Is Coimbra worth visiting? I asked a local while planning my second trip to Portugal, and they convinced me!
Lisbon and Porto often steal the spotlight, but something about Coimbra’s history and old-world charm drew me in. After visiting, I can say it’s a place that rewards those who take their time.
Walking its hilly streets, I found a city steeped in tradition, with one of the oldest universities in Europe. But like any destination, it has its drawbacks. I’ll share what makes Coimbra worth a visit—and a few things to consider before adding it to your itinerary.
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7 Reasons Why Coimbra Is Worth Visiting
1. History & Architecture
Walking through Coimbra felt like stepping into a living museum. The city has been a center of learning and culture for centuries, once serving as Portugal’s capital before Lisbon took over in the 13th century.
The narrow streets of the old town wind past Roman ruins, Moorish influences, and grand Baroque facades. Let your feet be your guide and discover a mix of architectural styles all over the city ranging from the 13th century to the 19th century.
The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, is the heart of it all, perched high above the city with its grand courtyard and centuries-old traditions.
I loved wandering into the hidden alleyways, where traces of Coimbra’s medieval past still linger. Unlike the polished tourist hubs of Portugal, Coimbra feels raw and real, where history isn’t just preserved—it’s still part of daily life.
2. UNESCO World Heritage
Coimbra isn’t just old; it’s officially recognized for its historical significance. The University and its surrounding buildings earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2013, a nod to its centuries-long influence on Portuguese culture.
When in doubt about whether a place is worth visiting or not, I never question a destination with UNESCO status.
One of the most interesting places I visited at Coimbra University was the Joanina Library. It’s not just a stunning 18th-century Baroque masterpiece—it has a colony of bats that live inside, helping to protect the ancient books from insects. This little fact terrified me, as I have a bat phobia.
But I can’t deny seeing the Coimbra University students walking around in their traditional black capes was a sight! It’s been said to be the inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter Series.
3. Authentic Portuguese Culture
One of the things I appreciated most about Coimbra was its deep connection to tradition. Unlike Lisbon or Porto, which have grown more international, Coimbra holds onto its Portuguese roots in an understated way.
The city has its own version of Fado, distinct from the melancholic style in Lisbon. Here, Fado is performed exclusively by men, traditionally students, and tells stories of love and longing. Although I didn’t attend a performance, I did hear a practice in one of the churches in the old town. It was hauntingly beautiful and unlike anything I’d experienced elsewhere in Portugal. If you’re looking for a place that still feels distinctly Portuguese, Coimbra is a perfect choice.
4. Less Crowded Than Lisbon & Porto
Portugal’s popularity has skyrocketed, and with it, so have the crowds in its major cities. But Coimbra still flies under the radar for most tourists. While there were visitors, it was far less than what I experienced in Porto and Lisbon.
The streets, though lively, weren’t filled with the constant rush of large tour groups. It was locals going about their day. It reminded me of what travel used to feel like—unhurried, personal, and immersive. If you love the idea of experiencing Portugal without feeling like you’re in the middle of a travel guide’s itinerary, Coimbra is a breath of fresh air.
5. Gardens & Hidden Gems
One of my favourite discoveries in Coimbra was its green spaces. The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, founded in 1772, is one of the oldest in Europe. Walking through its shady paths, I found exotic plants, towering bamboo groves, and fountains tucked between ivy-covered stone walls. I loved stumbling up the large greenhouse, said to be the first iron and glass structure in Portugal, and definitely a photogenic spot in the city.
Another hidden gem? Penedo da Saudade is a lookout point filled with poetic inscriptions on stone slabs, left by students over the centuries. I also stumbled upon Quebra Costas, a steep staircase that connects the lower town to the upper town, passing through a series of narrow alleys and beautiful old buildings.
6. Food & Drink
Coimbra may not have Michelin-starred restaurants like Lisbon or Porto, but what it does have is something far better—authentic, family-run eateries serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. In the Baixa district, tiny tascas (simple, budget-friendly restaurants) line the streets. Most have no more than a handful of tables, often run by just one chef and a server. It’s intimate, cozy, and feels like stepping into someone’s home kitchen.
Coimbra’s food is deeply rooted in tradition. The region is famous for Leitão à Bairrada (roast suckling pig) and Chanfana (slow-cooked goat stew in red wine). Being vegetarian, I was offered Migas, a hearty dish made with bread, greens, and garlic. My husband, on the other hand, was served a comforting Bacalhau à Brás, Portugal’s beloved salted cod dish.
The wine scene is just as good. Bairrada and Dão wines are local favourites, and I enjoyed mine in an oversized sangria—a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. And while Lisbon and Porto have their famous pastéis de nata, Coimbra has Barrigas de Freira, or “nun’s bellies”—sweet, eggy pastries filled with cinnamon and almonds. It’s a small indulgence, but one that perfectly sums up Coimbra—simple, traditional, and unexpectedly delightful.
7. Easy Day Trips & Scenic Surroundings
Coimbra is a beautiful city, located on the banks of the Mondego River, the longest river in Portugal. The nearby Choupal National Forest, famous for its tall trees along the Mondego River, is close by and is said to be a popular spot for locals to go for a run, walk, or bike on its scenic trails.
Coimbra’s location in central Portugal makes it a great base for exploring. Although I didn’t have time to do this on this trip, I know that the nearby town of Conímbriga is known as one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal.
Drawbacks About Visiting Coimbra
As much as I enjoyed my time in Coimbra, I did make some observations. The city’s hilly terrain means a lot of uphill walking, which can be tiring, especially in the summer heat.
Public transportation is limited, so you’ll mostly be exploring on foot. Because the Mondego River cuts through the city, it divides how you might spend your time. If visiting only for the day like I did, I choose to spend my time in the Baixa and Alta districts, which means I only saw half of the city.
While Coimbra is rich in history, it doesn’t have the same lively energy or variety of attractions as Lisbon or Porto—nightlife is quiet, and some areas feel sleepy, especially outside the university district. English is spoken, but not as widely as in bigger cities, so a few basic Portuguese phrases go a long way.
Lastly, while the food is delicious, dining options are mostly traditional, which might not appeal to those looking for a more modern, refined or diverse food scene.
Final Thoughts
Coimbra has a wonderfully laid-back, old-world charm, where life moves at a slower pace, and history lingers in every corner. It’s a place to wander cobbled streets, sip wine at a quiet tasca, and soak in the authentic atmosphere.
If you’re planning a trip, visit my Portugal travel page for tips on exploring Lisbon, Porto, and beyond!
