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.

Save and get deals

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.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Coimbra

If you're looking for a city that merges both medieval and modern vibes while also being home to the world's oldest university, Coimbra is the place for you. Just try not to accidentally enroll yourself in a class on 16th-century poetry.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Coimbra on a Budget: A 5 Day Adventure

Coimbra is a historic city located in central Portugal and known for its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant student culture, and rich cultural heritage. For those traveling on a budget, there are plenty of affordable accommodations, such as hostels and guesthouses, as well as free or low-cost attractions to explore, including the University of Coimbra, the Sé Velha cathedral, and the Botanical Gardens. Additionally, visitors can enjoy local cuisine at renowned restaurants and cafes, sample some of Portugal's famous port wines, and explore the city's vibrant nightlife scene without breaking the bank.

Your Weekend Getaway in Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra, Portugal, known as the city of students, is a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the ancient university buildings, stroll through the charming streets of the old town, and enjoy picturesque views across the river Mondego. Additionally, Coimbra offers delicious local cuisine, a bustling nightlife, and nearby natural parks and beaches for visitors to indulge in.

Discover Coimbra: A Day of Medieval Magic

Coimbra, Portugal is a charming university city located along the picturesque banks of the Mondego River. This historic city is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, making it a popular destination for academia and culture enthusiasts alike. Visitors can expect to enjoy stunning medieval architecture, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

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.