33 Best things to do in Coimbra, Portugal in 2024
Did you know Lisbon wasn’t always the Portuguese capital? From 1139 until 1260, Coimbra was the capital city of Portugal! Nowadays, the town is mostly famous for its university, one of the oldest in Europe. You’ll need two to three days to see most of the highlights in town, but it’s also a popular day trip from Porto and Lisbon. I always stay at least one night to enjoy the city and its atmosphere along the river Mondego. Let’s check out some of the best things to do in Coimbra!
Overview of all things to do in Coimbra
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Coimbra things to do
Whether you like museums, gardens, and history, or you travel with kids, there is a lot to see and do in Coimbra, Portugal! First, I’ll show you some paid highlights for which you’ll need tickets, and I’ll cover many free things to do in Coimbra, too! With this list in your pocket, you can make a fun Coimbra Portugal itinerary for yourself!
1. Coimbra University
The city’s must-see highlight is the University of Coimbra. Here, you’ll step back seven centuries in time. It’s Portugal’s oldest university and one of the oldest universities in the world! Universidade de Coimbra was founded in 1290 and is still in use today!
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also open to the public and has different packages. The ticket office is inside Colégio de Jesus and is open from 9 AM until 5 PM. You can also buy tickets online. For the best experience, you can join a guided university tour to learn more about its fascinating history!
With your ticket, you can visit the Royal Palace, the St. Michael’s Chapel, the Chemistry Laboratory, the Academic Museum, and the Biblioteca Joanina. Tickets cost € 13,50 per person, and you receive a timeslot for the Baroque Library.
2. University of Coimbra Library
One of the most incredible places you’ll see at Coimbra University is the Baroque Library. King John V authorised the construction of the Joanina Library, which was finished in 1728. Inside the library, you’ll see 60.000 books from the 16th century to the 18th century!
You’ll enter the library on the lower floors, which used to be a prison. The University of Coimbra had its own legislation until 1834. It’s the oldest medieval prison preserved in Portugal! It was later used as a visiting room and book deposit.
From the stairs, you’ll reach the middle floor, where two guards used to watch the entrance to the Noble Floor. The floor was later used for book preservation, cleaning, and restoration works.
The Noble Floor is the most beautiful part of the library building. Floor-to-ceiling shelves are filled with books, surrounded by rich carvings and paintings. There are three separate halls to discover.
Please note that you have 20 minutes to enjoy this room, and you’re not allowed to take pictures inside! The last entrance is at 4.40 PM.
3. Chapel of São Miguel
The ancient University of Coimbra is also home to St. Michael’s Chapel. Built in the 12th century, it was once the private oratory for the former Royal Palace. The name comes from Archangel Michael, who protected the first king of Portugal, King Afonso Henriques.
The chapel’s decor is stunning, and the Portuguese Royal Crest is in the centre. The interior is decorated with religious motifs, and you’ll see tiled walls, an altar, an organ, and the Tabernacle. Most decorations stem from the 16th to 18th century, and the organ contains more than 2000 tubes!
4. The Royal Palace
From the central courtyard, you can continue visiting the University of Coimbra and the Royal Palace. The 10th-century building is divided into three parts, and you’ll start at the Armoury. The room was used to store weapons, but it was also the first defence for the princes.
You’ll enter the impressive Great Hall of Acts via the Yellow Room. It’s the most important area at Coimbra University, as it was once the Throne Room. Many important events took place here, and it was the residence of the kings. You’ll see the paintings of Portuguese kings, such as Afonso Henriques and King Manuel II, on the walls.
The last room is the Private Examination Room, which used to be the king’s quarters and later the place where graduates would take their exams. You’ll spot the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Portugal and several faculties of the University of Coimbra. The walls contain portraits of 38 rectors.
5. The Chemistry Lab
A short walking distance away, you’ll visit the next highlight at the historic University of Coimbra. The Chemistry Lab, or Science Museum, is also a fantastic spot for kids! It’s located in a beautiful Portuguese neoclassical building from the 18th century.
You’ll see many scientific collections, but the interactive modules are a highlight for adults and kids alike! Some areas did not work during our visit, but it was great to try and test the different models.
Experimental Chemistry was at the centre of the laboratory after the Marquess of Pombal started the reform. It is open from 9 AM until 1 PM and 2 PM until 5 PM.
6. Academic Museum
Across the street, you can visit the Academic Museum, the last area included in your University of Coimbra ticket. You’ll step into Portuguese student life, including mock-ups and panels here. It’s a short but exciting exhibition. Open from 9 AM until 1 PM and 2 PM until 5 PM.
7. Cabinet of Curiosities
Wait to leave Portugal’s oldest university! We noticed many people don’t know about the Cabinet of Curiosities, and it was our favourite place! Please note that it’s not always open in bad weather conditions.
When it is, you can buy tickets at the University of Coimbra ticket office (no online tickets are available). When open, you can visit the Cabinet of Curiosities from 9 AM until 1 PM and 2 PM until 5 PM.
The Cabinet of Curiosities is what it says on the label: a room full of bizarre and unusual objects. Kids will love it here, too, as your imagination can go wild! You’ll see the weirdest things in this collection that spans over 250 years. You won’t regret this visit to the Cabinet of Curiosities, as it is a real hidden gem in Coimbra!
8. National Museum Machado de Castro
The Museu Nacional Machado de Castro is another highlight for history lovers. The loggia at the National Museum Machado de Castro is already beautiful, and you’ll enjoy a great view of Coimbra.
The museum is one of Portugal’s most important national museums, built on a Roman forum. Your museum visit will start at the 1st-century Cryptoporticus, where you’ll also discover some Roman sculptures in the ancient tunnels.
On the floors above, you’ll see many archaeological discoveries, paintings, jewellery, sculptures, and ceramics. One of the main highlights is the 16th-century Last Supper by the French artist Hodart.
The museum is dedicated to Joaquim Machado de Castro, an important sculptor from Coimbra in the 18th century. It is huge! I recommend visiting for at least 1.5 to 2 hours so you don’t have to rush past the exhibitions. The museum is open from 10 AM until 6 PM and is closed on Mondays.
9. Casa Museu Bissaya Barreto
Casa Museu Bissaya Barreto is another great museum visit option! The museum is located in a former mansion owned by Bissaya Barreto. Barreto was a local surgeon who collected an impressive collection of fine art. You’ll see many paintings, sculptures, porcelain, and wrought iron artworks. You’ll visit several rooms, and the garden is absolutely worth visiting!
10. Old Cathedral (Sé Velha)
Coimbra has two cathedrals: an old one and a new one. The Old Cathedral is located on Largo da Sé Velha. It has an immense history, and this is where the second king of Portugal, King D. Sancho I, was crowned! It is also the only surviving Portuguese Romanesque cathedral from the time of the Reconquest.
Sé Velha de Coimbra is open daily, and its interior is incredible. It has many Moorish and Gothic influences and a stunningly carved altarpiece. There are also several tombs, a cloister, and many columns. A must-see!
11. New Cathedral (Sé Nova)
Construction of Sé Nova de Coimbra started in the 16th century and opened its doors in 1640. It was founded as a Jesuit college in 1598, so the term new is relative here 😉 The church is decorated with golden ornaments and has a stunning baroque interior. There is a small entrance fee, but it’s worth checking out!
12. Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha (Monastery of Saint Clare)
Coimbra also has a new and old monastery! Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha is the old one, founded in the 13th century. The monastery was built on the left bank of the Mondego River, and Queen Elizabeth of Aragon spent much time and money at the convent. A Romanesque church was added to the complex and grew throughout the centuries.
The river proved an issue early on, and Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha flooded many times. In the 17th century, the nuns were forced to move to higher floors, but it was soon clear the convent was not a good place to live. It became derelict, and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova was built.
The old monastery was used as a farm but became a national monument in 1910. During restoration works, more archaeological artefacts were discovered and displayed in the small museum. A short video also explains more about the monastery and the flood’s history.
You can also visit the ruins and admire the Romanesque architecture of the church. It is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM (7 PM in summer). Admission is € 5,00 per person.
13. Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova
Once you’ve seen the old monastery, you can go to the new monastery. Construction of the Santa Clara monastery finished in 1696. It’s built on a hill, so flooding is no longer an issue.
The church is covered in cold! One of the altarpieces even contains the urn of Queen Saint Isabel. In 1733, a cloister was added to the complex, and you have a stunning view over Coimbra from the terrace.
The church is open daily from 8.30 AM until 6.30 PM (6 PM on Sundays).
14. Convento São Francisco
The last religious attraction on this side of the river is the São Francisco Convent. Its newly restored facade looks very different from that of the monasteries. The convent was used as a hospital and later a factory.
Since 2016, the building has been a cultural centre with regular events. Sometimes, the church opens for special occasions, and the building is only open when events are on.
15. Coimbra Fado
It´s a great idea to watch a Fado show in the evening! During the Fado de Coimbra, you’ll learn more about Portuguese songs while sipping a glass of Port wine. Casa Fado ao Centro on Rua do Quebra Costas is one of the best places to listen to beautiful Fado songs. You can pre-book a show below!
16. Ride the Elevador do Mercado – Funicular
Just like other Portuguese cities, Coimbra is pretty hilly in places! Thankfully, there is a funicular to take you up and down the hill. The elevator starts next to the Mercado Municipal Market. There is a ticket machine where you can add the number of journeys as credit.
You’ll reach the first floor by elevator, and then a funicular will bring you to Rua Padre António Vieira. This is close to the Academic Museum, where you can buy tickets for the University of Coimbra. Taking the elevator will help you save many steps uphill!
17. Check the Astronomical Observatory
The Geophysical and Astronomical Observatory of the University of Coimbra is perfect for those interested in the universe. The observatory was created in 2013 to study the Solar System in depth.
Scientific events are held throughout the year for specialists and the public. When you visit Coimbra, you can check their website to see if there are any events while you’re in the city!
18. Portugal dos Pequenitos
Are you travelling with kids? Then visiting Portugal dos Pequenitos is a must! It’s a miniature theme park with the theme Portugal! Cassiano Branco designed the houses, and you’ll spot Portuguese villages, a sculptor of the first King of Portugal, D. Afonso Henriques and much more!
There is even a mini version of the University of Coimbra. Can you recognise more buildings? Portugal dos Pequenitos is open daily, and you can reserve your tickets online using the link below.
19. A Kayaking Tour on the Mondego River
For adventurous visitors, a Mondego River kayaking tour is a great idea! You’ll meet in the city centre and be taken to Penacova, a small village near the Carvoeira dam. The kayaking excursion to Coimbra will start, and you’ll follow the river 18 kilometres (11 miles) downstream.
This activity is enjoyable in summer, and you can even swim in the river along the way! You’ll stop at several beaches, and there is certainly time to relax. All gear and transportation are included, and it’s a great way to explore the landscape of Central Portugal. The light current makes this an easy activity for all ages!
Free things to do in Coimbra
Some places cost a few euros in Coimbra, but there are also many free activities! Let’s take a look.
20. Paço das Escolas
Some parts of the University of Coimbra are entirely free to visit. One of these areas is Paço das Escolas or Palace of Schools. This is the square in front of the Royal Palace, the Coimbra University Tower, and the Library. You can also freely wander around the faculties and look at the historical buildings from the outside.
21. Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra
The University Botanical Gardens are an absolute must-see in Coimbra. And the botanical garden is also free! Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra is over 13 hectares, which Benedictine friars donated.
The garden was created in 1722 by the initiative of the Marquis of Pombal. The purpose of the botanical garden was to support the studies of Natural History and Medicine at the university.
Many plants from all over the world are on display. Discover multiple levels full of colourful flowers, exotic plants and rare trees. The large greenhouse, estufa grande, dates from 1859 and is one of Portugal’s oldest buildings of the iron architecture style. The botanical gardens are open from 9 AM until 8 PM (until 5.30 PM from October to March).
22. Admire the Aqueduto de São Sebastião
The remnants of the aqueduct, built between 1568 and 1570 and known as the Garden Arches (Arcos do Jardim), are just outside the botanical gardens. It stands on an old Roman aqueduct site and was named after St. Sebastian. At the roundabout in front of the aqueduct is a statue of Pope John Paul II.
23. Praça da República
It’s only a short walk from the roundabout to Praça da República. The square is surrounded by some restaurants but primarily bars and is an excellent spot for lunch, dinner, or drinks. After all, Coimbra is a university town, and this is where the hustle and bustle takes place!
24. Jardim da Sereia
On the eastern side of Praça da República, you’ll see the beautiful Sereia Garden. Jardim da Sereia, built in the 19th century, is also known as the Mermaid Garden or Parque de Santa Cruz.
It was made for the friars of the Santa Cruz monastery as a place of contemplation and meditation. At the park’s main entrance, they could play the Game of Pela.
After the extinction of the Religious Orders in Portugal, the park had several private owners, and later, it became a public space. The triumphal arch is already beautiful, and the forecourt with waterfall and colourful tiles is even more so! There are a few small paths around the garden for a walk, too.
25. Coimbra Old Town
The Old Town of Coimbra is absolutely stunning, and it’s a great idea to explore its maze of narrow streets. You can also book a private walking tour to learn more about the old town and the buildings you’ll see.
For example, visit the Igreja de Santa Cruz church, where you can find the final resting place of Portugal’s first king, King Afonso Henriques. The Santa Cruz Monastery was built during his reign, and he was a permanent figure.
Other highlights of the old town are the old cathedral, the many gates and towers, and Praça do Comércio. Pay a visit to the city museum, Museu da Cidade de Coimbra, or stroll down the shopping street.
26. The walled city of Coimbra
If you look closely, you can see Coimbra was a walled city. Follow the Núcleo da Cidade Muralhada route to find some incredible highlights in the old town. This is one of the best things to do in Coimbra if you like history!
The route follows King Dinis Square, the Postern Gate, the Wall Tower and Belcouce Gate. Other highlights are the Device Tower, Almedina Tower and Arch, the Barbican Arch and the Anto Tower.
A little history
Coimbra has a vibrant history, visible in the walls and gates. It was once the Roman city of Aeminium, which grew substantially as the neighbouring town of Conímbriga was relentlessly plundered.
Years later, the city was under Moorish rule, and at that time, the wall reached a length of 2 kilometres. When Afonso Henriques became the first king after the reconquest, Coimbra became the capital of Condado Portucalense. A castle was then used as a defence system. We can still see traces of this time today.
27. Jardim Da Manga
On the edge of the old town, you’ll find another small garden to visit. This is Jardim da Manga, also known as Sleeve Garden or Sleeve Cloister. It was an extension of the Monastery of Santa Cruz. Unfortunately, only the tanks, tubes and central construction remained.
At the time, it was one of the first Renaissance-style buildings in Portugal. According to legend, the name derives from the fact that King João III had drawn the design of the cloister in the sleeve of his garment.
28. Visit the local market
Nothing beats visiting a local market, and in the morning, you can visit Mercado Municipal D. Pedro V. It’s open daily apart from Sundays. In the morning, you can see the fresh produce market. Even when you’re not planning to buy meat, cheese, or fruit, visiting the colourful Mercado will be worth visiting!
29. Find local street art
One thing you’ll see a fair bit in Coimbra is graffiti. And although much of it is scribbles on the wall, you can also find some impressive street art! One of them is the giant owl, coruja, by Bordalo II. You’ll find this hidden gem very close to the Science Museum. Another Bordalo II masterpiece is the gorilla close to the river.
30. Enjoy the Mondego River
The river is also a lovely area to go for a walk. You can visit Parque Verde do Mondego, but there is more to see. You can board a river cruise to see Coimbra from the water. The iconic boat is known as O Basófias. You’ll sail past several bridges like the Ponte Rainha Santa Isabel. There is also an option to rent a stand-up paddle.
31. Mondego’s Verde Park
Parque Verde do Mondego is located right next to the river. It was designed by Portuguese architect Camilo Cortesão and inaugurated in 2004. The park is a whopping 4 kilometres long, with walkways and cycle lanes. There are several playgrounds, and you can play volleyball or go canoeing.
One of the highlights in the park is the green Urso, or bear statue covered in greens. There is also a restaurant and several pavilions with temporary exhibitions and stunning views over the water. Closer to the old town, you can also visit Parque da Cidade Manuel Braga, which is attached to Mondego’s Verde Park.
32. The Pedro e Inês Bridge
Parque Verde do Mondego is connected to the other side of Coimbra by the bridge Ponte Pedro e Inês. Prince Pedro and Dona Inês de Castro’s story is passionate. It even includes the coronation of a dead person! In their honour, the bridge was inaugurated in 2006 and connects the two banks of the Mondego River.
A short background of Pedro and Inês
Pedro, son of King Afonso IV, marries Constança of Castille. Pedro is the heir to the throne, and the marriage is to seal the alliance between Portugal and Spain.
Inês came to Portugal in 1340 as the lady-in-waiting of Constança of Castile. But Pedro and Inês fell in love… and started secretly meeting. Constança did everything she could to separate Pedro and Inês but to no avail.
When Constança died in 1349, Pedro was to remarry. Pedro refused to marry anyone else, but Inês and King Afonso sent three assassins to kill Inês in 1355. When Pedro was king, he exhumed Inês’s body and crowned her queen! You can find their tombs in the Monastery in Alcobaça.
33. Discover the Jardins da Quinta das Lágrimas
Stories of the former Quinta do Pombal appear in the 14th century when Saint Queen Isabel of Aragon requested that a channel be opened to retrieve water from two springs at the farm to the Saint Claire Monastery. According to legend, one of these springs, Fonte dos Amores, transported the love letters between Pedro and Inês.
The other stream is known as the Fountain of Tears (lágrimas). Legend says it springs the tears Lady Inês cried before being beheaded. The blood got stuck in the rocks, creating a red colour, which you can still see today! Nowadays, you can enjoy a romantic walk in the Quinta das Lágrimas Gardens and book a room at Quinta das Lágrimas as a luxury getaway in Coimbra!
Tip: read Os Lusíadas, a 16th-century masterpiece poem by Luís Vaz de Camões, for reference.
How to get around in Coimbra?
Coimbra is pretty hilly but also very walkable. Walking is great to discover all things to see in Coimbra. The bus is the best public transport option. If you want to go uphill, the Elevador do Mercado—Funicular will do the trick.
Taxi services like Uber and Bolt are also widely available! They are relatively inexpensive and will help you avoid some of the many steps you’ll take.
How to get to Coimbra, Portugal?
Coimbra is located in central Portugal, and it is easily accessible from Porto and Lisbon. You can rent a car, take public transport, or book organised tours to discover the Coimbra things to do.
Coimbra from Lisbon
From Lisbon, you reach Coimbra in about two hours by train. You can take the Coimbra to Lisbon train from Santa Apolónia, and in under two hours, you’ll reach the Coimbra train station. The train station in Coimbra is right in the middle of the city centre.
Flixbus and Rede Expressos services to Coimbra depart from Oriente Station in Lisbon. Taking the bus is often the cheapest option, but the bus stops a 20-minute walk away from the old town.
The journey by car takes around 2 hours. You can easily follow the A1 motorway towards Porto until you reach the exit to Coimbra. There is plenty of parking in the city, but you might want to avoid the tiny streets in the old town!
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There are several day trip options from Lisbon to Coimbra, too! Personally, I think Coimbra deserves at least two days, but if you’re strapped for time, a day excursion will be perfect. Are you visiting Porto, too? Then, a one-way excursion from Lisbon to Porto with stops in between is a fantastic option!
Coimbra from Porto
Porto is slightly closer to Coimbra, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes by train, bus or car. The trains and buses depart from Campanha station in Porto. You can use apps like Omio to book the Coimbra to Porto train online. If you travel by car, follow the A1 southbound towards Lisbon.
A day trip from Porto is also easy to book. You can even stop in Aveiro or combine a visit to Coimbra with the religious city of Fátima. A one-way tour to Lisbon, with stops in between, is also an option.
Where to eat in Coimbra?
The food in Portugal is amazing! In Coimbra, there is also a huge choice of restaurants and cafes. A cool place to stop for a coffee and tart is Pastelaria Briosa Coimbra! It’s hard to say no to the cakes! Or visit Café Santa Cruz in a very special location! Here, you can also try the Crúzio, a sweet with traditional ingredients and an exclusive delicacy of Café Santa Cruz!
There are also several restaurants worth visiting. Examples are PASSAPORTE Coimbra, Ze Manel dos Ossos, and Papa. For lunch, we loved visiting the cat cafe! It was not the healthiest meal, but the cat cuddles were fantastic!
Where to stay in Coimbra, Portugal?
As mentioned, I would suggest an overnight stay if you have time in Portugal. This way you can see many main attractions without running from place to place. Thankfully, there are plenty of Coimbra Portugal hotels to choose from!
📍Budget Option: Even in the Coimbra hostels, you sleep in style, as the Serenata Hotel & Hostel Coimbra is a stunning spot on a budget! It’s very close to all the sights, and the dorm rooms are beautiful! Private rooms are also available.
📍Mid-Range Option: We stayed at Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra (pictured above), and honestly, it’s a hard choice to beat! We were welcomed with sparkling wine and cake, and breakfast was served in the room the following day. And the best thing? There is a jacuzzi in your room! Perfect after a day of sightseeing in Coimbra! It’s very affordable too!
📍Luxury Option: The Sapientia Boutique Hotel is perfect for a stylish stay. It’s close to the University of Coimbra and the other main attractions. Family rooms are also available, and breakfast is included!
FAQ
Conclusion
Did you already have Coimbra on your Portugal itinerary? As you can see, there are many great things to do in Coimbra, and you’ll easily spend one or two days in the former Portuguese capital city.
When you visit Coimbra, you’ll most definitely want to check out the university in the city. But there are also many gardens, churches and museums to visit. Coimbra is a child-friendly city with plenty of activities for all ages. Have fun!
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