with its university hilltop landmarks like the Joanina Library and old town, blending modern science with natural and historical surroundings.
Museum
Museu da Ciência da Universidade de Coimbra
Museum
Academic Museum of the University of Coimbra
Museum
Edifício Chiado - Museu da Cidade de Coimbra
Museum
Casa‑Museu Miguel Torga
Museum
Museu da Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Coimbra
Museum
Sister Lúcia's Memorial
Museum
Erotic Art Museum of Coimbra
Museum
Museu Botânico
Museum
Cabinet of Curiosities
Museum
Museu do Instituto de Anatomia Patológica
Museum
Teatro Académico de Gil Vicente
Theatre
Teatrão – Oficina Municipal do Teatro
Theatre
Centro de Arte Contemporânea de Coimbra
Gallery
Paço das Escolas
Palace
Old Cathedral of Saint Mary of Coimbra
Cathedral
New Cathedral of Coimbra
Cathedral
Mosteiro de Santa Cruz
Church
Igreja de Santiago
Church
Igreja de São Bartolomeu
Church
Igreja de Santo António dos Olivais
Church
Aqueduto de São Sebastião / Arcos do Jardim
Historical Landmark
Porta e Torre de Almedina
Historical Landmark
Torre de Anto
Historical Landmark
Pedro e Inês Footbridge
Bridge
Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra
Botanical Garden
Parque de Santa Cruz
Park
Parque Verde do Mondego
Park
Parque Dr. Manuel Braga
Park
Portugal dos Pequenitos
Tourist attractions
Geophysical and Astronomical Observatory of the University of Coimbra
Observatory