Relaxing Things To Do In Coimbra

An Overview of Coimbra

Coimbra is a riverfront city located in central Portugal. The city is known for it’s historic Univeristy of Coimbra, built upon the grounds of a former palace. The city is best defined by it’s well-preserved medieval old town, overlooks for the nearby river and scenic white buildings with reddish roofs. Coimbra hosts many unique and famous buildings, including the notorious Baroque library, Biblioteca Joanina, and a 18th-century bell tower. Much of the city’s beautiful medieval buildings are based around a 12th century cathedral called the Sé Velha. With numerous abandoned monasteries, excellent foot options and lovely museums, there are many relaxing things to do in Coimbra.

Relaxing Things To Do In Coimbra

Biblioteca Joanina

This 18th-century library is one of the most famous features of Coimbra. The interior contains beautifully carved shelves and Baroque features with an enriching number of tomes, books and valuable literature.

Ruínas de Conímbriga (Museu Monográfico)

Located a half-hour south from Coimbra, Conímbriga is a massive Roman settlement and Portuguese National Monument. The various uncovered ruins have extensive examples of private homes and public forums from the 2nd century. The most iconic feature in Conímbriga, are the unique and beautiful mosaic floors on display.

Porugal dos Pequenitos

Located across the Mondego River from the main city, this is an amusing miniture park primarily for children. The theme park is filled with diminutive versions of traditional Portuguese buildings and monuments with side pavilions dedicated to former Portuguese colonies.

Sé Velha (Old Cathedral of Coimbra)

Located in the center of Coimbra’s preserved historic district, this is a fanstatic Romanesque Catholic building constructed in the 12th centruy. The historically vital structure preserves much of the original Romanesque architecture.

Parque Verde do Mondego

This green space rests on the banks of the Mondego River, containing narrow bike paths, access to riverside bars, several nice restaurants and small landscaped gardens. One of the more notable features of the park includes Urso, a large, green seated bear statue that’s popular with tourists for photos.

Coimbra Botanical Garden

Located under the shadow of a well-preserved 16th-century aqueduct, this Botanical Garden has existed since 1772 with elegant fountains, quiet walking paths and beautiful plant life.

Paço das Escolas Historic Square

This is the historic central square found at the University of Coimbra. The square is often used for events, most famously academic ceremonies.

University of Coimbra

This is an old public research university, eventually permanently established in Coimbra in 1537. The famous campus is full of elegant buildings, famous landmarks and several monuments. The campus also has access to unique museums and buildings, such as the National Museum Machado de Castro, Paço das Escolas Historic Square and the Museu Botânico (Museu de História Natural).

National Museum Machado de Castro

This is a unique museum dedicated to Portuguese artists, Gothic sculptures, religious art and cultural art forms. The museum itself was named after the famous Portuguese sculptor, Joaquim Machado de Castro. The musuem was built on some of the original Roman tunnels which network the city.

Parque de Santa Cruz (Garden of the Mermaid)

Also known as the Garden of the Mermaid, this is a quaint sculpture garden located within Coimbra. The most interesting piece found in the Baroque-styled garden space is a strange trickle-fountain coated in moss while flanked by porcelain images.

Read more about relaxing things to do in Coimbra and exploring the world by visiting Leftfade Trails Blog.