Coimbra Getaway: Exploring History, Delighting in Culture

Discover Coimbra: A captivating city where family adventures meet Portuguese culture.

19 July 2023

Coimbra, Portugal offers a delightful family-friendly getaway with its rich history and charm. Explore the city's renowned University of Coimbra, one of the oldest educational institutions in the world, and take a stroll along the picturesque streets lined with vibrant shops and cafes. Embrace the local culture by visiting the captivating Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the peaceful Mondego River, creating lasting memories for the whole family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Magical Meandering in Coimbra

  • Check into the charming Hotel Astória, with its vintage vibes and cozy atmosphere, perfect for families.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the University of Coimbra, Portugal's oldest and most prestigious institution.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Jardim Botânico, a breathtaking botanical garden filled with exotic plants and hidden nooks.
  • Get lost in the intricate maze-like streets of the historic center, discovering hidden cafes, cozy bookstores, and vibrant street art.
  • Indulge in a hearty dinner at Ze Manel dos Ossos, a rustic local eatery known for its delicious traditional dishes and convivial atmosphere.
Day 2

River Romance and Sweet Serenades

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Santa Cruz, a historic café where you can savor mouthwatering pastries amidst beautiful Art Nouveau decor.
  • Embark on a boat trip along the tranquil Mondego River, admiring the picturesque scenery that inspired poets and musicians throughout the centuries.
  • Discover the enchanting beauty of the Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha, a medieval abbey that exudes a mysterious allure.
  • Enjoy a delightful picnic in the scenic Parque Verde do Mondego, surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant flowers.
  • End your trip on a high note with a concert at the exceptional Fado ao Centro, where the soul-stirring melodies of Fado music will leave you spellbound.

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Coimbra by plane is to fly into Lisbon Portela Airport and then take a direct train to Coimbra-B Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and trains run regularly throughout the day. Alternatively, you can fly into Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport and then take a bus or train to Coimbra. The journey from Porto takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours.

Car

Driving to Coimbra is easy, as it is well-connected to major highways in Portugal. From Lisbon, take the A1 northbound, while from Porto take the A1 or A29 southbound, depending on your route. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours from Lisbon and 1.5-2.5 hours from Porto, depending on traffic.

Train

Coimbra has one main train station called Coimbra-B, which is well-served by trains from major cities in Portugal. The station is located on the outskirts of the city, but there are regular local buses and taxis available to take you into the city center.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Coimbra, you can take a ferry or a cruise ship to Porto and then travel by bus or train to Coimbra. Alternatively, you can take a river cruise on the Douro River, which passes through Porto and offers stunning views of the region.

Bus

Coimbra has a good bus network connecting it to other cities and towns in Portugal. You can take a bus from Lisbon or Porto to Coimbra, with various companies operating services. The journey from Lisbon takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, while from Porto it takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours.

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Discover Coimbra: 3 Days of Adventure & Culture

Coimbra offers budget-friendly historic tours, museums and exploration of its artistic landmarks. Street cafes and markets offer affordable cuisine and souvenirs, while the riverfront parks offer relaxation in scenic surroundings. Visitors can also make the most of free cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Coimbra, Portugal: A Family-Friendly Adventure Awaits

Coimbra, Portugal offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the famous University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, while taking in the breathtaking views from its hilltop location. Enjoy a boat ride along the Mondego River, visit the interactive science museum, and take leisurely walks in the picturesque Jardim Botânico.

Coimbra: 3 Days of Romance & Adventure

Coimbra is a charming city located in the heart of Portugal known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, historical monuments and vibrant university life. For a romantic trip, visitors can take a stroll along the Mondego River, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed University of Coimbra, and indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine at one of the city's cozy restaurants. With its stunning architecture and romantic ambiance, Coimbra is the perfect destination for couples looking for a memorable escape.

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Coimbra, Portugal is a charming city filled with history, culture and stunning views. Visitors can explore the city's iconic landmarks such as the University of Coimbra, the Biblioteca Joanina and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha. With a thriving food and drink scene and a variety of cultural events held throughout the year, Coimbra is the perfect destination for any traveler seeking a unique and authentic Portugal experience.