Coimbra, a historic riverfront city that served as Portugal's capital for over a century, has been named one of Europe's most underrated cities by Which?, despite being overlooked by most British tourists. Unlike the bustling hubs of Lisbon and Porto, Coimbra offers a wealth of attractions including Roman ruins, a Gothic monastery, and a doll museum, all without the crowds.
Historic Significance and Which? Recognition
For over a hundred years, Coimbra was Portugal's capital, a thriving walled city that housed monasteries, grand cathedrals, and one of the world's oldest universities, still operational today. When the king moved the capital to Lisbon, Coimbra became a centre of Renaissance art, attracting intellectuals with its peaceful riverfront scenery. Which? recently identified Coimbra as an underrated European city, stating: "It's a historic, cultural and academic hub, with a Unesco-listed university complete with a gilded baroque library that's open to the public for visits and tours. There's also a winding old town that, unlike Lisbon and Porto, isn't bottlenecked with tourists in peak season — and you'll also find plenty of atmospheric tascas for truly Portuguese lunches and dinners."
Accessibility and Attractions
Despite its close proximity to Lisbon and Porto—trains take 90 minutes and an hour, respectively—Coimbra remains a hidden gem for many Brits. It is ideal for a day trip from the Portuguese coast, though visitors may wish to stay longer to soak up the authentic atmosphere. Key sights include the ruins of Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha, a Gothic monastery dating back to the 1300s that has become a major archaeological site, and Santa Cruz Church, a whitewashed church with stunning blue-tiled mosaic murals and a mausoleum housing Portugal's first king. The National Museum Machado de Castro showcases Renaissance artworks and sculptures, housed in an 11th-century cloister built on Roman tunnels.
Beyond the City: Schist Villages and Castle
A short drive from Coimbra lies a network of tiny Schist Villages in the Lousã Mountain, traditional settlements being restored to preserve Portugal's heritage. Guided tours explore 12 villages, including Cerdeira, once abandoned but now home to an arts and crafts school, and Talasnal, known for its rustic stone cottages and panoramic views. On the return journey, visitors can stop at Arouce Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking a river beach with swimming areas and waterfalls.
