Unleash Coimbra's Charm: A 5-Day Adventure!

Discover the cultural capital of Portugal in Coimbra.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival in Coimbra

  • Check into Hotel Oslo, a charming boutique hotel located in the city center.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Praça do Comércio, home to stunning architecture and bustling outdoor cafes.
  • Visit the ancient Convento de Santa Clara a Nova, known for its gorgeous 17th century tiles and gardens.
  • Savor traditional Portuguese fare at Taberna da Arrá, a cozy spot praised for its seafood and wine.
Day 2

Cultural Delights

  • Start the day with a mouth-watering breakfast at A Taberna.
  • Explore the stunning Biblioteca Joanina, a baroque library adorned with gold leaf and intricate woodwork.
  • Discover the Machado de Castro Museum, filled with impressive art and sculptures from Roman times to modern day.
  • Take in a show at the Teatro Académico de Gil Vicente, a historic theater that showcases everything from drama to music.
Day 3

Nature Escape

  • Drive to the picturesque Serra da Lousã Mountains for stunning panoramic views.
  • Hike the PR5 circular route, a peaceful trail that winds past waterfalls and charming villages.
  • Visit the stunning Schist Villages, a collection of historic towns built with traditional materials.
  • Sit down for a leisurely dinner at O Lateral, known for its generous portions and cozy atmosphere.
Day 4

Religious Sites and Art

  • Start the day with artisanal coffee and pastries at the local favorite Café Santa Cruz.
  • Explore the Romanesque Sé Velha Cathedral, built in the 12th century and filled with incredible art and artifacts.
  • Discover the Convento de São Francisco, a remarkable complex that features a Gothic church and poignant art collections.
  • Indulge in scrumptious fare at Cozinha da Maria, a trendy eatery that serves contemporary twists on Portuguese classics.
Day 5

Last Day in Coimbra

  • Take a stroll through the Jardim Botânico de Coimbra, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe.
  • Visit the Museu Nacional Machado de Castro, filled with impressive art and sculptures from Roman times to modern day.
  • Stop by the lively Mercado Municipal D. Pedro V for a taste of local fruits, vegetables, and cured meats.
  • Savor one last hearty meal at Coimbra Taberna, a cozy spot that serves traditional Portuguese dishes with a twist.
  • And that's a wrap on your exciting 5-day trip to Coimbra!

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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Unleash Coimbra's Charm: A 5-Day Adventure!

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 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.