What to do in Coimbra?

1. University of Coimbra

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: Yes, yes, we know. You're on vacation and the last thing you want to do is visit a place that reminds you of school, and more directly of work. But you trust Ryo, right? Trust us, the place is clearly worth the detour. The "Universidade de Coimbra" has been around for more than 700 years, founded in 1290 to be exact by King Denis I. It's THE centennial place par excellence of the city, and very often, when we talk about Coimbra, we instinctively mention the university afterwards. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (we would have guessed), it's a place that to this day, trains researchers and thinkers who revolutionize the world. And we all know: knowledge is one of the most precious and useful things on earth. Also, during the 1960s, it was the seat of the Student Revolution against the Estado Novo dictatorship. So many things to learn in this school…

2. Santa Clara a velha Monastery

Category: €/Cultural

Description: The Santa Clara a velha Monastery reopened its doors about fifteen years ago after spending nearly 17 years under study and restoration. Its history is incredibly rich and we prefer not to tell you everything, because with Ryo, it can last hours to tell you all the twists and turns you need to know, we're so excited and passionate! What we allow ourselves to reveal is that the original foundation of the monastery dates from 1286. And that it was founded by Dona Mor Dias, a figure of local nobility, but the establishment closed shortly after due to opposition from the monks of Santa Cruz. Over time, it was somewhat destroyed by the river and the vagaries of time, but it nevertheless remains a must-see in terms of visits to Coimbra. Formerly, the tomb of Isabella of Aragon (Elizabeth of Portugal) was located here, but was moved due to flooding.

3. Machado de Castro National Museum

Category: €/Cultural

Description: Every city has its museum that tells its history through the exhibition of legendary works. For Coimbra, it's at the Machado de Castro National Museum where you'll learn more about the city, and about Portugal itself. After all, some time ago, this was where the administrative, religious, but also political center of the Roman era was located. Later, it became a Christian temple, and even later during the second part of the 12th century, it was the bishop's palace. It only became the national museum of the city in 1911. What a journey! It's very certainly one of the most fascinating places in the city, where history and art enthusiasts in general will be happy to spend their afternoon. On the program: sculptures, paintings, ceramics, antique furniture, remains from archaeological excavations carried out in the past... You will only be more amazed as you progress through the visit.

4. A day at the beach

Category: €€/Sports/Gastronomic

Description: Here's the scenario: You're the main character and you're traveling in summer. You're in Coimbra, Portugal, and the sun is shining bright. That's when this brilliant idea comes to your mind "Why not go to the beach"? But yes! Portugal is known for its superb spots, it's not for nothing that surfers really appreciate this country ^^. Every city has its little swimming spots like for example Quiaios beach in the center of Coimbra. An easy swimming spot, where the waves are gentle and where families like to come for all the water activities to do such as diving or windsurfing. There are also Mira and Cabedelo beaches which are also located in the city center and which are excellent places to relax and sunbathe on a deck chair. In addition to that, there are all kinds of small restaurants around the beaches, which will allow you to taste the local gastronomy.

5. Kayak excursion on the Mondego river from Coimbra

Category: €€/Sports/Unusual

Description: Let's stay on the theme of water in general, does that tempt you? A bit like a mini cruise (cheaper) and putting in some effort, set off on an adventure aboard a kayak on the Mondego river from Coimbra. This 4-hour activity is an excellent way to discover the city of Coimbra from a completely new angle. For about 18 km, you'll navigate on the Mondego river which is the most famous river in all of Portugal and you'll gradually descend following the current, to lose yourself in a landscape of greenery. You'll dock at the edge of famous natural beaches, as well as rivers with flourishing waterfalls. Here's an activity that's quite affordable price-wise and that can be practiced with the family with young children, as a couple for a romantic moment together in nature, and with friends for a moment of pleasure and laughter.

6. Visit Portugal Miniature

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: To conclude your stay, nothing better than visiting Portugal Miniature. The one more commonly nicknamed "Portugal dos Pequenitos" is a magical place where young and old easily find their happiness. This is where you can admire some of the greatest Portuguese monuments and some of the discoveries that have impacted the world. Moreover, you can find reproductions of certain buildings of Portugal: see certain ancient dwellings linked to the different colonies that we could see settle over the centuries, such as those of Cape Verde, but also of Macau. It's actually a small village, in miniature, that tells the history of the country, but also some past events, notably linked to geography, and architecture.