Coimbra, Portugal: A Family-Friendly Adventure Awaits

Discover Coimbra: Where history and fun intertwine for an unforgettable family adventure!

19 July 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Whirlwind Tour of Coimbra's Charm

  • Start the day off with a visit to the historic University of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal, and marvel at its stunning Joanina Library.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Baixa district, where colorful houses and adorable cafes line the cobblestone streets.
  • Enjoy a scenic picnic by the Mondego River, while watching the graceful strokes of rowers gliding along the water.
  • Visit the mesmerizing Santa Cruz Monastery, where you can admire intricate carvings and soak in the spiritual ambience.
  • Treat your taste buds to a traditional Portuguese lunch at Petiscaria Santo António, where sizzling sardines and codfish cakes steal the show.
  • End the day with a visit to the enchanting Mata Nacional do Choupal, a lush woodland where fairies are said to dance under the moonlight.

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 Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Coimbra, Portugal offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers. Tour the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, for only €2. Explore the historic city center, with its cobblestone streets and charming cafes, on foot. Situated on the Mondego River, Coimbra also offers affordable boat tours for a unique perspective of the city.

4-Day Coimbra: History, Culture & Natural Escapes

Coimbra, Portugal is a charming city filled with history, culture and stunning views. Visitors can explore the city's iconic landmarks such as the University of Coimbra, the Biblioteca Joanina and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha. With a thriving food and drink scene and a variety of cultural events held throughout the year, Coimbra is the perfect destination for any traveler seeking a unique and authentic Portugal experience.

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.

Coimbra Getaway: Exploring History, Delighting in Culture

Coimbra, Portugal offers a delightful family-friendly getaway with its rich history and charm. Explore the city's renowned University of Coimbra, one of the oldest educational institutions in the world, and take a stroll along the picturesque streets lined with vibrant shops and cafes. Embrace the local culture by visiting the captivating Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the peaceful Mondego River, creating lasting memories for the whole family.