Hi dear friends!
If you are planning to visit Portugal and are still deciding about which cities to visit, I hope Coimbra is on your list because after visiting multiple places, it has jumped to my Top 3 favorite cities in Portugal! Allow me to give you a brief summary of how cool it is.
At a glance
Oldest Universities in the world
Capa e batina (Academic uniform)
Cobblestone streets
Medieval feel
Narrow roads
Long parks
Social evenings
Sunny weather
How to get to Coimbra
It is very easy to get to Coimbra, you can go by train or by bus. For example, if you travel from Lisbon to Coimbra:
If you decide to go by train the seats are more comfortable, the prices are around 20 Euro, and the trip is for about 2-3 hours.
If you go by bus, prices are cheaper, around 15 Euro, and the trip is for about 2.5 hours as well.
What to do in Coimbra
Universidade de Coimbra
It is one of the oldest universities in the world and it is considered a world heritage site by Unesco. This place is totally worth visiting. From the simplicity and neutral colors of the patio to the detailed and rich decoration inside. The most exciting part is the Biblioteca Joanina, a baroque library that looks like it was taken out from a Harry Potter movie.
Praça da Republica
This seemed like the coolest place to be for the students. This was the view from our apartment, and we could see people from 10 am to 11 pm. The waiters passing with trays and trays of beer. And very often we saw students wearing their academic uniforms, Harry Potter style, it was awesome!
Wander in the streets of Coimbra
One of my favorite activities. Just put your google maps away and wander, get lost, be curious, enjoy the uniqueness of each little shop, and savor every street of this town that appears to be taken from a fairytale story.
RS Cafe Bar
And just by wandering through the streets around the university, we found this place, packed with students on a Sunday afternoon. Apparently, due to the steepness of the street, they came up with a very simple and cost-effective idea that everybody seemed to love. They just placed some sacks on the floor, some umbrellas, and boom! You got a trendy place.
Gelataria COSI
This place was a recommendation from our Airbnb host. And it seemed very popular, we had to wait for about 20 minutes in line. Although I have to be very very honest, it was not the best gelato I've ever tasted, but that's my personal opinion and maybe I just chose the wrong flavor. But probably it is exceptional for other people, so I am just passing the tip.
Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra
When I first saw this place I felt as if I was entering the Secret Garden. It is just gorgeous, stunning, impressive. It starts at the top, next to the University, and then it has a path surrounded by bamboos that goes all the way to the river. It was created in 1772, and its mission is the research and conservation of biodiversity.
Parque da Cidade Manuel Braga
The first day I ran here, I knew this was THE PLACE. I just had to come back every day.
The river, the park, the trees, is all you need to get inspired, dream, and get relaxed. No wonder why this week I was in the best mood ever.
Every day was super sunny, I had the opportunity to truly enjoy this journey.
Tip! Start at the Botanical Garden and go down until the Parque da Cidade Manuel Braga.
Where to brunch in Coimbra
O Croissant
I have decided to dedicate a section to "Where to Brunch at..". Why? because honestly brunching is one of my favorite activities hehe.
Apparently, this was the best place to brunch in Coimbra. It was GOOD! Pictures speak for themselves...
Where to stay in Coimbra
Ok. I have to be honest. I have already been to Coimbra, and I liked it! I stayed at a hostel during my 3-month solo-backpacking trip. But this time it was different. We stayed at this amazing 2 bedroom apartment in front of Praça da Republica. I fell in love as soon as I saw the window with the greenest tree I've ever seen.
It is just AMAZING.
Being able to BE at a place full of natural sunlight and the greenest trees.
I feel so thankful. It was the most amazing week.
Here is a little tour:
Long story short, if you like nature and medieval sceneries, you MUST go to Coimbra.
I would love to hear your thoughts and doubts about Coimbra.
Love,
Kassandra
Comments