The former capital of Portugal, Coimbra, is a fascinating historic city that’s certainly worth exploring! Home to the oldest university in Portugal (and one of the oldest universities in Europe), this medieval city is known as ‘the city of students’. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Coimbra.
Visit the Oldest University in Portugal
Founded in 1290, this historic university is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour to learn more about this venerable institution. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some students dressed in billowing black capes!
Meet the Resident Bats in the Biblioteca Joanina
Biblioteca Joanina, the university library, deserves a mention of its own! This ornate baroque library houses more than 70,000 volumes. It’s not only home to books, but also to a resident bat colony that happily eats any pests that might damage the collection.
Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens
The Coimbra University Botanical Gardens are the perfect place to relax and unwind after your tour. Maintained by the students, they are full of exotic specimens, including a giant strangler fig tree!
Listen to Fado
Coimbra has its own unique brand of ‘fado’—Portugal’s sad and beautiful folk music. Fado de Coimbra is sung exclusively by men, stemming from a time when the university did not admit women students. Head to Fado au Centro for a live performance and a glass of port.