Coimbra, Portugal: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Discover Coimbra: A vibrant Portuguese treasure for unforgettable family adventures.

19 July 2023

Coimbra, Portugal offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip filled with culture and fun. Explore the city's historical landmarks, such as the stunning Coimbra University and the enchanting Old Cathedral, while immersing yourself in its rich heritage. Additionally, take advantage of the city's lively parks, charming cafes, and nearby beaches for a well-rounded and enjoyable family vacation.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic Center

  • Make your way to Praça do Comércio, the bustling heart of Coimbra's old town.
  • Wander through the enchanting streets and narrow alleys of the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
  • Visit the majestic University of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal, and climb its bell tower for panoramic views.
  • Learn about the fascinating academic traditions at the Joanina Library, with its stunning Baroque architecture.
  • Enjoy a delightful picnic by the tranquil Mondego River, soaking in the charming atmosphere.
Day 2

Cultural Delights and Garden Strolls

  • Immerse yourself in the rich cultural history at the Machado de Castro National Museum, housed in a former bishop's palace.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Botanical Garden, bursting with colorful flowers and rare plants.
  • Indulge in a traditional Portuguese lunch at Taverna Antiqua, a hidden gem known for its authentic flavors.
  • Witness the hauntingly beautiful Fado music at A Capella, a lively venue showcasing talented local artists.
  • Relax with a book or people-watch at Praça da República, the liveliest square in Coimbra.
Day 3

A Day in Nature

  • Embark on a scenic hike up to the stunning Mata Nacional do Choupal, a peaceful forest with picturesque trails.
  • Discover the delightful connections between nature and science at the Science Exploratory Center.
  • Enjoy a boat ride along the Mondego River, taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside.
  • Visit Portugal dos Pequenitos, a whimsical park displaying scaled-down replicas of famous Portuguese monuments.
  • Taste delicious traditional pastries at Pasteis de Tentúgal, promising to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Day 4

Uncover Coimbra's Hidden Gems

  • Explore the secrets of Quinta das Lágrimas, an enchanting park where the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês unfolded.
  • Experience the unique combination of art and science at the Exploratório Infante D. Henrique.
  • Marvel at the impressive architecture of the New Cathedral, dating back to the 17th century.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cozy restaurant in Terra Nova, surrounded by charming medieval walls.
  • Finish the day with a visit to the Toy Museum, a playful journey through the history of childhood.
Day 5

Foodie Adventure

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Santa Cruz, housed in a former church.
  • Visit the bustling Mercado D. Pedro V, where you can sample a variety of fresh local produce and delicacies.
  • Indulge in a gastronomic feast at the renowned Ze Manel dos Ossos, famous for their traditional Portuguese dishes.
  • Take a relaxed riverfront walk, admiring the sunset views and colorful buildings.
  • End your trip with delectable pastries at Coimbra's beloved Louseiro bakery, a true hidden gem.
  • Enjoy your quirky and whimsical adventures in Coimbra, making memories that will last a lifetime!

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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