I'm organizing a trip to Portugal. A stop in Coimbra makes logistical sense. The place gets talked up quite a bit, but I can't figure out what anyone sees there, except the library. There are references to the university, but nothing specific. Apparently you can't even go into most of the buildings. When I research the place and look at youtube videos, I don't see very much. Am I missing something here?
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7049 posts
Maybe there is something here you have not covered yet...
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g189143-Activities-Coimbra_Coimbra_District_Central_Portugal.html
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
A few other historic university rooms are covered on the same €9 combo-ticket with the library. Coimbra is not a place for intensive "sightseeing" but good for atmospheric wandering in the old town. Rick's Portugal book describes a self-guided walking tour route. Also shopping, a musical evening, and other peripheral activities that might be on your list for Portugal.
Posted by
WA, USA
330 posts
I visited Coimbra last year with my daughter. It happened to be on May Day. Everything was basically closed, except for a few restaurants. We walked around the old town, but I was more like a deserted town. Next day, we went to the university. Some of the sights were closed because of graduation activities. We did come across a beautiful garden by the university.
Now, I am currently scheduled to go on the Rick Steves Portugal tour in September. We will stop there and I am giving it another chance. Honestly, I think its just walking thru old town and see the university library.
Last year, we stopped in Porto and loved that place! Lots of character.
One place that I have been reading about is Aviero. It has canals and lovely beaches. Will go there on my own once the tour finishes.
Hope this helps.