University, Old Cathedral, Arco de Almedina, fado, viewpoints and corners of the historic centre
Coimbra is best discovered on foot, between the Alta and downtown. This guide brings together the must-visits — University, Joanina Library, Old Cathedral, Arco de Almedina, Santa Cruz Monastery — and less obvious stops in the historic centre, to help plan the visit and make the most of the stay.
Atlantic Days
Choose dates and guests to check availability in the official Atlantic Days booking engine — University, Old Cathedral, Arco de Almedina, fado, viewpoints and corners of the historic centre.
Local guide to Coimbra
Start at the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a guided visit to the Joanina Library, Chapel of São Miguel and Tower. Walk down through Paço das Escolas to the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) and the Arco de Almedina, one of the medieval gates of the city. In downtown, Santa Cruz Monastery holds the tombs of the first kings of Portugal. In the evening, listen to Coimbra fado — distinct from Lisbon fado — at Fado ao Centro or fado houses in the Alta. Set aside time for the Botanical Garden, Portugal dos Pequenitos, a walk across the Mondego to Santa Clara and a sunset from a viewpoint over the city. Staying in an apartment in the historic centre lets you visit everything on foot, without a car.
Accommodation
Coimbra · Historic centre
Independent homes in Coimbra’s historic centre, close to the city’s old streets and within easy reach of the main points of interest. A practical, bright and comfortable base for guests who want to experience Coimbra on foot, with time and freedom.
View accommodation
Coimbra · Views and city
Homes in Coimbra with a strong connection to the city, ideal for practical and independent stays near the main points of interest.
View homeOn a short visit, focus on the historic centre: walk up Rua Ferreira Borges and through the Arco de Almedina to the Alta, visit the University and Joanina Library, descend past the Old Cathedral, cross downtown and end the day at a viewpoint over the Mondego.
The University of Coimbra (a UNESCO World Heritage site) with the Joanina Library and the Tower, the Old Cathedral, the Arco de Almedina, the Santa Cruz Monastery, the Botanical Garden, Portugal dos Pequenitos and the Mondego riverside are must-sees.
Yes. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe and the Joanina Library is one of the most remarkable baroque libraries in the world. Visits require a timed ticket — it is worth booking in advance.
Fado ao Centro (next to the Arco de Almedina) runs daily performances with an explanation of the tradition, and several venues in the Alta host live fado nights. Coimbra fado is different from Lisbon fado and is a signature of the city.
Walk around downtown and Largo da Portagem, listen to Coimbra fado in the Alta, have dinner at traditional restaurants near the Old Cathedral, or enjoy a drink at the terraces along the Mondego river.
In the historic centre. Casas do Arco (next to the Arco de Almedina) and Casas da Couraça (a high position over the Mondego) are Atlantic Days apartments within a short walk of the University, downtown and the Old Cathedral.
Direct booking
Check availability through the official booking engine or contact us for special requests, extended stays or help choosing the right destination.
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