Are you searching for the best places to stay in Coimbra, Portugal? You’re in the right spot. This city is full of history, friendly cafés, and beautiful river views, making it a perfect stop on any Portugal trip. Choosing the right area or hotel in Coimbra can change your whole experience.
In this guide, I’ll show you the top five areas in Coimbra to help you find great accommodation, whether you want to be close to the university, relax by the river, or discover local markets and new foods. I’ve collected advice and useful details, so you can easily pick the best hotel or place for your visit. Keep reading—I promise there’s something here for everyone!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Coimbra
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Quinta das Lágrimas
- ✨ 5-Star: Sapientia Boutique Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Dona Inês Coimbra
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Oslo
- 💸 Cheap: The Luggage Hostel & Suites
- 🏢 Apartment: Sophia Studios
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Ilha 12 Suites
- 🏩 For Couples: Mondego
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Coimbra 📋
- 🏛️ Culture & History: Alta
- 🌆 City Life: Baixa
- 🌳 Riverside Relaxation: Santa Clara
- 🎓 Academic Ambience: Celas
- 👨👩👧👦 Families & Modern Comforts: Solum & Vale das Flores
1. Baixa – Where to Stay in Coimbra for City Life & History
Busy Streets. Baixa is always full of action. I liked walking along Rua Ferreira Borges, where you’ll find shops like Bertrand Bookstore (open 9AM–7PM) and cool street art. The main pedestrian area connects Praça 8 de Maio with Largo da Portagem, perfect for evening walks.
Tasty Eats. For lunch, Café Santa Cruz right next to the main square has a great bifana (pork sandwich) for €3.50 ($4), and the churros at Doce Amor are only €2. Most restaurants open from noon to 10PM. Dinner at Sete Restaurant is a bit more, about €13 ($14) for grilled fish, but super fresh.
| Meal | Place | Price (EUR) | Working Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Padaria Portuguesa | 2–4 | 8AM–8PM |
| Lunch | Café Santa Cruz | 3–8 | 9AM–7PM |
| Dinner | Sete Restaurant | 11–15 | 12PM–11PM |
People Spots. I loved hanging out in Praça 8 de Maio—the city square is great for people watching, with buskers and students everywhere. Local shops often close by 7PM, but pastelarias (pastry shops) are open late. The fountain area becomes lively around 6PM with locals meeting friends.
Budget Finds. If you’re watching your wallet, the daily market Mercado Municipal D. Pedro V sells fresh fruit and cheese and stays open till 5PM—perfect for cheap snacks. A Cozinha da Maria has filling lunch menus for €7 ($8) and serves until 3PM.
Useful Tips. Most streets are walkable, and the Coimbra-A Train Station is less than 10 minutes away. Bring coins for buying croissants or fruit in the morning. For finding a good vibe, Baixa really shows you local Coimbra life with lots of cafés and shops to explore.
Best Hotels in Baixa
Luxury Hotels
- R3 Service - Five Senses in Coimbra – This elegant apartment features modern amenities and stylish furnishings in a prime Coimbra location, ideal for your Portuguese adventure with a touch of luxury.
- Vila Galé Coimbra – One of the best hotels in Coimbra, this 4-star property offers sophisticated rooms, excellent facilities, and easy access to Coimbra University.
- NH Coimbra Dona Ines – This premium Coimbra hotel provides upscale rooms with modern design and high-end amenities, ideal for a perfect trip to Portugal.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- GuestReady - Glamorous Getaway in Coimbra – A stylish apartment with comfortable furnishings and good value, ideally located for exploring the best neighborhoods of Coimbra.
- Martin's Happy Home – This cozy Coimbra accommodation offers comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for budget-conscious travelers near Coimbra University.
- Stay Hotel Coimbra Centro – Located in the heart of Coimbra, this well-positioned hotel offers great value, comfortable rooms, and easy access to major attractions.
Best Budget Options
- Residencial Gouveia Arco Pintado – This budget choice offers basic but clean rooms with a traditional Portuguese atmosphere, just a short walk from Coimbra’s main sights.
- Residencial Infante Dom Henrique – A family-run property providing affordable rooms and a local touch, ideal for travelers seeking authentic Coimbra accommodation without high costs.
- Tivoli Coimbra Hotel – This popular Coimbra hotel combines good rates with reliable service and comfortable rooms, a smart choice for budget-minded visitors.
2. Alta – Where to Stay in Coimbra for University & Culture
Historic Vibes. Alta feels old and full of stories. I love climbing the narrow streets past arches and ancient walls—no cars most places, so it’s peaceful. The University of Coimbra is right here, and students in black robes hurry between classes. Stop at Loggia Café for a break and enjoy their terrace (open 10AM–6PM).
Local Eating. For quick food, Snack-Bar O Trovador offers sandwiches and fresh lemonade, with most meals costing €4–€7 ($4–$7). I grabbed a pastel de nata at Café Académico for €1 and watched the busy campus square. Most eating spots here close by 8PM.
| Snack | Place | Price (EUR) | Working Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandwich | O Trovador | 4–6 | 10AM–7PM |
| Pastry | Café Académico | 1–2 | 8AM–8PM |
| Lunch Plate | Café Jardim da Sereia | 7–10 | 11AM–8PM |
Student Life. The area is full of bookshops, like Livraria Almedina (open 9AM–7PM), and cute souvenir stores. On my walk, I found street musicians playing near the Joanina Library. Try the university’s botanical gardens if you want a quiet spot to relax—it’s free to enter.
Hidden Details. Climbing the bell tower at the university is a workout but shows amazing views over the city and river. Entry is around €2 ($2). You’ll also spot murals and tiled facades all around Alta. If you love art, check out Galeria Santa Clara (open 11AM–6PM).
Places to check out in Alta:
- University of Coimbra main gate
- Joanina Library
- Academic Museum
- Botanical Garden
- Livraria Almedina
Best Hotels in Alta
Luxury Hotels
- Miguel Torga Typical – This elegant property offers authentic Portuguese charm with traditional design elements, located in Coimbra near major attractions and perfect for experiencing local culture.
- Pharmacia Guest House – A sophisticated accommodation featuring refined rooms and upscale amenities, this place in Coimbra provides excellent service for discerning travelers.
- R3 - Coimbra Lovers - Fado – This premium property combines historic architecture with modern luxury, offering stunning views and top-tier facilities for an unforgettable experience.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Story Studio Coimbra Centro – A stylish studio apartment located in Coimbra’s downtown area, featuring modern furnishings and great value for money with easy access to universities and attractions.
- Orpheus Universidade UNESCO Heritage – This comfortable accommodation near Coimbra University offers good rates and convenient location, perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Casas do Arco – A charming property with traditional Portuguese architecture, providing affordable rooms and authentic local atmosphere in the heart of historic Coimbra.
Best Hostels
- Serenata Hostel – This vibrant hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation with social atmosphere, perfect for young travelers exploring Coimbra University area and meeting fellow backpackers.
- Olive Street House – A cozy hostel featuring comfortable dorm beds and common areas, ideally located in Coimbra for easy walks to main sights and student districts.
- Change the World Hostels Coimbra Almedina – This eco-conscious hostel provides affordable beds with modern facilities, great for budget travelers wanting to explore Portugal’s historic university city.
3. Santa Clara – Where to Stay in Coimbra for Riverside Relaxation
River Views. Santa Clara sits just across the Mondego River. I love walking the pedestrian bridge, watching rowers and swans in the morning. The Quinta das Lágrimas gardens are nearby—lush, peaceful, and full of tall bamboo. The path to Portugal dos Pequenitos, an open-air park, is lined with shady benches and ice cream stalls.
Eating Out. My favorite local spot here is Restaurante O Arco, serving big bowls of sopa de peixe (fish soup) for €5 ($5). At Snack-Bar Jardim, you can get grilled chicken with fries for €9 ($9.50). Most cafés along Avenida João das Regras open from 8AM to 7PM.
| Meal | Place | Price (EUR) | Working Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Pastelaria Veneza | 2–4 | 8AM–7PM |
| Lunch | Restaurante O Arco | 5–10 | 12PM–3PM, 7–10PM |
| Ice Cream | Gelados Santini | 2–3 | 11AM–9PM |
Parks and Play. The Mata do Choupal park is great for running or just lying in the grass. I once joined a picnic here—locals bring pastel de nata and coffee thermoses. There’s a small playground for kids and plenty of space for frisbee or just relaxing.
Riverside spots I recommend:
- Portugal dos Pequenitos
- Quinta das Lágrimas gardens
- Mata do Choupal park
- Chapel of São Pedro
- Snack-Bar Jardim
Easy Access. Walking from Santa Clara to the city center takes about fifteen minutes. I always use the footbridge, especially at sunset. There’s a supermarket (Pingo Doce) near Avenida João das Regras, open 9AM–9PM, handy for snacks or picnic supplies.
Best Hotels in Santa Clara
Luxury Hotels
- Moradia com Alma - Xico's House – This spacious property is located in Coimbra and features elegant décor, modern amenities, and a courtyard garden—ideal for relaxing after a day exploring the city’s main monuments.
- Quinta das Lagrimas – One of the best hotels in Coimbra, this historic estate offers a pool in Coimbra, lush botanical gardens, and refined rooms near Portugal dos Pequenitos and hotel Quinta das Lagrimas spa.
- CoimbraAmeias – This 5-star hotel is located in Coimbra’s best neighborhoods, offering modern comforts, garden views, and close access for a scenic walk from Coimbra’s university area.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Antonio Augusto Apartment – A well-equipped apartment situated near upper Coimbra, providing great value and comfort for travelers plus quick access to many Coimbra sites and restaurants.
- Believe It or Not Apartments – Contemporary accommodation with stylish interiors, offering bright rooms and excellent location for your trip to Portugal.
- Lemon Tree House - Courtyard & Garden – Enjoy a peaceful garden and modern design just where Coimbra is located for easy access to attractions, shopping, and a relaxing walk from Coimbra’s main areas.
Best Hostels
- Quarto & Pasta Guesthouse – Affordable rooms in a homely setting, this property is located in Coimbra and perfect for travelers wanting simple comfort and a sociable atmosphere.
- Rius Studios & Suites – A modern option with both dorm beds and private suites, ideally positioned for visiting the Universidade de Coimbra, restaurant areas, and public transport.
- Apartamento Solvita – This bright, inviting hostel-style apartment is in Coimbra, featuring well-designed spaces close to Coimbra hotel Aeminium and key historic sites.
4. Celas – Where to Stay in Coimbra for Academic Ambience
Student Hub. Celas is busy with students and has a young, lively feel. I often see bikes everywhere and enjoyed my morning strolls past Faculdade de Medicina. The olive tree square, Largo das Olaias, hosts weekend markets with crafts and vegetables.
Eating on the Go. Grab a pastel de bacalhau (codfish cake) from Padaria Popular for €1.50 ($1.70)—perfect snack on the way to class. Snack-Bar Palmeira has hearty chicken soup for €3. Most places open early, and close around 8PM.
| Snack | Place | Price (EUR) | Working Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Codcake | Padaria Popular | 1.5 | 7AM–7PM |
| Chicken Soup | Snack-Bar Palmeira | 3 | 8AM–8PM |
| Pastry | Café Lhasinha | 1–2 | 7AM–7PM |
Local Life. I often relax in Jardim da Sereia park. Weekends are lively with street food vendors and kids playing. Book lovers should visit Livraria Figueira (open 10AM–6PM)—a tiny shop tucked behind the hospital with shelves full of used books.
Student Markets. The local farmers’ market at Praça das Olaias has the best oranges and honey (Thursday and Saturday mornings). I always find something new and enjoy chatting with friendly vendors—most speak some English and give a taste before you buy.
Celas highlights:
- Largo das Olaias
- Jardim da Sereia park
- Padaria Popular
- Farmers’ market days
- Livraria Figueira
Best Hotels in Celas
Luxury Hotels
- Rua Tenente Campos Rego Ground Floor – This stylish property combines spacious living areas and refined touches, perfect for travelers looking for comfort close to all the best parts of Coimbra. Enjoy easy access for a scenic walk from Coimbra’s historic neighborhoods or where botanico de Coimbra is located nearby.
- StudentVille Academia – With a modern design and premium amenities, this property stands out for comfort, urban style, and convenience for a walk from Coimbra Alta’s main sights and the city’s vibrant streets.
- Residencial Alentejana – A traditional property featuring unique décor and welcoming spaces, ideal for those wishing to experience authentic Portuguese atmosphere and be within reach of a walk from Coimbra’s old city.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Celas Dream Studio – Modern and practical, this well-equipped studio offers budget travelers comfort and quick access to local restaurants and the best routes for a walk from Coimbra’s key landmarks.
- Coimbra Aeminium Hotel by Meliá – Contemporary rooms, a relaxing ambiance, and a location within reach of where botanico de Coimbra is located make this hotel a solid choice for those wanting to explore both classic sites and quieter areas.
- Casa Coimbra – This inviting property provides a warm welcome, comfortable rooms, and is situated for easy walks from Coimbra to neighborhood cafés and central attractions.
5. Solum & Vale das Flores – Where to Stay in Coimbra for Families & Modern Comforts
Family Fun. Solum is my choice when traveling with kids. There’s a big sports complex and a public pool. The green playground near Shopping Dolce Vita is safe and popular for families after school. The shopping center has a food court with options for all tastes.
Food Options. At Dolce Vita, I’d grab pizza at Pizza Hut (slice €2.50) or soup at Soup & Go (€3, open 10AM–10PM). Supermarket Continente (open 8AM–11PM) is best for quick groceries. There are bakeries and small shops everywhere—perfect if you run out of snacks.
| Item | Place | Price (EUR) | Working Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pizza Slice | Pizza Hut | 2.5 | 10AM–10PM |
| Soup | Soup & Go | 3 | 10AM–10PM |
| Groceries | Continente | varies | 8AM–11PM |
Outdoor Time. The big park near Vale das Flores is great for morning jogs. On Sundays, there’s a flea market with books and toys—fun for a stroll with family. The playgrounds have benches and lots of shade, making it a good break from shopping or sightseeing.
Modern Shops. You’ll spot international brands in the shopping mall, but also local stores like Pastelaria Penta (best for fresh bread, open 7AM–8PM). There’s always a queue for their queijadas (cheese tarts).
Top family-friendly spots:
- Parque Verde do Mondego (green park)
- Shopping Dolce Vita food court
- Sunday flea market
- Pastelaria Penta
- Public swimming pool
Best Hotels in Solum & Vale das Flores
Luxury Hotels
- Coimbra Camping & Bungalows – This property features bungalows and ample outdoor spaces, with options perfect for those wanting a pool and direct access to nature, just a scenic walk from Coimbra’s parks and near where botanico de Coimbra is found.
- Atanticnest Coimbra – This modern property is known for comfort and easy access to vibrant neighborhoods, allowing guests to set out on foot for sightseeing, shopping, or enjoying areas near where botanico de Coimbra is found.
- Charming Apt in Historic House – Here, classic details mix with modern comfort and it’s a solid choice for exploring the city and enjoying views toward gardens or for a pleasant walk from Coimbra’s riverside.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- AL Das Fonsecas – With bright interiors and handy walkability, this spot provides straightforward comfort and a quick route for visiting monuments or heading towards the gardens near botanico de Coimbra.
- Apartamento Carlos Seixas – Modern and easy-going, this address is smart for travelers who want to explore the city center and quickly reach popular shops or transport.
- Villa Coimbra – Peaceful and surrounded by greenery, this place is an ideal base for enjoying mornings in the park or relaxing after visiting local attractions, with straightforward access to main avenues.
Best Hostels
- Penedo da Saudade Suites & Hostel – Stylish rooms, leafy surroundings, and sweeping city views make this a top pick for anyone wanting quiet, green zones after a day exploring city streets or heading towards Coimbra Alta.
- Casa Malu Coimbra – Welcoming travelers with a good vibe and relaxed common spaces, this spot puts you within easy reach of central cafés and is great for a stroll along main routes in Coimbra.
- Familia Horta – This budget option has large communal areas for meeting other travelers and makes it easy to reach top sights or set off for a walk from Coimbra’s lakeside or green spaces.
FAQs about Visiting Coimbra, Portugal
1. What are the best hotels in Coimbra city centre?
The heart of Coimbra is home to top hotels such as NH Coimbra Dona Ines, Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, and Tivoli Coimbra, all offering an excellent location in the city centre. Many hotels in the centre are near the Universidade de Coimbra and have easy access to the main sights and the train station.
2. Which places to stay in Coimbra are pet friendly?
You’ll find pet friendly hotels in Coimbra like Ibis Coimbra Centro and some guest house options near the city centre, with private parking and quick walks to the Old Cathedral of Coimbra. Always check the policy before booking, as some small luxury hotels and apartments allow pets.
3. Are there cheap hotels or budget accommodation near the university?
Yes, cheap hotels and budget guesthouses are located near the Universidade de Coimbra and Alta de Coimbra, such as Stay Hotel Coimbra Centro and affordable apartments in the upper part of Coimbra. These are perfect for students, visitors, or anyone wanting to book your stay at a lower rate.
4. What are the best areas to stay for a Portugal road trip?
For convenience, many travellers choose the outskirts of Coimbra or areas with free parking like Solum, as they’re easy to reach on a Portugal road trip. Locations near the motorway offer hotels with private parking and quick access to both Porto and the city centre of Coimbra.
5. Which 4-star hotels in Coimbra have a spa or pool?
NH Coimbra Dona Ines and Tivoli Coimbra are 4-star hotels with facilities such as a pool and spa in Coimbra, offering buffet breakfast and spacious rooms. Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas is a small luxury hotel with a spa, pool, and lush gardens for the perfect stay.
6. Can I find accommodation near Portugal dos Pequenitos theme park?
Portugal dos Pequenitos is located in Santa Clara, an area with several hotels in Coimbra like Hotel Botanico de Coimbra and guest houses a short walk from the park. Many friendly hotels and apartments offer family rooms and parking nearby.
7. What is special about accommodation in Alta de Coimbra?
Alta de Coimbra is the upper part of the city, famous for its views and UNESCO World Heritage Site status thanks to the university. Here you’ll find historic hotels, guest houses, and good access to sites like the Old Cathedral and the Joanina Library.
8. Are there small luxury hotels or guest houses in Coimbra?
Yes, options such as Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra and Quinta das Lágrimas provide elegant rooms and an excellent location in Coimbra for a unique experience. Some small luxury hotels are located in charming old buildings near the centre of Coimbra.
9. How far is the Coimbra train station from most accommodation?
Coimbra’s train station is located in the centre of Coimbra, a short walk from many hotels, guest houses, and friendly hotels. If you book your stay in the city centre, you’ll have easy access to other parts of Coimbra and neighbouring towns.
10. Where can I park for free if I visit Coimbra with a car?
Some hotels like CSI Coimbra Club on the outskirts and 3-star hotels in Solum or Santa Clara offer free parking. In the city of Coimbra, public parking lots are available, but private parking is recommended if you want a guaranteed spot during your visit.
