Coimbra is one of Portugal’s oldest cities and was even the country’s capital in the Middle Ages. It’s home to the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in the world, which has shaped the city’s life for centuries. Students in black capes, Fado de Coimbra sung at night, and streets full of history give this city a very special character.
At the same time, Coimbra is lively and modern, with cafés, gardens, and the Mondego River crossing the city. It’s a mix of tradition and energy that makes it worth a visit.
What to See in Coimbra
University of Coimbra & Joanina Library
A UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Joanina Library (built 1717–1728) is a Baroque gem with thousands of ancient volumes. Fun fact: a colony of bats lives here to protect the books from insects.
Don’t miss: climbing the University Tower for city views.
Machado de Castro National Museum
Built over the old Roman forum, with an underground cryptoporticus and an excellent collection of sculpture and sacred art.
Botanical Garden of the University
Founded in 1772, covering 13 hectares with exotic plants, greenhouses, and peaceful walks.
Santa Cruz Monastery
Final resting place of Portugal’s first kings. Beautiful Manueline details and Gothic tombs.
Jardim Penedo da Saudade
Romantic terraces with poems engraved on stone and one of the best viewpoints over the city.
Sé Velha (Old Cathedral)
Romanesque church from the 12th century, one of the most important in Portugal.
Sé Nova (New Cathedral)
Built by the Jesuits in the 16th century, today the main cathedral of Coimbra.
Mondego Riverside & Parque Verde
A modern riverside park, perfect for walks, cycling, or kayaking.
Torre de Anto (Fado Museum)
Dedicated to Fado de Coimbra, the unique style sung by students in black capes.
Portugal dos Pequenitos
A miniature park with replicas of Portuguese monuments, traditional houses, and monuments from former colonies. Built in 1940, it’s fun for families and also a curious piece of Portugal’s history.
Where to Eat
Zé Manel dos Ossos: Legendary tiny restaurant, famous for chanfana (goat stew) and pork ribs. Go early, it fills up fast.
Solar do Bacalhau: A great spot for codfish lovers, with several traditional recipes.
Café Santa Cruz: A former chapel turned café, perfect for coffee and a Pastel de Tentúgal.
Beyond Coimbra (Short Drives)
Conímbriga Roman Ruins: Portugal’s best-preserved Roman settlement, with mosaics, baths, and fountains.
Buçaco Forest & Palace: Magical forest of giant trees and trails, with the Bussaco Palace looking straight out of a fairytale.
Lousã Schist Villages: Stone-built mountain villages, great for hiking and traditional food.
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