Ancient university town in northern Portugal with winding streets, medieval architecture, and grand Manueline buildings. Home to Portugal's oldest university and lively cafés.
Coimbra, a city in central Portugal, is known for its ancient university and rich past. As you walk through its medieval streets, you'll encounter grand academic buildings like the Joanina Library with its ornate decor. The city's landmarks span centuries, from the 12th-century Sé Velha cathedral to the Roman ruins beneath the Machado de Castro Museum. With a large student population, Coimbra maintains a youthful energy that contrasts with its historical setting.
University of Coimbra
Founded in 1290, the University of Coimbra sits at the city's highest point. You can explore several historic buildings within the university complex. The Joanina Library houses 60,000 books and features gold-leaf decorations. In the Royal Palace, you'll find the Great Hall of Acts, used for important ceremonies. For a panoramic view of Coimbra and the Mondego River, climb the 180 steps of the University Tower.
Sé Velha (Old Cathedral)
The Sé Velha, built in the 12th century, is a well-maintained example of Romanesque architecture in Portugal. Its sturdy stone walls and small windows are typical of the style. Inside, you'll see intricate stone carvings, particularly on the capitals in the nave. The cathedral also includes a Gothic cloister, added in the 14th century.
Machado de Castro National Museum
This museum occupies a former bishop's palace and contains over 1,000 sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts pieces. The building itself is part of the collection - beneath it lie the remains of a Roman cryptoporticus, which you can explore. The museum's contents span from the Roman period to the 20th century, offering insight into the artistic and cultural development of Coimbra and its surrounding region.
Fado in Coimbra
Coimbra has developed its own style of fado music, typically performed by male students. Unlike Lisbon fado, Coimbra fado often focuses on themes of love and academic life. You can hear live performances at venues like Fado ao Centro or À Capella. Some restaurants also host fado nights, allowing you to enjoy this musical style while dining.
Local Cuisine
During your visit, try some of Coimbra's traditional dishes. Chanfana is a slow-cooked goat or lamb dish with a rich, wine-infused flavor. For dessert, sample queijadas de Coimbra, small cheese tarts with a crispy exterior and a creamy, slightly sweet filling. Many restaurants in the old town serve these local specialties alongside other Portuguese dishes.
How to Get There
Coimbra is well-connected to other major Portuguese cities. Regular train services run from Lisbon (about 2 hours) and Porto (about 1 hour). If you're driving, the A1 motorway connects Coimbra to both cities. The historic center is compact and walkable, but be prepared for some steep hills.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are good times to visit Coimbra. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, and there are fewer visitors than in summer. If you want to experience the city when it's most active, plan your trip during the academic year (September to June). In May, you might catch the Queima das Fitas festival, a week-long celebration marking the end of the academic year.
