Coimbra,Portugal
Coimbra, Portugal is an enchanting city known for its historical charm and vibrant university atmosphere. The city is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, adding to its academic and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the well-preserved medieval architecture, including the stunning Coimbra University campus and the iconic Coimbra Cathedral.
With its picturesque riverside setting, quaint cobblestone streets, and lively music scene, Coimbra offers a memorable experience for travelers seeking a blend of history and modernity.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Boa noite" - Good night
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring History
morning:Start your day with a visit to the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world. Don't miss the Joanina Library, known for its stunning architecture and valuable books. For a delightful breakfast, head to Café Santa Cruz, a cozy spot with tasty pastries.
afternoon:In the afternoon, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town and explore the historic buildings and charming squares. Take a break at Taberna Belga for a delicious lunch of local specialties and craft beer. Don't miss the Sé Velha, a beautiful Romanesque cathedral.
evening:For a memorable evening, head to the Fado ao Centro for a captivating Fado performance, a traditional Portuguese music genre. Afterwards, enjoy a nightcap at Praça da República, a lively plaza with various bars and cafes.
Riverside Bliss
morning:Spend your morning by the Mondego River, starting with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque riverfront. Grab a hearty brunch at Terra Nova, offering a great selection of brunch items with a lovely riverside view. Don't forget to explore the Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery and its serene surroundings.
afternoon:For the afternoon, take a relaxing boat trip along the Mondego River and admire the city's landmarks from a different perspective. After the boat trip, visit the Portugal dos Pequenitos, a charming miniature park that showcases miniature versions of Portugal's architectural landmarks.
evening:As the sun sets, head to the Ponte Pedro e Inês for a romantic evening walk and enjoy the beautiful sunset views over the river. Complete the day with a delightful dinner at Zé Manel dos Ossos, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Cultural Delights
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Machado de Castro National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and archaeological exhibits. Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Café Purpurina, a trendy cafe known for its artisanal coffee and pastries.
afternoon:In the afternoon, explore the Coimbra's Arched Almedina, a historic area with intriguing shops and artisanal boutiques. Visit the New Cathedral of Coimbra and enjoy the panoramic views from the nearby Almedina Tower. Stop by A Cozinha da Maria for a delightful lunch featuring authentic Portuguese dishes.
evening:For an enriching evening, attend a performance at the Teatro Académico de Gil Vicente, a renowned theater showcasing a variety of cultural shows and performances. After the show, head to Praça do Comércio for a vibrant nightlife scene encompassing bars, live music, and entertainment.
Nature and Relaxation
morning:Start your day with a serene visit to the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens and admire the diverse plant species. Enjoy a tranquil breakfast at Café Calma, a charming spot with a relaxing ambiance and delicious treats.
afternoon:For the afternoon, venture to the Choupal National Forest, a green oasis outside the city. Take a nature walk, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. Don't miss the beautiful Quinta das Lágrimas, a historic estate with beautiful gardens and a fascinating story.
evening:As the day winds down, make your way to Portagem area for a serene evening walk along the Mondego River. For a delightful dinner, head to O Pátio, a lovely restaurant known for its outdoor seating and delectable Portuguese cuisine.
Coimbra Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Leitão à Bairrada
A renowned dish of crispy suckling pig, marinated in a flavorful mix of garlic, salt, and pepper, and slow-roasted until the skin turns golden and crispy. It is often served with orange slices and accompanied by a glass of Bairrada red wine. For an authentic experience, try it at the famous Rei dos Leitões in Mealhada.
Must-Try!
Chanfana
A traditional Portuguese stew made with marinated goat or lamb, cooked slowly with red wine, garlic, and herbs until the meat is tender and infused with rich flavors. Tasquinha dos Sabores is a popular spot in Coimbra known for its delicious Chanfana.
Pastéis de Santa Clara
These delectable pastries are a must-try when visiting Coimbra. Filled with an almond and sugar mixture, encased in crispy pastry, and sprinkled with powdered sugar, these treats are best enjoyed at pastelarias like A Brasileira.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercado Municipal D. Pedro V
This bustling market offers an abundance of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional snacks. Visitors can sample regional specialties and indulge in prego rolls, bifanas, and various seafood delicacies at the lively food stalls.
Queima das Fitas
During the annual Queima das Fitas festival, the streets come alive with an array of street food vendors offering traditional Portuguese street treats such as farturas (sweet fried dough), roasted chestnuts, and grilled sardines.
Things to do in Coimbra
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Coimbra
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!