Coimbra travel guide

Coimbra, Portugal

By the Travel Wiki editorial team

Coimbra

Introduction

You will find Coimbra situated in the heart of the Central Region. As the primary city within its namesake district, it serves as a significant urban center where you can experience the local atmosphere of this Portuguese municipality.

Before you go

Before you arrive in Coimbra, you can familiarize yourself with the history of this location, which was originally settled by the Romans as Aeminium during the first century CE.

You can visit the Municipal Tourist Office to gather more information before your trip.

Getting there

You can reach Coimbra by air via Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport in Porto or Portela Airport in Lisbon. For those traveling by rail, the city features two main stations: Coimbra-A, a historic station located near the riverbank and the medieval city centre, and Coimbra-B, which serves as a through station on the Lisbon-Porto line for high-speed long-distance trains. If you arrive at Coimbra-B via an Alfa Pendular train, you can transfer to a local train to reach Coimbra-A.

Driving offers several routes into the city, including the A1 motorway from Porto and Lisbon, as well as the A13, A14, and IP3 roads. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Terminal Rodoviário de Coimbra, which is within walking distance of the city centre; some specific bus lines also stop at a nearby parking lot. For a more personalized experience, shared shuttle services operate from Lisbon and Porto, providing door-to-door transport that drops you off near Largo da Portagem.

Getting around

You can explore much of Coimbra on foot, as most sights, dining options, and accommodations are located within reasonable walking distance of each other and the rail station in Baixa. While monuments are primarily situated in Baixa and Santa Clara, larger shopping malls are located in Alta, by Solum, and near the municipal stadium and pool.

If you prefer public transport, the SMTUC operates several bus routes throughout the area, including the "Pantufinhas" or Linha Azul (Blue Line) which connects the lower and upper town. You can also use the Elevador do Mercado to travel between Rua Padre António Vieira and Rua Olímpio Nicolau Rui Fernandes with a valid SMTUC ticket.

Driving in Coimbra is challenging due to its medieval layout, and finding parking can be difficult. Since many attractions are clustered together, you may prefer to park near the city center or at your accommodation and explore the area on foot. Both Baixa and the higher Alta district are noted as being difficult to navigate by car.

Where to stay

You can find several budget-friendly options located near the city centre, including youth hostels and residences that offer a balance between comfort and economy. Some accommodations provide convenient access to transportation and main attractions, while others are situated in the heart of downtown.

For a mid-range experience, you can choose from modern hotels or properties featuring original stone foundations nestled on narrow streets. If you prefer a more luxurious stay, you can select a historic site known for its fancy atmosphere and high-end dining.

Food & drink

You can find a wide variety of dining options throughout the city, including many restaurants featuring regional cuisine in the old city of Baixa. Rua de Azeiteiras is particularly noted for its traditional establishments. For those seeking local specialties, try the bone marrow stew, grilled seabass, or stewed octopus and potatoes at Zé Manel dos Ossos, where a charcoal grill provides a distinct flavor to the dishes. You can also sample regional favorites like chanfana at A Taberna or enjoy traditional dishes such as cozido à portuguesa and bacalhau assado na brasa at Restaurante Vitória. For those seeking specific cuisines, several Italian options are available near the city park and the new bridge, while Salão Brasil offers a spacious setting with unique national dishes like Vitela Maronesa and Secretos de Porco preto.

The local beverage scene offers plenty to explore, from Bairrada wine produced in the surrounding regions to licor beirão, a sweet liquor made locally. You might also enjoy trying different varieties of aguardente, which come in both grape-only and mixed fruit versions. If you prefer a relaxed atmosphere, bars in the City Park are open all day, while those near Praça da República capture the spirit of the local students during the cooler months.

What to see and do

Explore the historic heart of the city by visiting the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the beautiful Biblioteca Joanina. You can wander through the medieval downtown or visit religious landmarks such as the Romanesque Old Cathedral (Sé Velha), the Mannerist and Baroque New Cathedral (Sé Nova), and the Monastery of the Holy Cross, where Portugal's first two kings are buried. For a different atmosphere, explore the Gothic ruins of the Old Monastery of Saint Clare on the banks of the River Mondego or visit the Memorial da Irmã Lúcia.

Experience the local culture by listening to Coimbra Fado, a nostalgic style of song accompanied by Portuguese guitar. You can also enjoy the city's extensive green spaces, including the Botanical Garden, Parque Dr. Manuel Braga, and the scenic Penedo da Saudade. For those interested in history and science, the Machado de Castro National Museum houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts, while the Science Museum of the University of Coimbra showcases various scientific fields. If you prefer a more active experience, you can walk from the Mondego river up to the top of University Hill for a gorgeous view or visit the theme park Portugal dos Pequenitos.

Three days in Coimbra

Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of Coimbra. Explore the historic streets and experience the atmosphere of this central region.

Day two, you can wander through the area near Largo de Portagem or explore the nearby neighborhoods of Santa Clara and Alta Solum.

Day three, you can take in the sights along Rua Padre António Vieira or Rua Olímpio Nicolau Rui to conclude your time in the city.

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