Coimbra: 3 Days of Romance & Adventure

Fall in love all over again amidst the charming cobblestone streets and rich history of Coimbra, Portugal.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Coimbra's Charm

  • Stay at Hotel Astoria where the Art Deco design and elegant style compliment your romantic vacation. Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking baroque style Biblioteca Joanina. Explore the traces of history at the Monastery of Santa Cruz which houses the tombs of the queens Isabel and Inês de Castro. Take a stroll through the botanical garden, Jardim Botânico, with more than 1,200 exotic plants. Finish your day with a delightful meal at Zé Manel dos Ossos, a cozy restaurant that offers traditional Portuguese dishes.
Day 2

The River and the University

  • Make your way to the Mondego River and enjoy a peaceful morning on the water with a paddle down the river. Visit the Old Cathedral and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city. Then make your way up to the University of Coimbra, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and soak up the academic atmosphere. Stop for a light meal at Café Santa Cruz, with its historic environment and delicious pastries. End your day with a walk around the charming town center and enjoy its vibrant nightlife.
Day 3

The Surrounding Countryside

  • Embark on a cultural journey in Conímbriga, an ancient Roman settlement spanning over 50 acres. Wander the ruins, among them the finest Roman mosaic preserved in Portugal. Take in stunning views of the Mondego river and Coimbra from the picturesque Quinta das Lágrimas. Visit the Portugal dos Pequenitos, a miniature world of Portugal's heritage for a bit of fun. Stop for dinner at O Pais, where fresh seafood and traditional dishes are transformed into culinary delights. The perfect end to a perfect trip!

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 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.

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.

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.