Coimbra, Portugal: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Discover the historic beauty of Coimbra without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Coimbra

  • Start your day at the iconic Biblioteca Joanina to marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture and impressive collection of books.
  • Wander through the historic streets of the city center to admire the charming buildings and colorful tiles that Coimbra is famous for.
  • Visit the Sé Velha, an impressive 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with a rich history.
  • Head to the quaint neighborhood of Praça da República and grab a bite to eat at one of the many traditional restaurants serving delicious Portuguese cuisine.
  • After lunch, take a stroll through the beautiful Jardim Botânico, the oldest botanical garden in Portugal.
  • End your day at the top of the hill, where you can visit the University of Coimbra and take in stunning views of the city from the Botanical Garden Terrace.
  • Bonus: Don't forget to try some of Coimbra's famous specialty dishes, such as leitão (roast pig) and chanfana (goat stew).

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

A Romantic Weekend in Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra, Portugal is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. With its picturesque setting along the Mondego River, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, couples can explore the city's rich history while enjoying the romantic atmosphere. From strolling through the charming streets of the old town to taking a boat ride along the river, Coimbra offers many unforgettable experiences for couples seeking a romantic trip.

Experience Romance: 4-Day Coimbra Getaway

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.

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.

Cheap & Charming: 2 Days in Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra is a charming city in Portugal that is perfect for budget travelers. You can explore the historic university, visit the Museum of Science, and take a stroll through the botanical garden. For accommodation, there are affordable hostels and guesthouses available.