Don’t forget the Umbrella Project just 50 minutes away.
Coimbra (pronounced: queem-bra) is known to be the medieval capital of Portugal because it use to be the capital and is a preserved old town. Therefore it is a must visit while in Portugal. This historical town is home to many amazing places especially the University of Coimbra! Here is a cheat sheet of what to do while day trippin or a short weekend trip in Coimbra!
SEE
Portugal dos Pequenitos – kid-friendly
Largo Rossio de Santa Clara, 3040-256 Coimbra, Portugal
To translate, it means the Little Portugal. This awesome attraction has an entrance fee of 10 Euros where you can explore the miniature park and learn about the history of Portugal. This is a kid-friendly place where children can see the huge churches and buildings constructed in smaller sizes making it a must-see especially if you have not been to Portugal before!
University of Coimbra – UNESCO World Heritage Site
3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
If you have yet to see a foreign university, head over to the University of Coimbra! This is one of the oldest universities in the world. Fun fact: the campus was built on a former palace, therefore the university is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Umbrella Project – Instagram-worthy
R. Luís de Camões 111, 3750-156 Águeda, Portugal
One of the Instagram-worthy places! The Umbrella Sky Project consists of streets with umbrellas hanging above local alleys. This became one of the most popular places to visit due to the colorful parasols. It is located in the city of Águeda which is only 50 minutes away from Coimbra by car. Perfect place to day trip too!
EAT
Dux Café – best chicken sandwich
n°409 R/C, R. Gen. Humberto Delgado, Coimbra, Portugal
Dux has the best chicken sandwiches in town! If you are looking to grab a quick bite, head over to Dux Café. Great service, nice atmosphere, low prices and amazingly tasty food!
Tapas nas Costas Bistro & Café – traditional tapas, strong sangrias
R. Quebra Costas 19, 3000-340 Coimbra, Portugal
This café is a little more formal where you might have to make a reservation to go for dinner. But they do accept walk ins during lunch! This is a traditional tapas eatery where you share tiny plates of food. The portions are on the smaller side, therefore you may want to order more. In addition, they make huge cups of sangria by the glass and they are very strong!
DRINK
Ducati Lounge – motorcycle theme bar (next to Umbrella Project)
espaço Ducati, Largo 1º de Maio, 3750-100 Águeda, Portugal
While visiting the Umbrella Project in Águeda, walk by the river to Ducati Lounge! A Ducati is a type of motorcycle brand and guess what, the lounge is a motorcycle theme bar! Check it out even for pictures, right by the red Ducati by the bar.
Gonçalo Santos Barber Shop – haircuts with a drink
R. Carlos Seixas 187, 3030-177 Coimbra, Portugal
Men often get haircuts once a week in America, therefore if you are looking to get a haircut try out Gonçalo Santos Barber Shop. Their haircuts are average but the atmosphere inside is awesome. If you want to have a drink and play pool while waiting for a haircut or even after, this shop can fulfill that inquiry!
STAY
Coimbra City Centre
The perfect area to stay in Coimbra is near the city center, so you’re close to restaurants, shops, and much more! You’ll be within walking distance to probably everything you’d like to do during your visit, including the Joaquim Antonio Aguilar statue in the middle of the main square.
SHOP
Rua Ferreira Borges – artisan products
Near the Old Cathedral area, there are many local boutiques selling embroidery, jewelry, ceramics…and many more. If you love traditional crafts, then also check out Praça do Comercio area.
Mercado D. Pedro V – main market
R. Olímpio Nicolau Rui Fernandes 208, 3000-122 Coimbra, Portugal
Dating back to 1867, this market has been where locals go for fresh vegetables, meats, fruits…etc. Located in the heart of the city, this mercado is where the life action is at! If you like flea markets, then check out Feira de Velharias in Old Square (Praça Velha) where you’ll discover tons of curiosities and interesting collectible items.
