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

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 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.

Experience Romance: 4-Day Coimbra Getaway

Coimbra, Portugal, is a charming and historic city situated on the banks of the Mondego River. Couples can take a romantic stroll through the picturesque medieval streets, visit the famous university and its ornate library, and enjoy delicious local cuisine at one of the many traditional restaurants. A trip to Coimbra promises to be a romantic and unforgettable experience.

Romantic Coimbra: 5 Days of Charm and Delight

Coimbra, Portugal is a perfect destination for a romantic trip with its charming historic architecture and stunning views of the Mondego River. You can take a stroll through its winding streets to visit sweet cafes, cozy bookstores and historical landmarks, like the 12th century University of Coimbra. And, make sure you enjoy the local culinary delights and famous regional wines.