Coimbra, Portugal: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Coimbra, Portugal? If you're planning to go to Coimbra, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Coimbra, Portugal

Based on the climate and weather in Coimbra, Portugal, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Coimbra, Portugal

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Coimbra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Coimbra, Portugal by month

January

January is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

Traveling to Coimbra in February, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you visit Coimbra during March, you will probably notice that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

Traveling to Coimbra in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Coimbra in May, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

Traveling to Coimbra in June, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July here is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Coimbra in August, you will notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Coimbra is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

In October, Coimbra is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) and regularly jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Coimbra, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Coimbra is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

In December, Coimbra is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Coimbra, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Portugal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Coimbra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are going to see the stunning Old Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanical Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra, the historic city located in the central region of Portugal, is known for its picturesque old town, scenic riverfront, world-class universities, and vibrant culture. The city, which was once the capital of Portugal in the medieval times, boasts of many fascinating landmarks and tourist attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Coimbra that you should not miss while exploring this beautiful city.

1. Universidade de Coimbra

Established in the 13th century, the Universidade de Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main campus, located on top of a hill, features an impressive collection of historic buildings, including the Joanina Library, the Baroque-style Palace of Saint Michael, and the Renaissance-style Chapel of Saint Michael. Visitors can take guided tours of the university to learn about its history, architecture, and academic programs.

2. Biblioteca Joanina

The Biblioteca Joanina, located inside the Universidade de Coimbra, is one of the most magnificent libraries in the world. Built in the 18th century, the library features stunning Baroque architecture, elaborate ceiling frescoes, and over 60,000 volumes of rare books, including many valuable works from medieval and Renaissance times. Visitors can admire the library's beauty and browse some of its books on a guided tour.

3. Sé Velha de Coimbra

The Sé Velha de Coimbra, also known as the Old Cathedral, is one of the most important Romanesque monuments in Portugal. Built in the 12th century, the cathedral features an impressive façade with two towers, a rose window, and intricate sculptural details. Inside, visitors can see beautiful stained-glass windows, paintings, and historic artifacts, including the tomb of King Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal.

4. Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha

The Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Velha, located on the banks of the Mondego River, is a medieval monastery that was partially destroyed in a flood in the 17th century. Today, the monastery has been restored and turned into a museum that showcases its history, architecture, and archeological findings. Visitors can explore the monastery's ruins, see exhibits of religious art and artifacts, and enjoy stunning views of the river and the city.

5. Portugal dos Pequenitos

Portugal dos Pequenitos, or Portugal for the Little Ones, is a theme park designed for children that features miniature models of Portuguese villages, monuments, and landmarks. Visitors can walk through the park's replicas of palaces, churches, castles, and boats, and learn about Portugal's rich cultural heritage. The park also offers playgrounds, museums, and souvenir shops.

6. Jardim Botânico

The Jardim Botânico is a beautiful botanical garden located near the Universidade de Coimbra. The garden, which was established in the 18th century, features a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers from all over the world, as well as charming fountains, statues, and pavilions. Visitors can stroll through the garden's many paths, relax on its benches, and enjoy peaceful views of the city.

Coimbra is a city that offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in exploring its medieval landmarks, learning about its academic traditions, or simply enjoying its scenic surroundings, there is something for everyone in this charming city. So, plan your visit today and discover the top tourist attractions in Coimbra that will leave you mesmerized.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Souillac, Mauritius, Baiona, Spain, Cuenca, Spain, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, Islas Ladrones, Panama, Baihe, China, Lecchi in Chianti, Italy, Tainan, Taiwan, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Sarangkot, Nepal, and Matane, Quebec, Canada.