Experience Romance: 4-Day Coimbra Getaway

Fall in love all over again in Coimbra, the city of romance.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Coimbra

  • Check into the charming Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas, known for its beautiful gardens and rich history
  • Explore the historic Coimbra University, one of the oldest universities in Europe
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town, filled with charming shops and cafes
  • Indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine at the rustic Taberna da Maria, famous for its grilled meats and homemade bread
  • Relax and unwind at the hotel spa, featuring a range of massages and treatments
Day 2

Discovering Coimbra's Cultural Treasures

  • Visit the breathtaking Biblioteca Joanina, a Baroque library decorated with gold leaf and rare books
  • Marvel at the intricate tilework and colorful design of the Sé Velha, a stunning Gothic cathedral
  • Take in the city's vibrant arts scene at the Convento de Sao Francisco, featuring exhibitions and performances
  • Sample delicious pastries at the historic Casa das Tentações, known for its sweet treats and cozy atmosphere
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at the Michelin-starred Arcadas restaurant, serving exquisite Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist
Day 3

Day Trip to the Countryside

  • Venture outside the city to explore the lush greenery and natural beauty of the Serra da Estrela mountain range
  • Hike through the stunning Peneda-Gerês National Park, home to cascading waterfalls and incredible scenery
  • Visit charming nearby towns such as Lousã and Penacova, known for their historic architecture and delicious local cheeses
  • Indulge in a traditional Portuguese lunch at the rustic Casa de São Sebastião, featuring hearty stews and regional wines
  • Head back to the hotel for a sunset stroll through the enchanting Botanical Gardens, filled with over 300 species of plants
Day 4

Relaxing in Coimbra

  • Enjoy a lazy morning with breakfast in bed or a leisurely brunch at the hotel's charming restaurant
  • Take a romantic boat ride down the Mondego River, passing by historic landmarks and scenic views
  • Visit the intriguing Machado de Castro National Museum, showcasing a wide range of Portuguese art and artifacts
  • Savor authentic Portuguese flavors at the cozy O Bruxedo, famous for its grilled fish and seafood dishes
  • End the day with a nightcap and stunning views of the city from the hotel's rooftop bar, perfect for a romantic evening under the stars.

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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