A Coimbra day trip is a perfect way to experience one of Portugal’s most historic cities without staying overnight.
I’ve done this trip from both Porto and researched how to do it from Lisbon, and it’s surprisingly easy with a bit of planning.
Whether you’re drawn to Coimbra’s famous university, its fado music, or the charm of its old streets, you can see a lot in just one day.
I’ll share the best ways to get there, how much time you’ll need, and what to do once you arrive. With practical tips and a simple itinerary, you can enjoy Coimbra at a relaxed pace—without feeling rushed.
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Why Take a Day Trip to Coimbra?
Coimbra is one of Portugal’s most historic cities, and even in just a day, you can get a real feel for its past and culture, making it a worthwhile visit.
As the country’s former capital, it’s home to the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture and a deep academic tradition.
The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, from its medieval streets to the lively riverside. Whether you want to admire centuries-old buildings, listen to traditional fado music, or simply soak in the local atmosphere, Coimbra offers a rewarding experience without the need for an overnight stay.
How to Take a Coimbra Day Trip from Porto
The best way to go from Porto to Coimbra on a day trip is by train. It’s the fastest, most comfortable, and most stress-free option—I’ve done it myself, and I wouldn’t recommend anything else. But if you prefer driving, taking a bus, or joining a tour, there are options for those too. Here’s what to know about each:
By Train: The Best Option
Taking the train from Porto to Coimbra is straightforward and efficient. The AP (Alfa Pendular) high-speed train gets you there in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the IC (Intercidades) train takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Trains depart from Porto’s Campanhã Station and arrive at Coimbra-B Station, with a short 5-minute local train connection to Coimbra’s main station in the city center (which is included in your total ticket price).
- Cost: AP trains range from €15 to €25, IC trains are around €12 to €20, depending on how early you book (the earlier you book in advance, the more you save).
- Departure time: To make the most of your day, I recommend catching a train between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM. Trains run frequently, so you have flexibility.
- Booking: It’s best to buy tickets in advance on Comboios de Portugal’s website to get a good price.
By Car: Good for Flexibility, But Parking is Tricky
If you prefer driving, Coimbra is about 120 km (75 miles) south of Porto, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A1 motorway.
- Pros: You can explore at your own pace and visit nearby spots outside the city.
- Cons: Parking in Coimbra’s historic center is limited and can be expensive. Look for parking areas near the university or outside the old town.
- Costs: Expect to pay around €10 in tolls (each way) plus gas and car rental.
By Bus: A Cheaper but Slower Alternative
Buses run between Porto and Coimbra, but they’re slower than the train and less comfortable. Rede Expressos and FlixBus offer routes from Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto bus station to Coimbra’s main bus terminal, about a 15-minute walk from the city center.
- Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Cost: €7 to €15, depending on how early you book.
- Best for: Budget travellers who don’t mind a longer ride.
By Group Tour: A Guided Experience Without the Hassle
If you prefer an organized experience, I recommend this 9 hour day tour from Porto to Coimbra that includes a stop at Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal.
How to Take a Coimbra Day Trip from Lisbon
While it’s possible to take go from Lisbon to Coimbra on a day trip, it’s a longer journey than from Porto. I looked into doing it myself but ultimately chose to visit from Porto instead—it just made more sense time-wise. That said, if you’re set on going from Lisbon, the train is still the best way to get there, though driving, the bus, or a guided tour are also options. Here’s what to know:
By Train: The Best Option
Trains from Lisbon to Coimbra are fast, reliable, and comfortable, making them the best way to visit for a day. The AP (Alfa Pendular) high-speed train takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, while the IC (Intercidades) train takes around 2 hours. Trains depart from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations and arrive at Coimbra-B Station. From there, you’ll need to take a short 5-minute local train connection to Coimbra’s city center (which is included in your ticket fare).
- Cost: AP trains cost €20 to €30, IC trains range from €15 to €25, depending on how early you book.
- Departure time: To make the most of your day, I’d recommend taking a train between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM.
- Booking: Buying tickets in advance on Comboios de Portugal’s website can save you money.
By Car: Flexible but a Long Drive
Coimbra is about 200 km (125 miles) north of Lisbon, and the drive takes around 2 hours on the A1 motorway.
- Pros: You have the flexibility to stop at other places along the way.
- Cons: Parking in Coimbra’s historic center is limited, and the drive can be tiring for a day trip.
- Costs: Expect to pay around €15 in tolls each way, plus gas.
By Bus: A Slower, Budget-Friendly Alternative
Buses from Lisbon to Coimbra are available through Rede Expressos and FlixBus, departing from Sete Rios or Oriente bus stations and arriving at Coimbra’s main bus terminal, a 15-minute walk from the city center.
- Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours
- Cost: €10 to €20, depending on the provider and how early you book.
- Best for: Travelers looking for a budget option who don’t mind the longer ride.
By Group Tour: A Hassle-Free Option
If you prefer a guided experience, I recommend this 9 hour day tour from Lisbon to Coimbra which includes entrance and tour to University of Coimbra, and a stop at Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal.
What to See and Do on a Coimbra Day Trip
Coimbra is a compact city, which makes it easy to explore in a day. If you’re wondering how to spend your time, here are the must-see highlights:
- University of Coimbra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s oldest universities. Don’t miss the Joanina Library, an 18th-century masterpiece.
- Sé Velha (Old Cathedral): A Romanesque cathedral that feels like stepping back in time.
- Sé Nova (New Cathedral): A beautiful blend of Baroque and Jesuit architecture.
- Monastery of Santa Cruz: The resting place of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques.
- Almedina Arch and Medieval Streets: Wander the historic center’s narrow, winding streets.
- Fado ao Centro: Experience Coimbra’s unique style of fado music performed by males.
- Pedro e Inês Footbridge: Cross the Mondego River for a different view of the city.
You can see a lot in a day, but Coimbra also rewards slow wandering, so leave time to soak it all in.
Final Thoughts
This makes for a wonderful way to experience a blend of history, culture, and charm in just a few hours. Whether you’re travelling from Porto or Lisbon, it’s an easy day trip.
If you’re exploring from Porto, you can complement your trip with a deep dive into its vibrant attractions, like my 3-day Porto itinerary.
For those starting in Lisbon, I’ve got you covered with my 4-day Lisbon itinerary, perfect for making the most of your time there before heading to Coimbra.
