Coimbra: Portugal’s City of Scholars
Portugal’s charming city that’s part academic wonderland, part historical gem, and all-around delightful place to explore. It is also a city we have visited so many times, we have lost count, and everytime there is something new to see!
Known for its prestigious university, enchanting old town, and rich cultural heritage, Coimbra is where you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a living history book, with a side of delicious pastries. So, grab your books (or just your camera) and let’s dive into the best ways to spend a week in Coimbra!
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Choosing the Best Time to Go
Coimbra is pretty much like that all-season jacket you never knew you needed—great to visit year-round. However, depending on what kind of weather you’re after, here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Spring (March to May): Perfect for wandering through the city’s gardens and historical sites without breaking into a sweat. The temperatures are mild, and you’ll catch the city in full bloom, making it an ideal time for a scenic stroll.
Summer (June to August): Expect warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It’s a great time to explore the university and its outdoor attractions. Just be prepared for the occasional heatwave.
Autumn (September to November): The temperatures drop to a comfortable level, and you’ll enjoy the beautiful fall colors. It’s a peaceful time to visit, with fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere, our personal favorite.
Winter (December to February): Coimbra gets chilly but remains relatively mild compared to northern Europe. It’s the perfect time for cozying up in a café with a pastel de Santa Clara and exploring the city’s festive holiday lights.
Budget
Accommodation:
Budget Options: For the budget-conscious traveler, Serenata Hostel or ZERO Box Lodge Coimbra are fantastic choices. Prices range from €15 to €30 per night for a bed in a dorm. Private rooms will set you back around €40 to €60.
Mid-Range: Consider staying at Hotel Oslo or Hotel D. Luís Coimbra. These comfortable options offer rates between €70 to €120 per night. You’ll enjoy a cozy stay with a few extra amenities.
Splurge: If you’re looking to indulge, book a room at Solar Antigo, with prices starting around €150 per night. We can also suggest Sapientia Hotel which is around the same per night and it’s an adorable boutique hotel that we personally loved!
Food and Restaurants:
Cheap Eats: For a taste of Coimbra on a budget, head to O Trovador or Toca do Gato. You can get a satisfying meal for around €5 to €10. Don’t miss the leitão (suckling pig) or a bifana (pork sandwich).
Mid-Range: Enjoy a meal at O Dux or O Sete, where a hearty meal will cost around €15 to €25 per person. These spots offer a delicious mix of traditional Portuguese food and local specialties.
Fine Dining: For a special treat, book a table at Solar do Bacalhau or O Palco. Expect to pay around €30 to €50 per person for an exquisite dining experience that will make your taste buds dance (like most Portuguese food tends to do).
Transportation:
Public Transport: Coimbra’s public transport includes buses and taxis. A single bus ride costs about €1.70. The city is compact, so walking is a viable option, but for longer distances, buses are handy.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis start at around €3.50, with an additional charge per kilometer. Uber and Bolt are also available in Coimbra, offering potentially cheaper rates.
Walking: Coimbra is a pedestrian-friendly city with plenty of charming streets and scenic spots. Just be ready for some hills (but I mean, is this new?)—those picturesque views come with a bit of a workout!
City Pass: Coimbra doesn’t have a dedicated city pass, but you can find discounts on various attractions with the Coimbra University Tour package. It’s worth checking for bundled tickets if you plan on visiting multiple sites, like the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Coimbra
Morning: Start with a visit to the University of Coimbra (€12 entry for a guided tour). Explore the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace.
Afternoon: Wander around Alta de Coimbra and grab lunch at Toca do Gato. A meal here will cost about €10 to €15. Afterward, stroll down to the Botanical Garden for a relaxing afternoon.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurante Arcadas. Expect to spend around €40 to €50 for a meal that will give you a taste of Coimbra’s local cuisine.
Day 2: Historical Highlights
Morning: Visit the Conímbriga Ruins (€6 entry). These Roman ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient past. It’s a bit of a trek from the city center, but well worth the visit.
Afternoon: Head back to the city and enjoy lunch at O Trovador. Post-lunch, explore the Santa Clara-a-Velha and it's beautiful riverside setting.
Evening: Dine at Restaurante O Mercado for a relaxed meal with local flavors. Expect to spend around €20 per person. Afterward, take a leisurely evening stroll along the Mondego River.
Day 3: Day Trip Adventures
Morning: Take a day trip to Lagoa Azul, a picturesque lake about an hour from Coimbra. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, or just soaking in the natural beauty. Day trip tours can cost around €50.
Afternoon: Return to Coimbra and have a light lunch at a café like Pastelaria Briosa. Enjoy a pastry and coffee for around €5 to €10.
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at O Dux. Meals here are around €25 per person. Then, check out some local bars for a nightcap.
Day 4: Museums and Markets
Morning: Visit the Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro (€8 entry). This museum houses an impressive collection of Portuguese art and historical artifacts.
Afternoon: Head to Mercado Municipal for lunch and to explore the local food stalls. Enjoy a meal for around €10. Post-lunch, visit the Portugal dos Pequenitos (€9 entry) if you’re traveling with kids. It’s a fun, miniature version of Portugal’s landmarks.
Evening: Dine at O Sete. Expect to pay around €25 per person. Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal here!
Day 5: Exploring
Morning: Take a short trip to Piódão, a picturesque village about an hour from Coimbra (we would recommend booking a car for a day or take a tours that can cost around €50.). Wander through its charming streets and enjoy the views.
Afternoon: Return to Coimbra for lunch at O Trovador, with meals around €10. Spend the afternoon shopping or relaxing at one of the city’s cafes.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at O Palco. Expect to spend around €40 per person for a delightful meal.
Day 6: A Day of Leisure
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Science Museum of the University of Coimbra. Located in a beautiful historic building, this museum offers interactive exhibits on physics, chemistry, and natural history. It's a great option for both adults and kids, making science fun and engaging. The entrance fee is around €5, and it’s an excellent way to dive into the academic heritage of Coimbra.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Restaurante Loggia for a stylish meal with a view. Expect to spend around €20. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Praça da República and its surroundings.
Evening: Dine at Solar do Bacalhau for a special dinner. Expect to pay around €30 per person. Afterward, enjoy a nighttime stroll through the city.
Day 7: Farewell Coimbra
Morning: Take a final walk through Almedina Arch and Coimbra’s Old Town. Enjoy a farewell coffee and pastry at Pastelaria Briosa.
Afternoon: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or enjoying any last-minute sights.
Evening: As you depart, reflect on your Coimbra adventure, knowing you’ve experienced the best the city has to offer—plus, you’ve probably had your fill of pastel de nata!
And with that you spend an amazing week losing yourself in the streets and corners of this city! Coimbra is like the well-loved book you keep returning to—each visit reveals something new and delightful. Whether you’re soaking in history at the university or indulging in delicious Portuguese cuisine, Coimbra will leave you with memories as rich as its academic heritage. So, embrace the charm, savor the pastries, and enjoy every moment in this captivating city. Até já!
