Nestled in the heart of the country, Coimbra is a welcoming city that offers an exceptional quality of life for those seeking to relocate to Portugal. Whether you are looking to retire, study or just start a new chapter in your life, Coimbra is a great option if you’re planning to move to Portugal.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Coimbra – from the cost of living to transportation options and cultural activities. So, let’s dive in and discover all that Coimbra, Portugal’s student city, has to offer.
Where is Coimbra, Portugal?
Coimbra is situated in the center of Portugal and is widely regarded as the capital of the region. This charming city was once the capital of Portugal in the 13th century. Since then, it continued to evolve into a hub of academic, artistic and intellectual activities.
The city’s location is incredibly convenient. It is just a two-hour drive away from two of Portugal’s major cities, Lisbon and Porto, and provides easy access to most of Portugal’s destinations within a few hours.
See Coimbra on the map.
Though not located on the coast, the beauty of Coimbra lies in its proximity to the coastal city of Figueira da Foz. This coastal city is only a short 45-minute drive away. The convenience of living in Coimbra means that you can explore and experience the beauty of Portugal’s stunning coastline without having to travel far. The city’s central location and accessibility to the country’s top attractions make it an ideal destination for tourists and locals alike.
What is Coimbra, Portugal like?
The area surrounding Coimbra is characterized by rolling hills and lush greenery. The city itself is nestled on a steep hill, with its old town winding up to the top. The architecture in Coimbra is a mix of styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, and Baroque, giving the city a unique and eclectic feel.
Visitors to Coimbra can explore the ancient streets of the old town, which are lined with beautiful buildings, quaint cafes and lively bars. The city’s main square, Praça do Comércio, is a hub of activity and is surrounded by stunning buildings and restaurants. Coimbra is also home to many beautiful gardens and parks, such as the Botanical Garden and the Jardim da Sereia.
What’s the weather like in Coimbra?
Coimbra enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city experiences pleasant weather throughout the year, making it a popular destination for tourists.
During the summer months, from June to September, the temperature in Coimbra ranges from 77°F to 86°F, with occasional heat waves pushing the mercury even higher.
The warm temperatures are accompanied by low humidity, making it comfortable to explore the city and its surroundings. The summer months also see very little rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
In the winter months, from December to February, the temperature in Coimbra ranges from 46°F to 59°F. While the temperatures are relatively mild, the city does receive a fair amount of rainfall during these months, particularly in January and February. Visitors to Coimbra during the winter months should bring warm clothing and an umbrella to be prepared for the occasional rainy day.
How to get to Coimbra
Coimbra is conveniently located in the central region of Portugal, offering travelers several transportation options to reach their destination. The public transportation system in Portugal is highly efficient, making it easy to navigate even for non-Portuguese speakers.
From Lisbon, visitors can take either the A1 by bus or car. This journey takes approximately two hours to reach Coimbra. The roads leading to Coimbra are well-maintained, with numerous stops and refueling points available for convenience.
Similarly, from Porto in the north, visitors can travel southward via the A1 and arrive in Coimbra in slightly over an hour. The roads leading to Coimbra are also well-maintained, and travelers can choose to take breaks at some of the small villages along the way to unwind and relax.
For visitors who prefer rail transport, several cities, including Lisbon and Porto, have direct connections to Coimbra. The trains are punctual, and the interiors are well-kept, providing a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
For international visitors, the closest airports to Coimbra are located in Lisbon and Porto. From either of these airports, visitors can use one of the aforementioned transportation options to reach Coimbra.
Education in Coimbra
Coimbra takes great pride in its rich academic heritage. It is home to the oldest university in the country, and attracts students from all corners of the world who seek to study at this esteemed tertiary education institution. The university offers a diverse range of degree programs. Some fields include architecture, education, engineering, humanities, law, mathematics, medicine, and sports.
In addition to the university, Coimbra also boasts a selection of reputable primary and secondary schools, including a number of international schools. Parents relocating with their children from abroad can rest assured that they will find a suitable educational institution in Coimbra. However, while public schools are free of charge (depending on residency status), private international schools do require fees.
The education system in Portugal is highly regarded, with a growing percentage of Portuguese students attending university. Coimbra University hosts a considerable share of these students, with international students accounting for 15% of the university’s population.
The cost of living in Coimbra
Coimbra is a charming city that offers a high standard of living at an affordable cost. According to Numbeo, the cost of living index in Coimbra is considerably lower than in other European cities. Housing is a significant contributor to the cost of living, and Coimbra offers various options to fit different budgets, including shared accommodations, private rentals, and real estate purchases.
Transportation costs in Coimbra are also reasonable, with reliable and affordable public transportation options available. Food prices in Coimbra are relatively lower than in other European cities, with a wide variety of affordable local and international dining options.
Furthermore, leisure activities and entertainment in Coimbra are also affordable, with numerous cultural events and activities available throughout the year. Residents can also enjoy access to beautiful parks, museums, and historical landmarks at a low cost.
Overall, Coimbra offers an excellent quality of life at a reasonable cost, making it an attractive destination for students, expatriates, and retirees.
Real estate in Coimbra Portugal
Coimbra’s real estate market is experiencing a surge in demand, attracting both local and international buyers seeking affordable properties in a picturesque city with a rich history and cultural heritage. The real estate prices in Coimbra are relatively low compared to other popular Portuguese cities, with an average cost of $171 per square foot.
Coimbra offers various real estate options, ranging from historic homes in the city center to modern apartments in new developments. The price of an average-sized house in Coimbra is around $350,000. A 1,000 square foot apartment in Coimbra would cost between $150,000 and $200,000, depending on location and condition.
While demand is high, the market remains relatively stable, making it an attractive investment opportunity for both long-term and short-term rental properties.
The city’s central location and accessibility, combined with its prestigious university, make it a prime location for students, young professionals, and retirees seeking an affordable and high-quality lifestyle. As a result, Coimbra’s real estate market is expected to continue to grow. And this will, undoubtedly, attract even more buyers in the years to come.
Things to do in Coimbra
Coimbra is a serene city that offers plenty of cultural and heritage sites to explore. Its slower pace of life does not mean you will be bored for one second, as there are numerous exciting things to do in Coimbra.
- First on the list is Casa Fado ao Centro. This is a project that showcases the famous Fado music, which is very popular in Portugal. This collaboration between musicians who are all alumni of the university offers Port tasting with a live Fado show, ensuring a great evening out for all.
- Next, the University of Coimbra is a must-visit site. It is a World Heritage Site with numerous architectural wonders to see. From the 16th-century tower at the highest point to the Sala dos Capelos and the Paço das Escolas courtyard, history buffs will enjoy exploring this site that offers a full-day activity.
- Located near the university, the Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to visit, especially during spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom. The garden is home to a vast collection of plant species, including exotic and rare plants. Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful walk around the garden, take in the serene atmosphere, and learn about the plants from the informational signs scattered around the garden.
- History buffs will love exploring the Conimbriga Archaeological Site, which is located very close to Coimbra. This site is home to the ruins of a Roman city that dates back to the 2nd century, including a forum, thermal baths, and a well-preserved villa.
- Another not-to-miss attraction is the Biblioteca Joanina, an 18th Century library that is simply breathtaking. With over 250,000 volumes of books ranging from the 1500s to the 1700s, the building consists of four main halls. These spaces feature gigantic dark hardwood study tables where visitors can sit back and enjoy some of this historical magic.
Lesser-known facts about Coimbra
Whether you’re planning a trip, wanting to move to Coimbra or simply interested in learning more about this beautiful city, these facts are sure to pique your interest. They will also give you a deeper understanding of Coimbra’s rich heritage.
- Coimbra was once the capital of Portugal. In the 12th century, it served as the country’s capital for over a century before Lisbon took over in the 13th century.
- The city has a unique musical tradition. Fado de Coimbra, also known as Coimbra Fado, is a type of fado music that is specific to the city. It is characterized by its academic themes and use of the Portuguese guitar.
- Coimbra is home to one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe. The University of Coimbra’s Botanical Garden was established in 1772 and boasts a collection of over 1,200 different plant species.
- The city has a strong connection to Portugal’s maritime history. The famous Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, was a student at the University of Coimbra. It is said that he attended classes in the university’s former palace.
Why should you consider moving to Coimbra?
Coimbra offers a variety of compelling reasons to consider it as your new home. Firstly, the city is excellently connected to the rest of the country. This makes it easy to explore all that Portugal has to offer. Additionally, the city’s affordability makes it an appealing option for those seeking a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
Coimbra’s unique blend of modernity and historic charm is also an undeniable draw for many. Its UNESCO heritage sites are stunning examples of the city’s rich history. They offer a picturesque backdrop for strolls through the city.
Overall, Coimbra is an exceptional and welcoming city to call home. With its countryside feel, modern amenities, and historical charm, you’ll have access to everything you need without having to look far.
The downfalls of living in Coimbra
While Coimbra is undoubtedly a wonderful place to live, like any city, it has its downsides. Here are five potential challenges you may face when living in Coimbra:
- Limited job opportunities: While Coimbra is home to a large student population, job opportunities are limited outside of academia. This may be a concern for those who are seeking employment outside of the university.
- Hilly terrain: Coimbra is situated on steep hills, which makes walking and cycling challenging for some. Additionally, this may limit accessibility for those with mobility issues.
- Noise pollution: Being a university town, Coimbra can be noisy at night, particularly on weekends. This may be a concern for those who prefer quiet evenings at home.
- Limited nightlife: While Coimbra has a vibrant student scene, it may not offer the same level of nightlife options as larger cities. This may be a consideration for those who prioritize a lively social scene.
Consider Coimbra as your next destination
Coimbra offers a unique blend of modernity and historic appeal. Its friendly atmosphere, central location, affordability and UNESCO heritage sites make it an ideal place to call home. It’s also an excellent base for exploring Portugal. If you are seeking a high quality of life, a rich cultural experience and a welcoming community, Coimbra is definitely worth considering as your next destination.
Explore more wonderful destinations for moving to Portugal:
- Guide to Cascais
- Guide to Faro
- Guide to Nazare
- Guide to Aveiro
- Guide to Lagos
- Guide to Evora
- Guide to Braga
