• Coimbra

The city of Coimbra which was the former capital of Portugal in the 12th-13th centuries is famous for its 14th century university considered the oldest in Portugal, its traditional vibes especially in the old city, and the local Fado music performed by man singers. The city is located on a hill on the banks of the Mondego River between Lisbon and Porto, 204 km north of Lisbon and 123 km south of Porto in the central part of Portugal.

Visiting the charming city TheTjoy.com recommends enjoying the following attractions.

  • Stroll the Moorish influenced narrow streets of the old town to enjoy the local shops the cafes and small restaurants
  • Visit the Late Gothic church of the Monastery of Santa Cruz, and Se Velha the 12th century Coimbra Cathedral.
  • Enjoy the vibrant and colourful food produce market, Mercado Municipal.
  • Founded in the 14th century, Coimbra University buildings used to be the palace and residence of the first kings of Portugal. In the university visit the must see Joanine 18th century Baroque Library to admire the beautiful, gilded bookcases and shelves, the frescoed ceilings, and the numerous books dated to the 16th-18th centuries. Admire the grand Sala dos Capelos ceremonial hall, the Patio das Escolas courtyard, the palace state rooms, the Chapel of Sao Miguel, the king’s private chapel, and its beautiful tiles ornaments, and the panoramic views from the university bell tower. Also in the university The Museu da Ciencia, a science museum with collections dated to the 18th-19th centuries, and the beautiful university’s Botanical Gardens.
  • If you are interested in religious artifacts, visit The Machado de Castro National Museum within a beautiful Bishop’s Place built over a highly preserved Roman Cryptoporticus (corridor). The museum is home to 14th-16th centuries collections of sculptures, paintings, jewellery, ceramics and textiles.
  • To experience Fado Music visit one of Baixa district clubs, or the Fado ao Centro Cultural Center.
  • Children visiting Coimbra will enjoy Portugal dos Pequenitos Park, where miniatures of Portugal’s Monuments are presented.

Spend ½-1 day in Coimbra on the way from Lisbon to Porto, or as a day trip from Porto. If time allows consider visiting attractions in Coimbra surroundings

  • The impressive 2nd century Roman Ruins, villas and Mosaics, of Conímbriga, 18 km southwest of Coimbra.
  • The mystical and tranquil Bucaco National Forest, 34 km north of Coimbra, offering beautiful trails,
    the grand Fonte Fria water cascade and the magnificent Bucaco Palace and hotel.
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The fountain in the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra in Portugal. The garden was founded in the 18th century

Botanical Garden

University Of Coimbra