Coimbra is closer to Porto, as the distance between these cities is approximately 76 miles (122 km), while the distance from Coimbra to Lisbon is 127 miles (205 km).
How long is the train from Coimbra to Porto?
The high-speed train takes 1 hour and 11 minutes to get from Coimbra to Porto, whereas the express train takes 1 hour and 18 minutes.
Is Coimbra a day trip from Porto?
Yes! Since you can get to Coimbra in just over an hour from Porto, if you leave early in the morning youтАЩll have a whole day to wander PortugalтАЩs medieval capital and check out its UNESCO-listed cathedral and university.
How can I get from Porto to Douro Valley?
You can either opt for a train or a tour that will pick you up in Porto and take you to Douro Valley. If you want to experience as much as possible, you can arrange a completely custom tour with Daytrip.
Can I fly from Coimbra to Porto?
No, you canтАЩt go from Coimbra to Porto by plane, as Coimbra does not have an airport. The nearest airport is actually in Porto itself.
How do I get from Coimbra to Porto?
To get to Porto, you have several options: bus, train, private car service, or shared shuttle. The cheapest option is the bus from Coimbra to Porto, while the train is more comfortable. For the most convenient and hassle-free journey, Daytrip's private car service is the most convenient and comfortable and offers sightseeing stops.
Porto, hugged by both the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean, is the second largest city in Portugal. Just like its eldest sibling Lisbon, Porto is also known for its narrow cobblestoned streets that are lined with colorful buildings, blue tiles (azulejos), and medieval architecture treasures that complement the cityscape. A car trip from Coimbra to Porto promises a route rich in picturesque views of vineyards, as well as small towns and rural areas that showcase Portugal's countryside.
To fully experience the journey from Coimbra to Porto, consider using a private car service like Daytrip, which provides more than just a transfer between two cities. Once your local driver picks you up right before heading to the north, all you have to do is buckle up and enjoy your journey. And the best part of it? You can personalize your trip by previously picking spots that you would like to explore along the way. Some stop-worthy places are the Bu├зaco National Park filled with lush trails or Aveiro, PortugalтАЩs тАЬLittle Venice".
About Porto
Porto is characterized by its hilly city center, the golden river (the literal translation of Rio Douro) that weaves along the southern part of the city, the vintage trams that take you to three different routes, and franchesinha, a traditional sandwich that you must try. While Porto is often compared to Lisbon (and vice versa) and they might have many things in common, Porto undoubtedly deserves its own dose of attention.
Famous worldwide for its delicious port wine, which has been produced since the 17th century, Porto serves as the gateway to the Douro Valley, Portugal's oldest wine region. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the valley is renowned for its stunning views of steep vineyard hillsides, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The rabelo boats are one of the main symbols of Porto. They were used to transport barrels of port wine from the Douro Valley's best vineyards to the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia via the river in Porto. This method was used for centuries because there were no proper roads, making the rabelo boats the most reliable mode of wine transportation. Today, these iconic boats can still be seen along the riverbank, serving as a reminder of Porto's rich winemaking heritage, and visitors can take tours to experience this important part of the city's culture.
The name of the country, Portugal, is derived from Porto, a magical city where the river sparkles from sunrise to sunset. Filled with golden, blue, and orange hues that make every step unforgettable, Porto attracts people with its art, rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and warm, welcoming locals, making it the perfect destination for anyone.
From Coimbra to Porto: travel tips
Despite the short journey from Coimbra to Porto, itтАЩs always a good idea to travel prepared. Here are three tips to make your visit to Porto seamless.
Prioritize comfortable shoes
Porto is full of hills and stairs, so consider prioritizing comfort over looks (or combine both, if possible) and pack your most comfortable shoes. While both banks of the river have walkways without hills, be prepared for some climbing in the rest of the city.
### Pre-meal snacks aren't free!
In Porto, as well as in Portugal in general, it is common for restaurants to provide snacks before serving your meal. But they're not free! If you eat these snacks, they will be included in your bill.
### Book in advance
DonтАЩt miss out on the best that Porto has to offer. Book tours and entry tickets in advance. Some restaurants can get busy during the peak season, so itтАЩs recommended to make a reservation beforehand. This way, you wonтАЩt end up walking on the cobbled hills looking for a free table.
How to get from Coimbra to Porto
Make your Coimbra to Porto transfer a breeze by exploring the available transportation options. We'll break down the pros and cons of each so you can decide which best suits your travel preferences.
From Coimbra to Porto by bus
For those seeking an affordable way to travel to Porto, taking a bus is an excellent choice. Here are two of the most popular bus companies to consider:
Flixbus: if you purchase your ticket in advance, the lowest ticket price is $5.38 (тВм5), and the travel time is 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Rede Expressos: a Portuguese bus company with the cheapest tickets starting from just $4.25 (тВм3.95). The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
If you plan to go by bus, make sure you check the timetable available on the bus companyтАЩs official website.
From Coimbra to Porto by train
Another way to get to Porto is by high-speed train. The Alfa Pendular service offers this option, with ticket prices starting at approximately $37.68 (тВм35). However, the travel time is only 10 minutes faster than the bus, at 1 hour and 11 minutes.
Alternatively, you can choose a slightly cheaper express train (also provided by Alfa Pendular) with tickets starting from approximately $31 (тВм29). The travel time for this option is 1 hour and 18 minutes. Both trains will take you to Porto-Campanh├г station, which is farther from the city center. The trainтАЩs timetable can be found online.
From Coimbra to Porto by private car service
While the above options are cost-effective, the best way to reach Porto is undoubtedly by choosing a private car service like Daytrip. Once your local English-speaking driver picks you up and loads your luggage, you will enjoy the scenic views without the hassle of navigating public transport or worrying about being late.
Moreover, your friendly driver will be happy to suggest the best places to visit upon your arrival in Porto. The journey from Coimbra to Porto takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Best of all, Daytrip lets you stop to stretch your legs and explore more of Portugal with enriching sightseeing stops! Check out the Church of Valega with its facade completely covered with colored tiles, or Bucaco National Park, a bastion of natural beauty guarded by medieval walls.
DaytripтАЩs private car service provides flexibility that public transportation does not offer, as neither the train nor the bus will wait for you.
From Coimbra to Porto by shared shuttle
Does DaytripтАЩs private car service from Coimbra to Porto sound tempting but you would still prefer to save some dollars to spend on souvenirs? Then DaytripтАЩs shared shuttle service is made for you! The shared shuttles depart five times a day, allowing you to choose the most convenient time for your trip. Once your driver picks you up at your accommodation, your journey in a comfortable and air-conditioned car can begin.
Things to do when you get to Porto
While PortoтАЩs city center is walkable and can easily be explored without a map, having a good itinerary will help you not miss out on some of the best and most unique sights Porto offers.
Walk around the historic center
Ribeira (тАШriverbankтАЩ in Portuguese) тАЩis PortoтАЩs most emblematic and beautiful neighborhood. It is known for the Dom Lu├нs I Bridge and its colorful houses along the river, a view that you will see on most postcards at souvenir shops. Ribeira is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and historical significance. Some of the places you must visit include the S├гo Francisco Church, Ribeira Square (Pra├зa da Ribeira), and Porto Cathedral(S├й do Porto).
Explore the bookstore that inspired J.K. Rowling
Livraria Lello is not only one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, but it also served as an inspiration for JK Rowling while writing Harry Potter. It is a popular destination for Harry Potter enthusiasts. In the early 1990s, J.K. Rowling lived and worked as an English teacher in Porto, where she wrote the first chapters of the Harry Potter books. The bookstore was built in 1906, and while the exterior features Gothic architecture, the interior showcases Art NouveauтАЩs design.
Enjoy a glass of authentic port wine
While the main wineries are not located in Porto (you have to travel to Douro Valley), there are some wine cellars close to the city (located in Vila Nova de Gaia) that will offer you an equally authentic port wine experience. Here are some of the wine cellars you can choose from: Po├зas, Sandeman, and PortugalтАЩs oldest wine company Real Companhia Velha.
Admire the painted tiles at S├гo Bento Station
Even if you donтАЩt go to Porto by train, it is worth visiting the S├гo Bento Station which is famous for its more than 20,000 painted tiles. The ceramic tiles adorn the main entryway of the station, reflecting not only PortugalтАЩs history but also the daily life of the locals. The best time to appreciate the details of tiles is at dusk, but if you want to avoid crowds, the evening is also an excellent option.
When is the best time to visit Porto
If you are seeking sun and warmth, the best time to visit Porto is in summer (June to September). During these months, temperatures can reach 86┬░F (30┬░C), making it perfect for enjoying the nearby beaches and outdoor terraces. Summer is also a great time to visit because the city comes alive with festivals and cultural events. Of course, this is also the most popular time to visit, so expect crowds and higher prices on accommodation.
Alternatively, if you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, consider visiting Porto during spring or autumn. In general, we'd say these are better than the summer. These seasons offer more pleasant temperatures that range between 59 and 77┬░F (15 to 25┬░C). In spring, the city's gardens and parks are in full bloom, enhancing the natural beauty of Porto.
This imperial Roman settlement will take you back in time with its remarkable mosaic-covered floors, working fountains, and impressive structures.┬аA Fount of Historical Knowledge┬а
Montemor-o-Velho castle
Originating as an Islamic fortification, this imposing fortress is predates the very concept of Portugal as a nation.┬аOlder than Portugal Itself┬а
Bucaco National Park
One of the most varied plant collections in Europe, this ancient walled forest has been an escape from the world since the 6th century.┬аNatural Beauty, Man-Made History┬а
Costa Nova do Prado
The streets of this former-fishing village are lined with colorfully striped cottages.┬аThe Candy-Striped Coast┬а
Aveiro
Dubbed тАЬthe Venice of PortugalтАЭ because of its canals and gondola-like boats, visitors will find Aveiro has its own unique identity.┬аThe тАЬVeniceтАЭ of Portugal┬а
Church of Valega
Covered in colourful tiles inside and out, this 18th-century church might be one of the prettiest in the country.┬аA Tiled Masterpiece┬а
тАЬFirst time I have used Daytrip and we used the service twice in Portgual and both were such amazing trips that I will review them separately. See my other review. I was looking for a way to travel from Porto to Coimbra without hiring a car ourselves. It is so much of a hassle and there are huge one way hire fees in Portugal. I wanted to see a couple of places along the way and there was no way catching the train hauling our luggage along with us could we have managed it. So using the Google search engine I found Daytrip. The ease of booking, the extensions that we could add to our trip including choosing the time to be spent in each location, the prompt and continued communication from Daytrip was absolutely excellent. Igor A arrived in the morning to pick us up from our apartment in Porto. He was friendly, polite, had checked and was early to pick us up. He welcomed us with a welcome pack of goodies and provided water and sweets for the journey. He was knowledgeable about the areas we were visiting and he was able to guide us in the right direction for food, souvenirs and experiences. We had a wonderful day with Igor and felt like we were with a friend not a person we had never met before. I would highly recommend the services of Daytrip. At first you may think it is expensive. But weigh up the cost of carrying around your luggage, driving on unfamiliar roads, tolls, car hire fees, stress of trying to find your way around, when you can sit back and relax and enjoy the scenery.тАЭ
