Lisbon is a destination that will linger in your memories long after. Whether you're studying or living in Coimbra and planning a day trip or are exploring Portugal starting from the north, your trip from Coimbra to Lisbon promises a route filled with scenic views.

To ensure that your Coimbra to Lisbon transfer is smooth, enhance your journey with a private car service like Daytrip. Your local English-speaking driver will happily pick you up in Coimbra and stop at your desired places to explore what the route has to offer. Some of the jewels you cannot miss are the town of Batalha, the culturally rich Leiria, and the fascinating Conimbriga ruins.

Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in Europe, has endured several hardships over the years. Although Lisbon’s founding year is lost in history, it was first settled by the Phoenicians around 1200 BC. In 711 AD, Lisbon fell under the control of the Moors, but not until the Reconquista and the Siege of Lisbon took place in 1147, which was an important event in Portugal’s history, as the country was reclaimed from Muslim rule.

One of the most devastating and catastrophic events in Lisbon’s history was the Great Earthquake of 1755, known to be the largest in Europe. It is estimated to have had a magnitude of 8.5 to 9. As if that was not enough, the catastrophic event was followed by a tsunami and fires, stealing countless lives and sweeping almost the whole city away.

After the devastating disaster, Lisbon’s reconstruction works began, and to this day, the city is known for its Pombaline architecture. The name is after Marquis of Pombal who was responsible for the reconstruction works.

Slowly but steadily, Lisbon flourished and became the city we know today. As you wander through Lisbon’s streets, you will undoubtedly spot the iconic blue tiles or azulejos that have adorned buildings since the 16th century. Although they can be appreciated wherever you go, Alfama district is especially famous for its tiles-surrounded streets.

Bring your most comfortable footwear

Lisbon is a city on seven hills, so even if you think a restaurant is a 10-minute walk away, be prepared for a slight leg workout. The cobblestones can be slippery, so make sure your shoes are not only comfortable but also have a good grip. Unless you have an upcoming event, leave your heels at home!

Shield yourself from the sun

As Lisbon has around 300 days of sun a year, it’s worth bringing a sun protector, hat, sunglasses, and lightweight layers. Having these essentials in your bag will make you feel comfortable throughout the day.

Plan your trip to Sintra

Although Lisbon has plenty to offer, Sintra is just a 30-minute ride away, so it would be a missed opportunity not to explore this charming town. You can either travel by train or use Daytrip’s private car service, so you don’t have to figure out the public transport on your own.

From Coimbra to Lisbon by bus

The bus is the most budget-friendly way to get from Coimbra to Lisbon. Here are some of the bus companies you can choose from:

• Rede Expressos: a local bus company with the cheapest one-way ticket price starting from $9.50 (€8.85). You will reach Lisbon in 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• Flixbus: if you book in advance, you can find tickets for as low as $6.45 (€6). The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 15 to 40 minutes.

From Coimbra to Lisbon by train

If time is crucial and you need to reach Lisbon quickly, taking the train is the most convenient option. The Alfa Pendular high-speed train will take you to Lisbon in just 1 hour and 40 minutes, and the lowest ticket price is around $35 (€33).

From Coimbra to Lisbon by private car service

While taking a bus will help your dollar go further, and the train will save you 40 minutes of your time, booking a private car service such as Daytrip promises you an outstanding experience.

Your local English-speaking driver will pick you up from your accommodation, take care of your luggage, and stop at any sights you may wish to explore along the way (such as Obidos, Batalha, and more). As it is not possible with either bus or train, Daytrip’s service will ensure you get the flexibility and comfort you deserve as you drive from Coimbra to Lisbon.

From Coimbra to Lisbon by shared shuttle

Are you still not convinced, although having a car driving you to Lisbon sounds great? For those who want to have a great service while not spending as much, Daytrip also offers shared shuttle services. The shared shuttle departs 5 times a day, and you will share the car with other passengers who are planning to explore the same destination. You will also meet other travel enthusiasts as your local driver takes you to the enchanting Lisbon. Seats start at just $33 (€31).

Explore the famous Belém Tower

When in Lisbon, this landmark has to be on your itinerary. Located on the banks of the Tagus River, the iconic Belém Tower is the symbol of the city and has been recognized as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The tower was built in the 16th century, and nowadays, it has been attracting many visitors each year. You can also climb the top floor and enjoy a stunning view of the river. The entrance is free on the first Sunday of each month, but be prepared for crowds. If this viewpoint is not enough, keep on reading!

Climb Lisbon’s best viewpoints

A city with hills equals a city with the best views. And Lisbon is not an exception. In fact, it has so many viewpoints or miradouros (as they are called in Portuguese) that it is hard to pick just one, so we recommend you climb as many as you can! Here are some that will reward you with breathtaking views of the city: São Pedro de Alcântara, Portas do Sol, Castelo de São Jorge, and Miradouro da Graça.

Uncover Lisbon’s nightlife

If you want to step into the local people's shoes and unwind after a long day of exploration, Lisbon is the perfect place to be. From lively bars to rooftop terraces that will surprise you with panoramic views of the city and stunning sunsets, there will be something for each taste. Some of the best bars can be found on Pink Street or Bairro Alto.

Taste the culture through local cuisine

One of the best ways to explore the local culture is by trying the traditional dishes. Lisbon is mostly known for its fresh seafood and pastéis de nata. Here are some of the local culinary delights that will tickle your taste buds:

• Bacalhau à Brás: mainly consists of cooked and shredded codfish, crispy potatoes, and eggs.
• Ameijoas a bulhao pato: an appetizer that is made of fresh steamed clams with garlic and lemon dressing.
• Cozida a Portuguesa: a traditional stew that consists of vegetables and meat. If you travel in colder months, give this comfort food a try! Its origins are found in the rural villages near Lisbon.