All,
It looks like I will have a week all to my own in Coimbra in June. I have Steve's 2019 Portugal book, but the world has changed so much since then. Anyone been there who can suggest the best area to stay and any restaurants not to miss? Are the local guides still in business? Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Dennis
I would stay on the east side of the river in the old town. The University is walkable from that area but admittedly up a big hill.
The restaurants as a whole are very good in Coimbra. I usually use Google maps for recommendations. I haven’t been since the pandemic so don’t know which ones might not have survived.
Go Walks has very good walking tours and from their website, it looks as though they have survived the last two years. When I took their tour a few years ago, it included the university library - a must see.
Conimbriga - outside of Coimbra is worth a taxi or Uber. It’s the remains of a Roman settlement with very nice mosaic floors remaining.
If you run out of things to do - Aveiro or even Porto are within an hour or so train ride.
Tomar would be a lovely day trip from Coimbra.
I do not suggest you stay on the main street in old town. I made this mistake and got no sleep.
Hi Dennis,
My daughter and I spent a few nights in Coimbra (May 2019) and enjoyed our time exploring this great city.
Here’s my trip report on Coimbra where you’ll find information regarding hotel and restaurant recommendations.
Wishing you a wonderful trip!
Thanks all for the feedback.
As life would have it, my plans have changed and I booked to stay in Lisbon.
Maybe next time
Obrigado,
Dennis
