Coimbra, Portugal: A Family-Friendly Adventure Awaits

Discover Coimbra: Where history and fun intertwine for an unforgettable family adventure!

19 July 2023

Coimbra, Portugal offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the famous University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, while taking in the breathtaking views from its hilltop location. Enjoy a boat ride along the Mondego River, visit the interactive science museum, and take leisurely walks in the picturesque Jardim Botânico.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

A Whirlwind Tour of Coimbra's Charm

  • Start the day off with a visit to the historic University of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal, and marvel at its stunning Joanina Library.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Baixa district, where colorful houses and adorable cafes line the cobblestone streets.
  • Enjoy a scenic picnic by the Mondego River, while watching the graceful strokes of rowers gliding along the water.
  • Visit the mesmerizing Santa Cruz Monastery, where you can admire intricate carvings and soak in the spiritual ambience.
  • Treat your taste buds to a traditional Portuguese lunch at Petiscaria Santo António, where sizzling sardines and codfish cakes steal the show.
  • End the day with a visit to the enchanting Mata Nacional do Choupal, a lush woodland where fairies are said to dance under the moonlight.

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Coimbra by plane is to fly into Lisbon Portela Airport and then take a direct train to Coimbra-B Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and trains run regularly throughout the day. Alternatively, you can fly into Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport and then take a bus or train to Coimbra. The journey from Porto takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours.

Car

Driving to Coimbra is easy, as it is well-connected to major highways in Portugal. From Lisbon, take the A1 northbound, while from Porto take the A1 or A29 southbound, depending on your route. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours from Lisbon and 1.5-2.5 hours from Porto, depending on traffic.

Train

Coimbra has one main train station called Coimbra-B, which is well-served by trains from major cities in Portugal. The station is located on the outskirts of the city, but there are regular local buses and taxis available to take you into the city center.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Coimbra, you can take a ferry or a cruise ship to Porto and then travel by bus or train to Coimbra. Alternatively, you can take a river cruise on the Douro River, which passes through Porto and offers stunning views of the region.

Bus

Coimbra has a good bus network connecting it to other cities and towns in Portugal. You can take a bus from Lisbon or Porto to Coimbra, with various companies operating services. The journey from Lisbon takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, while from Porto it takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours.

More travel plans

Unleash Coimbra's Charm: A 5-Day Adventure!

Coimbra, Portugal is a city of historical significance where tourists can explore the charming narrow streets, ancient churches and museums. Tourists can witness the grandeur of the University of Coimbra, Portugal's oldest University, which features captivating architecture and stunning views. Visitors can also stroll through the Jardim Botânico, a lush botanical garden with a variety of flora and fauna.

Coimbra: 3 Days of Romance & Adventure

Coimbra is a charming city located in the heart of Portugal known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, historical monuments and vibrant university life. For a romantic trip, visitors can take a stroll along the Mondego River, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed University of Coimbra, and indulge in delicious Portuguese cuisine at one of the city's cozy restaurants. With its stunning architecture and romantic ambiance, Coimbra is the perfect destination for couples looking for a memorable escape.

4-Day Coimbra Adventure: Budget-Friendly Fun

Coimbra is a beautiful city in Portugal filled with historic landmarks, stunning architecture, and rich culture. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it can still be enjoyed on a limited budget by staying in budget hostels, eating at local cafes instead of restaurants, and taking advantage of free walking tours offered around the city. Don't miss the chance to visit the world-renowned University of Coimbra and explore the beautiful Jardim Botanico.

Cheap & Charming: 2 Days in Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra is a charming city in Portugal that is perfect for budget travelers. You can explore the historic university, visit the Museum of Science, and take a stroll through the botanical garden. For accommodation, there are affordable hostels and guesthouses available.