One minute, you’re in ancient Rome; the next, you’re hanging out with the king of the sea; and shortly after that, you’re in the middle of a university campus that bridges hundreds of years of culture and knowledge… and all the while, you’re enjoying one of the most modern cities in Portugal!

This magic trick comes courtesy of Coimbra, a gorgeous college town turned tourist attraction; and with its vibrant culture and innovative offerings, it’s the perfect spot for any traveler to explore their passions… and maybe find some new ones!

As the urban anchor of the Centro Region, it has more than its share of beautiful monuments and sites from antiquity that will keep any history nerd happily occupied.

But it’s also something of an outdoor paradise, the perfect home base for canyoning, surfing, and hiking.

And of course, it’s also a wonderful portal to the amazing societies of the area, whether you’re sipping glasses of the finest wine or weaving between all of the country’s greatest landmarks… in miniature form, that is.

So join us for the formal, the quirky, and everything in between, as we explore the amazing things to do in Coimbra!

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Coimbra tours

1 – Get a taste of academia at University Palace

University Palace, Coimbra

The University of Coimbra is definitely the big attraction here – and given how closely connected it is to the town, it’s not surprising!

The school was actually the very first college in Portugal, and though it got its start in Lisbon, it was in Coimbra that it settled and flourished, with the town and the school growing in harmony.

And not only that, but it’s been offering academic excellence in different disciplines for scholars all over the world for over 700 years… not a bad track record!

Unsurprisingly, this long and distinguished track record has also resulted in some fascinating spots around campus worth visiting, including the Royal Palace, a decadent building that once protected the governor of the city in the 1100s.

The size and scale of this building – and the rest of campus – make it the perfect place for some guided tours, which will give you a student-style perspective!

As you explore the spacious Joanina Library (see entry #3), the ceremonial chapel, and the many other magnificent academic buildings, you’ll get to understand the beauty and power of the space – and the city around it!

University Palace tours

2 – Enjoy some greenery at the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra

Botanical Garden, Coimbra

Another one of the many treasures on campus, the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra is a peaceful refuge and educational space all rolled into one irresistible package.

For over 250 years, different trees, flowers, and other fascinating plants have enticed visitors, offering the chance to step into a jungle wonderland right in the middle of town.

Enjoy the comforting alleys of lindens and fig trees, then head over to the tropical areas to enjoy a miniature jungle of brightly-colored orchids and sheltering palms.

And don’t miss the sensory garden, which is filled with plants and herbs whose unique smells will bring you into a thousand different worlds.

If you really want to indulge your inner botanical nerd, you can also check out their various educational materials, which celebrate the diverse plants around you, and offer insights into ways to protect them.

3 – Indulge your inner bookworm at the Joanina Library

Joanina Library, Coimbra

Moving from plants to pages, you can head indoors and easily (and happily) get lost in the endless stacks at the Joanina Library.

It’s truly the kind of place where you could get lost for hours; frequently rated among the most beautiful libraries on Earth, its ornate Baroque designs feel like something out of a fairytale.

With a staggering 70,000 pieces in its inventory, the space is a triumph of Enlightenment-era works, creating a truly spectacular home for ideas and the people that love them.

But it’s got some quirkier sides as well; there’s actually a resident bat colony that provides in-house pest control!

Absorb the beauty of the finely bound volumes, then grab one and settle in at one of the beautiful reading tables to lose yourself in literature!

4 – Spark some intrigue at the Science Museum

Science Museum, Coimbra

Fossils, magic lanterns, bending beams of light…. You never know what you’ll see at the Science Museum!

While this version of the space opened in 2007, it represents centuries of different collections and exhibits, all united in one space.

Check out unique specimens spanning much of natural history, plus historic apparatuses used for physics and astronomy, and fascinating exhibits exploring everything from minerals to chemical properties.

Whether you want to test the limits of the physical world or admire some unique preserved creatures, it’s the kind of place that will bring out the scholar in everyone!

5 – Explore the rich religious history of the Santa Cruz Monestary

Santa Cruz Monastery, Coimbra

Founded in 1131, the stunning Santa Cruz Monastery has some particularly regal connections to match its architectural beauty. Deep inside the building, you can find the final resting place of Dom Afonso Henriques, the very first king of Portugal… and that’s just the start!

The majority of the current space was actually built in the 1500s, and you can still see many of these details throughout the space, including a massive pipe organ and some marvelous art depicting the country’s seafaring history.

And the church itself has played a huge role in the culture of the city; for centuries, it was one of the key political players in town, sometimes controversial, but always a prominent feature in local affairs.

All the while, it continued to serve an active congregation, and to this day, people can stop by to enjoy the many different services and fascinating formal areas contained within its walls… all with a dose of history thrown in!

You can also explore Sé Velha, one of the city’s oldest cathedrals; the gorgeous Saint Francis Convent, which has also served stints as a hospital and factory; and the Monumental Stairs, which cut a steep, sweeping path through the midst of town.

walking tours in Coimbra

6 – Explore the symbolism of the Manga Cloister

Manga Cloister, Coimbra

Looking like it was plucked straight out of a fairytale, this 16th-century delight is tucked right behind the monastery and offers plenty of places to contemplate and enjoy the day.

Surrounded by lovely gardens and a set of water features inspired by some of the finest designs of the Arab world, the interconnected domes and chapels create a charming, somewhat quirky complement to the larger church structure nearby.

While you’re visiting, take note of the four aqueducts running through the space, which were designed to symbolize the rivers coursing through the Garden of Eden.

You’ll certainly feel like you’re in paradise as you explore! Take some pictures, take a breather, and enjoy the scene!

7 – Soak up the history of the Old Cathedral

Old Cathedral, Coimbra

The name somewhat gives it away – this gorgeous church has been around since the 1100s!

And it also comes with a pretty fascinating architectural background, as one of the last surviving examples of Portuguese Romanesque design, which used to be all the rage until the 1200s.

There’s also some pretty amazing art inside the space, including colorful tiles and columns filled with detailed carvings in a range of different styles; look closely, and you might even spot some centaurs!

And as you explore the building, you’ll see a fully-fledged timeline of the city’s religious history, from the earliest architects to the presence (and later expulsion) of Jesuits.

It’s a beautiful and vivid cross-section of the town’s past, and still a pretty lively space today!

8 – Discover the religious past of Fátima

Fátima, Portugal

While Coimbra has no shortage of delights to indulge in, the nearby towns are also worth a jaunt!

And for a day trip that’s brimming with fascinating cultural spots, head over to Fátima, home to some of the most compelling religious spots in the region.

For over a century, this charming town has been a famous pilgrimage site, based around a legend of a modern-day miracle. As the story goes, Mary, Jesus’ mother, appeared before a trio of local children in 1916 and 1917, prompting a range of tributes and sites to spring up around town.

Visit the areas where the kids grew up and where they saw the holy figure, as well as their final resting places in the Chapel of Apparitions, built in homage to the story.

As an added bonus, these trips often include stops in nearby Batalha, which features a remarkable monastery that once played a pivotal role in the shaping of the nation.

It was near this spot in 1385 that a major conflict between warring factions was resolved, helping to pave the way for Portugal to become one country – quite the distinguished pedigree!

Fátima tours from Coimbra

9 – Admire the artworks at Machado de Castro National Museum

Machado de Castro National Museum, Coimbra

While its collections are quite impressive, the Machado de Castro National Museum is also a relic in its own right!

The original building lived quite a few different lives; it served as a government facility in the days of Roman rule, and later as a Christian place of worship. And today, it also serves as an amazing space for art, with several hundred years’ worth of pieces available to view.

Inside, you’ll find tons of amazing religious artworks and archaeological pieces, from paintings and jewelry to decorative tiles and rugs.

But it’s the sculptures that really steal the show here; not only does the collection include some stunning works such as life-sized versions of the Thirteen Apostles, but the whole space was named in honor of famed artist and local son Joaquim Machado de Castro, who created many amazing pieces of his own.

Enjoy these masterpieces in every medium!

10 – Sleuth your way around town with some scavenger games

scavenger game in Coimbra

You’re weaving through the streets, peeking between the stones of ancient buildings, solving mysteries left and right… talk about a cool way to sightsee!

Scavenger games are a fun, innovative way to learn more about the city, with cool puzzles and historical tidbits around every corner.

It’s a fantastic option for groups of mixed ages or interest levels, with enough interactive elements to keep everyone engaged, and a whole range of spots to discover and facts to take in.

Just download the app and follow the route at your own pace, making a treasure hunt out of the town!

scavenger games in Coimbra

11 – Give kids a fun dose of culture at Portugal for the Little Ones

Portugal for the Little Ones, Coimbra

Keeping youngsters entertained while on vacation can sometimes be challenging, but never fear… Coimbra’s come up with a great solution!

Portugal for the Little Ones brings the whole country into beautiful miniature form, with perfectly recreated villages for kids (and their grownup chaperones) to explore.

You can wander through little villages, past castles and mine shafts, and even peek into the far-flung streets of former colonies like Timor and India – all in one afternoon!

It’s a wonderful place to play, and kids will get to learn all about this fascinating country as they explore its scaled-down form!

12 – Get a taste of nature in Choupal National Forest

hiking in Coimbra

Along with its more metropolitan offerings, there are lots of great things to do in Coimbra for nature lovers – there’s even a massive stretch of woodland just outside of town!

Running parallel to the Mondego River, this beloved forest is perfect for a stroll or bike ride, with its lush groves of eucalyptus, poplars, and beeches.

Whether you’re looking for a good workout in nature or a nice place to have a picnic, the lush green area will have you covered!

And it’s also a great starting point if you want to explore even more of the excellent hiking in Coimbra, where gorgeous valleys and charming little villages await you along the scenic trails.

hiking in Coimbra

13 – Enjoy the lively streets of Óbidos

Óbidos, Portugal

With its medieval houses, rolling hills, and lovely lagoon, Óbidos has long been a popular spot for day trips – and back in the day, it was an even more popular wedding present!

Yes, the nickname “Town of Queens” actually came from the tradition of kings gifting the little burg to their wives… talk about an extravagant gift!

But it’s easy to see why; after all, the lovely collection of bars, churches, and open spaces come together to make for a truly enticing scene. And with festivals throughout the year celebrating everything from chocolate to piano players, there’s always a big party in this little town!

Spend the day exploring all the little streets, sampling delicious regional foods and drinks; then head out to the glistening waters and powdery sands of Lagoa de Obidos, a perfect spot for swimming, sailing, and nature walks.

This little hamlet has some big rewards for visitors!

Óbidos tours from Coimbra

14 – Make a route all your own with a hop-on-hop-off bus

hop-on hop-off bus tour in Coimbra

Want to see as much as you can, whenever you feel like it?

Then a bus tour may be just the ticket… especially if you choose the Hop-On, Hop-Off option!

You’ll be able to see all of the top attractions with expert commentary thrown in, but here’s the fun twist: you can get out and explore at your own pace!

The bus makes frequent stops at popular sites, so if one catches your eye, you can disembark and explore for as long as you want; then, when the next bus comes by, you can get on and continue the adventure!

hop-on hop-off bus tours in Coimbra

15 – Unwind in the Mermaid Garden

Mermaid Garden, Coimbra

Another fairytale-like setting can be found just behind Santa Cruz Monastery (see #5)… just keep an eye out for the mermaids!

The main centerpiece of the garden is Nogal Fountain, which is crowned with a statue of Triton, god of the sea, hanging out with some of his dolphin subjects.

After admiring the artwork, take some time to enjoy the rest of the space, which includes some lovely statues and a little waterfall.

With such a peaceful and gorgeous setting, it’s little wonder that this area has been a favorite hangout spot for visiting monarchs and average travelers alike!

16 – Uncover the history of Tomar on a day trip

Tomar, Portugal

Time for another great day trip near the city, packed with UNESCO sites, churches, charming neighborhoods, and the stomping grounds of medieval figures.

That’s quite the bustling itinerary, but Tomar more than lives up to the hype!

Just under an hour from Coimbra, the town is best known for its roots; it was founded by the famed Knights of the Templar, the prominent military order best known for their role in the Crusades.

And now, it’s a full-fledged piece of Portuguese history, lined with cobblestones and the remains of once-bustling Jewish communities, and packed with architectural gems like the Convent of Christ, dating back to the 1300s.

Tomar day trips from Coimbra

17 – Learn the fascinating story of Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery

Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery, Coimbra

Tucked along the river, the Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery never quite got the same fame as its neighbors, due in large part to weather issues – but it’s still an amazing monument to visit!

Part of what makes the place so interesting is its tumultuous history; it was abandoned for several hundred years after a series of floods made it unlivable, before being rehabilitated and fixed up over the course of the 1900s.

Nowadays, you can admire the restored site for yourself, as you explore the ruins and the main surviving building at length.

Perfectly preserving the styles of the 1500s, the simple little structure offers plenty of intrigues, with beautiful stonework and some fascinating motifs that show off the many different design elements at play.

You can also move slightly forward in time with a trip to the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova, the equally stunning replacement space that was built in the 1600s.

18 – Catch a legendary wave (or just watch a few) at Nazaré

Nazaré, Portugal

Standing on a cliff facing the mighty roar of the sea, Nazaré will make you feel like you’re on top of the world – if only for a day! And it’s not just a trick of perspective; the waves here are among the biggest on the planet!

Naturally, this makes the place a haven for surfers, who come from all over the globe to take a shot at glory.

But you can also spend some time enjoying the offerings on land, including holy sites, scenic walking paths, and even a cable car.

It’s the ideal jaunt for ocean lovers!

Nazaré tours from Coimbra

19 – Enjoy the beautiful views and style of the Pedro and Inês Bridge

Pedro and Ines Bridge, Coimbra

While this footbridge is a relatively new addition (it came onto the scene in 2007), it’s quickly become a popular local spot, in large part due to its views of the river and unique design.

Patterned in part after the trajectory of stones being skipped over the water, the intertwined paths create the illusion of floating in mid-air, even though they’re securely connected.

And the colorful glass panels all along the pathway create a shimmering mosaic of light to further enhance the visual experience.

It’s almost as fun to walk on it as it is to look around!

20 – Enjoy the fantastic structure of the São Sebastião Aqueduct

Sao Sebastiao Aqueduct, Coimbra

Back in 1570, this fascinating structure was built over the remains of a much earlier version designed by the Romans, and while it no longer conveys fresh water to the townsfolk, it has remained a valuable piece of the past.

A lot of the appeal lies in the good condition of the aqueduct itself; its relatively well-preserved arches and networks make it a great example of these once-prevalent systems.

Stop by to enjoy this spectacular National Monument up close, and get a sense of how the city survived and thrived in centuries gone by!

21 – Explore the charming villages and gorgeous landscapes of Serra da Lousã

Serra da Lousã tours from Coimbra

Serra da Lousã is another spot that combines nature and culture into one delightful package; and whether your footsteps take you down cobbled streets or along wooded paths, you’ll love exploring what the town has to offer!

Lousã Mountain is perfect if you want to experience the ecosystem up close; during your hike, you may catch sight of wild boars, squirrels, and even herds of deer.

But you can also get into the human side of things with a visit to the famous shale villages, whose homes and businesses are built from these distinctive river rocks.

Spend a day losing yourself in the landscape – not to mention its wonderfully repurposed products!

Serra da Lousã tours from Coimbra

22 – Chill out and enjoy the scenery on the best rooftops in Coimbra

best rooftops in Coimbra — credit to Loggia

If you want to really take in the joy of this visually stunning city, get up high and take in the whole scene… with some great snacks and drinks to go with it!

Gaze out over the river and sip some wine at Passaporte, or enjoy a magnificent panoramic view at the breathtaking Sapientia, which also specializes in romantic dinners.

Head to Bar 5 Andar to enjoy some elevated libations, or fill up on great food at Carmina de Matos, which offers everything from cheese plates to cheeseburgers.

Or indulge a little at Loggia, which specializes in Sunday brunch and lavish buffets, and offers spectacular views of the city’s older monuments.

23 – Savor the beauty of some boat tours

boat tour in Coimbra

With so many great bodies of water around, boat tours are definitely among the coolest things to do in Coimbra!

Cruise along the Mondego and enjoy fantastic views of the university, churches, and many lovely bridges, while your guide provides fascinating stories about each spot.

Keep an eye out for Mondego Green Park, a gorgeous stretch of public land right along the riverbank, which is packed with plenty of areas to eat, play, and stroll around.

Not only is it a lovely way to learn, but the soothing currents will have you feeling relaxed in no time!

boat tours in Coimbra

24 – Pair drinks with culture during some wine tours

wine tours in Coimbra

From the rows of crops in the field to the colorful concoctions in the glass, wine tours are a joy every step of the way!

If you like the rich, hearty flavors of port, this is a great area to visit, with some of the finest growing areas in the world. And the Dão Region is especially popular, with a diverse series of variants including touriga nacional.

The unique, fluctuating altitudes provide the perfect home for different grapes to flourish, and your trip will offer plenty of time to learn about the unique cultivation process – not to mention the amazing wineries themselves.

Come see what all of the buzz is about… and maybe get a little buzzed on the way!

wine tours in Coimbra

25 – Pedal your way to fun on a bike tour

bike tour in Coimbra

Quirky streets, broad country roads, and intriguing paths full of ancient sites… is there any better setting for a bike tour? We think not!

From the verdant wine region of Bairrada to view the ancient ruins along the Carmelite Route and the spacious paths of Ecopista do Dao, a former rail route, you’ll get a great cross-section of the region as you pedal – and you’ll have plenty of fun, too!

Want a more rugged option?

The hidden treasures of the Caramulo Mountains reveal themselves on these awesome tours, where you’ll get to bike like never before!

Check out varied terrain, climbs and drops, and even a lovely little village or two; it’s a quaint tour with some proper adventure thrown in!

bike tours in Coimbra

26 – Compare and contrast the different churches

churches in Coimbra

The rich religious traditions in town offer plenty for church spotters to enjoy; each of the local chapels has its own distinct design and set of stories.

São Miguel Chapel is nearly 800 years old, and features fantastically decorated altars and gorgeous interiors, a fitting holdover from its years as a place of worship for royals.

And the New Cathedral, a (relatively) more recent structure dating back to the 1500s, is bedecked in gold and Jesuit statues, serving as a beautiful time capsule for the religious order.

São Tiago Church sprang up during the Christian Reconquest in the 1100s and has undergone several renovations in the years since as part of the shifting political tides.

And Santo Antônio dos Olivais Church provides a more communal atmosphere, with its lovely exteriors and fascinating past as a home for local Franciscan friars.

You could easily spend a whole day just exploring these marvels!

27 – Take in the canals (and everything else) of Aveiro

Aveiro, Portugal

As if all of the Portuguese delights weren’t enough, you can even get a little taste of Venice without leaving the country!

Just 45 minutes from the city, the gorgeous canals of Aveiro beckon, inviting you to take an unforgettable ride.

Just settle into one of the iconic Moliceiro boats and float along the waterways, enjoying a terrific angle of the city and its buildings.

Back on land, you can admire Art Nouveau structures, stunning beaches, and colorful fishermen’s homes, all mixing together to create a town that’s wonderfully eclectic and rewarding at every turn.

And don’t miss the nearby beaches, where you can enjoy a different aspect of the scenery – and some of the prettiest shorelines around!

Aveiro tours from Coimbra

28 – Take part in a kayaking adventure on the Mondego River

Mondego River kayaking in Coimbra

Many of the most exciting things to do in Coimbra take place on or around the mighty Mondego River, which flows right through the middle of town.

And kayaking is another one of those thrilling activities – the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors right in the heart of town!

Your trip will also include plenty of time in more secluded areas, as you float through quiet forests and park on secluded shorelines along the route. You can even hop in for a swim!

It’s the perfect excursion to see all the different sides of the city… and its currents!

kayaking in Coimbra

29 – Make your way through the stalls of Municipal Market D. Pedro V

D. Pedro V Municipal Market, Coimbra

There’s so much more to see here than in your average grocery store!

The multi-story extravaganza is filled with some of the best meats, seafood, and produce in town, with mazes of stalls hosted by local vendors.

And while food is the main objective here, you can also find the sort of eclectic stalls that make public markets so rewarding to explore; you never know when you’ll find your next favorite piece of clothing or some perfect flowers to brighten up your hotel room.

Take some time to shop around and pick what suits you best – you’ll have all the makings for a great meal in no time!

30 – Get in touch with the wildlife at Paul de Arzila Nature Reserve

Paul de Arzila Nature Reserve, Coimbra

Another one of the great ecosystems in the area, this reserve protects a rare stretch of fertile marsh – not to mention the fantastic creatures that call it home!

Birders will particularly love this spot; it’s a haven for traveling flocks and year-round residents alike, including tons of ducks and herons.

And with fish and amphibians filling the waterways, and eye-catching mammals like Eurasian otters frequently making appearances, the entire environment is ripe for further discovery.

Learn all about this unique wetland, and you just might be inspired to protect it!

31 – Give an escape room a whirl

escape room in Coimbra — credit to Tic Tac Boom

Want a wild challenge to try with your friends? How about immersing yourself in a whole other world… then breaking out of it… all within an hour?

In an escape room, you can do just that!

These team puzzles have become beloved all over the world, and Coimbra has some pretty stellar specimens of its own, including the delightful offerings at Tic Tac Boom.

Navigate your way through insane asylums and haunted houses, with a slightly more kid-friendly option available for older children.

As you outwit robbers or unlock the secrets of mysterious professors, you’ll get to practice your teamwork and problem-solving skills, all while indulging your imagination in the manufactured worlds around you.

Or swing by Brain Maze to try out some wilder scenarios, including terrorist scenarios and haunted hostels.

The clock is ticking, so put your brains together!

32 – Roam along Boulevard Ferreira Borges

Boulevard Ferreira Borges at central Coimbra, Portugal

Like a permanent rainbow decorating the cityscape, this street has long been known for its brightly colored buildings… but there’s plenty to see as you amble between them!

As one of the main thoroughfares in the city, the avenue is both a useful way to get from place to place and a delightful attraction in its own right.

All along the way, you’ll find quirky shops, little cafes, and some nice bars to kick back and unwind. It’s a particularly excellent option if you’re looking for some good souvenirs, with stores of every style available.

And if your timing’s right, you just might catch some street performers in action… all part of a typical day on this wonderful street!

33 – See how the ancient residents lived at the Conímbriga Roman Ruins

Conímbriga Roman Ruins, Coimbra

If you’re looking for a really historic neighborhood, there’s a perfect day trip for you!

The Conímbriga Roman Ruins is a fascinating showcase of the power of that ancient empire, which once stretched across several continents.

While you won’t get the full image of the settlement at its peak, you can still wander around and get a feel for the infrastructure, and enjoy the remarkable experience of seeing these ancient pieces up close.

The site got properly preserved in the 1800s and has been a place of fascination ever since, telling the long and compelling story of Roman influences on Portugal.

Conímbriga Roman Ruins tours

34 – Discover a lab like no other at Exploratory – Coimbra Live Science Center

credit to Exploratory – Coimbra Live Science Center

You can try all kinds of things on vacation… but what about being a scientist for a day?

The Exploratory is one of the coolest things to do in Coimbra for youngsters, but adults will have a great time unleashing their curiosity as well!

Explore your senses, the tiniest microbes on the planet, and the mysteries of the universe as you explore the various rooms, each packed with interactive exhibits that take hands-on learning to the next level.

Weave your way through a cool, colorful maze, then stop by the Family Lab to try out some experiments of your own.

Unleash your inner Einstein and dive into this joyful learning experience!

35 – Take the leap with a bit of skydiving

skydiving in Coimbra

This is the closest you can come to flying like a bird… and the views are worth it!

With an instructor on-hand to make the whole process easier, you’ll enjoy a thrilling leap from thousands of feet in the air – a surefire adrenaline rush!

But the best part is the time you get in the sky before landing, with the world spread out below you like a massive map come to life.

As an added bonus, the famously beautiful weather around here means that you’ll have even more chances to enjoy great visibility as your soar.

It’s the perfect way to push your comfort zone and enjoy a unique thrill!

skydiving in Coimbra

36 – Get to know the thrilling side of the ocean with some surfing lessons in Figueira da Foz

surf lesson near Coimbra

With such awesome waves and a welcoming surf culture, it’s little wonder that Figueira da Foz is such a beloved place to hang 10!

The local schools are great for getting you started, or helping you hone your technique so that you can hit bigger and better breaks.

You can even tailor your lessons to suit your schedule

There are shorter lessons that you can squeeze in to refine some skills in the midst of a busy day, but you can also book an entire week and immerse yourself in the sport – literally!

And of course, the ocean itself is always the perfect playground!

surf lessons near Coimbra

37 – Admire the powerful structure of the Barbican Gate

Barbican Gate, Coimbra

If you don’t know where to look, you might miss this lovely little archway – but it’s actually one of the rarest treasures in town!

Back in the nation’s earliest days, Coimbra was actually the capital, and it had a whole range of fortifications to match.

This gate is one of the last remaining remnants of those days; it used to serve as one of the main defensive ports, the barrier between the city and any forces that might come through.

And while the gate became obsolete by the 1400s, it still serves as an intriguing reminder of these long-ago days – and the way that the city evolved over time.

38 – Take in the beauty of the Gavinhos Windmills

Gavinhos Windmills, Coimbra

They’re not just for Don Quixote and the Dutch – windmills feature prominently in the countryside near Coimbra as well!

These charming specimens are far enough from town to make for a nice day trip, and they offer some pretty compelling visuals as well.

Slung along the hillside, they offer a glimpse into the agricultural past, as well as some fantastic views of the nearby village of Binakova.

Get an up-close look at these beauties, and learn firsthand how they operate; then take some time to enjoy the pastoral scene around you!

39 – Eat your way around the best restaurants

best restaurants in Coimbra

All of these adventures are liable to make you hungry, but fear not – the local eateries have got you covered!

Swing by Boutique Tapas & Petiscos for a whole range of meats, desserts, and everything in between, or enjoy an elegant meal at Devaneio Bistro & Wine Bar, including some great twists on pub grub.

Grab a fantastic piece of pizza (or several – you’re on vacation, after all) at Italianino Coimbra, or grab a seat at Ze Manel dos Ossos and enjoy some top-notch regional cuisine.

Tuck into the world-famous meals at Arcadas, complete with some classic Portuguese wine; or head to Casas do Bragal for hearty dishes in a cozy, book-strewn atmosphere.

Or head to UATA?! Coimbra, which lives up to its name, with mouthwatering burgers, fries, and more, all served in a fun and casual atmosphere.

40 – Enjoy the fairytale vibes of Piódão village

Piódão village, Portugal

Its terraced layers look like a perfect miniature come to life, and once you start walking the streets of Piódão, you might feel tempted to stay forever!

Not only is it embedded in the Serra do Açor mountain range, but many of the buildings feature geological elements as well, from the stones that make the walls to the black slate along the roofs.

Combined with the rural surroundings, the small, secluded spot has a distinctive appeal that lies more in its unique visuals than any big sites or events – although there are rumors that escaping criminals once took refuge in these hills!

The village itself is packed with all the charms such a hideaway provides, from its intriguing museum to the local restaurants where you can grab a meal and watch the world go by.

Be sure to save some time for this diamond in the rough!

41 – Wander through the wonderland of Quinta das Lágrimas Garden

Quinta das Lágrimas Garden, Coimbra

Every footstep in this complex brings you into a new and enchanted world: mysterious glens, dense thickets of bamboo, and even some enticing herbs. And that’s just the start of the delights you can encounter at Quinta das Lágrimas!

The 12 acres of green space provide a spectacular natural refuge – not just for humans and plants, but also for the many beautiful species of birds in the area.

Like so many other local attractions, the plants here are both beautiful and educational; many of the blooms have been here for more than 200 years! Throw in a legend of a doomed love affair between royals, and you have all the makings of an unforgettable day out.

But there’s much more to this place than just the gardens!

The gorgeous building that anchors the space was once a palace, hosting all of the upper-crust visitors in fine style; these days, the decadent space is open for everyone to enjoy, while still offering world-class luxury.

After strolling the grounds, you can enjoy top-notch dining, courtesy of the restaurants on the grounds; whether you prefer high-class snacks or a full meal prepared with creative flair, you’re guaranteed a great meal and atmosphere to match.

And best of all, you can spend the night here!

The magnificent structure has some suitably glamorous rooms where you can unwind and enjoy a full five-star experience, combining historical elegance with the latest and greatest luxury accommodation.

There are few better ways to spoil yourself!

42 – Get an unforgettable cultural (and musical) experience at a Fado show

Fado show in Coimbra

The gentle strum of various guitars, the breathtaking vocal performances, the blending of notes… there’s something truly transporting about live music.

And there’s nothing quite like a fado show to get you in step with the local rhythms!

This renowned art form actually got its start right here in Portugal, and while it has become popular all over the world, it still maintains a stronghold in its birthplace.

And along with the lovely tunes, you’ll get a crash course in the variety and flavors of the regional culture… literally!

Sip a glass of traditional port and learn about the ways in which sound and story intersect as you enjoy the powerful, emotional performances.

Tap your toes, open your ears, and let the music take you away!

Fado shows in Coimbra

43 – Keep the party going with some spectacular nightlife options

best nightlife in Coimbra — credit to Piano Negro

Whether you want a laid-back evening or a nonstop party, the city boasts an amazing lineup of nightlife, where you can indulge in novelty experiences and mingle with the locals!

Sample various wines and enjoy live music at the relaxed A Camponeza, or rock out and dance between beverages at Pinga Amor.

Try the cheap shots and even cheaper beer at youth-oriented What’s Up Doc Bar, or kick back and listen to some al fresco jazz at Bar Quebra.

And if you want to focus on some higher-class tunes, swing by Piano Negro, where there’s always some fresh talent tickling the ivories!

Where to stay in Coimbra?

Quinta das Lágrimas Hotel provides a world unto itself, with a small and intimate setting making it easy to enjoy all of the amenities, from the elegant spa to the gorgeous library and splendid golf course.

And Tivoli Coimbra will make you feel right at home in style, with its charming coffee shop and riverside views providing plenty of incentive to unwind.

Palácio de São Silvestre provides another historical option with top-of-the-line style; enjoy the swim-up bar or lounge in the garden, let the kids blow off steam on the playground, or just soak up the beautiful Baroque details of the building itself.

And at Hotel Oslo, you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere combined with easy access to the coolest spots in town, with the river and the university practically at your doorstep.

You can also enjoy a somewhat more contemporary design at JR Studios & Suites, without skimping on any of the charm or convenience; spend the day exploring the nearby neighborhoods, then come back to enjoy the mellow outdoor relaxation areas.

best hotels in Coimbra

Visiting Coimbra on a budget?

The free walking tours in Coimbra are a wonderful way to get to know the city like a local – and it certainly helps that you’ll be guided by passionate community members!

While these excursions will introduce you to all the biggest sites in town, they can also help you delve into the areas and attractions that often go unnoticed.

Visit marvelous public parks, weathered convents, and the hidden sides of the sprawling university campus, as you get an in-depth look at daily life in this dynamic town.

And for a particularly enchanting experience, you can even go on an evening trip, and see how the city takes on a new form after dark!

Remember: while the tour is free, guides do accept tips, so be sure to bring some cash!

Where to go next?

Portugal is a nation of many delights; and once you’ve finally convinced yourself to leave Coimbra (for now, at least), you can see even more of them!

Of course, there are plenty of fantastic things to do in Lisbon, the country’s capital and largest city.

Its famously gorgeous terrain and equally intriguing cultural sites are drawing more and more visitors each year, and whether you’re hitting the waves with a surfboard, strolling through museums, or snacking your way through town, you’re likely to fall in love with the place from day one.

There are also plenty of fabulous things to do in Porto, the second-biggest burg, which boasts its own distinct and wonderful scene for travelers to indulge in.

When you’re not drinking in the beauty of the many spectacular churches and monuments, you can cut loose with some wine tasting, climb the famously steep slopes to enjoy the views or take part in the ever-pulsing nightlife scene.

You’ll quickly see why this country is landing on everybody’s bucket list!

Final thoughts

People have been finding amazing things to do in Coimbra for nearly 1,000 years, and one of the best things about the city is the way that it’s maintained this sense of the past while also offering all of the best contemporary activities.

You can certainly focus on just the intellectual aspects, or the outdoor activities, or the food and wine, or the vibrant culture; but with its relatively small size, it’s easy to sample a little bit of everything!

Come explore the ins and outs of this hidden gem… and let it cast a spell on you!

43 Fun Things to Do in Coimbra