Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do in Coimbra, Portugal

1. Discover Coimbra’s Most Beautiful Churches and Cathedrals

Any Coimbra sightseeing tour should start with a visit to Santa Cruz Church (Igreja de Santa Cruz), located in 8 de Maio Square. This is probably my favorite church in the city, and it is a must-see landmark in Coimbra.

What makes this church special is not only its spectacular façade but also its stunning interiors. If you love Portuguese azulejos, you won’t be disappointed. The church displays some of the finest azulejos in Coimbra, and the best news is that visiting is free! 

If you have time and want to discover all the secrets of the church, make sure to visit the cloister. There’s a small entrance fee of €4 for the patio visit. The church is also the resting place of Coimbra’s kings.

In the Coimbra historic center, you’ll also find Igreja de São Tiago. This Romanesque gem is one of the oldest churches in the country, built between the late 12th and early 13th centuries, and is considered a National Monument.

I have never seen it open, however, on some occasions, the church does welcome visitors, so if you’re lucky enough to catch it open, step inside to discover an intimate side of Coimbra’s history.

And of course, one of the best things to do in Coimbra is to explore its Cathedral, the so-called Sé Velha (Old Sé). Coimbra has an old and a new Sé.

While the new Sé is also picturesque, the old one is a true Coimbra Medieval Masterpiece that you absolutely cannot miss. I loved exploring the altars, the azulejos, and the charming patio.

If you plan to visit the Sé Velha, I recommend arriving right at opening time at 10 am or shortly before closing. Most day-trippers arrive around 10, generally starting their tour of the old town with the university, so this will help you enjoy the cathedral without the crowds.

2. Wander Through Coimbra’s Charming Streets and Squares

One of the best things to do in Coimbra (as in most Portuguese cities!) is to get lost in the charming streets of the old town. With more than a thousand years of history, Coimbra offers one of the best-preserved historic centers in Portugal.

The heart and soul of the old town is Praça do Comércio, the largest square in the city and one of the most fascinating squares in the country. Here, you’ll find historic landmarks such as the Church of São Tiago and more contemporary sights like the street art by Samina. 

On the northern side of the square, don’t miss the Hats Lighters, located where the square meets Rua Adelino da Veiga. This was one of my favorite photo spots in Coimbra.

I am sure you will come across Largo da Portagem as it is one of the most popular places in Coimbra, however, during the day it is packed with tour groups and buses, so come here for sunset instead.

Whether you’re passionate about shopping or architecture, one of the top things to do in Coimbra is to stroll along Rua Ferreira Borges, the main artery of the old town. This busy street is lined with charming shops and some of the coziest cafés in Coimbra. 

At the end of the street, you’ll find Prédio do Triângulo Rosa, a triangular house that’s one of the city’s most iconic buildings. I am sure you have seen photos of this house all over social media.

Rua Ferreira Borges connects Praça do Comércio to the east and Praça 8 de Maio to the north, while on the west it leads to the Barbican Gate, which once served as a protective entrance to the city. Make sure you find the beautiful facade of the Padaria Popular Agostinho Rodrigues Bela as well!

The Barbican Gate connects to the Arco de Almedina and eventually guides you into the oldest part of Coimbra.  It is a true maze of narrow lanes where history whispers around every corner. You will love wandering around!

3. Visit the University of Coimbra

No trip to Coimbra is complete without visiting its University complex, one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in Portugal. The University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an absolute must-see.

We visited early in the morning, and I can’t recommend it enough. Arriving before the crowds made a huge difference! We were able to enjoy the quiet courtyards, admire the stunning views over the city, and take photos without the rush of large tour groups.

One of the highlights is the Joanina Library (Biblioteca Joanina), one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Built in the 18th century, it’s a masterpiece of Portuguese Baroque architecture, home to thousands of rare books and manuscripts. 

The library also houses a colony of bats (yes, real ones!) that protect the precious collection by feeding on insects at night. Just a heads up, you won’t be allowed to capture the beauty of the library as photography is strictly forbidden.

Just a few steps away, don’t miss the Saint Michael’s Chapel (Capela de São Miguel), a small yet breathtaking gem inside the university complex. The chapel is known for its richly decorated Baroque interiors, and I am sure you will be wowed as soon as you step in.

4. Feel the Soul of the City Through Fado

If you truly want to feel the soul of Coimbra, you can’t leave without experiencing Fado, one of the most unique cultural experiences in Coimbra and easily one of the most memorable things to do in Portugal.

While Lisbon’s Fado is sung mostly by women and filled with tales of longing and saudade, Coimbra’s version is quite different. 

Here, it’s traditionally performed by male university students, often dressed in their black academic capes. The songs tell stories of student life, love, and nostalgia for their time in Coimbra.

The most authentic places to hear Fado de Coimbra are tucked around the university area or near Santa Cruz. Performances usually take place in small, intimate venues. 

We chose to book this fado experience in Coimbra and had a great time. If it’s your first time visiting, consider this guided tour to learn more about fado.

For me, hearing the first chords of the Portuguese guitar under the soft city lights was one of those moments that make travel unforgettable (even after years of living in Lisbon!).

5. Taste the Local Food in Coimbra 

One of the most delicious things to do in Coimbra is to dive into its food scene. Coimbra’s cuisine reflects its soul: simple yet rich, influenced by centuries of monastic cooking and local ingredients from the surrounding countryside.

A typical meal in Coimbra often includes hearty dishes like chanfana (goat stew slow-cooked in red wine) or arroz de pato (duck rice).

You’ll also find plenty of petiscos (small plates similar to tapas) and desserts inspired by convent recipes, often made with eggs and sugar, like pastéis de Santa Clara.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Coimbra, here are some of my favorites (sourced through local friends and tested!).

Start your morning at the historic Café Santa Cruz, located right beside the Santa Cruz Church. Housed in a former church building, it’s one of the best cafés in Coimbra, where you can sip a bica (espresso) under Gothic arches, a truly unique experience.

For lunch or dinner, Zé Manel dos Ossos is a must-visit institution for traditional cuisine. It’s small, authentic, and wildly popular. Expect a wait, but it’s worth every minute.

If you prefer a relaxed, local atmosphere, Arcada Comes e Bebes is a lovely spot for a glass of wine and petiscos in the heart of the old town. 

For a simple but tasty daily meal, try Restaurante Toca do Gato, which serves an excellent prato do dia, perfect for a budget-friendly lunch.

In case you are looking for amazing Coimbra views, head to the rooftop of Hotel Oslo Coimbra for drinks. Another cool location is Passaporte – I recommend it for drinks, but they serve lunch & dinner as well.

While I prefer to focus on the local food, I still loved our brunch at the Nau Coffee, so that’s a great alternative if you are staying for a while and want a break from the typical meals.

🍦  Extra Tip: For dessert, don’t miss Gelataria COSÌ, which is an Italian-approved gelato shop serving creamy, authentic flavors made with real ingredients. It’s the best place for gelato in Coimbra.

6. Cross the River and Enjoy the Views

For some of the best views in Coimbra, cross the Ponte de Santa Clara, the bridge that connects the old town with the modern part of the city. You can either visit Ciclovia or Praça da Canção (or both!).

From here, you’ll see the classic postcard view of Coimbra. Red rooftops cascading down the hillside, the majestic university on top of the skyline, and the Mondego River flowing below.

This spot is especially magical at sunset, and it’s one of the most romantic places to visit in Coimbra. It’s a great place to take a break from the busier Coimbra attractions in the historic center and see the city from a new perspective.

📸 If you enjoy photography, this is the best place for long exposure shots. From there, you can capture breathtaking night views of Coimbra with the university illuminated above the river.

7. Unlock Coimbra’s Hidden Gems

If you love uncovering places that most tourists miss, the Major Seminary of Coimbra (Seminário Maior de Coimbra) is one of the true hidden gems in Coimbra. Tucked away just a short walk from the historic center of Coimbra, you can easily add it to your itinerary.

Dating back to the 16th century, the seminary stands on the site of a former Jesuit college. Its peaceful courtyards, classical façades, and beautifully detailed interiors reflect centuries of Portuguese craftsmanship.

One of the highlights inside the Major Seminary of Coimbra is its beautiful library, a lesser-known cousin of the Joanina Library.

It’s easily one of the most offbeat things to do in Coimbra. In fact, when we entered the palace, the guide seemed genuinely surprised to see visitors who weren’t locals. He even asked how we had discovered this place!

Right next to the seminary lies the Botanical Garden of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe. Despite its importance, it remains one of the most underrated attractions in Coimbra.

From there, follow the path toward the Aqueduto de São Sebastião (Arcos do Jardim), which is a graceful stone aqueduct that once supplied the city with water. 

Continue a few minutes further, and you’ll reach the Sereia Garden (Jardim da Sereia). With its fountains, sculptures, and leafy avenues, it’s a wonderful spot to rest, read, or simply soak in Coimbra’s charm.

8. Snap a photo at the Fonte de Manga

Portuguese architecture is truly one of a kind, and Fonte de Manga is a perfect example of that. This colorful fountain combines Renaissance design with Arab influences. 

Located right behind the Church of Santa Cruz, Fonte de Manga is one of the main Coimbra attractions, though it often goes unnoticed by many visitors.

Once part of the Monastery of Santa Cruz, the fountain complex is now a peaceful public space. It stands proudly in the middle of a small but charming garden, offering a quiet escape just steps away from the busy 8 de Maio Square.

To find it, take the narrow alley Rua Martins do Carvalho from the square and walk up to the top of the fountain. It’s a fantastic spot to snap an iconic photo of this hidden gem in Coimbra. 

Then, make your way down to admire the details of the fountain and garden from below.

9. Explore the Gardens and Legends of Quinta das Lágrimas

The Gardens of Quinta das Lágrimas are often considered the green heart of Coimbra, covering nearly 14 hectares of peaceful nature and romantic legends.

The garden features well-maintained trails and even a Medieval Garden created in homage to the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês. 

The Fonte dos Amores (Fountain of Love) and the majestic Lovers’ Banyan Tree are undoubtedly the main highlights, each tied to the legend that still defines this place.

Inside the estate stands the elegant Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas, one of Portugal’s most exclusive hotels. This 5-star hotel is one of the best places in Coimbra for a romantic stay.

I had the pleasure of staying here in 2018, and it was an experience I’ll never forget. The blend of history, tranquility, and beauty makes it one of my top recommendations in Coimbra, especially for couples.

10. Plan a Day Trip from Coimbra

Once you’ve explored the historic center and soaked up the charm of this university city, it’s time to head beyond its borders. There are plenty of day trips from Coimbra that reveal just how diverse central Portugal really is.

One of the best places to visit near Coimbra is the Bussaco Palace (Palácio do Buçaco). Just 30 minutes away, this Neo-Manueline masterpiece sits in the middle of a forest once reserved for monks. 

The palace looks straight out of a storybook, and even if you don’t stay overnight, it’s worth visiting for a walk through the forest trails and the hotel interiors.

If you’re in the mood for something wilder, head to Talasnal, one of Portugal’s famous schist villages located in the Serra da Lousã mountains. Nearby, you will find Trevim Swing, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the region.

For a completely different vibe, visit Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal.” Stroll along its canals lined with colorful Art Nouveau houses, take a ride in a traditional moliceiro boat, and don’t leave without tasting the local sweet treat, ovos moles.

I recommend a separate visit to Aveiro, so you can explore Costa Nova and Agueda as well, but if you have a limited time, a day trip can work as well.

Are you a history geek? You will love a day trip to Batalha and Tomar, two towns that showcase Portugal’s medieval glory. In Batalha, marvel at the Gothic monastery, while Tomar offers the Knights Templar at the Convent of Christ.

And for something less touristy, head to Viseu, a charming inland city filled with elegant squares, granite architecture, and vibrant local markets. It’s one of central Portugal’s hidden treasures.

2025 Update: Sadly, the Trevim Swing was destroyed in the recent fires. While the swing is gone, the viewpoint itself still offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it well worth the visit.

Other Things to Know Before Visiting Coimbra

How Many Days to Spend in Coimbra

If you’re wondering how many days in Coimbra you need, plan to spend at least 1–2 full days to explore the main attractions at a relaxed pace. 

One day is enough to cover the University of Coimbra, the Old Cathedral, and the historic center, but staying two nights allows time for lesser-known gems like the Major Seminary, Sereia Garden, and Aqueduto de São Sebastião. 

If you want to include day trips from Coimbra, such as Bussaco Palace or Aveiro, then three days would be ideal.

How to Get to Coimbra

Coimbra is conveniently located between Lisbon and Porto, making it an easy stop on any Portugal itinerary.

If you prefer traveling by train, the train from Lisbon to Coimbra departs from Santa Apolónia station and takes a little over 2 hours. 

Buses are another convenient option. FlixBus departs from Oriente, while Rede Expressos leaves from Sete Rios, with the journey taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

From Porto, trains take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, making Coimbra an easy day trip from Porto. You can also take the Rede Expressos bus from Porto Campanha Bus Station.

While you don’t need a car to explore Coimbra, consider a rental if you want to explore the surrounding area and plan a fun road trip in Portugal (it is so worth it!).

Best Time to Visit Coimbra

The best time to visit Coimbra is during spring or early autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the city feels lively but not crowded. 

Summer brings warm Coimbra weather but also the busiest period for tourism. Winter is much quieter, ideal if you prefer exploring without crowds.

For an extra special experience, try to visit during academic celebrations, such as Queima das Fitas in May/June, when the streets fill with students dressed in traditional black capes. It’s one of the most unique cultural experiences in the city.

Where to Stay in Coimbra

• Luxury: Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas
• Boutique: Sapientia Boutique Hotel, CBR Boutique Hotel
• Apartments: Entre Ruas Apartments
• Affordable: Pharmacia GuestHouse, Zero Box Lodge Coimbra

On our first visit to Coimbra, we stayed at Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas and loved it. Located across the river, it’s a romantic, peaceful escape. But the main attractions are about a 20-minute walk away, so it’s less ideal for a packed itinerary & limited time.