Tourism in Portugal
Autumn in Center of Portugal
This is our Top 10 of places and experiences that you cannot miss while visiting this deeply diversified region. Autumn is our favourite colour !
Where to go
Center of Portugal destinations
Leiria
Villa Portela
Villa Portela is an historical landmark of the city of Leiria that dates back to the 19th century. Built by Roberto Charters Henriques d'Azevedo in 1894, this iconic cottage was inspired by Swiss architecture. The municipality of Leiria has converted Villa Portela in a flourishing art centre.
Villa Portela Art Center in Leiria
What to do
The best things to do in Center of Portugal
Articles
Discover Center of Portugal
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Nature & Outdoors
Ophrys scolopax Cavanilles
Also known as the bird flower, Ophrys scolopax stands out as one of the most beloved wild orchids of the Natural Park of Aire and Candeeiros Mountains !
Sports & Leisure
The Great Route of Côa Valley
The Great Route of Côa Valley is a magical 196 km-long route along the Côa river from the spring in Fóios in Sabugal to the river estuary in Douro River in Vila Nova de Foz Côa.
Arts & Culture
Street art in Fundão
The city of Fundão is not only about mouth-watering red-passion cherries. The lacework creations of the Polish artist Nespoon have surely put Fundão on the street art map in Portugal!
Health & Wellness
Water-based sustainable projects in Center of Portugal
Water is a pivotal concern of nations worldwide and Portugal is in this scope no exception, struggling against water scarcity, especially in the inland regions. In Center of Portugal, the prestigious Universities of Aveiro and University of Beira Interior, in Covilhã, are at the forefront of innovative water-based sustainable projects, developing smart nature-based solutions to reduce water consumption and to protect biodiversity and natural ecosystems, while raising public awareness on urgent sustainable practices. The clock is ticking.
Magazine
Edition 99 - Travelling with purpose
15.09.2025 • 06.10.2025
Travelling is all about making meaningful connections and feeling the spirit of the place. Talking to locals, sharing life stories, unveiling the secrets of a soul-soothing Mother Nature, making a positive impact on the surrounding environment. Feeling close to what really matters. The world needs lasting bonds. And every step counts.
Edition 98 - Ocean: Blue Dialogue
14.04.2025 • 28.04.2025
Dedicated to the theme “Ocean: Blue Dialogue”, World Expo Osaka 2025 will be held from April 13th to October 13th. Portugal and Japan share a 500 years-old History, along with a common concern for the sustainability of our oceans and the urgent need to foster a blue economy. This edition follows an inspirational journey across the Atlantic coastline, unveiling its iconic coastal cities, jaw-dropping surf spots and welcoming fishing towns.
Edition 97 - Weddings
31.03.2025 • 14.04.2025
Center of Portugal has all it takes to be a perfect wedding destination: breath-taking venues, unique natural landscapes along with top-professional wedding planners who put all their passion into every single detail. Because love will always be the secret ingredient.
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Cabinet of Curiosities of the University of Coimbra
Housed in the Science Museum of the University of Coimbra, the Cabinet of Curiosities is a realistic recreation of an 18th century cabinet of curiosities, showcasing "the whole world in just one place". A place bursting with exoticism in an almost magical universe.
Coimbra surroundings: top sights & destinations
The surrounding region of Coimbra has a multitude of great attractions, suiting all tastes and budgets. From the endless white sandy beaches of Figueira da Foz to the charming Schist Villages of Lousã Mountain, from the fairy tale Bussaco national woods to the imposing castle of Montemor-o-Velho, from the Roman heritage sites to the Medieval flair of Penela.
Walking Tour: the other side of Coimbra
Embraced by the Mondego River, the enchanting city of Coimbra has countless attractions on both sides of the river.
The green heart of Coimbra
This enchanting city by the Mondego river offers its visitors inspiring parks and gardens.
Shopping in Coimbra
The enchanting city of Coimbra has many cool shops and sweet spots. The ideal places to unveil the welcoming soul of this historical city by the Mondego River.
Walking Tour in Coimbra: Coimbra essentials
This walking tour unveils the must-see stops of one of the most ancient university cities in Europe.
Eating in Coimbra
The charming historical city of Coimbra, beautifully placed by the Mondego River, is also a great spot for foodies and wine lovers.
Sleeping in Coimbra
Coimbra offers its visitors many high-quality hotels that suit all tastes and demands.
Major Seminary of Coimbra
Visitors will be able to find relics of saints, ornate rooms and a richly adorned church, with a Spanish organ from the 18th century with 1500 pipes.
Exploratório Infante D. Henrique - Live Science Centre of Coimbra
Located on the left bank of Mondego River, Exploratório offers hands-on approach to science that fascinates both kids and adults!
St Michael's Chapel of the University of Coimbra
The Chapel of the University of Coimbra – St. Michael’s Chapel – dates back to the 16th century, probably built upon an ancient chapel of the 12th century.
Tower of the University of Coimbra
Paço das Escolas is dominated by one of the most symbolic structures in Coimbra, its 17th century tower which holds the clock and bells that regulate academic life. It was built in 1537 when the university, which was about to be established at King John III’s palace, insisted that “there could be no order without
Santa Cruz de Coimbra Monastery
Built from 1131 onwards, the Monastery started its community life during the next year, although the construction lasted for almost another century.
Joanine Library - Coimbra University
The Joanine Library at Coimbra University, which replaced the old University Book House, owes its name to the monarch who ordered its building in 1717.
Coimbra Old Cathedral - Sé Velha de Coimbra
A treasure of the Portuguese Romanesque Style and is the only Portuguese cathedral built during the Reconquista era which has remained intact until today.
Science Museum of the University of Coimbra
The Science Museum of the University of Coimbra is an interactive science museum that aims to provide visitors of all ages an entertaining environment in which to discover science.
Fado de Coimbra
If fado is considered the song of the Portuguese soul, Coimbra Fado is surely the music which marks the rhythm of the heart of the students’ city.
NH Coimbra Dona Inês
Located next to the commercial area and the historical centre of the city of Coimbra, NH Coimbra Dona Inês was completely renovated in 2022, offering a range of services that fulfil the needs of both its business and leisure clients.
Ӕeminium Coimbra Hotel, affiliated by Meliá
Ӕeminium Coimbra Hotel, affiliated by Meliá is located only 100 meters away from the Hospital of University of Coimbra. The most prestigious monument of the city, University of Coimbra is only a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
Hotel Oslo Coimbra
Hotel Oslo Coimbra is located at the heart of Coimbra's historic center, in the vicinity of the old city wall and the historic University of Coimbra, a World Heritage site.