Discover Coimbra: A Guide to Portugal's Historic University City
Coimbra, situated in central Portugal's Beiras region, is a city steeped in history with its prestigious university, beautiful churches, and vibrant cultural scene. It was once the nation's capital and is best explored on foot to fully appreciate its royal past and the natural beauty surrounding it.
For a comprehensive list of Coimbra's attractions, see our top picks below.
See also: Where to Stay in Coimbra
1. Velha Universidade de Coimbra (Old University)
The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and moved to Coimbra in 1537, is one of Europe's oldest universities. The Biblioteca Joanina, with its stunning Baroque architecture, and the Capela de São Miguel, adorned with azulejos, are highlights. The university's bell tower is an iconic symbol of the city.
Address: Paço das Escolas, Coimbra
2. Igreja de Santa Cruz
This church and monastery, founded in 1131, is the resting place of Portugal's first two kings. Its Manueline façade and the Portal da Majestade are works of art by 16th-century sculptors.
Address: Praça 8 de Maio, Coimbra
3. Sé Velha (Old Cathedral)
Coimbra's Old Cathedral is a prime example of Romanesque architecture in Portugal, with its fortress-like appearance and the elegant Renaissance Porta Especiosa.
4. Sé Nova (New Cathedral)
The New Cathedral, founded by the Jesuits in 1598, features a lavish interior with a gold filigree high altar and 18th-century organs.
Address: Largo de Sé Nova, Coimbra
5. Mondego River Cruise
A river cruise offers a unique view of Coimbra, with options for tuk-tuk city tours or evening cruises with fado performances.
Location: Cais do Parque Dr Manuel Braga, Coimbra
Official site: http://www.odabarca.com/en
6. Museu Nacional Machado de Castro (Machado de Castro National Museum)
This museum, named after sculptor Joaquim Machado de Castro, showcases Roman archaeology, sacred metalwork, jewelry, and medieval statuary.
Address: Largo Dr Jose Rodrigues, Coimbra
Official site: http://www.museumachadocastro.pt
7. Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha
The ruins of this 13th-century monastery tell the story of Santa Isabel and the flooding that led to its abandonment.
Address: Rua das Parreiras-Santa Clara, Coimbra
Official site: http://santaclaraavelha.drcc.pt
8. Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Nova
The new convent, built to replace the flood-damaged original, houses the silver shrine of Santa Isabel.
Address: Igreja da Rainha Santa Isabel-Alto de Santa Clara, Coimbra
9. Arco de Almedina
This ancient gateway to the old city is part of Coimbra's Moorish town walls and now hosts a historical center.
Address: Patio do Castilho, Coimbra
10. Jardim Botánico (Botanical Garden)
Portugal's largest botanical garden, part of the University of Coimbra, features a diverse collection of plants and historic greenhouses.
Address: Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra
11. Portugal dos Pequenitos
A theme park with miniature versions of Portugal's landmarks, offering fun for both children and adults.
Address: Rossio de Santa Clara, Coimbra
Official site: http://www.fbb.pt/pp/en/
12. Jardims da Quinta das Lágrimas
The gardens where the tragic love story of Inês de Castro unfolded, now open to the public.
Address: Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas, Rua António Augusto Gonçalves, Coimbra
Official site: https://www.quintadaslagrimas.pt
13. Praça do Comércio
Coimbra's main square, lined with shops and eateries, is home to the church of Sao Tiago.
Address: Igreja de São Tiago, Praça do Comércio, Coimbra
Day Trips from Coimbra
14. Conímbriga
Visit the extensive Roman ruins at Conímbriga, 15 kilometers from Coimbra, to explore ancient houses, baths, and mosaics.
15. Mata Nacional do Buçaco
The enchanting Buçaco National Forest, with its historic monastery and palace hotel, offers scenic beauty and rich vegetation.
Location: Buçaco National Forest
16. Aveiro
Aveiro, known for its canals and Art Nouveau architecture, is a short trip from Coimbra.
17. Nazaré
Nazaré, a picturesque fishing town, is famous for its beach, traditions, and big wave surfing.
18. Porto
Porto, with its UNESCO-listed downtown and historic attractions, is a day trip away from Coimbra.
19. Fátima
Fátima, an important pilgrimage site, is about an hour's drive from Coimbra.
Where to Stay in Coimbra for Sightseeing
Coimbra offers a range of accommodations from luxury to budget hotels, most within walking distance of the main attractions.
More Delightful Destinations near Coimbra
Coimbra is close to several other Portuguese sightseeing destinations, including the Serra da Estrela mountain range and the historic castles of the Alto Alentejo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to travel from Lisbon to Coimbra?
The quickest way from Lisbon to Coimbra is by train, taking about an hour and a half.
How do you get from Porto to Coimbra?
From Porto, Coimbra is reachable by high-speed train in under an hour or by car in about 90 minutes.
Which is the closest airport to Coimbra?
The closest airport to Coimbra is Porto's Sá Carneiro International Airport.
