The Ultimate 2-Day Stag Do in Coimbra, Portugal

Unleash your wild side in the charming city of Coimbra.

22 April 2023

Coimbra is a stunning city in Portugal, perfect for a stag do. The city is renowned for its rich, Baroque architecture, and it's teeming with history and culture. The nightlife is also lively, with plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs to explore.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Coimbra's history and local charm

  • Check in at Hotel Astoria, a refined hotel with vintage décor in the heart of Coimbra.
  • Head to the Old Cathedral of Coimbra, a Romanesque beauty from the 12th century, to marvel at its soaring arches and stunning stained glass windows.
  • Visit the Biblioteca Joanina, an incredibly exquisite Baroque library, with its shelves made of exotic wood that holds over 300,000 volumes.
  • Take a stroll around the historic center, listen to the soulful fado music from the local musicians, and take in the colorful tiled buildings and quaint cobbled streets lined with cafés and restaurants.
  • Grab lunch at Restaurante O Mal Cozinhado to try their delicious octopus rice or Cozido à Portuguesa, a hearty stew with meat and vegetables.
  • In the evening, mingle with the locals at Café Santa Cruz, a trendy bar situated in a former church, while drinking ginjinha, a cherry liqueur typical of the region.
Day 2

The natural beauty and gastronomic delights of Coimbra

  • After breakfast, head to the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, a peaceful oasis with more than 1,200 species of plants and some lovely views of the city.
  • Take a pleasant boat ride along the Mondego River and soak up the scenic surroundings of the countryside.
  • Explore the ancient Roman ruins of Conímbriga, just a half-hour drive from the city, and get lost in the impressive mosaics and remains of this once-bustling Roman town.
  • Enjoy a seafood lunch at Taberna Dom Pedro, a cozy restaurant with a variety of fresh fish dishes and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Finish off your day with a visit to A Brasileira, a famous café that serves the best bica (Portuguese espresso) in town, or indulge in a warm nata pastry from the renowned Pastelaria Briosa.
  • Coimbra is a city that oozes history, culture, and charm. A perfect destination for a bachelor party full of unique experiences, breathtaking scenery, and scrumptious food.

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

Romance & Culture in Coimbra: A Day Trip Guide

Coimbra offers couples an enchanting city steeped in culture and history. From exploring the ancient University of Coimbra, to strolling through the charming old town and indulging in delicious Portuguese cuisine, Coimbra is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Mondego River and soak in the beauty of this picturesque city.

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.

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 in 3: History, Nature, and Wine

A trip to Coimbra, Portugal is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore the country's rich cultural heritage. Located in the central region of Portugal, Coimbra is home to a world-renowned university, picturesque narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, and delicious traditional food. The city's medieval past and modern-day vibrance blend seamlessly to create a unique and unforgettable travel experience.