Covilhã

Covilhã is a charming city located in the central region of Portugal, known for its historical significance in the country's textile industry. The city is situated at the base of the Serra da Estrela mountain range, offering stunning views of the surrounding natural landscapes. Covilhã is home to a renowned university, attracting students from across the country and abroad.

Visitors to Covilhã can explore its picturesque old town, featuring traditional architecture and quaint streets lined with cafes and shops.

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

day 1

Explore Historic Covilh

morning:Start your day with a visit to the iconic University of Beira Interior, a historic landmark. After that, stroll around the charming old town streets and enjoy the stunning architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to have a traditional Portuguese breakfast at Café Santa Cruz.

afternoon:Spend your afternoon at the Museu de Lanifícios, learning about the importance of the wool industry in Covilhã's history. Then, head to the Jardim Público da Covilhã for a relaxing walk and enjoy a delicious lunch at Restaurante Zé Pataco.

evening:For a vibrant evening, visit the Praça do Município, where you can find various bars and restaurants, offering a great atmosphere for a night-out.

day 2

Nature and Adventure Day

morning:Embark on an exciting morning hike to Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal. Enjoy the breathtaking views and fresh mountain air. Afterward, replenish your energy with a delightful brunch at Cantina Dom Dinis.

afternoon:In the afternoon, visit the Barroca Recreation Park for some outdoor activities, such as kayaking or paddle boating. Then, take a leisurely walk to the Barragem da Bouçã for mesmerizing views of the reservoir.

evening:To end an adventurous day, head to Bairro da Estação for a cozy dining experience at Taberna A Laranjinha, known for its delightful traditional cuisine.

day 3

Cultural Delights in Covilh

morning:Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Modern Art Museum José de Azeredo Perdigão in the morning. Discover a diverse collection of contemporary artworks and enjoy a light snack at Café Avenida.

afternoon:Continue your cultural exploration by visiting the Pólo de Museológico da Real Fábrica Veiga. Delve into the history of the textile industry and its impact on Covilhã. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at Ristorante Pizzaria Torre.

evening:For a captivating evening, attend a performance at the Teatro Cine da Covilhã to experience the local arts scene firsthand. This venue hosts a range of cultural events, from theater to music and dance.

day 4

Wine Tasting and Gastronomy Tour

morning:Begin your day with a visit to Quinta do Serrao, where you can savor a delightful wine tasting experience. Learn about the region's winemaking traditions and indulge in a light breakfast with a glass of fine wine.

afternoon:Explore the culinary delights of Covilhã by taking a leisurely walk to the Mercado Municipal da Covilhã. Sample a variety of local delicacies and enjoy a delectable lunch at Taberno do Largo, known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine.

evening:In the evening, head to Wine Bar da Covilhã for a laid-back and elegant ambience, perfect for enjoying a selection of fine wines and socializing with friends.

Covilhã Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Queijo da Serra

A must-try local cheese made from sheep's milk, with a rich and creamy texture. It can be found in several local cheese shops and markets, including Mercado Municipal da Covilhã.

Must-Try!

Sopa de Peixe à Covilhanense

A traditional fish soup packed with flavor, typically made with freshwater fish from nearby rivers. Look for it in family-owned restaurants and traditional eateries like Restaurante Santiago.

Bacalhau à Lagareiro

A classic dish of codfish roasted with potatoes, onions, and olive oil. Enjoy this specialty at restaurants such as Taberna A Laranjinha for an authentic experience.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Mercado Municipal da Covilhã

This bustling market offers a variety of local products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to regional cheeses and cured meats. It's a great spot to immerse in the local food scene and sample street food like bifanas (pork sandwiches) from nearby vendors.

Feira de São Tiago

During the annual fair, visitors can indulge in a wide array of street food, including chouriço (spicy sausage) sandwiches, roasted chestnuts, and traditional sweets like filhós (fried dough). The fair is a fantastic opportunity to taste a range of local flavors.

Pet sitters in Covilhã

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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