A Romantic Weekend in Coimbra, Portugal

Discovering romance in the old-world charm of Coimbra, Portugal.

03 May 2023

Coimbra, Portugal is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. With its picturesque setting along the Mondego River, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, couples can explore the city's rich history while enjoying the romantic atmosphere. From strolling through the charming streets of the old town to taking a boat ride along the river, Coimbra offers many unforgettable experiences for couples seeking a romantic trip.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Explore Coimbra's Beauty

  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Astoria
  • Wander through the narrow streets of Coimbra's historic center and admire the colorful facades
  • Visit the stunning University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world
  • Get lost in the Biblioteca Joanina, a majestic baroque library with ornate details and stunning frescoes
  • Stop by the Jardim Botânico, a picturesque botanical garden with unique plants and a peaceful atmosphere
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Solar do Bacalhau, a cozy restaurant serving delicious traditional Portuguese cuisine
Day 2

Discover Coimbra's Charm

  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Oslo
  • Explore the ruins of the Convento de Santa Clara-a-Velha and learn about its fascinating history
  • Take a stroll along the riverfront and cross the Ponte Pedro e Inês for lovely views of the city
  • Visit the Sé Velha, a magnificent Romanesque cathedral with impressive sculptures and artworks
  • Go to the Mondego Green Park for a relaxing picnic or a boat ride on the tranquil lake
  • Indulge in a sweet treat at Café Santa Cruz, a historic café with Art Nouveau decor and live Fado music in the evenings.

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.

More travel plans

Coimbra, Portugal: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Coimbra, Portugal offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers. Tour the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, for only €2. Explore the historic city center, with its cobblestone streets and charming cafes, on foot. Situated on the Mondego River, Coimbra also offers affordable boat tours for a unique perspective of the city.

Coimbra Getaway: Exploring History, Delighting in Culture

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.

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.

Coimbra, Portugal: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Coimbra, Portugal offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip filled with culture and fun. Explore the city's historical landmarks, such as the stunning Coimbra University and the enchanting Old Cathedral, while immersing yourself in its rich heritage. Additionally, take advantage of the city's lively parks, charming cafes, and nearby beaches for a well-rounded and enjoyable family vacation.