We are planning a Portugal trip for Dec 28-Jan 10, starting in Porto for 4-5 days then to Lisbon for 5-6 days traveling via train. Am considering spending a day or two in Coimbra but wondering whether University will be open for touring, and whether restaurants and Museums will be open during quiet season. Also, whether one night is enough or two will be needed to see all the sights. We will not be renting a car. We are family of 5 (kids 28/22/20) and plan to use Airbnb for lodging. Thanks in advance for suggestions/tips, etc.
Posted by
8078 posts
Never been to Portugal in the Winter, never wanted to go in cold weather.
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7024 posts
The university website states it is closed on 12/31 and 1/1. When we went last year we just bought the €13.5 University and library ticket. We spent three nights in the city. During January two nights would probably be sufficient since there probably won’t be outdoors folk dancing in front of Santa Cruz Church like there was when we visited. There were free nightly fado performances at Cafe Santa Cruz beside the church. You’d need to check times for that time of year. The cafe was CASH only.
A restaurant we enjoyed that was very reasonably priced was Restaurante Dom Espeto. An Italian restaurant we enjoyed was Restaurante Il Tartufo. Both the restaurants are along the same street.
Posted by
Lubbock, TX
415 posts
When I went in January everything was open. Depending on when you arrive from Porto, one evening could be enough. There aren’t a huge number of sights to see.
Posted by
OP
7 posts
Thanks all for the great suggestions and tips. Really appreciate your insights!
Posted by
188 posts
As for time to spend there: Coimbra may not have a lot of the "must-see" spectacles that form the core of most itineraries, but those (probably a minority) who are interested in a broader experience than just seeing big, famous sights may find, as I did, that a quaint, aesthetic, historic city like Coimbra is a pleasant place to hang out in for at least two or three full days.