What is the easiest way to get from Lisbon to Coimbra?
The most seamless way to travel from Lisbon to Coimbra is with Daytrip's private car service. Your driver will pick you up at your accommodation, so you wonโt have to worry about figuring out how public transport works. You can also decide what sightseeing stops you want to explore along the way!
How long is the train from Lisbon to Coimbra?
The high-speed train from Lisbon to Coimbra takes just 1 hour and 40 minutes. It is slightly faster than driving, though getting to and from the train station adds a bit of time and hassle.
How do I get to Coimbra from Lisbon?
You can choose from the three main modes of transportation: bus, train, or private car service (such as Daytrip), each of them offering different benefits.
Is Coimbra far from Lisbon?
Coimbra is not that far from Lisbon. The driving distance between the cities is 126 miles (203 km), which takes just over 2 hours by car.
Is Coimbra worth visiting?
Absolutely! While Coimbra is often outshined by Lisbon and Porto, it is a great city to explore. It is recommended to spend at least 1 night there to make the most out of all the main landmarks.
What is the fastest way to get from Lisbon to Coimbra?
The quickest way to reach Coimbra is by high-speed train. The ride takes just 1 hour and 40 minutes. A direct car transfer takes about 2 hours and is door-to-door, so is more convenient, if a few minutes slower than the train.
Coimbra is probably not the first city that crosses your mind when you think of Portugal. However, nestled between the major cities of Lisbon and Porto, visitors often stop by to stretch their legs along the way. But passersby soon realize that Coimbra is much more than just a letโs-take-a-quick-break type of destination. With its UNESCO-listed university, Coimbra is a city that holds many stories, and they deserve to be heard. And so do the stops you can discover as you travel from Lisbon to Coimbra.
If you are looking for a convenient way to make your trip from Lisbon to Coimbra more than just a transition from one city to another, Daytripโs got you covered. With Daytrip's private car service, the adventure kicks off the moment you buckle up. You have flexibility to explore any sightseeing stops along the way, which is something no other mode of transportation will offer you.
About Coimbra
While the hilly streets might be something you already saw in Lisbon, Coimbra has its own unique charm that no other city will offer you. Coimbra, located in the heart of Portugal, actually used to be Portugalโs heart for more than 100 years! It was the capital from 1139 to 1256 until Lisbon gained this title.
As Coimbra is located in central Portugal alongside the Mondego River, back in the day it was considered an important city due to its strategic location. The city was also renowned for its economic stability, and even Portuguese monarchs chose it as their main residence and administrative center.
Even back then Coimbra was known as a center of intelligence, providing education in different fields. In 1290, the University of Coimbra was founded. It is known as one of the oldest universities in Europe and is recognized as the oldest one in Portugal. To this day, Coimbra is celebrated as the university city of Portugal, attracting students not only from Portugal but also from other countries all around the world.
The University of Coimbra is the main landmark of the city, worth exploring for its historical heritage and Baroque architecture. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour and explore the campus of this prestigious university from a different perspective.
Although Coimbra is mainly renowned for its university, there is so much more to explore: get lost in this charming city's streets, listen to their special Fado music (which is different from the one you probably heard in Lisbon), and enjoy the scenic views of the Mondego River.
From Lisbon to Coimbra: travel tips
While the distance from Lisbon to Coimbra is relatively short, it is always a great idea to come prepared, no matter where you go! Here are some tips that we have prepared for you:
Pack your most comfortable shoes
You probably already experienced the hilly (and possibly slippery) Lisbon, so walking around Coimbra should not be an issue. Nevertheless, make sure you have your most comfortable footwear with you, as you will have to stick with these for a bit more!
While Coimbra has a reliable public transport network, the best way to explore the historical center is by walking. However, if you happen to visit Coimbra when it's rainy, using public transport or a taxi might be a smart choice.
### Bring a reusable water bottle
The tap water in Coimbra is safe to drink, so make sure you bring your reusable bottle to reduce any plastic waste. You'll also be happy to have water with you rather than having to hunt for a shop to buy a bottle.
How to get from Lisbon to Coimbra
Finding the most reliable mode of transportation to reach your destination is an important part of trip planning. Make sure you find the most convenient Lisbon to Coimbra transfer method. To save you some time, we have gathered the most popular ways of traveling between these two cities:
From Lisbon to Coimbra by bus
One of the most popular modes of transportation for traveling between Lisbon and Coimbra is the bus. Rede Expressos offers frequent rides from Lisbon to Coimbra with the cheapest tickets starting from just over $4 (โฌ3.95) but keep in mind that these buses depart at midnight. Generally, tickets cost from $9.50 to around $16 (โฌ9-โฌ15). The journey time is usually around 2-2.5 hours.
### From Lisbon to Coimbra by train
The quickest way to reach Lisbon is by taking a train. Opt for the Alfa Pendular high-speed train which will take you to the hilly Coimbra in 1 hour and 40 minutes. The cheapest ticket prices start from around $35 (โฌ33)
### From Lisbon to Coimbra by private car service
While taking a bus or train might be cheaper, nothing can beat Daytrip's private car service. It is ideal for those who want more than just a simple transfer from one city to another, as Daytrip allows you the flexibility to tailor the trip to your desires. When traveling with Daytrip, you can add sightseeing stops to explore on your way to Coimbra. The driving time is typically just over 2 hours.
The medieval town of Obidos is so charming even King Dinis gifted it to his wife on the wedding day, so it might be a nice romantic stop during your journey. Add another UNESCO World Heritage Site to your trip by visiting the spectacular Convent of Christ in Tomar. Don't miss the majestic Leiria Castle, which proudly overlooks the city from the top of the hill. Conclude your journey with a visit to the Conimbriga Ruins, known as one of the largest Roman settlements in Portugal.
### From Lisbon to Coimbra by shared shuttle
If you want to save money and meet like-minded people as you travel, Daytripโs shared shuttle service might be exactly what you are looking for. You'll meet your local driver at a centrally located pickup point up at your accommodation and take you on an unforgettable journey. You will share the car with up to 7 other travelers, so it's a great way to get to know other travel enthusiasts.
Things to do when you get to Coimbra
Once your journey from Lisbon to Coimbra is over and you are settled in, it is time to unveil the beauty of Coimbra. Here are some of our top recommendations in case you cannot decide on what to explore:
Admire the University of Coimbra
The University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich history and beautiful architecture. And its Joanina Library is one of the most impressive in the world. The library is a striking Baroque building, showcasing Portugalโs architecture from the 18th century. The interior is even more impressive, dripping with gilt.
Make sure you book your ticket in advance, as that is the only way to enter this beautiful library. You will be given just 10 minutes to admire the book collection. Be aware that you are also not allowed to take any photos. You can purchase the tickets on the University of Coimbra website.
### Explore Coimbraโs Old Cathedral
Sรฉ Velha De Coimbra was built in the 12th century in the Romanesque architecture style, in the times when Coimbra was the capital city of Portugal. The cathedral is very well preserved, despite its centuries-long history. Visiting the cathedral and the cloisters from the inside is a must. Make sure you bring some cash for the entry ticket.
### Stroll around the Quinta das Lรกgrimas gardens
Quinta das Lรกgrimas (which translates to โEstate of Tearsโ) is known as the place where the most beautiful yet tragic love story in Portugal happened. A forbidden love grew between Pedro, the son of the king, and Ines, the lady-of-waiting, so they often hid in these gardens. Nowadays, Quinta das Lรกgrimas is now a luxury hotel but you can still enjoy the lush gardens without staying at the hotel.
### Taste the cuisine of Coimbra
You most likely already tried the most typical Portuguese dishes while in Lisbon. Now that you have arrived at Coimbra, it is time to explore the typical cuisine of Coimbra. Here are two of the dishes we think you must try:
Chanfana: a goat meat dish that is marinated and slow-cooked in red wine, garlic, and different spices.
Leitรฃo da bairrada: this dish comes from Bairrada, a town near Coimbra. It is a roasted baby pig seasoned with salt, garlic, herbs, and other spices. The dish is usually served with potatoes and salad.
When is the best time to visit Coimbra
As Coimbra is situated farther north and inland compared to Lisbon, temperatures generally tend to be slightly lower. Throughout the year, temperatures typically do not drop below 43ยฐF (6ยบC), and in the warmer months, they generally do not exceed 86ยฐF (30ยบC).
If you are seeking a balance of less rainfall and mild temperatures, April and September may be the best months to visit Coimbra. The months with the least rainfall are July, August, and September, while you can expect frequent rainfall from October to February. The coldest months are January and February, so if you donโt mind cooler weather, it might be a great time to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices.
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Obidos
Traditionally owned by the Queen of Portugal, every house in this hilltop town had to meet the royal aesthetic.ย The Town of Queensย
Batalha
Dominated by the great Dominican monastery of Santa Maria da Vitรณria, Batalha was developed alongside the Monastery after securing Portugal's independence.ย A City Built on Victory ย
Fatima
After 3 children had visions of the Virgin Mary, this farm-town transformed into a miraculous mecca.ย Portugalโs Holy Cityย
Tomar
The entire city began as a Templar castle, and served as the seat of their rebirth as the โOrder of Christโ.ย Templar-ary Refugeย
Leiria
Mixing medieval and modern, Leiria offers a rich history with modern amenities.ย A Charming Hubย
Conimbriga
This imperial Roman settlement will take you back in time with its remarkable mosaic-covered floors, working fountains, and impressive structures.ย A Fount of Historical Knowledgeย
โThe best experience ever. Instead of schlepping our luggage to the train station for 2 hour ride to the airport, we choose to use the private transfer. Our driver Luis picked us up from Coimbra to take us to Lisbon, with a stop in Tomar. What an amazing experience. Luis was really knowledgeable and really friendly. Kept us entertained and took wonderful care of us. Did research for us while we were exploring Tomar for a restaurant and spent extra time with us just to make us happy. It's a leisurely way to go from city to city especially with a large group of people. And if everyone is like Luis, this company is the way to go. โ
โWe booked Day Trip to pick a group of three from Lisbon and take us to Coimbra via a number of sites along the way. Nuno arrived promptly, looked after us perfectly. We visited Fatima, Leiria and Batalha on the way. If we had travelled by train, we would not have seen these wonderful towns, nor would we have had Nuno's informative commentary about the places we were visiting. Using Daytrip meant we were transported door to door, we did not have to worry about carting our luggage around and we saw bits of Portugal we would not otherwise have seen. Our experience with Paulo from Coimbra to Porto was equally wonderful. I could not recommend them more highly.โ
