Coimbra, Portugal is a stunning city located in the center of the country, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and architecture. Coimbra is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, and it has been an important cultural center for centuries. In this article, we will take a look at the 12 best things to do in Coimbra, Portugal.
Visit the University of Coimbra
The University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe, and it was founded in 1290. It is a stunning building with a beautiful courtyard and a fascinating history. The university is still in use today, and it is an important center of learning and research.
Explore the Old Cathedral of Coimbra
The Old Cathedral of Coimbra is a beautiful Romanesque building that dates back to the 12th century. It has a stunning cloister and a beautiful altar, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves architecture and history.
See the Biblioteca Joanina
The Biblioteca Joanina is a stunning baroque library that is located in the University of Coimbra. It is home to a collection of over 300,000 books, and it is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the library and see the stunning frescoes and decorations.
Visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha
The Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha is a beautiful medieval monastery that was abandoned for centuries. It has since been restored and turned into a museum, and visitors can explore the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the monastery.
Explore the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra
The Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra is a beautiful garden that is home to over 1,200 species of plants. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Discover the Machado de Castro National Museum
The Machado de Castro National Museum is a stunning museum that is located in a former bishop’s palace. It is home to a collection of art and artifacts from the Roman, medieval, and modern periods. Visitors can explore the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the region.
Take a walk in the Parque Verde do Mondego
The Parque Verde do Mondego is a beautiful park that is located along the Mondego River. It is a great place to take a walk or have a picnic, and it offers stunning views of the river and the city.
Visit the Portugal dos Pequenitos
The Portugal dos Pequenitos is a miniature park that is dedicated to the history and culture of Portugal. It features miniature versions of famous Portuguese buildings and landmarks, and it is a great place to take children.
See the New Cathedral of Coimbra
The New Cathedral of Coimbra is a stunning building that was built in the 16th century. It is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture, and it features a stunning interior with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings. Visitors can take a tour of the cathedral and admire the stunning architecture and artwork.
Explore the Conimbriga Roman Ruins
The Conimbriga Roman Ruins are located just outside of Coimbra, and they are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history and archaeology. The ruins date back to the Roman Empire, and visitors can explore the stunning mosaics and architecture of the ancient city.
Take a trip to the Serra da Estrela Natural Park
The Serra da Estrela Natural Park is a stunning natural park that is located just a short drive from Coimbra. It is home to beautiful mountain landscapes, stunning lakes, and beautiful hiking trails. Visitors can take a hike, go fishing, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visit the Quinta das Lágrimas
The Quinta das Lágrimas is a beautiful estate that is located just outside of Coimbra. It has a fascinating history, and it is said to be the site where the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês took place. Visitors can take a tour of the estate and learn about the history and legends of the region.
Conclusion
Coimbra, Portugal is a beautiful city that is full of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you are interested in exploring the ancient Roman ruins, admiring the beautiful cathedrals, or simply taking a stroll through the stunning botanical gardens, there is something for everyone in Coimbra. So why not plan a trip to this beautiful city today and discover all that it has to offer?
FAQs
- What is Coimbra famous for? Coimbra is famous for its history, culture, and stunning architecture. It is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and many beautiful cathedrals and museums.
- What is the best time of year to visit Coimbra? The best time of year to visit Coimbra is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
- What are some of the best restaurants in Coimbra? Some of the best restaurants in Coimbra include O Trovador, A Cozinha da Maria, and Tasca da Eira.
- How do I get to Coimbra? Coimbra can be easily reached by train or by car. The nearest airport is in Porto, which is about 120 kilometers away.
- What are some other nearby attractions to visit in Portugal? Some other nearby attractions to visit in Portugal include Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region.