
Welcome to Coimbra:
Portugal's Historic University City
This guide will help you discover the charm of Coimbra, the first capital of Portugal in the 12th century, home to one of the oldest Universities in continuous operation worldwide, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy the city
Like a local
Transportation
Tips
- Coimbra is compact and walkable, but be prepared for hills and stairs
- Local buses run throughout the city – try the “Linha Botanico,” an electric mini-bus that loops through the Alta & Jardim Botanico linking the riverside area, the Convento de S. Francisco, the Mosteiros de Santa Clara, Portugal dos Pequenitos and the Jardim Botanico to the historical district
- Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive
- The funicular “Elevador do Mercado” connects downtown to the upper town
Enjoy your time in Coimbra, where centuries of academic tradition blend with soulful music and rich Portuguese culture!