Things To Do In Coimbra
Tucked away in the heart of Portugal, Coimbra is one of those cities that sneaks up on you. Known for its historic university and lively student scene, it’s a mix of old-world charm and buzzing energy. Whether you’re wandering cobbled lanes, climbing up to catch sweeping river views or just hunting down the best cafe, there’s plenty to keep you busy. This isn’t Lisbon or Porto, it’s smaller, friendlier and packed with surprises. So if you’re planning a trip, here’s a quick guide to the best things to do in Coimbra.
Things To Do In Coimbra
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Mondego River
The Mondego River runs right through the heart of Coimbra, and honestly, it gives the whole city a relaxed, easygoing vibe. It starts up in the mountains, but by the time it gets to Coimbra, it’s wide, calm, and perfect for a stroll along the banks or a picnic in one of the riverside parks.
If you’re visiting, grab a coffee or an ice cream from a riverside café and take your time walking along the river. It’s not about ticking off sights, it’s more about soaking in the rhythm of the city. The Mondego is part of daily life here, and spending time by it is a great way to feel like you’re part of Coimbra, even just for a day.
If you’re visiting, grab a coffee or an ice cream from a riverside café and take your time walking along the river. It’s not about ticking off sights, it’s more about soaking in the rhythm of the city. The Mondego is part of daily life here, and spending time by it is a great way to feel like you’re part of Coimbra, even just for a day.
Café Santa Cruz
Café Santa Cruz is one of those spots in Coimbra that feels like it’s been around forever and actually, it has. It’s located right in the middle of town, just next to the Santa Cruz Church. It’s hard to miss with its arched stone facade and old-world charm. Step inside, and it’s like walking into a different time. The vibe is relaxed, welcoming and a bit grand in the best way.
The cafe used to be part of the church, literally, so you’ve got these high vaulted ceilings, stained-glass touches and stone columns. But people are there for everyday things: coffee, pastries or a glass of wine. It’s the kind of place where students, tourists, and locals all mix without it feeling like a tourist trap.
The cafe used to be part of the church, literally, so you’ve got these high vaulted ceilings, stained-glass touches and stone columns. But people are there for everyday things: coffee, pastries or a glass of wine. It’s the kind of place where students, tourists, and locals all mix without it feeling like a tourist trap.
Santa Cruz Monastery
The Santa Cruz Monastery is one of Coimbra’s most important landmarks, and you don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate it. It’s right in the city center, with a big square in front where people hang out, and it’s connected to Café Santa Cruz, so it’s easy to find.
Founded in the 12th century, this was once one of the most powerful monasteries in Portugal. Two of Portugal’s first kings, Afonso Henriques and Sancho I, are buried here. Which gives the place a real sense of national importance.
Santa Cruz Monastery is still a working church, which gives it a nice, authentic feeling. Locals still come here for mass and you might walk in on a quiet service or someone lighting a candle. But even with that everyday rhythm, visitors are welcome and there’s more to see than just the main church.
For €4, you can visit the monastery section in the back, and it’s definitely worth it. You’ll get to explore the old cloisters, see the ornate tombs of Portugal’s first kings and walk through peaceful corridors that feel a world away from the busy square outside. The tile work and stone carvings are impressive, but the whole place still feels calm and humble
It’s one of those places where history, daily life, and beauty all come together, nothing flashy, just solid, meaningful and very Coimbra.
Founded in the 12th century, this was once one of the most powerful monasteries in Portugal. Two of Portugal’s first kings, Afonso Henriques and Sancho I, are buried here. Which gives the place a real sense of national importance.
Santa Cruz Monastery is still a working church, which gives it a nice, authentic feeling. Locals still come here for mass and you might walk in on a quiet service or someone lighting a candle. But even with that everyday rhythm, visitors are welcome and there’s more to see than just the main church.
For €4, you can visit the monastery section in the back, and it’s definitely worth it. You’ll get to explore the old cloisters, see the ornate tombs of Portugal’s first kings and walk through peaceful corridors that feel a world away from the busy square outside. The tile work and stone carvings are impressive, but the whole place still feels calm and humble
It’s one of those places where history, daily life, and beauty all come together, nothing flashy, just solid, meaningful and very Coimbra.
Praça 8 de Maio
Praça 8 de Maio is one of the main squares in Coimbra and if you’re exploring the city, you’ll probably end up there without even trying. It’s right in front of the Santa Cruz Monastery and Café Santa Cruz, so it’s easy to find and always buzzing with some kind of energy.
The square is named after May 8th, the day Coimbra was liberated from Napoleonic troops in 1808. But don’t worry, you don’t need to know the history to enjoy the place. It’s open and walkable, with a mix of locals going about their day, tourists snapping photos and people just sitting on benches, taking it all in.
Musicians often play here and sometimes there are small events or street performers. It’s a good place to pause, grab a drink, do some people-watching and plan your next stop.
It’s central, welcoming and very much part of the city’s rhythm.
The square is named after May 8th, the day Coimbra was liberated from Napoleonic troops in 1808. But don’t worry, you don’t need to know the history to enjoy the place. It’s open and walkable, with a mix of locals going about their day, tourists snapping photos and people just sitting on benches, taking it all in.
Musicians often play here and sometimes there are small events or street performers. It’s a good place to pause, grab a drink, do some people-watching and plan your next stop.
It’s central, welcoming and very much part of the city’s rhythm.
Porta de Barbacã
The Porta de Barbacã (Barbacã Gate) is one of the old medieval entrances to Coimbra’s historic upper town, just a short walk from the city center.
What makes Porta de Barbacã interesting is that it’s easy to miss, it’s low, simple but it’s packed with history. It was once a key checkpoint for anyone entering the inner city. In medieval times, it would have been guarded, with a drawbridge and everything. Today, you can just walk through it like any ordinary archway, which is kind of cool when you realize people have been doing that for centuries.
What makes Porta de Barbacã interesting is that it’s easy to miss, it’s low, simple but it’s packed with history. It was once a key checkpoint for anyone entering the inner city. In medieval times, it would have been guarded, with a drawbridge and everything. Today, you can just walk through it like any ordinary archway, which is kind of cool when you realize people have been doing that for centuries.
Arco de Almedina
The Arco de Almedina is one of Coimbra’s oldest and most iconic landmarks, a stone archway that once served as the main entrance to the medieval city. If you’re walking up from the lower town toward the old part of Coimbra (called the Alta), this is where the climb begins.
The arch itself dates back to the Moorish period, around the 11th or 12th century, when Coimbra was a fortified city. “Almedina” actually comes from the Arabic word al-madinah, meaning “the city.” Back then, this gate would’ve been heavily guarded and part of the defensive wall system that surrounded the upper town.
The arch itself dates back to the Moorish period, around the 11th or 12th century, when Coimbra was a fortified city. “Almedina” actually comes from the Arabic word al-madinah, meaning “the city.” Back then, this gate would’ve been heavily guarded and part of the defensive wall system that surrounded the upper town.
Torre de Almedina
Today, the tower is still intact and houses a small museum called the Centro de Interpretação da Cidade Muralhada (Interpretation Center of the Walled City). It’s a modest but interesting exhibit that explains Coimbra’s old fortifications, with models, maps, and photos. Entry is usually just a couple of euros, and it doesn’t take long to go through—but it gives you great context for what you’re walking through.
Inside the tower, there’s a narrow staircase that takes you up to a small viewpoint. From there, you get a nice look over the rooftops of the old town and a better sense of how the city was laid out when it was a fortified stronghold.
Inside the tower, there’s a narrow staircase that takes you up to a small viewpoint. From there, you get a nice look over the rooftops of the old town and a better sense of how the city was laid out when it was a fortified stronghold.
The Centro de Arte Contemporânea de Coimbra (CACC)
The Centro de Arte Contemporânea de Coimbra (CACC) is a cool spot for anyone who wants to see what’s happening in the world of modern art in Coimbra. Opened fairly recently in 2020, it’s right in the city center near the Arco de Almedina, so it’s easy to pop in while you’re exploring.
Inside, you’ll find a solid collection of contemporary art from Portuguese and international artists, with rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh. The works cover all kinds of styles and ideas, so there’s usually something surprising or thought-provoking on display.
Inside, you’ll find a solid collection of contemporary art from Portuguese and international artists, with rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh. The works cover all kinds of styles and ideas, so there’s usually something surprising or thought-provoking on display.
Sé Velha de Coimbra
The Sé Velha de Coimbra (Old Cathedral of Coimbra) is a must-see if you’re exploring the city’s historic side. Built in the 12th century, it’s one of Portugal’s best-preserved Romanesque churches and has that solid, fortress-like vibe that makes it stand out right away.
The cathedral’s thick stone walls, simple yet powerful arches, and heavy wooden doors give you a real sense of stepping back in time. Inside, it’s calm and a bit austere, with beautiful details like medieval tombs, carved capitals, and a stunning cloister where you can take a quiet break.
It feels genuine and historic without trying too hard. The Sé Velha was the city’s main cathedral for centuries and is still used for special services today.
The cathedral’s thick stone walls, simple yet powerful arches, and heavy wooden doors give you a real sense of stepping back in time. Inside, it’s calm and a bit austere, with beautiful details like medieval tombs, carved capitals, and a stunning cloister where you can take a quiet break.
It feels genuine and historic without trying too hard. The Sé Velha was the city’s main cathedral for centuries and is still used for special services today.
Igreja de São João de Almedina
The Igreja de São João de Almedina is a charming little church tucked away in Coimbra’s historic district, not far from the famous Arco de Almedina. It’s a bit off the typical tourist path, which makes it a nice quiet stop if you want to get away from the crowds for a few minutes.
The church dates back to the 12th century and carries a simple, Romanesque style with some later additions. It’s small but packed with character, think old stone walls, a peaceful atmosphere and some beautiful religious artwork inside. Locals still use it for services, so it’s a living piece of Coimbra’s history, not just a museum.
It’s one of those spots that gives you a real sense of the everyday spiritual life that’s been part of Coimbra for centuries. Quiet, humble, and genuine, just like the city itself.
The church dates back to the 12th century and carries a simple, Romanesque style with some later additions. It’s small but packed with character, think old stone walls, a peaceful atmosphere and some beautiful religious artwork inside. Locals still use it for services, so it’s a living piece of Coimbra’s history, not just a museum.
It’s one of those spots that gives you a real sense of the everyday spiritual life that’s been part of Coimbra for centuries. Quiet, humble, and genuine, just like the city itself.
Machado de Castro Museum
The Machado de Castro Museum is definitely one of those spots you don’t want to miss in Coimbra. It’s set inside an old bishop’s palace right in the heart of the city and the building itself is pretty impressive. But the real highlight? The huge Roman cryptoporticus underneath—basically, ancient underground tunnels from way back in the 1st century. Walking through those gives you a real sense of how deep Coimbra’s history goes.
It’s easy to visit, the museum is open most days except Monday, and the entrance fee is quite reasonable.
One of the best parts of visiting the museum is the terrace and loggia, basically its built-in viewpoint. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at the café or just stepping out for a breather, you’ll get a great look over the Sé Velha, the rooftops of the old town, and even catch the Mondego River in the distance. It’s a quiet, open spot that gives you a whole new perspective on Coimbra. Definitely worth lingering a bit.
It’s easy to visit, the museum is open most days except Monday, and the entrance fee is quite reasonable.
One of the best parts of visiting the museum is the terrace and loggia, basically its built-in viewpoint. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at the café or just stepping out for a breather, you’ll get a great look over the Sé Velha, the rooftops of the old town, and even catch the Mondego River in the distance. It’s a quiet, open spot that gives you a whole new perspective on Coimbra. Definitely worth lingering a bit.
New Cathedral
The Sé Nova de Coimbra—or “New Cathedral”—might not be all that new (it dates back to the late 1500s), but it’s still a key part of the city’s story. You’ll find it near the university, up in the Alta district and it’s an easy stop while exploring that area.
Originally built as a Jesuit church, it became the city’s main cathedral in the 18th century when the bishopric moved over from the older Sé Velha. The building has a mix of styles—its lower half is pretty simple and classical, while the upper part is more decorative and Baroque, with statues of Jesuit saints tucked into the front.
Step inside and it opens up into a bright, grand space with high ceilings, side chapels and lots of gold detail around the altar. Some of the pieces inside, like the choir stalls and baptismal font, were brought over from the old cathedral, so it has a bit of that shared history.
Entry is free and it’s open most days, so it’s an easy visit. It’s usually quieter than the Sé Velha, which makes it a good place to pause and take in a different side of Coimbra’s religious and architectural past.
Originally built as a Jesuit church, it became the city’s main cathedral in the 18th century when the bishopric moved over from the older Sé Velha. The building has a mix of styles—its lower half is pretty simple and classical, while the upper part is more decorative and Baroque, with statues of Jesuit saints tucked into the front.
Step inside and it opens up into a bright, grand space with high ceilings, side chapels and lots of gold detail around the altar. Some of the pieces inside, like the choir stalls and baptismal font, were brought over from the old cathedral, so it has a bit of that shared history.
Entry is free and it’s open most days, so it’s an easy visit. It’s usually quieter than the Sé Velha, which makes it a good place to pause and take in a different side of Coimbra’s religious and architectural past.
Coimbra University
The University of Coimbra isn’t just one of the oldest universities in Europe, it’s the soul of the city. Sitting high above Coimbra in what used to be a royal palace. It was founded by King Dinis in 1290
The university is packed with history, incredible views and a solid dose of student energy.
With over 20,000 students from 80+ countries, Coimbra lives and breathes uni life. You might glimpse caped students heading to events or even join in if it’s Queima das Fitas season in May, when fado serenades echo up the hill.
Whether you’re geeking out on history, admiring Baroque woodwork or just want a view over Coimbra with a café stop, the university campus delivers. It’s academic prestige, ancient grandeur and student spirit all rolled into one loaf, sliced across the city’s skyline.
The university is packed with history, incredible views and a solid dose of student energy.
With over 20,000 students from 80+ countries, Coimbra lives and breathes uni life. You might glimpse caped students heading to events or even join in if it’s Queima das Fitas season in May, when fado serenades echo up the hill.
Whether you’re geeking out on history, admiring Baroque woodwork or just want a view over Coimbra with a café stop, the university campus delivers. It’s academic prestige, ancient grandeur and student spirit all rolled into one loaf, sliced across the city’s skyline.
Joanina Library
The Joanina Library is one of those places that feels almost too perfect to be real. Tucked inside the University of Coimbra, it’s often called one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and once you step inside, it’s easy to see why.
Built in the 1700s, this three-story Baroque gem is all dark wood, gold leaf and painted ceilings. The shelves are stacked with around 60,000 old books, most of which are written in Latin prior to the 18th century, covering everything from medicine to law. But here’s the wild part, at night, they let bats fly around inside to eat the moths that might damage the books. Seriously.
Whether or not you’re a book lover, the Joanina Library is something special. It’s quiet, it’s grand and it feels like stepping into a time capsule just one with velvet ropes and ancient manuscripts.
You’ll need a timed ticket to visit (they manage crowd sizes to keep the space peaceful), and it’s definitely worth booking in advance if you’re visiting in summer. The tour also takes you through the Academic Prison underneath, which was once used for misbehaving students, another quirky bit of university history.
Even the exit is beautiful. The door built around the 1720 was erected as a triumphal arch. The door is engraved with a coat of arms and in Latin it states “This is the home of August Coimbra donated to books so that the library may crown its front.”
Built in the 1700s, this three-story Baroque gem is all dark wood, gold leaf and painted ceilings. The shelves are stacked with around 60,000 old books, most of which are written in Latin prior to the 18th century, covering everything from medicine to law. But here’s the wild part, at night, they let bats fly around inside to eat the moths that might damage the books. Seriously.
Whether or not you’re a book lover, the Joanina Library is something special. It’s quiet, it’s grand and it feels like stepping into a time capsule just one with velvet ropes and ancient manuscripts.
You’ll need a timed ticket to visit (they manage crowd sizes to keep the space peaceful), and it’s definitely worth booking in advance if you’re visiting in summer. The tour also takes you through the Academic Prison underneath, which was once used for misbehaving students, another quirky bit of university history.
Even the exit is beautiful. The door built around the 1720 was erected as a triumphal arch. The door is engraved with a coat of arms and in Latin it states “This is the home of August Coimbra donated to books so that the library may crown its front.”
How To Buy Tickets?
ONLINE
On the University’s official site
https://visit.uc.pt/en/
When you buy the ticket choose a time slot for entry into the library (because only a limited number of visitors are allowed at a time).
Visit during your time slot. The library visits run roughly from 9:00 am to 4:40 pm for last admission.
On the University’s official site
https://visit.uc.pt/en/
When you buy the ticket choose a time slot for entry into the library (because only a limited number of visitors are allowed at a time).
Visit during your time slot. The library visits run roughly from 9:00 am to 4:40 pm for last admission.
IN PERSON
Go to the ticket office on-site. The official ticket office is located at the University’s “Paço das Escolas”/ticket desk.
Purchase early in the day to secure a desirable time slot. Arriving midday might mean the library slot is later in the afternoon.
Go to the ticket office on-site. The official ticket office is located at the University’s “Paço das Escolas”/ticket desk.
Purchase early in the day to secure a desirable time slot. Arriving midday might mean the library slot is later in the afternoon.
Palácio Real
The Palácio Real (Royal Palace) is right at the heart of the University of Coimbra and it’s where a lot of the university’s big moments still happen today. It might look like part of the university now, but this place actually started out as a royal residence and was home to Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques, back in the 12th century.
The university moved in during the late 1500s, and the palace slowly transformed into lecture halls, ceremonial rooms, and official offices. One of the main highlights is the Sala dos Capelos, a huge, wood-paneled hall that was once the throne room and now hosts graduation ceremonies and oral exams. The walls are lined with portraits of Portuguese kings, giving the whole place a very regal (but still academic) feel.
You can also step into the Sala do Exame Privado, a small, more intimate room where doctoral exams used to be held late at night. And don’t miss the Via Latina, the open gallery that overlooks the courtyard, great for a photo and a moment to take in the view.
It’s not a huge palace, but it’s full of layers, part royal, part university, all Coimbra. Definitely worth a wander.
The university moved in during the late 1500s, and the palace slowly transformed into lecture halls, ceremonial rooms, and official offices. One of the main highlights is the Sala dos Capelos, a huge, wood-paneled hall that was once the throne room and now hosts graduation ceremonies and oral exams. The walls are lined with portraits of Portuguese kings, giving the whole place a very regal (but still academic) feel.
You can also step into the Sala do Exame Privado, a small, more intimate room where doctoral exams used to be held late at night. And don’t miss the Via Latina, the open gallery that overlooks the courtyard, great for a photo and a moment to take in the view.
It’s not a huge palace, but it’s full of layers, part royal, part university, all Coimbra. Definitely worth a wander.
Cabinet of Curiosities
The Cabinet of Curiosities at the University of Coimbra is one of those spots that totally surprises you. It’s part of the Science Museum but feels more like stepping into an eccentric collector’s private stash from centuries ago.
When you walk in, don’t expect neat labels or detailed explanations. Instead, it’s a wild mix of weird and wonderful stuff: taxidermy animals (there’s even a six-legged donkey!), skeletons, preserved creatures in jars, minerals, and all kinds of odd artifacts collected by curious scholars over the years.
The whole vibe is mysterious and a bit theatrical, with shifting lights casting a golden glow over everything. It’s not your typical museum display—it’s more like wandering through a “theatre of the world,” designed to make you stop and wonder rather than just read signs.
Heads up: some of the stuff can be a bit intense or strange, so it’s definitely not for everyone. But if you’re into quirky, offbeat places that make you think and feel something, this is a hidden gem in Coimbra worth checking out. It’s a fun break from the usual and gives you a glimpse into how early scientists and collectors marveled at the strange and the beautiful.
When you walk in, don’t expect neat labels or detailed explanations. Instead, it’s a wild mix of weird and wonderful stuff: taxidermy animals (there’s even a six-legged donkey!), skeletons, preserved creatures in jars, minerals, and all kinds of odd artifacts collected by curious scholars over the years.
The whole vibe is mysterious and a bit theatrical, with shifting lights casting a golden glow over everything. It’s not your typical museum display—it’s more like wandering through a “theatre of the world,” designed to make you stop and wonder rather than just read signs.
Heads up: some of the stuff can be a bit intense or strange, so it’s definitely not for everyone. But if you’re into quirky, offbeat places that make you think and feel something, this is a hidden gem in Coimbra worth checking out. It’s a fun break from the usual and gives you a glimpse into how early scientists and collectors marveled at the strange and the beautiful.
Sala dos Atos Grandes
The Sala dos Capelos, also called the Sala Grande dos Atos, is pretty much the crown jewel of the University of Coimbra. Originally, it was the throne room in the old Royal Palace, but today it’s where all the big academic ceremonies happen.
The room dates back to the 1600s and has a stunning wooden ceiling painted with all kinds of wild designs, think sea monsters, mermaids, and plants. The walls are lined with beautiful tile panels that look like carpets. Around the room, you’ll see portraits of Portuguese kings, from the very first one, Afonso Henriques, all the way to Manuel II (but not the Spanish rulers in between).
Even now, the Sala dos Capelos is still buzzing with important events like doctoral exams, rector inaugurations and the opening of the school year. It’s a space full of tradition and history and visiting it feels like stepping into the heart of Coimbra’s academic world.
The room dates back to the 1600s and has a stunning wooden ceiling painted with all kinds of wild designs, think sea monsters, mermaids, and plants. The walls are lined with beautiful tile panels that look like carpets. Around the room, you’ll see portraits of Portuguese kings, from the very first one, Afonso Henriques, all the way to Manuel II (but not the Spanish rulers in between).
Even now, the Sala dos Capelos is still buzzing with important events like doctoral exams, rector inaugurations and the opening of the school year. It’s a space full of tradition and history and visiting it feels like stepping into the heart of Coimbra’s academic world.
Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra is a peaceful green escape right in the middle of the city. Created Marquess of Pompal, it’s been around since the 1700s, making it one of the oldest gardens in Europe and it’s packed with over 1,500 different plants from all over the world.
Walking through, you’ll find everything from formal terraces with fountains to shady spots filled with exotic trees. One of the coolest parts is the tropical greenhouses, built in the 1800s, they house orchids, ferns, and some pretty unusual plants.
The garden isn’t just about plants, though. There are statues scattered around, like one of the botanist Félix Avelar Brotero, which add a bit of history to your stroll.
It’s easy to get to just a short walk from the university and best of all, it’s free to visit. Whether you’re into plants, history, or just want a quiet spot to relax, the Botanical Garden is a great place to unwind and soak up some calm away from the busy streets of Coimbra.
Walking through, you’ll find everything from formal terraces with fountains to shady spots filled with exotic trees. One of the coolest parts is the tropical greenhouses, built in the 1800s, they house orchids, ferns, and some pretty unusual plants.
The garden isn’t just about plants, though. There are statues scattered around, like one of the botanist Félix Avelar Brotero, which add a bit of history to your stroll.
It’s easy to get to just a short walk from the university and best of all, it’s free to visit. Whether you’re into plants, history, or just want a quiet spot to relax, the Botanical Garden is a great place to unwind and soak up some calm away from the busy streets of Coimbra.
São Sebastião Aqueduct
The São Sebastião Aqueduct, or as locals call it, the Arcos do Jardim, is one of those cool historic spots that’s easy to miss but definitely worth a look. Built in the late 1500s, it’s a beautiful stretch of arches that used to carry water from nearby springs right up to the old town.
It’s right next to the Botanical Garden, so it’s perfect if you want to combine a stroll through greenery with a bit of history. The aqueduct makes a great backdrop for photos or just a peaceful place to hang out and enjoy the view.
If you’re wandering around Coimbra and want to catch a glimpse of the city’s past while soaking in some nice scenery, the São Sebastião Aqueduct is a solid stop.
It’s right next to the Botanical Garden, so it’s perfect if you want to combine a stroll through greenery with a bit of history. The aqueduct makes a great backdrop for photos or just a peaceful place to hang out and enjoy the view.
If you’re wandering around Coimbra and want to catch a glimpse of the city’s past while soaking in some nice scenery, the São Sebastião Aqueduct is a solid stop.
Jardim da Sereia
The Jardim da Sereia – The Mermaid Garden, also known as Parque de Santa Cruz, is a lovely little garden right in the heart of Coimbra. It used to be part of the Santa Cruz Monastery but was turned into a public park back in the 1700s. It’s a perfect spot to slow down, relax, and enjoy some peaceful greenery.
One of the coolest things here is the fountain with a statue of a triton—people often call it the mermaid fountain, which is how the garden got its nickname. The garden has classic Baroque vibes, with neat pathways, pretty fountains, and lots of shade.
If you want a break from walking around the city, Jardim da Sereia is a calm, charming spot to take a breath and soak up some local history and nature.
One of the coolest things here is the fountain with a statue of a triton—people often call it the mermaid fountain, which is how the garden got its nickname. The garden has classic Baroque vibes, with neat pathways, pretty fountains, and lots of shade.
If you want a break from walking around the city, Jardim da Sereia is a calm, charming spot to take a breath and soak up some local history and nature.
Portugal dos Pequenitos
Portugal dos Pequenitos in Coimbra is a pocket-sized fairytale. Built in the 1940s, this charming park shrinks Portugal down to miniature, so expect tiny castles, dollhouse-sized palaces and adorable replicas of traditional homes. Kids feel like giants, adults feel like kids again, and everyone wanders around with a grin. Beyond the cuteness, it’s also a quirky crash course in Portuguese history and architecture, with little corners dedicated to former colonies too. It’s equal parts cultural lesson and whimsical playground, making it the perfect stop if you’ve ever dreamed of ruling an entire country, one that fits neatly in your afternoon.
Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery
Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery in Coimbra is a beautiful ghost of the past with a story that’s as dramatic as its riverside setting. Built in the 14th century, it was home to Poor Clare nuns—until the Mondego River decided to keep flooding their cloisters.
Eventually, the sisters had to pack up and move uphill, leaving behind this atmospheric ruin. Today, the restored site is part museum, part time machine: gothic arches, stone walls kissed by sunlight, and echoes of chants long gone. It’s a serene, slightly haunting, yet utterly fascinating wander.
Eventually, the sisters had to pack up and move uphill, leaving behind this atmospheric ruin. Today, the restored site is part museum, part time machine: gothic arches, stone walls kissed by sunlight, and echoes of chants long gone. It’s a serene, slightly haunting, yet utterly fascinating wander.
Jardim da Manga
Jardim da Manga is one of Coimbra’s quirkiest little treasures, a Renaissance garden that looks like someone dropped a fountain straight out of a dream. Tucked behind the Santa Cruz Monastery, it was built in the 16th century and feels part cloister, part open-air stage set. At its heart stands a curious yellow-domed fountain, surrounded by elegant arches and quiet water basins that seem made for daydreaming. It’s not the biggest garden in town, but it’s definitely one of the most memorable.
Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery
Santa Clara-a-Nova Monastery is Coimbra’s grand “replacement convent,” built on higher ground after the original one down by the river kept flooding. Perched with sweeping views, this 17th-century baroque beauty became home to the Poor Clares and, most famously, the tomb of Queen Saint Isabel, Portugal’s beloved “miracle queen.” Inside, you’ll find gilded altars, serene cloisters, and a sense of calm that makes time slow down. Outside, the vast courtyard invites you to pause and admire Coimbra sprawled below. It’s less ruin, more resilience—a reminder that when life (or a river) keeps washing you out, you simply rebuild uphill.
Quinta das Lágrimas Garden
Quinta das Lágrimas Garden is Coimbra’s most romantic and tragic green escape. This was the stage for the doomed love affair between Prince Pedro and Inês de Castro, whose fate still tugs at Portuguese hearts. The garden is lush and poetic, with ancient trees, bubbling fountains, and the famous “Fonte das Lágrimas,” where Inês is said to have wept. Whether you buy into the legend or just fancy a peaceful stroll, the place feels wrapped in stories. It’s equal parts romance novel and secret garden perfect for dreamy wanderers and history lovers alike.
Fado Statues
The Fado statues in Coimbra are like a love letter carved in stone to the city’s soulful soundtrack. Scattered around town, these elegant figures capture musicians mid-serenade—guitars poised, voices imagined—bringing Coimbra’s unique style of fado to life even in silence. They’re not grand monuments but rather thoughtful tributes, tucked into squares and streets where you might just hear the real thing drifting from a café. Spotting them feels like joining a secret treasure hunt: each one a reminder that fado here isn’t just music, it’s part of the city’s heartbeat. Pause, smile, and maybe hum along as you wander.
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Map Of Things To Do In Coimbra
Coimbra Weather
COIMBRA WEATHERHow To Get To Coimbra
When To Visit Coimbra?
Other Portugal Travel Guides
Best Hotels in Coimbra
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Written by Clara R.
“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”
