Things to do in Coimbra

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Coimbra

Types of activities

Where to stay

Coimbra travel guide

Coimbra showing landscape views, a bridge and a river or creek

Coimbra which includes a city, night scenes and a river or creek

Portugal dos Pequenitos which includes a park and outdoor art

Portugal dos Pequenitos showing heritage elements and a church or cathedral

Santa Cruz Church which includes a square or plaza

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Tours & day trips

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Full Day Tour from Porto to Coimbra and Aveiro with River Cruise

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

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Guided tour of the University and city of Coimbra.

Food, drink & nightlife

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Coimbra: Live Fado Show with Glass of Port Wine

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What to do in Coimbra

Popular places to visit

Coimbra University

Enjoy the views from the bell tower and visit the Baroque library in the former prison on the campus of one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Portugal dos Pequenitos

Embrace your inquisitive side, as you inspect the various homes, pavilions and monuments of this intriguing and fun miniature village.

Biblioteca Joanina

Go on a guided tour of a library containing countless tomes, Baroque architecture and an intriguing history entwined with a prison.

Velha Cathedral showing heritage elements and interior views

Old Cathedral of Coimbra

One of the main attractions of Coimbra’s central historic area, this fascinating preserved cathedral has a fortress design and Arabic touches.

Santa Cruz Church

Examine the range of Manueline and Romanesque architecture and inspect the artworks in the final resting place of two kings.

Convento de Santa Clara-a-Velha which includes a church or cathedral

Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha

Visit the museum for an explanatory film and explore the remaining parts of this nunnery that was often at risk of flooding.

Jardim da Manga

This small garden centers on an old fountain, believed to be one of the earliest examples of Renaissance architecture in Portugal.

Coimbra showing a church or cathedral and heritage elements

New Cathedral of Coimbra

New Cathedral of Coimbra is just one of the places to see in Sé Nova, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the riverfront and picturesque gardens in the area.

Coimbra which includes a fountain and heritage elements

Museu Nacional Machado de Castro

Appreciate the magnificent architecture of the former Bishop’s Palace, see religious sculptures and delve into an eerie Ancient Roman corridor.

Areas of Coimbra

Velha Cathedral featuring heritage elements, landscape views and a city

Coimbra City Centre

4.5/5(18 area reviews)

Historical sites, river views and bars are some highlights of Coimbra City Centre. Make a stop by Santa Cruz Church or Old Cathedral of Coimbra while you're exploring.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Frequently asked questions

Is Coimbra worth visiting?

Famous for its bars and pubs and shopping, discovering cool things to do in Coimbra is easy. Remember to add New Cathedral of Coimbra to your itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Coimbra?

Start your adventures with a visit to PO.RO.S - Portugal Roman Museum in Sicó and Casa Museu Fernando Namora. Then, explore other areas of Coimbra for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Coimbra?

The top tourist attraction in Coimbra is New Cathedral of Coimbra, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Coimbra?

Three days in Coimbra is enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. New Cathedral of Coimbra, Museu Nacional Machado de Castro and Casa Museu Bissaya Barreto are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Figueira da Foz.

Is Coimbra a walkable city?

With vibrant neighbourhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Coimbra is a good destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between New Cathedral of Coimbra and Museu Nacional Machado de Castro. Then take a stroll around Sé Nova, Santa Cruz, Almedina e São Bartolomeu, located 0.32 kilometres from the centre, and Coimbra City Centre, which is about 0.16 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Coimbra with kids?

If you're searching for activities and sights for all of your group, take a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Coimbra with kids.

What to do in Coimbra for adults?

Museu de Conimbriga and Sister Lucia's Memorial are just a couple of the things to do in Coimbra. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Coimbra?

From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Coimbra. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. New Cathedral of Coimbra is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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