Your Weekend Getaway in Coimbra, Portugal

Discover the historic and cultural charm of Coimbra, Portugal on your next adventure.

03 May 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Coimbra

  • Hotel: Check-in at Hotel Astória for its old world charm and convenient location.
  • -Visit the University of Coimbra-The oldest in Portugal, this campus is filled with grand architecture and historic landmarks.
  • -Explore the Biblioteca Joanina An ornately designed library that has been recognized for its beauty.
  • -Stroll through the Alta historic area A charming district filled with local eateries, shops, and bustling with cozy spots.
  • -View Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha The re-stored walls of this Abbey are stories of the past.
  • -Dine at Zé Manel dos OssosA cozy restaurant with a memorable atmosphere and local specialties like grilled pork with stir-fry veggies.
Day 2

Coimbra's Surroundings

  • -Visit Palace of Buçaco National forest -This hidden gem has towering trees, and myriad hiking trails, as well as the famous Buçaco Palace
  • -Take a look at Quinta das Lágrimas A favorite destination of Portuguese poets of the past.
  • -Visit the Roman ruins of Conímbriga An area that takes you back to the Roman era of Portugal's history
  • -Relax at Praia da Figueira da Foz -Treat yourself to a beach day, one of the most popular in the area.
  • -End the day on a sweet note with Queijadas de VLCThese unique tarts are made with cream cheese and sugar and will leave you wanting more & more..

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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Coimbra, Portugal is a city of historical significance where tourists can explore the charming narrow streets, ancient churches and museums. Tourists can witness the grandeur of the University of Coimbra, Portugal's oldest University, which features captivating architecture and stunning views. Visitors can also stroll through the Jardim Botânico, a lush botanical garden with a variety of flora and fauna.

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Coimbra, Portugal is an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip filled with history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world, for an educational experience. Explore the picturesque streets of the city, discover the beautiful parks, and enjoy boat rides on the Mondego River, making it a well-rounded trip for the whole family.

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