Coimbra
Coimbra is home to a vast and unique wealth of heritage, consolidated over centuries, having been chosen by D. Afonso Henriques as the first capital of the Kingdom of Portugal. The city was a birthplace of kings and a multicultural centre, recognized by the definitive installation of the University in 1537, one of the most important and renowned educational institutions in Portugal.
- Turismo do Centro
Explore the city
Turismo do centro
Getting Here
Plane
Portugal is a popular destiny, making it easy to obtain regular connections from all parts of the world. The airports closest to Coimbra are Porto OPO (110km away) and Lisbon LIS (210km away).
Transfers
The shared transfer service "Coimbra Airport Shuttle" offers several daily regular transportation options between Lisbon and Porto airports and the city of Coimbra.
Please check the Coimbra Airport Shuttle website to view schedules and prices.
Train
The train is a convenient and popular mode of transportation in Portugal, and there are direct train services connecting Porto and Lisbon to Coimbra. Train schedules and tickets can be checked and purchased online through CP - Comboios de Portugal, the national railway company CP.
From Porto
The main station in Porto is Porto Campanhã and you can take a train to Coimbra-B, the main station in Coimbra.
The quickest and most efficient way to reach Porto Campanhã station from the airport is by metro - line E (Aeroporto - Estádio do Dragão) and it will take about 30 minutes to get there.
Every day, there are several trains heading to Coimbra. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of train you choose (e.g., Alfa Pendular or InterCity).
From Lisbon
The main station in Lisbon is Lisboa Oriente and you can take a train to Coimbra-B, the main station in Coimbra.
You will need to travel by metro - Red line (Aeroporto - São Sebastião) or take a taxi to Lisboa Oriente train station.
Everyday, there are several trains heading to Coimbra. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of train you choose (e.g., Alfa Pendular or InterCity).
Bus
Traveling by bus is another option for reaching Coimbra from Porto or Lisbon. Buses are generally more affordable but might take slightly longer compared to trains. There are several bus companies that operate this route
Flixbus, ALSA, Rede Expressos
Getting Around
The easiest way to travel is with the Municipal Urban Transport Services of Coimbra (SMTUC), which ensures the arrival at any point of the city. It works from 6:00 to 00:00, with short and regular periods.
1 day ticket – 3,70€.
Since Coimbra is a small town, it’s easy to walk through, despite its hills. In only one hour, you can cross almost the whole town on foot, from one end to other. But it’s not easy to circle by bike, due to its topography.
Taxis are the most expensive public transportation in the city but are a good alternative in the hours buses don’t operate. You can also use ride-sharing apps such as Uber, Bolt and Free Now.
