Why move to Coimbra
Perfect for anyone looking to be inspired by authentic Portuguese culture or enjoy a lively atmosphere without the crowds you’ll find further south.
In what is still often referred to as the Beiras Litoral, the district of Coimbra in central Portugal is an area of contrasts. Sandwiched between the cooler, greener north and the arid south, here you will find an elegant, historic capital, a coast of popular but largely unspoiled resorts and many characterful villages.
The province is dominated by Coimbra city, one of Portugal’s four main historic centres. Built on a hill above the Rio Mondego, with its famous medieval university at its highest point, this is a town steeped in history. But descend the many steps down the Quebra Costas stairway (which translates as ‘the backbreaker’) and you’ll discover a lively centre with many shops, bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect place from which to explore the local Roman ruins at Conimbriga or head west for the seaside and its characterful resorts.
Tourism took a while to make an impact on this stretch of the Portuguese coast, but it has now reached fishing villages such as Praia de Mira. These days cruise ships mingle with traditional fishing boats which are still drawn onto the beach by oxen. Even more developed is Figueira da Foz, a cosmopolitan resort with marina and what is said to be Europe’s widest beach. It draws a mixture of tourists and dedicated surfers attracted by the impressive breakers.
Ancient industry continues to flourish in some of the province’s attractive towns and villages. On the edge of the wooded Serra da Lousa lies Rabacal, where among the olive groves and walnut trees, production of cheese made from ewe’s and goat’s milk has taken place for years, with rounds matured in dark rooms in the homes of local producers. Head a little way north and you’ll reach Lusa – a town on the banks of the river Arouce where a paper factory has been operating since 1716.
Further west you’ll come to Oliveira do Hospital, an energetic industrial town which once belonged to the Knights Hospitallers, warrior monks who brought prosperity to the region following the crusades. Today it’s a great base from which to visit the Mondego valley or follow the river up into the Estrella Mountains to the east.
Coimbra city is well connected by road and rail to the main cities and towns. You’ll also find less frequent buses to take you to outlying areas. A car is a definite advantage though, not least because many of the major routes are light on traffic, making driving through the delightful region a pleasure.