This former capital city of Portugal is now one of the most important urban centres for the country. It is the location of the ‘University of Coimbra’, the oldest academic institution in the Portuguese-speaking world and one of the oldest in Europe. The University and the city attract many visitors due to their monumental buildings and stunning architecture.

See:

• Old Town – Take a look at the Old Town from the other side of the Mondego River. See the famous clock tower and the old University buildings located around it.
• Santa Cruz Monastery – this National Monument has a beautiful architectural design and is located in the city centre.
• Roman Ruins of Conimbriga – the ancient city of Conimbriga has the largest Roman settlement in Portugal - located about 15km from  Coimbra.

Experience:

• The Student Festivals (Festa das Latas & Queima das Fitas) held by the university students of Coimbra. The two big festivals feature different home-made creative costumes and large parties for the students and visitors.
• Stay the night in the Quinta das Lagrimas, the most expensive and arguably the best hotel in Coimbra. Experience traditional Portuguese hospitality in this superb 18th century palace surrounded by magnificent gardens.