Things To Do
in Covilhã
Covilhã is a historic textile town in central Portugal, perched at the edge of the Serra da Estrela and surrounded by pine forests and alpine scenery. It blends centuries-old architecture with a lively student culture thanks to the Beira Interior University. The city serves as a gateway to Serra da Estrela Natural Park and the surrounding countryside, making day trips easy and scenic.
With a welcoming atmosphere, Covilhã offers affordable cafés, museums, and scenic viewpoints in a compact, walkable center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Covilhã by visiting the historic city center, where you can admire the traditional architecture and the beautiful church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, breathing in the fresh mountain air while you discover local shops and cafes. Stop by a bakery to indulge in a pastéis de nata, a delicious Portuguese custard tart, to fuel your day.
In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Parque de Santo António, a green oasis perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains while soaking up the sun or reading a book in this peaceful park. Later, visit the Museu de Lanifícios to learn about the wool industry that historically shaped Covilhã's economy.
As the sun sets, unwind in one of Covilhã's charming restaurants, where you can savor traditional dishes such as
Take a day trip to Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range in Portugal, for breathtaking views and stunning landscapes. Early in the morning, drive up to the summit and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and villages. Bring along a camera to capture the beauty of nature as you hike along the marked trails.
In the afternoon, visit the picturesque village of Linhares da Beira, known for its medieval castle and charming narrow streets. Explore its rich history as you stroll around, taking in the stone houses and panoramic views of the region. Afterward, sample local cheeses and wines at a nearby tavern, experiencing the flavors of the region.
Return to Covilhã for dinner at a cozy restaurant specializing in regional cuisine. After enjoying a hearty meal, take time to relax in one of the local bars, where you can savor a glass of Aguardente or a local wine. Engage with friendly locals and share stories about your adventures in this beautiful region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way public transit | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction ticket | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Serra da Estrela for day trips
- Rich textile heritage and architecture
- Walkable historic center
- Good value for money for central Portugal travel
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some travelers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Onde fica [lugar]?" - Where is [place]?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Covilhã
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic streets with whitewashed houses and traditional tiles, ideal for atmospheric street photography.
A historic church with a distinctive facade and interior details that reflect Covilhã's past.
A lookout over the city and surrounding hills—great for sunsets and panoramic shots.
The exterior embodies Covilhã's textile heritage and makes for a striking architectural portrait.
Food in Covilhã
Covilhã Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, creamy sheep's-milk cheese; enjoy on bread or melted over honey and served with a glass of local wine.
Must-Try!
A comforting, rustic stew featuring meats, vegetables, and regional sausages typical of the Serra region.
Chestnut cake made with local chestnuts, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering cheeses, cured meats, vegetables, and locally produced goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting like bom dia/boa tarde; in formal settings address people as Senhor/Senhora.
Be punctual for appointments; conversations may be warm and friendly but not overly loud in public places.
Safety
Tipping in Covilhã
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% for good service in restaurants is common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming streets; ideal for city strolls and hillside viewpoints.
Warm days with cooler evenings; enjoy mountain air and shaded cafés; possible afternoon showers.
Comfortable temperatures and harvest markets; colorful foliage around the hills.
Cold, with possible snow in Serra da Estrela; outfits in layers and expect shorter daylight hours.
Covilhã at Night
Hiking in Covilhã
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic waterfall and canyon area near Serra da Estrela, suitable for a half-day hike.
Plateau with a reflecting lake and forest trails; popular for easy to moderate walks.
Trail network leading to Torre, the highest point in Serra da Estrela, offering expansive mountain vistas.
Airports
How to reach Covilhã by plane.
Major international hub; about 3-4 hours by car/bus from Covilhã.
Another major international hub; similar travel time to Covilhã.
Smaller regional airport with limited flights; useful for certain routes but not the primary option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
UBI students provide a youthful and energetic vibe in town.
A mix of long-time residents and families who enjoy outdoor life and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport with local clubs and matches that excite the community.
Winter activities when snow is present; Torre is a common base for snow sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Covilhã.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable stews, beans, grains, and regional cheeses; ask for veggie versions of local dishes.